Top 20 Comfort TV Shows to Lift Your Spirits on a Bad Day

When life throws a rough day your way, sometimes the best remedy is curling up with a TV show that feels like a warm hug. Comfort shows have a unique ability to ease stress, bring laughter, or transport you to a familiar world where everything feels okay.

These shows, ranging from quirky comedies to heartfelt dramas, are perfect for rewatching when you need a mood boost. Below, I’ve rounded up 20 of the most rewatchable comfort TV shows that can turn any bad day around, starting with dependable classics and ending with the ultimate feel-good escape.

20. ‘The Golden Girls’ (1985-1992)

This sitcom follows four older women—Dorothy, Rose, Blanche, and Sophia—living together in Miami. Their witty banter and unbreakable friendship make every episode a joy, tackling everything from romance to aging with humor and heart.

I love how their sharp one-liners and cozy dynamic feel like catching up with old friends. Whether it’s Rose’s goofy stories or Sophia’s savage quips, this show never fails to make me smile, especially after a tough day.

19. ‘Seinfeld’ (1989-1998)

Jerry Seinfeld and his friends navigate life’s absurdities in this iconic ‘show about nothing.’ From Kramer’s wild schemes to George’s endless mishaps, the humor is timeless and endlessly quotable.

I can jump into any episode and laugh within seconds, knowing there’s no heavy drama waiting. It’s like a quick escape to a world where the biggest problem is a bad parking spot or a soup dispute.

18. ‘Parks and Recreation’ (2009-2015)

Set in the quirky town of Pawnee, this mockumentary follows Leslie Knope and her parks department crew. Their optimism and silly antics turn small-town government work into pure comedy gold.

Leslie’s relentless enthusiasm always lifts my spirits, and the ensemble—Ron’s gruff wisdom, April’s sarcasm—makes every rewatch feel fresh. It’s perfect for days when I need a reminder that good people can make a difference.

17. ‘Brooklyn Nine-Nine’ (2013-2021)

This comedy tracks the detectives of Brooklyn’s 99th precinct, led by the hilarious Jake Peralta and stoic Captain Holt. It blends goofy humor with heartfelt moments, making it endlessly rewatchable.

I can’t resist the Halloween heist episodes or Jake’s die-hard obsession with action movies. The diverse cast and tight-knit team dynamic make it a go-to for cheering up on a gloomy day.

16. ‘Gilmore Girls’ (2000-2007)

Lorelai and Rory Gilmore navigate life, love, and coffee in the charming town of Stars Hollow. The fast-talking mother-daughter duo and their quirky neighbors create a cozy, nostalgic vibe.

I love sinking into the autumnal feel of this show, especially when I’m feeling down. The witty dialogue and small-town warmth make it easy to rewatch, like visiting a favorite place.

15. ‘Friends’ (1994-2004)

This classic sitcom follows six friends living in New York City, facing life’s ups and downs with humor. From Ross’s ‘pivot’ meltdown to Chandler’s sarcastic quips, it’s comfort TV at its finest.

I can recite half the lines but still laugh every time. It’s like hanging out with people who always know how to make a bad day better, no matter how many times I’ve seen it.

14. ‘The Office’ (2005-2013)

This mockumentary dives into the daily grind at Dunder Mifflin, where Michael Scott’s cringe-worthy antics and Jim and Pam’s romance steal the show. It’s packed with awkward humor and heart.

I keep coming back for Dwight’s beet-farm wisdom and the slow-burn love stories. It’s a show that feels like a workplace I’d want to join, perfect for unwinding after a long day.

13. ‘New Girl’ (2011-2018)

Jess Day moves in with three guy roommates, sparking chaos and friendship. The quirky humor and heartfelt bonds make this sitcom a reliable pick-me-up.

I adore Jess’s relentless optimism and Nick’s grumpy charm—their dynamic never gets old. Whether it’s a True American game or a loft argument, this show always brightens my mood.

12. ‘How I Met Your Mother’ (2005-2014)

Ted Mosby narrates his journey to find love, joined by his hilarious friends Marshall, Lily, Barney, and Robin. The long-running mystery and slapstick gags keep it rewatchable.

I love Ted’s overthinking and Barney’s legendary catchphrases. It’s a show I can watch while doing chores, as it’s light enough to enjoy without needing full attention, yet still delivers laughs and heartwarming moments.

11. ‘Schitt’s Creek’ (2015-2020)

The wealthy Rose family loses everything and moves to a small town they bought as a joke. Their journey from shallow to soulful is both funny and deeply moving.

Moira’s dramatic flair and David’s snark make every episode a delight. I rewatch for a dose of humor and the reminder that growth and community can come from the toughest situations.

10. ’30 Rock’ (2006-2013)

This fast-paced comedy follows Liz Lemon, head writer of a sketch show, as she juggles eccentric actors and a demanding boss. Tina Fey’s sharp writing keeps it endlessly funny.

I love the non-stop jokes and absurd behind-the-scenes chaos. It’s a low-effort watch that delivers big laughs, perfect for shaking off a bad day’s stress.

9. ‘The Good Place’ (2016-2020)

Eleanor, a flawed woman, lands in a heaven-like afterlife by mistake and tries to become a better person. This clever comedy mixes philosophy with hilarity.

I keep returning for the witty dialogue and surprising twists. It’s a lighthearted escape that still makes me think, ideal for lifting my spirits on a rough day.

8. ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ (1997-2003)

Buffy Summers, a high schooler, battles vampires and demons with her loyal friends. The mix of action, humor, and heart makes it a fan favorite for rewatching.

I’m hooked on Buffy’s strength and the Scooby gang’s bond. It’s a nostalgic escape that balances monster fights with relatable teen drama, perfect for a mood boost.

7. ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ (2005-present)

This medical drama follows Meredith Grey and her colleagues at Grey Sloan Memorial, blending high-stakes surgeries with personal drama. The emotional depth keeps me coming back.

I love the mix of intense cases and messy relationships. It’s a show I can lose myself in, offering catharsis and comfort on even the worst days.

6. ‘Friday Night Lights’ (2006-2011)

Set in Dillon, Texas, this drama centers on a high school football team and its tight-knit community. Coach Taylor and his wife Tami anchor the heartfelt stories.

I rewatch for the relatable characters and small-town vibe. It’s a grounding show that reminds me of resilience and connection, lifting my mood every time.

5. ‘Ted Lasso’ (2020-2023)

An American coach takes on an English soccer team, bringing optimism and biscuits to a skeptical crew. Jason Sudeikis shines in this uplifting comedy.

I can’t get enough of Ted’s relentless positivity and the team’s growth. It’s a feel-good watch that turns any bad day into a hopeful one.

4. ‘The Great British Bake Off’ (2010-present)

Amateur bakers compete in a cozy tent, crafting stunning desserts under gentle pressure. The warm judges and friendly vibe make it pure comfort viewing.

I love the soothing creativity and lack of drama. It’s like baking cookies with a friend, a perfect way to unwind and smile.

3. ‘Community’ (2009-2015)

This sitcom follows a quirky study group at Greendale Community College, delivering absurd humor and pop culture nods. The ensemble cast is pure gold.

I rewatch for the clever parodies and tight friendships. It’s a fun, low-stakes escape that always cheers me up, no matter the episode.

2. ‘Modern Family’ (2009-2020)

This mockumentary follows the extended Pritchett-Dunphy family, blending humor with heartfelt moments. The diverse cast and relatable stories keep it fresh.

I love the mix of laughs and emotional beats, from Phil’s dad jokes to Gloria’s fiery charm. It’s a show that feels like family, perfect for any bad day.

1. ‘Bob’s Burgers’ (2011-present)

The Belcher family runs a burger joint, facing daily chaos with wit and love. The animated comedy’s quirky humor and warm dynamic make it my top comfort pick.

I keep coming back for Bob’s puns and Linda’s enthusiasm. It’s a colorful, soothing show that never fails to make me laugh and forget my worries.

What’s your go-to comfort show for a bad day, or did I miss a gem? Drop your thoughts in the comments!