If there's one perfect time to lose yourself in a comforting television series, it's the first weekend of the New Year. As the festive decorations come down and the reality of January sets in, a cosy binge-watch session offers the ideal respite before the working week begins.
While the season often champions new beginnings, there's undeniable solace in revisiting a beloved favourite. For many, the removal of Friends from Netflix left a void. Fear not, as we've compiled a list of five brilliant alternatives, all recommended by Metro readers, to fill that gap.
Metro Readers' Top Comfort Watch Picks
We asked our audience for their go-to shows for post-New Year recovery. The responses highlighted a range of iconic British comedies that promise laughter and familiarity.
1. Peep Show
Recommended by reader Emma Love, Peep Show offers a uniquely hilarious perspective. This series, which concluded in 2015, follows the lives of two socially awkward best friends, Mark and Jeremy, from their flat in Croydon.
The show's pioneering use of point-of-view shots and internal monologue delivers brutally funny insights. With stellar performances from David Mitchell, Robert Webb, and Olivia Colman, its dry wit remains unmatched. One fan, Kaushik Roy, hailed it as 'the greatest comedy show ever made for television'.
Peep Show is available to stream on Channel 4.
2. Gavin and Stacey
Championed by reader Pem Shell, Gavin and Stacey is a heart-warming classic. Over three seasons, it charts the long-distance romance between Gavin from Essex and Stacey from Wales, along with their unforgettable families and friends.
The series, created by and starring James Corden and Ruth Jones, creates a world you'll want to be part of. Its 2019 Christmas special was a national event, drawing an audience of 19 million viewers. As fan 'Coffeeguy 66' noted, they've 'watched every episode a good 4 or 5 times'.
Gavin and Stacey is available on BBC iPlayer.
3. Dinnerladies
For a 'proper pick-me-up comedy', reader Clive James suggests the late Victoria Wood's masterpiece, Dinnerladies. Set in a Manchester factory canteen, it features a stellar cast including Maxine Peake and Julie Walters.
The show finds humour in the everyday conversations of its working-class characters, covering topics from marriage to mashed potato with unparalleled wit. Google reviewer Barbara Serres perfectly summarised its appeal: 'Every line is a scream'.
Dinnerladies is available to stream on BBC iPlayer.
4. Still Game
Reader Dan Trafford's recommendation takes us to Scotland with Still Game. This beloved BBC sitcom focuses on two pensioners, Jack and Victor (played by Ford Kiernan and Greg Hemphill), and their life in the fictional Craiglang estate.
Full of sharp banter and poignant moments, much of the action revolves around The Clansman pub. Fan Michael Meldrum calls it one of his 'all time favourites', a sentiment echoed by many who have binge-watched all nine series.
Still Game is available to watch on BBC iPlayer.
5. The Big Bang Theory
Finally, Jonathan Lee-Smith suggests the globally popular The Big Bang Theory. While its departure from Netflix dismayed fans, it remains available on other platforms.
The series, which follows a group of brilliant but socially inept scientists and their friends, blends geek culture with heartfelt storytelling. As reviewer Ryan Choi noted, it successfully 'transcends the boundaries of traditional comedy'. For many, it remains the ultimate nostalgic, feel-good watch.
The Big Bang Theory can be purchased on Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube.
So, as the winter chill sets in this January weekend, why not wrap up, make a hot drink, and dive into one of these classic comfort shows? Your perfect post-New Year recovery session awaits.
