17 Teen Dramas Where The Parents Are Actually Good At Parenting

Teen dramas often rely on absent or incompetent adults to drive the plot forward by leaving adolescents to fend for themselves. Some shows subvert this trope by featuring guardians who provide stability and genuine wisdom. These characters prove that parental figures can be compelling without serving as villains or obstacles. The following series highlight moms and dads who actually know how to raise their children while navigating complex family dynamics.

‘The O.C.’ (2003–2007)

Sandy and Kirsten Cohen provide a loving home for Ryan Atwood after rescuing him from an abusive situation. Sandy serves as the moral compass of the series with his unwavering patience and iconic eyebrows. The couple navigates the superficial world of Newport Beach while keeping their children grounded. They demonstrate that trust and open communication are essential for maintaining a healthy family unit.

‘Friday Night Lights’ (2006–2011)

Eric and Tami Taylor are widely considered one of the best portrayals of a married couple on television. They balance the high pressure of Texas high school football with the delicate needs of their teenage daughter. Tami offers empathetic guidance as a guidance counselor while Eric molds young men as a coach. Their partnership relies on mutual respect and the ability to compromise during difficult times.

‘Veronica Mars’ (2004–2019)

Keith Mars goes above and beyond the duties of a typical father by serving as both a parent and a business partner to his daughter. He respects Veronica’s intelligence and treats her as an equal without forgetting his protective instincts. The bond between them forms the emotional core of the show amidst the noir mystery elements. Keith consistently sacrifices his own reputation and safety to ensure his daughter remains safe.

‘Gilmore Girls’ (2000–2007)

Lorelai Gilmore raises her daughter Rory as her best friend while ensuring she has the opportunities Lorelai missed. The show centers entirely on their fast-talking relationship and shared love for coffee and pop culture. Lorelai works tirelessly to build a life of independence while fostering an environment of absolute honesty. Her parenting style emphasizes emotional availability and unconditional support through every academic or romantic crisis.

‘One Tree Hill’ (2003–2012)

Karen Roe raises her son Lucas as a single mother while running a business and avoiding the toxicity of his biological father. She creates a nurturing environment that allows Lucas to grow into a sensitive and responsible young man. Keith Scott steps in to provide a positive male role model and treats Lucas like his own son. Their combined influence stands in stark contrast to the manipulative parenting seen elsewhere in the series.

‘Smallville’ (2001–2011)

Jonathan and Martha Kent face the unique challenge of raising a superpowered alien in rural Kansas. They instill strong moral values in Clark that eventually define his identity as Superman. Jonathan teaches the importance of hard work and humility while Martha provides emotional intelligence and warmth. Their guidance prevents Clark from becoming a godlike tyrant and keeps him grounded in humanity.

‘Glee’ (2009–2015)

Burt Hummel starts as a stereotypical blue-collar worker but evolves into one of the most supportive fathers on television. He actively works to understand his gay son Kurt and defends him against bullying with fierce loyalty. Burt admits when he does not understand something and educates himself to be a better parent. His character arc defies expectations and offers a touching representation of unconditional paternal love.

‘The Fosters’ (2013–2018)

Stef and Lena Adams Foster manage a chaotic household of biological, adopted, and foster children with immense patience. They tackle difficult topics like trauma and identity while maintaining a loving and safe home environment. The couple operates as a united front to solve problems and advocate for their children within the system. Their parenting highlights the importance of choosing to be a family every single day.

‘Freaks and Geeks’ (1999–2000)

Jean and Harold Weir represent a realistic suburban couple trying to understand their changing children. Jean acts as the compassionate peacemaker who always wants to be involved in the lives of Lindsay and Sam. Harold offers gruff but well-meaning advice that often stems from his desire to protect them from the harsh world. They may not always get it right but they are consistently present and deeply caring.

‘My So-Called Life’ (1994–1995)

Patty and Graham Chase are portrayed as flawed but deeply committed parents navigating the turbulence of the nineties. The show captures their struggle to connect with their daughter Angela as she pulls away during adolescence. They deal with financial stress and marital issues without letting the family fall apart completely. Their depiction feels authentic because they are allowed to be confused and vulnerable just like their daughter.

‘Heartstopper’ (2022–Present)

Sarah Nelson offers a refreshing example of immediate acceptance and warmth. She notices changes in her son Nick and provides a safe space for him to explore his feelings without pressure. Her reaction to his coming out is celebrated as one of the most touching scenes in the genre. She validates his emotions and assures him that he does not need to change for anyone.

‘Sex Education’ (2019–2023)

Jean Milburn is a sex therapist who tries to apply her professional knowledge to raising her son Otis. She is intrusive at times but operates from a place of radical honesty and lack of judgment. Jean encourages Otis to be open about his problems and treats him with a level of maturity rarely seen in teen dramas. She apologizes when she crosses boundaries and constantly strives to repair their relationship.

‘Dawson’s Creek’ (1998–2003)

Mitch and Gail Leery endure infidelity and tragedy but remain dedicated to their son Dawson throughout the series. They maintain an open door policy that makes their house the central hub for the entire friend group. Mitch in particular evolves into a confidant who encourages Dawson to pursue his filmmaking dreams. They show that parents can rebuild their marriage and family dynamic even after significant stumbling blocks.

‘All American’ (2018–Present)

Billy and Laura Baker take in Spencer James and treat him with the same love they give their own children. Billy navigates the complexities of being both a father and a football coach with varying degrees of success. Laura serves as the steady anchor of the family who uses her legal expertise to protect the kids. They work hard to bridge the gap between two different worlds to give their children the best future.

‘Switched at Birth’ (2011–2017)

The Kennish and Vasquez families are forced to blend their lives after discovering their daughters were switched at birth. Kathryn and John Kennish provide resources and structure while Regina Vasquez offers grit and cultural connection. The parents must overcome their socioeconomic and personal differences to co-parent effectively. They eventually form a large and unconventional support system that prioritizes the well-being of the daughters.

‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ (1997–2003)

Joyce Summers brings a necessary dose of reality to a world filled with demons and apocalypse scenarios. She tries her best to parent a daughter who carries the weight of the world on her shoulders. Joyce eventually becomes a mother figure to the entire group of friends and offers them a sanctuary. Her presence reminds the audience that Buffy is still a young woman who needs maternal comfort.

‘Beverly Hills, 90210’ (1990–2000)

Jim and Cindy Walsh serve as the wholesome Midwestern transplants in the flashy world of Beverly Hills. They offer advice and stability to Brandon and Brenda as well as their often neglected friends. Cindy acts as a surrogate mother to many of the characters who lack stable home lives. The Walsh home remains a consistent safe haven where traditional values are upheld despite the surrounding drama.

Let us know which TV parents you wish you had growing up in the comments.