In an era of endless content, some television shows transcend mere entertainment to become a cherished source of solace and familiarity. A panel of writers has compiled the definitive list of the small-screen treasures that Brits return to time and again for a guaranteed dose of comfort.
The Sitcom Sanctuary
For many, the timeless rhythms of a beloved sitcom offer the ultimate respite. Lucy Mangan champions the flawless ensemble comedy of Brooklyn Nine-Nine, praising its rapid-fire jokes and seamless cast chemistry, declaring it a perfect escape from life's worries.
The intellectual farce of Frasier holds a special place for Hollie Richardson, evoking memories of family viewing. The show's blend of snobbery, farce, and heartfelt moments between Frasier, Niles, and their father Martin provides a warm, reliable laugh.
Meanwhile, Sarah Dempster finds endless joy in the cringe-worthy majesty of I'm Alan Partridge, whose every humiliating line and reference to a Corby trouser press feels like a synaptic hug.
Feel-Good Formats and Soothing Streams
Comfort viewing isn't confined to comedy. Kate Abbott finds unexpected joy and intellectual reassurance in the Monday night ritual of University Challenge, celebrating the genius of its contestants.
Cookery programmes provide a pacifying effect for many. Chitra Ramaswamy describes Jamie Oliver as the '15-tog duvet of TV chefs', whose cooking process and familiar patter act as a form of guided meditation. Similarly, Rachel Aroesti finds productive relaxation in the orderly kitchens of Nigella Lawson and Mary Berry.
For structured, glittering fun, Leah Harper turns to RuPaul's Drag Race UK. Its repetitive format, catchphrases, and blend of competition and camaraderie became a vital feelgood fixture, especially from 2020 onwards.
Hidden Gems and Nostalgic Treasures
The list also highlights brilliant, shorter-run series deserving of a rewatch. Stuart Heritage laments that there were only ever 23 episodes of Tina Fey's absurdist newsroom sitcom Great News, praising the full-tilt performances of Andrea Martin and John Michael Higgins.
Phil Harrison celebrates the philosophical warmth of The Good Place, a clever afterlife comedy that feels like hanging out with great friends, while Ann Lee recommends the charming, renamed romcom Lovesick for its messy take on love and friendship.
Nostalgia plays a powerful role. Jenny Stevens notes that Friends has been a constant through different life stages, its central New York apartments forever feeling like home. Alexi Duggins finds instant bliss in the daft, kind-hearted 90s crime show Due South, and Chris Wiegand recommends the irrepressible, dialogue-free antics of Pingu on YouTube for pure, simple cheer.
From the glorious trash of Virgin River, as endorsed by Jenny Stevens, to the still-thrilling energy of Sex and the City for Benjamin Lee, and the reliably hilarious meta-gags of Arrested Development for Hannah J Davies, this collection proves that comfort TV comes in many forms. It provides a blanket of familiarity, a reliable laugh, or a soothing rhythm, always ready to banish the calling blues.
