There’s something so comforting about re-watching my favorite episodes of The Office and Parks and Recreation, but once I realized how many hilarious sitcoms were out there that I’d never even heard of, my world changed. Don’t get me wrong, I’ll never stop quoting Ron Swanson when the opportunity strikes, but there are so many more quotable characters out there. So without further ado, here is my ever-growing list of underrated sitcoms that might just become your new favs.
- Broad City
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If you’re in your 20s, love shows with captivating female leads, or both, then Broad City is for you. The show follows Abbi and Ilana, two 20-something kweens living a not-so-picture-perfect life in NYC – we’re talking bed bugs, creepy locksmiths, trash bagels, and a Bed Bath & Beyond obsession (BB&B!). All the best friend shenanigans, feminism, and hilarious female humor you could ever want are jam-packed into Broad City. Fun fact: the show actually started as a web series until Amy Poehler brought it to Comedy Central!
- You’re the Worst
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IMO, You’re the Worst is the ultimate hidden gem of Hulu. Some cast members might be new to you (unless you’re a fan of Aya Cash in The Boys), but wow can they act. You’re the Worst packs the punch with comedy, but it also tells a story of a romance between its two main characters, the grouchy young writer, Jimmy, and unpredictable, quick-witted Gretchen. However, what truly makes You’re the Worst a masterpiece is its realistic depictions of PTSD and clinical depression. You’re definitely going to want to add this one to your watchlist.
- Santa Clarita Diet
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And while we’re on the topic of hidden gems, Netflix’s Santa Clarita Diet, starring Drew Barrymore and Timothy Olyphant, is one of them. Santa Clarita Diet follows mom, wife, and real estate woman Sheila Hammond (played by Barrymore) after she turns into a zombie, exploring how the sudden change affects her and her family. Spoiler alert – she doesn’t moan “brains,” but she does resort to murdering bad guys when she’s hungry, all-the-while still being her charming self. It’s a crazy concept for a tv show, but a blast to watch.
- Fleabag
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Fleabag will blow your mind in just 12 episodes. British tv shows like this one are known for their six-episode seasons, making Fleabag ultra binge-able. The iconic female comedy queen, Phoebe Waller-Bridges, is the creator and star of the show who is only referred to as the show’s namesake. Following the tragic passing of Fleabag’s best friend, this hilariously beautiful show explores family, love, grief, and so much more. And if you like romance stories, you simply have to watch season 2 (that’s all I’ll say).
- What We Do in The Shadows
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What We Do in the Shadows is a hilarious show about a group of ancient vampires living in modern-day Staten Island. The show is a recent adaptation of the What We Do in The Shadows movie. The accents, the clothes, and the storylines in this are all so unique and funny. This is one of those shows that you just need to see to understand, so get to it!
- It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia
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And last but certainly not least, is It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, a show so ridiculous, hilarious, and preposterous that it’s climbed its way to the top of my all-time favorite tv shows list. Always Sunny is about five people running a dive bar in Philadelphia who spend most of their time arguing, playing games, and tricking people. It sounds odd, but it’s so good that the legendary Danny DeVito joined the show in its second season, and never left – speaking of, did I mention that Always Sunny is the longest-running live-action sitcom ever now that it’s going on its 15th season with even more to come?
Enjoy!