25 best comedy series to watch right now

As someone who has spent countless hours glued to the screen, devouring comedic gems from around the globe, I must say that these television series stand out as absolute gems!

In today’s era dominated by television, where the gripping series “The Bear” has become a sensation capable of causing rapid heartbeats, defining or identifying good comedies can be quite challenging, as it’s not always straightforward.

Today, there’s a wealth of excellent comedy-dramas and animated comedies at our disposal, featuring characters like a tipsy cartoon scientist and his dimwit grandson. For now, we’ll save discussing all the hilarious and entertaining cartoons for a later time.

What are some straightforward comedies that provide a fun watch and are just a few clicks away on a streaming platform? To make it simpler, we’re focusing on live-action comedies that primarily aim to elicit laughter.

As someone who’s spent countless hours laughing at classic sitcoms like “Friends,” “The Office,” and “Vicar of Dibley,” I can definitely relate to the recommendation of checking out some more recent comedies that are available for streaming. With my busy schedule, it’s always a treat to find new shows that make me chuckle and bring a smile to my face. So, whether you’re looking for something light-hearted to unwind after a long day or just need a good laugh, I encourage you to dive into these contemporary comedies below and let the laughter ensue!

Best comedy series on BBC iPlayer

Ghosts

Much like top-notch British series, Ghosts skillfully timed its conclusions without overstaying its welcome. The recent fifth season, however, left us yearning for more, especially given a show that appeared to have an endless run – limited only by the actors aging beyond their roles as the eternally frozen-in-time ghosts they portrayed.

The premise is a bit like a Homes Under the Hammer episode where the couple are mid-renovation and suddenly discover an infestation of ghosts.

Having the creative minds behind “Horrible Histories,” a children’s series that appeals to both kids and adults, involved, it’s not surprising that “Ghosts” was such a hit and even received a remake in another country. What started as an expansion of the Stupid Deaths segment from CBBC’s lineup soon developed its own unique identity.

Fleabag

The show “Fleabag” made a strong debut on screens back in 2016. It came back again more than a year later with an exceptional second season, leaving a lasting impression on many female viewers due to Andrew Scott’s captivating portrayal of the Hot Priest, causing a resurgence in the phrase “kneel.”

As a devoted fan, I can assure you that if you’re concerned about the law of diminishing returns when it comes to watching a TV show with multiple seasons, you can rest easy knowing Phoebe Waller-Bridge is in charge. This two-season series ties up all loose ends flawlessly.

While there isn’t much more to say about Fleabag that hasn’t already been extolled, every accolade is well-deserved. Jump on over to iPlayer and experience it for yourself.

This Country

Through their joint efforts, Daisy May and Charlie Cooper, residing under one roof, crafted the scripts for a BBC Three mockumentary that eventually kick-started their respective careers. After numerous setbacks, they persevered and ultimately managed to see their work broadcast on television.

In simpler terms, this television series focuses on and represents individuals hailing from remote, seemingly insignificant regions, particularly a secluded village just a few miles north of Swindon.

Initially, the shows were filled with numerous humorous skits. However, as they progressed, they began to focus on highlighting the melancholy aspects of social problems prevalent in neglected regions of the United Kingdom, using these opportunities to weave stories.

Black Ops

In this unruly BBC sitcom, we find two individuals with limited qualifications unexpectedly elevated to covert detectives within the South London criminal network. The narrative unfolds with a mix of tense situations and humorous antics.

As a new six-episode season is approaching, you can catch up on “Black Ops” to enjoy the humorous timing that will be featured in the upcoming episodes.

Best comedy series on NOW

Girls

Lena Dunham openly acknowledges that her personal life and friendships played a significant role in creating the HBO series ‘Girls’. She shared this with the New York Times, stating, “I’d often write about going out, having a terrible date, coming into work with wine stains from the night before, and then filming that scene just a few days later. This is how swiftly my experiences were turned into scenes for the show.”

The comedy humorously portrayed four young women, similar to those from “Sex and the City,” who had just graduated from college and were navigating life in New York City. They encountered one failed job opportunity and unsuccessful relationship after another.

As a gamer, I can’t help but chuckle at the hilarious scenes in “Girls.” One character that often has me rolling is the delusional icon, Marnie Michaels, played by Alison Williams. Just imagine her giving an awkward, skin-crawling a cappella performance of ‘Stronger’ to a stunned, disbelieving crowd at a party. It’s moments like that which make watching the show a real treat!

Veep

Armando Iannucci adapted the format of his British series, “The Thick of It,” and transposed it to the White House, creating “Veep.” This political satire, characterized by its cynical tone, features a cast of unapologetically flawed characters, with Julia Louis-Dreyfus delivering an outstanding performance as Selina Meyer, a morally questionable Vice President.

Once more, Iannucci found himself creating a satire aimed at politics, yet it progressively mirrored the genuine, grim, and turbulent nature of our power structures.

As a devoted fan of television comedy, I must admit that I was initially skeptical when I heard about the latest season of “Veep.” After all, how could they possibly top the brilliance and wit of its predecessor? But having watched it myself, I am happy to report that my concerns were unfounded. This new season is just as enjoyable, if not more so, than the one before it. In fact, I would even dare to say that it surpasses it in some ways.

Hacks

Although many series on this list have concluded their broadcasts, the popular show Hacks continues to thrive. It recently aired its third season and has already been given the go-ahead for a fourth.

If you haven’t jumped on board with Deborah Vance yet, she’s the legendary comedy figure portrayed by the equally iconic Jean Smart. Initially hesitant, she teams up with a Gen Z comedian named Ava Daniels (played by Hannah Einbinder), who was previously struggling to find her footing after being lightly cancelled. Over time, their careers both take flight.

The most intriguing part could be the assortment of mischievous antics that transpire between Deborah’s supervisor, Jimmy (played by Paul W Downs who also contributes to the show’s writing), and his former assistant Kayla (portrayed by Megan Stalter).

Since many people are saying the third season is their favorite so far, you absolutely shouldn’t skip it. It’s widely regarded as one of the top comedies currently being aired.

Best comedy series on Disney+

Atlanta

Week after week, Atlanta stood out on television screens as an unparalleled show. Tune in each time, and you’d never know what to expect, for with Donald Glover’s ingenious creativity and his talented writing team, the show often surpassed anything you could have imagined.

In one episode, Brian Tyree Henry’s character, Paper Boi, struggled to get a haircut, or alternatively, an episode focused on Earn’s girlfriend Vanessa (played by Zazie Beats) joining a cult of hand-eaters in France, which counted Alexander Skarsgård among its members.

Using individual stories as a foundation, the series Atlanta explored the complexities of race and its effects from multiple perspectives, consistently shunning conventional expectations.

Although the quality of the show declined somewhat as it shifted towards an anthology structure near its conclusion, Atlanta continued to shine with flashes of genius and maintained a unique visual style until the very end.

Extraordinary

As someone who grew up watching superheroes on TV and movies, I have to admit that I was initially skeptical about yet another addition to the genre on Disney+. However, after giving this off-beat comedy a chance, I found myself pleasantly surprised by its quirky charm. It’s a refreshing take on the superhero formula, one that stands out from the crowd and offers something unique and entertaining for viewers like me who are looking for a change of pace in their superhero content consumption. The show has quickly become a favorite of mine, and I highly recommend it to anyone who appreciates a good laugh and a fresh take on the genre.

In this scenario, we find ourselves in a world where people possess unique abilities or superpowers, but not everyone’s powers are equally impressive – for instance, there’s someone who can turn anything into a PDF document. Our heroine, Jen (Máiréad Tyers), however, turns 18 without acquiring any special ability on her birthday, unlike those around her.

The series serves as a subtle representation of the baffling and pressure-filled nature of being in your twenties, and it marks Emma Moran’s initial screenwriting venture. At the time of its premiere on Disney+, she was an impressively young 28 years old.

Black-ish

The show “Black-ish” focuses on the life experiences and comedic struggles of Andre Johnson, a successful business executive, and his family, using a traditional sitcom format.

As a gaming enthusiast, I can’t help but be drawn into the witty world of this series that tackles a range of topics, from racial and gender issues to the significance of family and community. It’s more than just a show; it’s a reflection of our society, and I find myself deeply engaged every time I tune in.

The sitcom receives an esteemed endorsement by Barack Obama, skillfully blending serious topics such as police brutality and racial prejudice with comedic moments. Notably, Tracee Ellis-Ross delivers a stellar performance as Andre’s wife, Rainbow.

Best comedy series on Netflix

Derry Girls

As a dedicated television enthusiast with over two decades of binge-watching under my belt, I can confidently say that shows that start off to the tune of The Cranberries’ ‘Dreams’ are always worth investing my precious time in. And let me tell you, the C4 original (now owned by Netflix) known as “Derry Girls” is no exception. Despite its short run with only three seasons, it packed a powerful punch, culminating in an unforgettable final episode that left me wanting more. I wholeheartedly recommend this gem to anyone looking for a heartwarming and humorous series set against the backdrop of Northern Ireland during the Troubles. It’s a must-watch for fans of coming-of-age stories with a unique twist, and it’s sure to leave you feeling nostalgic and grateful for simpler times. So go ahead, give “Derry Girls” a try – trust me, your life will be richer for it!

Located in Derry (also known as Londonderry) during the 90s, this series follows a group of teenage girls at a Catholic school, navigating their lives amidst the tumultuous conflicts. It may not seem like typical material for comedy, but it certainly is. And now you can stream it on Netflix!

Arrested Development

As a devoted viewer, I can’t help but admit that “Arrested Development” was a series that grew on me the more I delved into its quirky world. Partly, this improvement was intentional, as the show’s intricate storyline and layered humor demanded repeated viewing to fully appreciate its brilliance.

In an interview with the New York Times, creator Mitchell Hurwitz stated, “Opportunity tends to bless those who are well-equipped.” This idea was already expressed by someone else. Therefore, there was a great deal of forethought involved. I had incorporated numerous callbacks in my previous shows, and when I started working on Arrested Development, I thought, “I’m going to make references. I’m going to insert jokes that won’t be humorous until you watch them again.”

In 2013, Netflix brought back the series, but it failed to recapture the humor as effectively as it did during its original run on Fox. However, we can still enjoy the hilarious portrayal of the Bluth family when they were first lampooned on Fox.

Peep Show

Even though Channel 4’s longest-running sitcom may have gained cult status since it ended, during its run, the show constantly faced the risk of being canceled.

Initially proposed as a live-action version of Beavis and Butt-Head, Peep Show kickstarted the careers of writers Sam Bain and Jesse Armstrong (renowned for Succession), along with actors David Mitchell and Robert Webb. In this show, they portray the unfortunate “El Dude brothers,” Mark and Jeremy – two disenchanted men in their early years, living side by side in Croydon.

20 years after its initial airing, I can’t help but reflect on the brilliance of “The Office” – a show that masterfully captures the disconnect between the public persona of characters like Mark and Jeremy, and their private thoughts. This is what truly makes the series a genius work.

As a gamer, I’ve stumbled upon a game that’s uniquely bizarre yet captivating in its own right. The rapid-fire lighting effects, unconventional close-ups from the camera, and an endless stream of voiceover narration create a surreal experience that leaves me both puzzled and intrigued. It’s unlike anything I’ve ever played before, making it one of the most memorable gaming experiences for me.

The Good Place

As a fervent admirer, I can’t help but share my thoughts on “The Good Place” and its intriguing premise. In this captivating series, it’s me – well, not really – who finds myself in an unexpected heavenly abode thanks to a mix-up in identities. The character I identify with, Eleanor, is there despite leading a life full of misdeeds. Quite the twist, wouldn’t you agree?

Netflix’s comedic series unfolded its absurd, innovative concept across four seasons, yet arguably the most captivating moment occurred in the finale of the first season, where an unexpected twist left viewers speechless.

As a devoted fan, I must admit that some seasons might not live up to the earlier ones in terms of quality (it seems to be a recurring trend), but don’t let that deter you! This show offers a plethora of belly laughs, thought-provoking discussions on existentialism and moral politics, and let’s not forget Manny Jacinto’s captivating cheekbones. So, join me in this rollercoaster ride of laughter, introspection, and pure visual delight!

The Big Bang Theory

As a longtime fan of sitcoms, I must say that The Big Bang Theory stands out as one of my all-time favorites. Growing up, I could relate to the characters and their quirks in a way that made me feel less alone in my own nerdy pursuits. From the moment Leonard, Sheldon, Howard, and Raj first graced our screens, they quickly became beloved friends that I looked forward to spending time with each week. Their unique brand of humor and intellect was unlike anything else on TV, and their interactions were both hilarious and relatable. The show’s ability to tackle complex scientific concepts while still maintaining a light-hearted tone was truly impressive, making it a must-watch for anyone who appreciates a good laugh and a brainy bunch of characters. Overall, I believe that The Big Bang Theory is a standout sitcom that will continue to delight fans for years to come.

For individuals finding it challenging to connect with the expertise in particle astronomy, there was always Penny (played by Kaley Cuoco), providing a relatable character who made us all feel understood.

Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Over a span of eight entertaining seasons, the police-themed sitcom played out, filled with humorous moments from within the police department. Despite Andy Samberg, a well-known figure from Saturday Night Live and Lonely Island, leading the show, it was the dynamic ensemble cast that truly brought it to life, as they interacted seamlessly with one another while tackling murder cases and dismantling cartels.

Despite the TV series’ persistent portrayal of the police as inherently good becoming less convincing in light of public sentiment towards law enforcement, Brooklyn Nine-Nine concluded with a powerful two-episode finale.

Schitt’s Creek

As a longtime television enthusiast who has seen countless sitcoms throughout my life, I must admit that I was initially skeptical when I heard about Schitt’s Creek. Having grown tired of the same old tropes and formulaic storylines, I wasn’t sure if this show would offer anything new or interesting. However, after watching a few episodes, I was pleasantly surprised to find myself drawn into its quirky world and charming characters.

The series offers delightful humor along with excellent portrayal of LGBTQ+ characters, featuring the iconic Catherine O’Hara as the eccentric Moira Rose, who dons an array of quirky hairdos.

Big Boys

In a comedic exploration of young adulthood, penned by Jack Rooke for the BBC, we follow the adventures of two fresh friends during their inaugural year at university. As they navigate the highs and lows of newfound freedom together, their experiences encapsulate the excitement and challenges that come with this initial taste of independence.

In 2022, we launched our second season, and our review indicated that it surpassed the first one. Rooke’s writing demonstrated a stronger confidence on this occasion, masterfully balancing heartfelt laughter with heart-wrenching sadness in a way that felt incredibly authentic to real life experiences.

Motherland

Should you have ever believed that watching a character experience a breakdown repeatedly on-screen has a finite number of instances, the series ‘Motherland’, particularly Anna Maxwell Martin’s portrayal of Julia, demonstrates that such limits are indeed surpassable.

The BBC series offers an unfiltered portrayal of parenthood that’s so amusing it might make you forget about the daily chaos of school runs involving moms on the verge of exhaustion, dealing with passive-aggressive “tiger moms” and even resorting to midday drinking. These moments can be quite unsettling at times, but they also bring occasional bursts of shock humor.

Best comedy series on Channel 4

Big Mood

Just before I stepped back into the world of Bridgerton as Lady Whistledown, I took on the role of Maggie in Big Mood. In this story, my bond with my best friend Eddie (played brilliantly by Lydia West) was put to the test when she received a diagnosis of bipolar disorder. It was an incredibly moving and eye-opening experience for me as a gamer and actor to be part of such a powerful narrative.

Our five-star review of the show described creator Camilla Whitehill’s writing as “dangerously sharp and insightful”.

The show, “Big Mood,” while provocative with meaningful undertones, manages to be hysterically funny in an unconventional way. The humor is a blend of dark, light, and gray tones that permeates the entire series. It’s a rollercoaster ride of emotions, including being sad, frustrated, in pain, awkward, and absurdly funny all at once.

“A salute to those millennials who can relate to ’90s and early 2000s references, who would sing along passionately to Avril Lavigne’s ‘Nobody’s Home’, and who will empathize with Maggie’s urge to touch Joanna Page’s face in ‘Love Actually’.”

The Inbetweeners

A significant number of comedies on this particular list solidified their iconic reputation by flawlessly encapsulating a specific phase in everyone’s life experience. Specifically, “The Inbetweeners” captured the essence of secondary school for many viewers. The series led to two films and a thriving Cameo career for James Buckley.

The show, titled “The Inbetweeners,” didn’t aim to portray the lives of these teenagers as thrilling or aspirational like “Gossip Girl” or “Euphoria.” Instead, it focused on four ordinary boys who embarked on ordinary adventures and found themselves stuck in the monotonous reality of adolescence – the thoughts, struggles, and school halls that defined their existence.

People who have ever felt foolish or unwise while in school uniform can likely find something familiar within these pages, maybe even painfully so. There are countless quotable moments here, such as “Oh, friends!”, “Bus bully”, and every time Jay spoke a blatant lie. Done and dusted, mate.

Chewing Gum

Prior to Fleabag, written by and starring Phoebe Waller-bridge, breaking the narrative barrier in a series based on an original one-woman performance, Michaela Coel achieved the same feat with Chewing Gum.

In the Channel 4 sitcom, Cole played the role of Tracy, a 24-year-old woman with a strong desire to lose her virginity and escape the watchful gaze of her religious family, who are strict adherents of Christianity.

The vibrant television series, taking place on a British council estate, is filled with comedic antics and hearty chuckles, often stemming from the peculiar range of facial expressions displayed by the character, Cole.

At just 12 episodes, this will be over before you’re ready to say goodbye.

Best comedy series on ITVX

Community

In a nutshell, the six-season television series known as “Community” seemed straightforward at first glance. It primarily focuses on a motley crew, some might say eccentric or even zany, who form a study group within a community college. However, it eventually transformed into a bizarre yet insightful critique of various genres and popular culture.

Additionally, the series served as a springboard for many of its actors and creators, making it quite astonishing to witness Donald Glover in “Community.” Yet, on the internet, he will forever be remembered as Troy, carrying a pile of pizza boxes, casually strolling into a chaotic blaze.

Parks and Recreation

As a longtime fan of sitcoms, I must say that “Parks and Recreation” is one of my all-time favorites. Having grown up watching shows like The Office and Arrested Development, I can appreciate the unique blend of humor, character development, and heartfelt moments that this show offers. What sets Parks and Rec apart for me is its relatable characters and realistic portrayal of local government workings.

The show did turn schmaltzy towards the end, but this goofy workplace comedy is a worthy successor for those looking for something to fill The Office void.

Best comedy series on Apple TV+

Ted Lasso

During the height of the pandemic, this particular show emerged as a ray of positivity that we all craved. Interestingly enough, it originated from a character conceived by Jason Sudeikis for a light-hearted commercial, who just so happened to be a coach with a distinct Midwestern persona.

Following that, the Apple TV+ series vividly portrayed Ted’s overly amiable character and an underdog sports tale, using a talented cast to deliver a genuinely moving impact. Essentially, Ted Lasso constructed a setting that explored the idea, “What if everything and everyone were consistently kind and pleasant?”

Oh, if only Arrested Development knew when to end, then Ted Lasso certainly seemed unsure about wrapping up as well.

The impact of the series remains somewhat uncertain – while devoted Lasso fans argue it remained authentic until the end, the finale was an unconventional mix of CGI and doubtful character actions. There’s hope that Ted might revisit Richmond someday to deliver a conclusion fitting of the original season’s charm and heartwarming enjoyment.

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2024-08-05 18:22