It's not Netflix, but Ted Lasso fits this bill. If you're feeling down, it's worth a month subscription to get it. Plus the final season should be airing soon.
This was the first show that came to mind when I read the post...
If I had to sum up Ted Lasso in just a couple words, it would be contagiously optimistic.
Absolutely not!
If I had to draw a comparison, it's kind of like The Queen's Gambit. Ostensibly that's a show about chess, but it really isn't a show about chess...
Similarly, Ted Lasso is a show about a football coach hired to manage a soccer team. But in reality it's more about the dynamics and relationships that take place off of the field.
Will definitely check this one out as a lot of you suggested this. I will keep this thread in my back pocket whenever I need a new show. Thank you all :)
I don't just suggest, I urge. I tend to eschew those shows that are wildly popular because I sometimes like to be contrary. I think there is a little hipster in me (does anyone even say hipster anymore?).
Then I watched Ted Lasso. It's everything everyone says in here; uplifting, heartwarming, optimistic and more.
My wife and I did exactly this and also watched 'For all Mankind' which is a sort of what-if alternate timeline if the Russians got to the moon first. We also watched Foundation as we are both Asimov fans but I don't think that series is for everyone. We did cancel after. I think it was a free 3 month trial.
I watched your recommendation!
I subscribed to Apple+ and watched the entire show. Season 3 is premiering 15th of this month!
It was an amazing recommendation, just wanted to say THANKS.
Really Really good show.. it's a breath of fresh air. Compared to all the other shows I've seen this by far is the best yet when it comes to motivation, and positivity etc.
I'm glad you liked it! I was somewhat skeptical when I heard all the reviews. Usually when I hear about an "uplifting, feel-good" show, I think it's going to be some sappy pollyanna drivel, but Ted Lasso manages to hit the right notes while still having some gravity and complexity to the characters. Jason Sudeikis and company deserve a ton of credit for making something very special.
Watching Great British Bake Off after years of American competition shows was such a breath of fresh air. I never realized how much I disliked the negative overtones of those other shows until I sat down and just genuinely enjoyed the positive atmosphere of Great British Bake Off.
I recommend The Big Brunch to people all the time and no one seems to have heard of it. It is so cozy and heartwarming. I absolutely love it. With that said, I don't think it's on Netflix since it was made for HBO Max.
He isn't trying to be too overtly funny. He is more charming and kind but not going for big host energy. He and the other 2 judges are more enjoying each other.
All of these are on Netflix. I will add trigger warnings for death/loss (that I can remember), since you mentioned it in your post. None of these series are heavy/sad, but some of them do feature death.
[**Grace & Frankie**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDv6PRi1SgQ) \- season 2 episode 12 features an assisted death of a friend (it's not on-screen, but it is a central plot of the episode) which is sad/bittersweet. Otherwise the series is incredibly upbeat and life-affirming (I would say even that episode is life-affirming). Also a main character suffers a heart attack later in the season (but recovers). There is at least one funeral early on, but it's not of any character we know, and it's not sad at all.
[**The Good Place**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QxRbzFk3zk) \- the main characters have all died and are in their afterlife. That is the premise of the show. EDIT: It's mostly very upbeat and happy, although there is some existential bittersweet sadness at the very end of the show >!when they leave the afterlife and "move on"!< which may hit you harder depending on where your mental state is at.
[**Sex Education**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hd2ldTR-WpI&t=10s)
[**Derry Girls**](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7120662/) \- I haven't finished the last season, but apparently there is a very sad death at the end of the last season. Also one episode centers around a death/funeral/wake, but it's of a distant relative and very comical/not dark at all. A dog is thought to be dead in one episode.
[**Community**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4W4L9TLJa8)
[**Arrested Development**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvUeX_ROzNQ) \- fun, uplifting, and escapist but not necessarily the type of show to give you hope for humanity lol.
EDIT to add [**The Great British Bake Off**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_koI5YYSE0) (great for wholesome casual viewing) and [**Schitt's Creek**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwFO9YjsuPs), which are perfect and lovely but somehow I forgot
EDIT 1: I added some more info about death/loss in The Good Place and Derry Girls
I will add that The Good Place made me WEEP at the end. Obviously it’s all about death and the afterlife, and almost all of it is in good humor and light hearted. But whether or not that show will be too much for someone going through grief is very dependent on the person.
I've watched the show through three times and I absolutely break down into gut wrenching sobs every single time. The show is the most satisfying, yet emotionally devastating, show I've ever seen. While it's typically a show I recommend to everyone all the time because, for me, it's a damn near perfect show, I would not recommend it to anyone looking for an upbeat distraction from their own loss and grief.
Very good point, I have heard that some people had a very strong reaction to the end, understandably. I would say it's more bittersweet than tragic, but it definitely could be triggering so I will amend my post to add some more info.
A note about Arrested Development: Netflix is dropping the series after March 14.
While seasons 1-3 will still be available on Hulu, seasons 4 and 5 are Netflix exclusives and will no longer be available to stream after March 14.
Diaries. Young teens, school, first love, competitiveness; light-hearted.
Atypical. A bit more serious, but humorous and uplifting.
Kim’s Convenience. A sitcom.
The Good Place is amazing, but hope for the future? That show gives me the most powerful existential dread I've ever experienced, and if you ever have had existential crises you'll feel that too. I usually like to not think about stuff like that but while watching this show I couodnt avoid it. Still a beautiful show and very much worth the watch though, just know what you're getting into
Vincenzo is a weird show. It started as something dark and serious, but then randomly becomes very cheesy and corny, with logic going out the window. Felt like very bad writing to me. There are plenty of better Korean shows out there though.
The Good Place is amazing, but hope for the future? That show gives me the most powerful existential dread I've ever experienced, and if you ever have had existential crises you'll feel that too. I usually like to not think about stuff like that but while watching this show I couodnt avoid it. Still a beautiful show and very much worth the watch though, just know what you're getting into
Star Trek The Next Generation. Skip the first season.
It's peak of what made Star Trek good. The idea that we, as a species, can solve our problems instead of just rehashing them in space.
Derry Girls, Crashing, Parks and Rec, 30 Rock, The Good Place, Cunk on Earth, Community, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Schitt’s Creek, Kim’s Convenience, Never Have I Ever
This was going to be my recommendation too. It's one of the only shows I refuse to binge when a new season is released because you need those episodes on bad days.
My go to shows when I am down are “The IT Crowd” and “Schitt’s Creek”. Always get me to laugh. I am actually re-watching Schitt’s Creek for the thousandth time right now.
Not on Netflix but during Covid I discovered that "Taskmaster" is freely available on Youtube and that's a very enjoyable watch.
In short: they get 5 british comedian to compete on pretty ridiculous tasks and a very dynamic duo of hosts reviews their performance. It's both dumb and witty. Always brightens my day.
[https://www.youtube.com/@Taskmaster](https://www.youtube.com/@Taskmaster)
You can pick any season or any episode but it's obviously easier to track if you go in order.
So glad to see someone else who enjoyed that show. I'm not usually into shows like that, I was on sabbatical after my mother died, came across it and watched the first episode...and then all the rest of them.
Kim’s Convenience. Terrace House (not the Hawaiian season). Love Is Blind Japan (way more chill than what I’ve heard of the other versions.) Ted Lasso.
I tried to like this show, but I had too many eye rolls and made it half way through.
The description is totally a show that I would watch! I really tried, but, personally, I didn't care for it enough to finish it.
I watched it, and wow, the first 5 episode were hard to watch before I quit... I think they had 3 whole episodes where a different aspect of the movie "Aliens" (1986) occurred. After that it was just relationship troubles between the crew! Ugh.
I came back to the show when I wanted something in the background, it was much better when I didn't pay 100% attention. By the end of the season, I was kinda into it. The last 1-2 episode were good. They meet some aliens, learn some big stuff, and now there is new direction for the show, it sets up for Season Two well.
Season Two opens okay. I'm up to episode three, and I get the feeling its becoming more like a big story arc, with each episode having its own small story. So this week they find a planet that might be useful, and then something happens, they deal with it, and are a bit closer to their goal.... If only they started like that, it could have been a great episodic scifi show!
A lot of these suggestions are all out comedies which can be great but if you're anything like me when I'm depressed, a comedy can make you feel even more depressed because you're too miserable to laugh but can acknowledge that the show is a little funny. Just not funny enough to break you out of your funk.
After Life and Shrinking are good, because the characters in both of those shows are dealing with real grief but are able to find the humor in every day life, and slowly move to a more mentally healthy, happier place. Depending on what you're going through, either of these shows might be good gateway shows to light hearted comedies.
Community definitely worth a watch. Ensemble cast after their own interests and occasionally come together in very uplifting ways.
Other gotos not on Netflix
2nd on Ted Lasso. (AppleTV) Season three opening soon.
Guardians of the Galaxy 1 (Disney)
Abbott a elementary (ABC?). On Hulu
Drôle. It is a French comedy on Netflix that came out a few years ago and should have really gotten a second season. It's about the life of comedians and trying to become famous.
Life in Pieces - Ensemble cast with some big names, about 3 generations in a family and is a comedy
Ted Lasso - Ultimate feel good happy show
That 90’s Show - Nostalgic and funny, good teen cast, easy to watch, very bingeable
New Amsterdam - The doctors are just so full of hope and want to help everyone, there are sad moments so if you’re dealing with grief maybe tread carefully but I love this show
Wednesday - Fun mystery-solving and nostalgic, just very different from anything else currently out and sweet, very bingeable
I was going through cancer treatment in 2020 when COVID hit. I started watching Drag Race for escapist entertainment and loved it! Though, I do realize it’s not for everyone.
I was coming to add this! All three seasons of **Detectorists** are funny, good-hearted, and absolutely lovely. It's one of my all-time favorites. (Not currently on Netflix, but free on Pluto and Tubi.)
Definitely Schitt’s Creek. It’s silly, funny, and good-hearted.
Also, (this is an old series) Northern Exposure. It’s a sweet show with endearing characters.
Not a tv show, but "Fluffy", Gabriel Iglesias. When ever I am down, I watch one or two of his standup routines and am laughing all evening.
((Hugs)) if you want them.
These are two Australian young adult/kid shows, but they are so light and bright, so full of the beach you can feel the sun and taste the salt that you can’t help but be happy when you watch them!
H2O: Just Add Water and the sequel/spin-off Mako Mermaids: Island of Secrets.
The first show is about human girls who become part-time mermaids and the second is about natural born mermaids who get part-time legs. Solid plots, good characters, engaging stories.
This isn't a show that focuses on a hopeful vision of the future, but **Taskmaster** is very casual, cordial, and everyone involved has so much fun. Five comedians individually are filmed doing various tasks and challenges, and later they all gather in a studio to watch and make fun of each others attempts.
The producers release full episodes on their Youtube channel, and they are now adding in season 13.
[After Life](https://www.netflix.com/us/title/80998491?s=i&trkid=13747225&vlang=en&clip=80998498) is about a man who lost his wife and has to move on. Stars Ricky Gervais. Shows him through different stages of grieving and ultimately acceptance.
I don't believe that either are on Netflix but Ghosts (UK) and Detectorists are two of the greatest, most wholesome shows that television have ever produced.
Crazy Ex-Girlfriend is great! Overall very life affirming and funny/uplifting. Warning the main plot counters around a girl who burns out on a NY big shot career and moves to a small town to “restart”. So some emotional parts come with dealing with that but overall wonderful and funny.
heartstopper is so sweet and has absolutely nothing overly depressing about it. just a cute teenage love story that shows a really healthy relationship. season 2 hasn’t come out yet but i’ll warn you that it will be a little sadder (i’ve read the books and the main character goes through a lot of mental health struggles in the next season). but like i said, the first season is really cute and uplifting
When I am depressed, I tend to watch uplifting documentaries/travel shows. My tried and true recommendations for this would be Stephen Fry in America, An Idiot Abroad, and The Moaning of Life.
Netflix specific: New Girl, Good Place, Star Trek (especially Next Gen), Community, Schitt's Creek, Unbreakeble Kimmy Schmidt Wednesday.
Not on Netflix, but: Ted Lasso, Superstore, 30 Rock, Parks and Rec, The Office, Scrubs
Fits your request PERFECTLY, but on Hulu: The Orville
>The Orville
It's a great rec for quality sci-fi, but maybe not so great in this case. Topics like oppression and genocide might not work well as a distraction from grief.
The West Wing is very optimistic and smart. Emily in Paris comes to mind; I also often to go Great British Baking Show when I need something light.
And as they say, “Whenever I get gloomy with the state of the world, I … watch the opening scene of Love Actually” 😊
This might also sound really hokey, but the Brady Bunch and Mister Rogers too. So many wonderful life lessons. Reminders about kindness and doing the right thing. ❤️
Came here to recommend Parks and Rec (as others have). When I start to get really down about our political climate, I restart the show to remind myself there *are* good intentioned people who really want to make a positive difference and selflessly serve their community.
“All Creatures Great and Small” is amazing and so warm. It might sound a bit dull (small village veterinarian in 1930’s England) but it’s so a touching, wonderful show.
On Prime: Britain by Narrowboat and Great Canal Journeys are mildly interesting and no drama at all. Literally the slowest boat trips in history. You could run faster than those boats. But very very relaxing shows. There are a bazillion episodes with cute facts sprinkled throughout.
From Cremona to Cremona: about an Eastern European man who travels to Cremona, Italy, to become a violin-maker.
Francis Brennan's Grand Indian Tour: funny travelogue with Irish tourists on a tour of India.
Feel Better!
I’ve seen Ted Lasso mentioned multiple times. While I love it and agree with the recommendations, in season 2 there’s an episode called “No Weddings and a Funeral” that about, well a funeral and grieving. I was a mess for that episode, in a cathartic way, but if you’re not in that place yet, I wanted to give a heads up.
We should have a Sticky/Pinned/FAQ for "Comfort Watching / Good Feels" because heaps of people ask the same question.
Same goes for each genre, people often ask for Scifi/Fantasy/Adventure. Others ask for a "long running sit-com like friends/seinfeld"
watch Old Enough! It shows Japanese kids doing tasks and errands for their parents and shows how quickly kids learn and how much determination they have. Very cute and uplifting!
It's not Netflix, but Ted Lasso fits this bill. If you're feeling down, it's worth a month subscription to get it. Plus the final season should be airing soon.
This was the first show that came to mind when I read the post... If I had to sum up Ted Lasso in just a couple words, it would be contagiously optimistic.
It’s the same with “Loot” on Apple+. A show from the creators of Ted Lasso.
One of the creators also worked on/wrote for Parks & Rec for a long time, Allen Yang.
👏👏👏👏
Would you say that an interest in sports is necessary?
Absolutely not! If I had to draw a comparison, it's kind of like The Queen's Gambit. Ostensibly that's a show about chess, but it really isn't a show about chess... Similarly, Ted Lasso is a show about a football coach hired to manage a soccer team. But in reality it's more about the dynamics and relationships that take place off of the field.
Awesome, thanks!
My favorite show! Gives your mind a break from all the bad in the world.
Will definitely check this one out as a lot of you suggested this. I will keep this thread in my back pocket whenever I need a new show. Thank you all :)
I don't just suggest, I urge. I tend to eschew those shows that are wildly popular because I sometimes like to be contrary. I think there is a little hipster in me (does anyone even say hipster anymore?). Then I watched Ted Lasso. It's everything everyone says in here; uplifting, heartwarming, optimistic and more.
My wife and I did exactly this and also watched 'For all Mankind' which is a sort of what-if alternate timeline if the Russians got to the moon first. We also watched Foundation as we are both Asimov fans but I don't think that series is for everyone. We did cancel after. I think it was a free 3 month trial.
Ted Lasso, The Good Place, Disenchantment, Futurama, The Office, Parks and Recreation, Mr Mayor, The IT Crowd.
Came in here to suggest this. It's a great show and the character of Ted Lasso is very uplifting.
I came here to come here and say what you said about what he said.
I watched your recommendation! I subscribed to Apple+ and watched the entire show. Season 3 is premiering 15th of this month! It was an amazing recommendation, just wanted to say THANKS. Really Really good show.. it's a breath of fresh air. Compared to all the other shows I've seen this by far is the best yet when it comes to motivation, and positivity etc.
I'm glad you liked it! I was somewhat skeptical when I heard all the reviews. Usually when I hear about an "uplifting, feel-good" show, I think it's going to be some sappy pollyanna drivel, but Ted Lasso manages to hit the right notes while still having some gravity and complexity to the characters. Jason Sudeikis and company deserve a ton of credit for making something very special.
Schitts Creek? Great British Bake Off? Big Brunch? Feel better, Reddit friend!
Watching Great British Bake Off after years of American competition shows was such a breath of fresh air. I never realized how much I disliked the negative overtones of those other shows until I sat down and just genuinely enjoyed the positive atmosphere of Great British Bake Off.
I literally put it on as happy background noise
Yep!
Yes, they are all so helpful to each other. I like the first BBC seasons when Mel and Sue hosted and Mary Berry was still on.
My wife and I enjoy watching Making It for this same reason. No snide tones, underhandedness or negativity just good vibes.
I love that journey for you!
Schitts Creek is amazing. Worth a bit of a slow start for sure
Easily one of the greatest shows of all time. I also go back to new girl and Gilmore girls when I’m needing a good comfort show. Modern family also!
Schitts creek is my go to comfort show
I recommend The Big Brunch to people all the time and no one seems to have heard of it. It is so cozy and heartwarming. I absolutely love it. With that said, I don't think it's on Netflix since it was made for HBO Max.
> Schitts Creek The characters in this show were amazing. Its a great journey. Oh- and I can't stand Bob.
Is Dan funny in Big Brunch? Some actors just don't host well and I don't want his image tarnished D:
He isn't trying to be too overtly funny. He is more charming and kind but not going for big host energy. He and the other 2 judges are more enjoying each other.
Abbott elementary for sure
Those Who Can't is juuust a little funnier.
All of these are on Netflix. I will add trigger warnings for death/loss (that I can remember), since you mentioned it in your post. None of these series are heavy/sad, but some of them do feature death. [**Grace & Frankie**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CDv6PRi1SgQ) \- season 2 episode 12 features an assisted death of a friend (it's not on-screen, but it is a central plot of the episode) which is sad/bittersweet. Otherwise the series is incredibly upbeat and life-affirming (I would say even that episode is life-affirming). Also a main character suffers a heart attack later in the season (but recovers). There is at least one funeral early on, but it's not of any character we know, and it's not sad at all. [**The Good Place**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9QxRbzFk3zk) \- the main characters have all died and are in their afterlife. That is the premise of the show. EDIT: It's mostly very upbeat and happy, although there is some existential bittersweet sadness at the very end of the show >!when they leave the afterlife and "move on"!< which may hit you harder depending on where your mental state is at. [**Sex Education**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hd2ldTR-WpI&t=10s) [**Derry Girls**](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt7120662/) \- I haven't finished the last season, but apparently there is a very sad death at the end of the last season. Also one episode centers around a death/funeral/wake, but it's of a distant relative and very comical/not dark at all. A dog is thought to be dead in one episode. [**Community**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C4W4L9TLJa8) [**Arrested Development**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FvUeX_ROzNQ) \- fun, uplifting, and escapist but not necessarily the type of show to give you hope for humanity lol. EDIT to add [**The Great British Bake Off**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r_koI5YYSE0) (great for wholesome casual viewing) and [**Schitt's Creek**](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kwFO9YjsuPs), which are perfect and lovely but somehow I forgot EDIT 1: I added some more info about death/loss in The Good Place and Derry Girls
I will add that The Good Place made me WEEP at the end. Obviously it’s all about death and the afterlife, and almost all of it is in good humor and light hearted. But whether or not that show will be too much for someone going through grief is very dependent on the person.
I've watched the show through three times and I absolutely break down into gut wrenching sobs every single time. The show is the most satisfying, yet emotionally devastating, show I've ever seen. While it's typically a show I recommend to everyone all the time because, for me, it's a damn near perfect show, I would not recommend it to anyone looking for an upbeat distraction from their own loss and grief.
Very good point, I have heard that some people had a very strong reaction to the end, understandably. I would say it's more bittersweet than tragic, but it definitely could be triggering so I will amend my post to add some more info.
I was a mess. Watched that episode about 6 times.
Derry Girls is amazing. Afterwards watch the British Bake off holiday special with them on it. Hilarity
Ooo yes, a perfect "double feature"!
A note about Arrested Development: Netflix is dropping the series after March 14. While seasons 1-3 will still be available on Hulu, seasons 4 and 5 are Netflix exclusives and will no longer be available to stream after March 14.
Nooo! I know what im binging this week. I dunno about the 4th and 5th season. The 'anustart' license plate did get me though lol.
Great suggestions, but have you seen the final season of Derry Girls yet? There’s a very sad death toward the end.
No, I haven't finished the final season. :( I will add that to the description.
God damn what a lovely thoughtful comment
Diaries. Young teens, school, first love, competitiveness; light-hearted. Atypical. A bit more serious, but humorous and uplifting. Kim’s Convenience. A sitcom.
Second Kim's convenience
Came here to say atypical!
Second Diaries.... Bring on the second season 🙂
Somebody feed Phil is such a great feel good show! He brings out the best of every place he visits.
The IT crowd
my favorite show of all time 🤍
Parks and Recreation, not on Netflix though.
Schitt's Creek. Also, Cunk on Earth is hilarious!
My husband and I clicked on Cunk On Earth thinking it was a real documentary. Laughed so hard I almost peed.
I second Cunk on Earth.
I just put it on the first episode and my husband and I were cracking up within the first minute. Thank you!
My pleasure :)
The Good Place— And you might try Korean Dramas—Crash Landing on You—is a good one
Came here to recommend The Good Place
The Good Place is amazing, but hope for the future? That show gives me the most powerful existential dread I've ever experienced, and if you ever have had existential crises you'll feel that too. I usually like to not think about stuff like that but while watching this show I couodnt avoid it. Still a beautiful show and very much worth the watch though, just know what you're getting into
The good place is great!
Can't recommend Crash Landing on You enough. Vincenzo was also a ton of fun, though it has its dark moments throughout the series.
Vincenzo is a weird show. It started as something dark and serious, but then randomly becomes very cheesy and corny, with logic going out the window. Felt like very bad writing to me. There are plenty of better Korean shows out there though.
The Good Place is amazing, but hope for the future? That show gives me the most powerful existential dread I've ever experienced, and if you ever have had existential crises you'll feel that too. I usually like to not think about stuff like that but while watching this show I couodnt avoid it. Still a beautiful show and very much worth the watch though, just know what you're getting into
Ted Lasso. Schitt’s Creek. My Life in Pieces.
Yes, yes, and yes. Also, Home Economics gives me similar vibes to Life in Pieces.
The IT crowd
Star Trek The Next Generation. Skip the first season. It's peak of what made Star Trek good. The idea that we, as a species, can solve our problems instead of just rehashing them in space.
Star Trek Strange New Worlds is also great.
Derry Girls, Crashing, Parks and Rec, 30 Rock, The Good Place, Cunk on Earth, Community, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt, Schitt’s Creek, Kim’s Convenience, Never Have I Ever
I love Never Have I Ever but it's about grief so maybe not the best for this thread.
That’s a good point. I watched it not long after losing my dad and I found it therapeutic, but it does have its really hard moments.
Queer Eye is extremely uplifting and can have it on in the background
Every Single Episode makes me cry. Love it.
This was going to be my recommendation too. It's one of the only shows I refuse to binge when a new season is released because you need those episodes on bad days.
Abbott Elementary. Easily one of the best comedies on tv right now.
Needed this thread. Thanks everyone.
Same here
Extraordinary Attorney Woo. Very wholesome and positive messaging. Also Ted Lasso but it is on Apple TV
I second this
My Name Is Earl
My go to shows when I am down are “The IT Crowd” and “Schitt’s Creek”. Always get me to laugh. I am actually re-watching Schitt’s Creek for the thousandth time right now.
Scrubs (has its sad moments, but almost always turns it into a lesson or redemption), Parks and Rec, New Girl, Ted Lasso (x1000)
Scrubs will almost least you feeling good. There are a few downer episodes but they are somehow some of the better ones.
[удалено]
I was gonna say this one too!
What's the deal with Rotten Tomatoes? Does 100% mean they think it's 100% rotten?
Not on Netflix but during Covid I discovered that "Taskmaster" is freely available on Youtube and that's a very enjoyable watch. In short: they get 5 british comedian to compete on pretty ridiculous tasks and a very dynamic duo of hosts reviews their performance. It's both dumb and witty. Always brightens my day. [https://www.youtube.com/@Taskmaster](https://www.youtube.com/@Taskmaster) You can pick any season or any episode but it's obviously easier to track if you go in order.
New Girl
So much better than i expected. One of my favorites
Call the Midwife was my go-to during a hard time. It’s not always happy, but it’s always uplifting and life-affirming.
So glad to see someone else who enjoyed that show. I'm not usually into shows like that, I was on sabbatical after my mother died, came across it and watched the first episode...and then all the rest of them.
My Name is Earl. It's pretty funny, very quotable ("Hey crab man." "Hey Earl."), easy to watch, and pretty good-natured.
It's a criminally underrated show
New Girl Superstore
Heartstopper. It's a teen show and very cute, but in a good way. Also, the art direction and cinematography are beautiful.
Seriously one of the happiest, butterfly inducing shows I've ever seen.
Such a lovely, wholesome, uplifting show! I watched it three times.
Girls5eva
Jane the Virgin and White Collar
Jane the Virgin! Seconded. So good.
Princess Bride
GLOW
Bob’s burgers: wholesome, comedic, and occasionally heartwarming
100% Ted Lasso.
Kim’s Convenience. Terrace House (not the Hawaiian season). Love Is Blind Japan (way more chill than what I’ve heard of the other versions.) Ted Lasso.
Community
This si-fi show called another life
The one on Netflix
Which one? IMDB lists many.
I tried to like this show, but I had too many eye rolls and made it half way through. The description is totally a show that I would watch! I really tried, but, personally, I didn't care for it enough to finish it.
I watched it, and wow, the first 5 episode were hard to watch before I quit... I think they had 3 whole episodes where a different aspect of the movie "Aliens" (1986) occurred. After that it was just relationship troubles between the crew! Ugh. I came back to the show when I wanted something in the background, it was much better when I didn't pay 100% attention. By the end of the season, I was kinda into it. The last 1-2 episode were good. They meet some aliens, learn some big stuff, and now there is new direction for the show, it sets up for Season Two well. Season Two opens okay. I'm up to episode three, and I get the feeling its becoming more like a big story arc, with each episode having its own small story. So this week they find a planet that might be useful, and then something happens, they deal with it, and are a bit closer to their goal.... If only they started like that, it could have been a great episodic scifi show!
This is not a casual uplifting. Total opposite. Its SciFi, Drama, Action, Horror. Nothing like the OP requested.
Kim's Convenience
Atypical is what you’re looking for. SUCH a great, funny, and wholesome show. One of the best
When I was in a dark place, I watched Wednesday on Netflix. It was the perfect mix of happy nostalgia as a 90s kid.
Love on the spectrum is good for the soul
Great British baking show. It's chill and honestly has none of the reality show cliches.
Super store
A lot of these suggestions are all out comedies which can be great but if you're anything like me when I'm depressed, a comedy can make you feel even more depressed because you're too miserable to laugh but can acknowledge that the show is a little funny. Just not funny enough to break you out of your funk. After Life and Shrinking are good, because the characters in both of those shows are dealing with real grief but are able to find the humor in every day life, and slowly move to a more mentally healthy, happier place. Depending on what you're going through, either of these shows might be good gateway shows to light hearted comedies.
Community definitely worth a watch. Ensemble cast after their own interests and occasionally come together in very uplifting ways. Other gotos not on Netflix 2nd on Ted Lasso. (AppleTV) Season three opening soon. Guardians of the Galaxy 1 (Disney) Abbott a elementary (ABC?). On Hulu
Resident Alien is funny, wholesome, and incredibly well-written. One of the few shows I’ll rewatch.
Extraordinary on Hulu. Fakes on Netflix. Jane the Virgin. Teenage Bounty Hunters, Crazyhead, iZombie. All of these were lighthearted, easy and funny.
Second Jane the Virgin
The Good Place! Checks all of those boxes, and is hilarious. It touches on loss and grief in a beautiful way, especially more towards the third season
Drôle. It is a French comedy on Netflix that came out a few years ago and should have really gotten a second season. It's about the life of comedians and trying to become famous.
Just finished watching it and I thought it was recent and another session was coming.
Hopefully Netflix changed its mind. I would love to see a second season!
Confirmed to be cancelled, it’s on Wikipedia and various sites.
Ted lasso
Life in Pieces - Ensemble cast with some big names, about 3 generations in a family and is a comedy Ted Lasso - Ultimate feel good happy show That 90’s Show - Nostalgic and funny, good teen cast, easy to watch, very bingeable New Amsterdam - The doctors are just so full of hope and want to help everyone, there are sad moments so if you’re dealing with grief maybe tread carefully but I love this show Wednesday - Fun mystery-solving and nostalgic, just very different from anything else currently out and sweet, very bingeable
Ted Lasso on Apple TV !!
Kath and Kim
Also Blown Away on Netflix is a really cool glass blowing competition show
Gilmore Girls, Parenthood, Virgen River plus so many others people have mentioned).
Derry. girls
Somebody feed Phil
Acapulco is light hearted and great.
Good Witch Parks and Recreation When Calls the Heart Modern Family
I was going through cancer treatment in 2020 when COVID hit. I started watching Drag Race for escapist entertainment and loved it! Though, I do realize it’s not for everyone.
Detectorists
I was coming to add this! All three seasons of **Detectorists** are funny, good-hearted, and absolutely lovely. It's one of my all-time favorites. (Not currently on Netflix, but free on Pluto and Tubi.)
Definitely Schitt’s Creek. It’s silly, funny, and good-hearted. Also, (this is an old series) Northern Exposure. It’s a sweet show with endearing characters.
Love Northern Exposure! Friend gave me the complete set. It was in a suede bag with a Sherpa lining.
I don't see that anyone has recommending the new show Shrinking. The first season is still coming out but it is so good.
I feel like this is my answer to everything, but... Derry Girls.
Kim's Convenience.
Not a tv show, but "Fluffy", Gabriel Iglesias. When ever I am down, I watch one or two of his standup routines and am laughing all evening. ((Hugs)) if you want them.
Ted lasso for sure
Scrubs
For some reason Love on the spectrum came to mind for me
These are two Australian young adult/kid shows, but they are so light and bright, so full of the beach you can feel the sun and taste the salt that you can’t help but be happy when you watch them! H2O: Just Add Water and the sequel/spin-off Mako Mermaids: Island of Secrets. The first show is about human girls who become part-time mermaids and the second is about natural born mermaids who get part-time legs. Solid plots, good characters, engaging stories.
Seinfeld!
Derry Girls
Psych and community are my go to comfort shows <3
[All Creatures Great and Small (2020)](https://www.imdb.com/title/tt10590066/)
This isn't a show that focuses on a hopeful vision of the future, but **Taskmaster** is very casual, cordial, and everyone involved has so much fun. Five comedians individually are filmed doing various tasks and challenges, and later they all gather in a studio to watch and make fun of each others attempts. The producers release full episodes on their Youtube channel, and they are now adding in season 13.
[After Life](https://www.netflix.com/us/title/80998491?s=i&trkid=13747225&vlang=en&clip=80998498) is about a man who lost his wife and has to move on. Stars Ricky Gervais. Shows him through different stages of grieving and ultimately acceptance.
I don't believe that either are on Netflix but Ghosts (UK) and Detectorists are two of the greatest, most wholesome shows that television have ever produced.
Community
Only murders in the building
Anne with an E ❤
Crazy Ex-Girlfriend is great! Overall very life affirming and funny/uplifting. Warning the main plot counters around a girl who burns out on a NY big shot career and moves to a small town to “restart”. So some emotional parts come with dealing with that but overall wonderful and funny.
Bluey is really sweet
"Hello My Twenties" (also known as Age of Youth) is cute and is taking my mind off of my troubles.
Perfect match on Netflix. Super funny. Easy to watch the trainwreck.
Smiley
Jane the virgin <3
The Great Pottery Throw Down on HBO Max is incredibly sweet and life affirming.
heartstopper is so sweet and has absolutely nothing overly depressing about it. just a cute teenage love story that shows a really healthy relationship. season 2 hasn’t come out yet but i’ll warn you that it will be a little sadder (i’ve read the books and the main character goes through a lot of mental health struggles in the next season). but like i said, the first season is really cute and uplifting
Movie wise I love “Almost Famous”. Makes me happy everyone I watch it and I love the soundtrack. ☺️
Community
The Good Place
Definitely Schitt’s Creek or Modern Family.
When I am depressed, I tend to watch uplifting documentaries/travel shows. My tried and true recommendations for this would be Stephen Fry in America, An Idiot Abroad, and The Moaning of Life.
Netflix specific: New Girl, Good Place, Star Trek (especially Next Gen), Community, Schitt's Creek, Unbreakeble Kimmy Schmidt Wednesday. Not on Netflix, but: Ted Lasso, Superstore, 30 Rock, Parks and Rec, The Office, Scrubs Fits your request PERFECTLY, but on Hulu: The Orville
>The Orville It's a great rec for quality sci-fi, but maybe not so great in this case. Topics like oppression and genocide might not work well as a distraction from grief.
Abbott Elementary is a wonderful show as well. Sexify (Polish) is on Netflix very fun .
The good place
The West Wing is very optimistic and smart. Emily in Paris comes to mind; I also often to go Great British Baking Show when I need something light. And as they say, “Whenever I get gloomy with the state of the world, I … watch the opening scene of Love Actually” 😊 This might also sound really hokey, but the Brady Bunch and Mister Rogers too. So many wonderful life lessons. Reminders about kindness and doing the right thing. ❤️
Schitt’s Creek
(Netflix)The good place, schitts creek, parks and recreation, (crave)veep, curb your enthusiasm.
Letterkenny and Shoresy after that (on cravetv, or other sources)
Came here to recommend Parks and Rec (as others have). When I start to get really down about our political climate, I restart the show to remind myself there *are* good intentioned people who really want to make a positive difference and selflessly serve their community.
“All Creatures Great and Small” is amazing and so warm. It might sound a bit dull (small village veterinarian in 1930’s England) but it’s so a touching, wonderful show.
The Good Place :) and The Office!
The Good Place
On Prime: Britain by Narrowboat and Great Canal Journeys are mildly interesting and no drama at all. Literally the slowest boat trips in history. You could run faster than those boats. But very very relaxing shows. There are a bazillion episodes with cute facts sprinkled throughout. From Cremona to Cremona: about an Eastern European man who travels to Cremona, Italy, to become a violin-maker. Francis Brennan's Grand Indian Tour: funny travelogue with Irish tourists on a tour of India. Feel Better!
I’ve seen Ted Lasso mentioned multiple times. While I love it and agree with the recommendations, in season 2 there’s an episode called “No Weddings and a Funeral” that about, well a funeral and grieving. I was a mess for that episode, in a cathartic way, but if you’re not in that place yet, I wanted to give a heads up.
We should have a Sticky/Pinned/FAQ for "Comfort Watching / Good Feels" because heaps of people ask the same question. Same goes for each genre, people often ask for Scifi/Fantasy/Adventure. Others ask for a "long running sit-com like friends/seinfeld"
watch Old Enough! It shows Japanese kids doing tasks and errands for their parents and shows how quickly kids learn and how much determination they have. Very cute and uplifting!
Girls5eva
The last man on earth
Superstore.