Gilmore Girls will always be the perfect Thanksgiving show as power duo Lorelai and Rory Gilmore take the mother–daughter relationship to a new level. Even more, the show’s wholesome moments remind me to be grateful for the people in my life.
There are few things in this world that beat laying down in bed on a fall afternoon with a cup of tea, watching Gilmore Girls. It redefines the term “comfort show” for me. While I definitely identify as a pro–TV binge watcher, I can never stop going back to this series, regardless of how many times I’ve seen it from start to finish — which is probably somewhere between four to five. Between the cozy fall atmosphere of its small town setting and the comforting ensemble of main characters, Gilmore Girls transports me to a small, safe little world.
I added this show to my rotation of bedtime programming when I was younger, probably before I really related to the characters’ experiences. Over the years, however, I find myself coming back every fall and connecting to different characters in new and profound ways. I often find deeper meaning in the relationship between young mother Lorelai and her daughter, also named Lorelai (or Rory for short). Yes, during labor, Lorelai did in fact name Rory after herself in the name of feminism…or maybe it was just because of the Demerol, as she likes to joke!
This seven–season series zooms in on the two characters as they overcome romantic hardships, monumental life events, and difficult familial situations. When I first started watching this heartfelt show, I related to Rory’s admiration for her mother and the almost too close knit relationship between her and Lorelai. My personal relationship with my mother is one of the most meaningful aspects of my life, which is why I deeply resonate with Gilmore Girls.
I always admired the friendship–based relationship between Lorelai and Rory as they act more like BFFs than family. While at times their close bond seems a bit unrealistic to me (and includes many TMI moments), the general dynamic of their relationship is something I’ve always strived for and am lucky enough to have with my mom.
While the inseparable duo experience life together, the darker side of the show follows Lorelai’s unfortunate relationship with her own mother, Emily Gilmore. Emily’s strictly–run household and closed–off nature causes 16–year–old Lorelai to move away when she becomes pregnant; she admirably rebuilds a new life in a small town.
While Lorelai spends most of her life blaming her mother for her misfortunes, they begin to reconnect when Rory turns 16. Their tumultuous relationship represents hope for individuals who don’t necessarily have the best relationship with their family members. They illustrate that it’s never too late to reach out or change your behaviors, despite the hardships you’ve experienced together in the past.
I recently started re–watching the show with my own mother, who finally understands the appeal and no longer gets annoyed when I’m enjoying a binge session and she hears the Carole King theme song five times in a row. It’s nice experiencing the characters’ inordinately close relationship together as we relate to a lot of moments and laugh at many others. Don’t even get me started on Melissa McCarthy’s performance as Suki, the hilariously spastic chef who brings the funniest moments of the series to life.
Thanksgiving always makes me want to watch this series as the characters remind me to be thankful for my friends and family. Some of the best relationships can be a lot of work, but they’re definitely rewarding. The many wholesome moments in each episode remind me to express gratitude for the special people I have in my life and never take anyone for granted. Gilmore Girls is the ultimate autumn show to watch with your family and friends around or after Thanksgiving.