As the world outside becomes increasingly chaotic, television has turned to "comfort viewing" to provide solace. Enter shows like *Ted Lasso* and *Schitt's Creek*, which have set a new standard for lighthearted storytelling that doesn't shy away from life's challenges. HBO's *Rooster*, starring Steve Carell as Greg Russo, captures a similar spirit. Although Russo's life unravels quite dramatically in the early episodes, the show's tone remains surprisingly optimistic. It centers on a relatable hero grappling with the harsh realities of life while trying to keep his integrity intact.
If you find yourself in need of more feel-good narratives, look no further. Here are ten television series that feature characters whose struggles are not just relatable—but whose victories are ultimately uplifting. Let's raise a glass to the underdogs and flawed heroes who remind us of our shared humanity.
Lucky Hank (2023)
In what feels like a perfect transition from *Better Call Saul*, Bob Odenkirk takes on the role of Hank Devereaux, Jr., an underappreciated creative writing instructor in a Pennsylvania college. The show kicks off with Hank facing humiliation at the hands of a student and public mockery of his own institution. As he navigates a deluge of personal crises—including family dynamics that overshadow his own sense of achievement—things only seem to spiral further out of control. Mireille Enos joins him in this sharp comedy that explores middle-aged disillusionment. For those interested, you can
Purchase Lucky Hank on Prime Video or
Apple TV.
A Man on the Inside (2024– )
Ted Danson takes center stage in this gently satirical series, portraying Charles Nieuwendyk, a retired professor who becomes immersed in an undercover investigation at a San Francisco retirement community. Pressured by his daughter to find a new purpose after losing his wife, his mission to uncover a theft rings with comic irony as he grows attached to the very individuals he’s supposed to deceive. Keep an eye out for season two, which brings back Danson's real-life spouse, Mary Steenburgen, in an academic setting that suggests a playful nod to *Rooster*. You can
Stream A Man on the Inside on Netflix.
The Chair (2021)
In *The Chair*, Sandra Oh delivers a standout performance as Dr. Ji-Yoon Kim, the first woman appointed to lead the English department at Pembroke University. Here, she juggles the weighty expectations of her new position while balancing personal relationships and the challenges of motherhood. Though it lasted only a season, the series offered sharp commentary on contemporary academia that pushed boundaries in a way that *Rooster* did not fully explore. If this intrigues you, you can
Stream The Chair on Netflix.
Ted Lasso (2020– )
When *Ted Lasso* premiered in 2020, it was an unexpected delight, and talks of its revival are adding fresh excitement years after its original three-season run. Jason Sudeikis embodies Lasso, an American football coach hired to run an English soccer club despite knowing little about the sport. Initially intended as a sabotage against her ex-husband's beloved team, Ted’s infectious positivity not only wins hearts but also transforms the team dynamics. You can
Stream Ted Lasso on Apple TV.
Dear White People (2017–2021)
Drawing from the 2014 film, *Dear White People* transports us to a fictional Ivy League institution, blending humor and drama to explore campus life through a critical lens. Led by Logan Browning as Sam White, the series unpacks racial tensions and campus politics following a racially charged incident. Contrary to critiques from some corners, it candidly tackles the often-contradictory nature of activism in academia. Interested in seeing how it plays out? You can
Stream Dear White People on Netflix.
This collection underscores how television is adapting to provide reflections of our own experiences, often delivering hope wrapped in humor during trying times.
Shrinking (2023 – )
Delivered with a mix of humor and heartfelt moments, *Shrinking* showcases Jason Segel in the role of Jimmy Laird, a cognitive behavioral therapist navigating life after his wife's death. In the series' opening episodes, we witness Jimmy's struggle to balance his personal grief with professional expectations. After a misstep during a therapy session, where he expresses brutal honesty to a self-absorbed patient, he discovers a refreshing shift: abandoning the clinical restraint common in therapy for a more candid approach. This change invites both chaos and authenticity into his life, creating a playground for comedy.
Jessica Williams provides a fantastic counterbalance as Gaby Evans, another therapist who stays optimistic despite the turmoil of her recent divorce. Meanwhile, Harrison Ford brings a delightful gruffness to the role of Jimmy's mentor, offering a perfect foil to Segel's character. Having already wrapped up its third season, the show has been renewed for a fourth, suggesting that audiences remain invested in these characters’ journeys.
For those eager to dive into this blend of comedy and poignant exploration of grief, you can
stream *Shrinking* here, available on Apple TV.
Abbott Elementary (2021 – )
In a landscape saturated with workplace comedies, *Abbott Elementary* quickly carves its niche as an insightful mockumentary. Quinta Brunson’s creation shines as it humorously tackles the hurdles of educators in an underfunded American school environment. The show captures the undeniable spirit of its cast, notably the well-intentioned teachers who often clash with a bureaucratic system that doesn’t always support their dedication.
With its satirical tone reminiscent of *The Office*, *Abbott Elementary* goes beyond mere laughs; it prompts reflection on the complexities of education. As the characters navigate both quirky mishaps and genuine challenges, the audience is invited to cheer for their success amidst systemic barriers.
Those eager to watch the series can find it streaming on both Hulu and HBO Max. The blend of comedy and cultural commentary makes this show a must-see.
Somebody Somewhere (2022 – 2024)
Bridget Everett leads *Somebody Somewhere* as Sam Miller, a woman at a crossroads, returning to her hometown to care for her ailing sister. Initially, the premise suggests heavy drama, but the series leans into comedy, offering an uplifting narrative amid darker themes. Sam's journey of self-discovery, paired with her passion for singing, serves as a vessel through which she reconnects with friends and navigates past regrets.
The charm of the show lies in its cast of quirky characters, all playing off each other in delightful ways. This drama-comedy juxtaposes life’s harsh realities with moments of lightness, making it relatable for anyone trying to find their footing after personal loss.
You can
stream *Somebody Somewhere* on HBO Max.
Chad Powers (2025 – )
The new comedy *Chad Powers* tells the story of Russ Holliday, played by Glen Powell, who faces a dramatic fall from grace in collegiate football after a series of missteps. Eight years post-scandal, in a move reminiscent of *Mrs. Doubtfire*, Russ adopts the persona of Chad Powers—complete with a wig and prosthetics—to reclaim his past glory as a naive but spirited athlete at a lesser-known Georgia college.
This can’t be overstated: the premise is undeniably silly, yet Powell’s performance injects the character with relatable depth. As he wrestles with who Chad Powers really is versus the person he wants to become, the show evolves beyond mere slapstick, exploring identity and authenticity.
Fans can
stream *Chad Powers* on Hulu.What can we take away from shows like *Mr. Corman*? On one level, the series tried to capture the overwhelming feelings of anxiety and uncertainty that often accompany adult life. Joseph Gordon-Levitt portrays Josh Corman, a public school teacher grappling with a midlife crisis following personal setbacks. As he navigates professional challenges and personal disappointments, the show visually marries his internal conflict with animated sequences and musical elements.
This mix of styles gives the narrative a unique dynamic, but one could argue it also obscures the deeper exploration of Josh's issues. Sure, there's relatability in depicting anxiety, but the real question is: does the approach do justice to the struggle? The show flirts with complexity—highlighting the disillusionment of an artist turned educator—but it sometimes feels like it's skimming the surface rather than diving deep into those existential themes.
As we look ahead, it’s clear that the fusion of animation and live action has potential beyond mere aesthetics. This could serve as a transformational tool in storytelling, particularly around heavy subjects. If you're in the industry or just a keen observer, think about how such creative choices can shape the emotional landscape of narratives. There’s a delicate balance between entertainment and authentic representation that remains to be struck.
In essence, *Mr. Corman* holds a mirror to the struggles many face, but it also beckons deeper conversations about mental health and identity in a complex world. These are discussions worth having—art has the power to reflect our realities, but are we ready to confront them head-on?
