Guardian guide lists TV shows readers turn to for comfort
The Guardian has compiled a guide to what writers call the ultimate comfort TV, collecting short recommendations for shows people return to when they need cheering up. The pieces range from sitcoms and reality formats to cookery programmes and children’s animation.
Contributors explain why specific series soothe them: Lucy Mangan praises Brooklyn Nine-Nine’s seamless cast and fast jokes; Rebecca Nicholson points to the zingers and chaotic humour of Absolutely Fabulous; Sarah Dempster values the familiarity of I’m Alan Partridge. Phil Harrison describes The Good Place as inventive yet cosy, while Kate Abbott finds simple joy in watching University Challenge.
Other picks include Stuart Heritage’s fondness for the Tina Fey sitcom Great News, Hollie Richardson’s note that Frasier’s mix of farce and warmth remains comforting, Chitra Ramaswamy’s use of Jamie Oliver as a calming presence, and Leah Harper’s turn to RuPaul’s Drag Race UK for feelgood entertainment. Reviewers also recommend Virgin River, Friends, Due South, Lovesick, Sex and the City, Pingu, Nigella Lawson’s cookery shows and Arrested Development for various blends of nostalgia, humour and rewatchability.
Across the pieces, writers emphasise familiarity, laughter and repeated viewing as the key comforts these shows provide; the guide presents personal choices and explanations rather than a ranked list.
Key Topics
Culture, Brooklyn Nine-nine, Absolutely Fabulous, Alan Partridge, University Challenge, Frasier