Don’t get me wrong, I love great true crime series or psychological thrillers, but lately I’m in need of something lighter. Who else? In the rare moments when I find time to watch TV, I’m always on the lookout for comedy. We are in the depths of winter here in Vermont and sometimes you just need something to lighten the mood. Honestly, I kind of forgot how good it feels to just laugh it off on the show.
Kelly and I have rounded up our favorite comedies, whether you’re looking for a rave series or a great stand-up comedy, now for everyone on this list of 20 comedy shows. Are there any other favorite comedies not on this list? Let us know in the comments! We can use a little more humor these days.
Netflix
Sebastian Maniscal
I have watched every one Comedy specials by Sebastian Maniscalco They are all very funny. Something about his humor is so relatable, his physical comedy excites me. His special program from 2012, what’s wrong with people, probably my favorite. This was 10 years ago, but it feels very relevant to the past two years. (Jace)
queer eye
The Big Five returns for season 6 with Queer Eyes, showcasing everything from honky-tonk dance trainers to straddle powerlifters. The ultimate feel-good, uplifting comedy to keep this winter easy and give you hope for a brighter future. (Kelly)
sex education
This British comedy explores the life of socially awkward teenager Otis as he tries to navigate the world of sex as the son of a sex therapist. Otis is quickly drawn to offer sexual advice to his peers, and the absurdity ensues. Looking for a creepy laugh that also offers a sweet glimpse, sex education will do so. (Kelly)
ster creek
When a wealthy family finds themselves broke and forced to move to their only remaining asset – Schitt’s Creek, a seedy town with plenty of hillbillies, the Ross family must make do and start paving the way for a new life while learning to let go their past. This is one of those shows you’ll go back and watch again for years to come. You’ll find yourself playing characters so much that you can’t help but fall in love with them. Moira, Alexis, David…they’re all great, I can’t pick a favorite. (Kelly)
shameless
On the dark side of the comedy genre, shameless Follow Gallagher’s misfit family struggling to survive on Chicago’s South Side. Shameless isn’t afraid to push boundaries, so be prepared to feel uncomfortable and cringe as the family digs deeper and deeper into themselves. Though fictional, Shameless highlights the struggles of low-income families born into unfortunate circumstances and how children often have to step up to excel in our world. Get ready for a crazy ride with Gallagher! (Kelly)
Amy Schumer (growing up)
This is probably my favorite Amy Schumer comedy special, and her most personal. After watching her HBO special “Expecting Amy” and seeing what she’s going through during her pregnancy (HG’s fellow), I really can’t believe she’s even able to pull off a full-blown comedy special, let alone Funny. (Jace)
Jim Gaffigan
I love Jim Gaffigan’s stand-up show because it’s a clean comedy with a little edge. I’ve seen all of his specials on Netflix, Amazon, etc., but in his latest comedy monster he talks about life in a pandemic at home, billionaires, and all the little things in life like parades, and he’s one of them The owner pointed out their absurdity. (Jace)
gourd
Pen 15
Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle (adults) played their own middle school outcasts in 2000, surrounded by real 13-year-olds. The show is heartfelt, nostalgic, hilarious and relatable. For those of us who grew up in the ’90s and early 2000s, it will take you back to a simpler and sometimes daunting time. (Jace)
sharp
This self-discovery story is adapted from Sharp: Notes from a Loud Woman Starring Lindy West as SNL’s Aidy Bryant, she plays a journalist who learns to accept and thrive in a world that shames curvy women. Shrill is the perfect mix of comic relief and emotional rollercoaster we all need in our lives right now. Bryant’s character, Annie is so incredibly lovable, we can feel her highs and lows, both in terms of intimidating insecurities and badass confidence. You will find yourself cheering for her, crying for her, and feeling recognized in all the things we women face in this cruel world. (Kelly)
HBO Max
How to communicate with John Wilson
Personal, silly, awkward, quirky and hilarious is how I describe this documentary-style series. Filmmaker John Wilson shares everyday advice as he confronts his own problems, set in New York City. He used footage shot over many years to create two seasons of 30-minute episodes. I don’t know what to compare this show to because there really isn’t anything better on TV. When you watch it, you’ll see what I mean. (Jace)
the other two
I finished two seasons of this show faster than any other series I’ve watched recently. I loved watching Molly Shannon and her return to comedy did not disappoint. The series follows a family as their youngest brother/son becomes pop music overnight. It’s hilarious, it’s witty, and there’s a lot to make you laugh about in terms of pop culture. (Jace)
gem of justice
Jewel of Justice is more of a dark comedy, revolving around a world-famously dysfunctional family of televangelists and all the greed, power, and family dynamics that come with it. (Jace)
curb your enthusiasm
I’ve watched all 11 seasons of Curb Your Enthusiasm, but the most recent season is probably one of the best. Jon Hamm, Vince Vaughn, Woody Harrelson, Seth Rogen, and Tracy Ullman have all made cameos in the role, and the writing and improvisation of the cast has been excellent this season . (Jace)
unsafe
I have to admit I was late to the party at Insecure, but I’m catching up and it’s one of my favorite shows to watch. Issa Rae is incredible in this comedy/drama about two young black women, their friendship, romance and life experiences. In addition to the writing, acting, and storyline being great, you can’t help but notice how great the music is. (Jace)
Just like that… (Sex and the City reboot)
Our favorite city girl is back (minus Samantha, sigh) and looking better than ever!Side note: if you haven’t seen it, check it out compare To the golden girl, wild! Honestly the comments aren’t great and their desperate angle of progress feels forced at times, but I personally enjoy the rudeness, humor and seeing Carrie, Miranda and Charlotte return to their element. It brings out all the warm and fuzzy nostalgia that I’m here for.It also inspired me to go back and watch it again Sex and the City from the very beginning. If you’re looking for something fun and easy, this is the show for you! (Kelly)
vice-president
It’s a sad day at the end of Season 7 of Vice, but if you haven’t seen it, I’m jealous! One of my favorite sitcoms, really. Julia Louis-Dreyfus as US Vice President Selina Meyer is absolutely hilarious in this comedy/satire. It’s a great cast and lots of dry humor. If that (and politics) are your thing, you’ll love Veep. (Jace)
Apple TV
Ted Russo
I was late to the Ted Lasso game… (no pun intended) but once I got in, I immediately understood what all the hype was about. Each character is cuter than the next, and they’ll all start to feel like family. Between Ted’s thought-provoking and insightful one-liners, Keeley’s optimism, Rebecca’s sheer mischief, and Roy’s deep British drag and honesty, they blend together to form the best team. Each episode will leave you wanting more and thinking about the lessons each character teaches you long after you’ve turned off the TV. Seriously, if you haven’t already, go see it now! (Kelly)
Amazon Prime
the marvellous mrs maisel
The story takes place in the 1950s, when women were expected to marry and have children, playing the role of the perfect housewife, and “Mickey” was our perfect feminist rebel – giving society a big old “FU”. Midge started her career in stand-up comedy, and everything she’s been through during this time has gone upstream. Marvelous Mrs. Maisel is exactly where you need to laugh and be inspired to follow your dreams, no matter how rebellious they may be. (Kelly)
Peacock
Girls5Eva
Featuring an incredible cast (Sara Bareilles and Busy Phillips to name a few), this comedy series follows the blockbuster girl group of the ’90s and their attempts to make a comeback after a popular rapper samples their songs s story. Now, they’re moving into a more socially conscious and conscious society and realizing that their old music didn’t empower women after all. (Jace)
show time
black monday
Black Monday is a dark comedy featuring Don Cheadle, Regina Hall and an all-star cast that tells the story of the worst stock market crash in Wall Street history. It’s well written, has a lot of ’80s nostalgia, and a lot of plot twists. The first season was my favorite, and eventually the show was canceled, so I guess it’s not for everyone, but I think it’s great! (Jace)
