The 15 Most Binge-Worthy TV Comedies of the 2020s, Ranked

The 2020s has been a decade unlike any other, a period of immense global upheaval, anxiety, and change. In response, television comedy has undergone a profound and necessary evolution. The sharp cynicism and detached irony that defined much of the 2010s has given way to a new era of humor rooted in empathy, kindness, and a desperate, deeply human search for connection. As we navigate the midpoint of the decade, a look at the shows that capture the cultural zeitgeist on platforms like TikTok and Pinterest reveals a powerful collective craving for what has been termed the "Comfort Show." We are drawn to stories that, even when exploring dark and difficult themes, ultimately offer a sense of warmth, hope, and found family.

This is the era of the "Traumedy"—the comedy-drama hybrid that finds humor in the heart of our deepest traumas—and the explosion of the "Cozy" Comedy, which acts as a warm, reassuring blanket in a chaotic world. We’re seeing the triumphant return of the smart network sitcom and the continued rise of genre-bending shows that mix comedy with mystery, horror, and history. The best comedies of the 2020s are not just making us laugh; they are making us feel seen. They are nuanced, character-driven, and emotionally intelligent stories that understand that the funniest moments in life often happen right next to the most painful ones. This list is your definitive guide to the fifteen most essential, acclaimed, and utterly binge-worthy comedies that have defined the decade so far.

We hope you find this article a joyful and helpful guide! If you enjoy our content, please consider supporting our work with a small donation or by sharing our articles with your friends and family. Your support helps us continue to create insightful and entertaining content.

15. Platonic (2023-Present) - Apple TV+

The Vibe: A hilarious and deeply relatable "hangout" comedy for the millennial generation.

Detailed Description: In a world of high-concept premises, Platonic is a masterclass in the power of a simple, brilliantly executed idea: can men and women be just friends in adulthood? The series reunites the electric comedic duo of Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne as Will and Sylvia, two former best friends who reconnect in their forties after Will’s divorce. Their chaotic, co-dependent, and strictly platonic friendship hilariously upends their respective lives, much to the chagrin of Sylvia’s patient husband (Luke Macfarlane).

Why It's Binge-worthy: The show is a pure, unadulterated joy to watch, driven by the phenomenal, lived-in chemistry between Rogen and Byrne. Their banter feels completely authentic, capturing the unique, shorthand language of a long and cherished friendship. It’s a hilarious and often painfully relatable look at the anxieties of mid-life, from parenting and career ruts to the simple, profound joy of cutting loose with the one person who has known you forever. It taps directly into the trend for comforting, character-driven comedies where the primary pleasure is simply spending time with the people on screen. It’s a warm, funny, and surprisingly sweet series that feels like a night out with your own best friend.

Stream Platonic now on Apple TV+.

14. Mythic Quest (2020-Present) - Apple TV+

The Vibe: A sharp, funny, and surprisingly heartfelt workplace comedy set in the world of video game development.

Detailed Description: From the minds of It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia's Rob McElhenney, Charlie Day, and Megan Ganz, Mythic Quest is one of the smartest and most underrated comedies on television. The series follows the dysfunctional work family behind the world's biggest multiplayer online role-playing game. At the center is the brilliant but narcissistic creative director, Ian Grimm (McElhenney), and the long-suffering lead engineer, Poppy Li (Charlotte Nicdao). Their chaotic, co-dependent creative partnership is the engine of the show.

Why It's Binge-worthy: The show is a brilliant satire of the tech industry, corporate culture, and the often-absurd world of creative collaboration. But beneath the sharp jokes is a show with a huge heart and a deep love for its characters. The series is famous for its standalone flashback episodes, which are often beautiful, heartbreaking short films that provide a surprising amount of emotional depth to the show's world. It’s a series that perfectly balances cynical humor with genuine moments of connection, a workplace comedy that is as much about the people as it is about the work. It’s a must-watch for anyone who has ever had a job they both loved and hated. The show’s deep character dives are as compelling as those in the best TV comedies of the 2010s.

Stream Mythic Quest now on Apple TV+.

13. The Great (2020-2023) - Hulu

The Vibe: A lavish, wildly inaccurate, and hilariously profane historical satire.

Detailed Description: The Great is an "occasionally true story" that chronicles the rise of Catherine the Great (a phenomenal Elle Fanning) in 18th-century Russia. The series follows the young, idealistic Catherine as she arrives in Russia to marry the idiotic and brutish Emperor Peter (an equally brilliant Nicholas Hoult). When she realizes her new husband is a violent buffoon and her dreams of an enlightened Russia are a fantasy, she begins to plot a coup to take the throne for herself.

Why It's Binge-worthy: From the mind of Tony McNamara (the Oscar-nominated writer of The Favourite), this show is a masterpiece of anachronistic, razor-sharp dialogue. It’s a viciously funny and unapologetically bawdy series that takes the stuffy historical drama and injects it with a shot of pure, chaotic energy. The chemistry between Fanning and Hoult is electric, their relationship a toxic, hilarious, and strangely romantic battle of wits. The show is a visual feast, with stunning costumes and opulent set design. It’s a smart, stylish, and utterly unique comedy that is as intelligent as it is hilarious.

Stream The Great now on Hulu.

External Link: The official IMDb page for The Great is a great place to explore the show's incredible cast and its numerous award nominations.

12. Jury Duty (2023) - Amazon Freevee

The Vibe: A high-concept, hidden-camera comedy that is one of the most original and heartwarming shows in years.

Detailed Description: Jury Duty was the surprise, word-of-mouth hit that no one saw coming. The series follows a jury trial in Los Angeles, but with a major twist: everyone involved, from the judge and the lawyers to the other jurors, is an actor. Everyone, that is, except for one man, Ronald Gladden, a kind and unassuming solar panel contractor who believes he is participating in a real documentary about the American justice system. The show chronicles his journey as he navigates the increasingly bizarre and absurd trial, all while being a genuinely good and decent person.

Why It's Binge-worthy: The show is a fascinating social experiment and a brilliantly executed piece of high-concept comedy. The ensemble cast of improvisers is fantastic, but the heart and soul of the show is Ronald. His unwavering kindness, his patience, and his genuine desire to help the eccentric group of people around him is incredibly moving and life-affirming. The show is a hilarious and surprisingly profound exploration of what it means to be a good person when you think no one is watching. It’s a truly unique, feel-good series that will restore your faith in humanity.

Stream Jury Duty now on Amazon Freevee.

11. Our Flag Means Death (2022-2023) - Max

The Vibe: A hilarious and deeply heartfelt romantic comedy about pirates.

Detailed Description: From creator David Jenkins and executive producer Taika Waititi, Our Flag Means Death is a show that defied all expectations. The series is a loose, comedic retelling of the true story of Stede Bonnet (Rhys Darby), a wealthy 18th-century aristocrat who abandoned his family to become the "Gentleman Pirate." His bumbling, non-violent approach to piracy is a disaster until his crew has a fateful encounter with the most feared pirate on the seas: the legendary Blackbeard (Taika Waititi). What begins as a strange mentorship blossoms into one of the most surprising and beautiful love stories on television.

Why It's Binge-worthy: This show is a true cult classic, a word-of-mouth hit that built a massive and passionate online fanbase. It’s a hilarious workplace comedy set on a pirate ship, with a wonderful, diverse, and lovable ensemble cast. But the core of the show is the incredibly tender and beautifully developed romance between Stede and Blackbeard. It’s a story about mid-life crises, finding your true self, and the life-changing power of a genuine connection. It’s a warm, funny, and deeply moving series that is so much more than just a pirate parody. The show’s heartfelt romance is a perfect example of the kind of storytelling celebrated at That Love Podcast.

Stream Our Flag Means Death now on Max.

10. Poker Face (2023-Present) - Peacock

The Vibe: A clever, charming, and deeply nostalgic "case-of-the-week" mystery.

Detailed Description: From creator Rian Johnson (Knives Out), Poker Face is a loving and brilliant revival of the classic "howcatchem" detective shows of the 70s and 80s, like Columbo. The series stars the incredibly charismatic Natasha Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a woman with an uncanny, involuntary ability to tell when someone is lying. After a run-in with a dangerous casino owner, she is forced to go on the run, traveling across America and stumbling into a new murder mystery in every town she passes through.

Why It's Binge-worthy: Each episode of Poker Face is a perfectly crafted, self-contained mystery with a stunning roster of A-list guest stars. The show uses the inverted detective format, showing us the murder at the beginning of the episode and then letting us watch as Charlie uses her unique lie-detecting ability to piece together what really happened. Natasha Lyonne is absolutely perfect in the lead role, her raspy voice, laid-back charm, and sharp intelligence making Charlie an instantly iconic character. It’s a smart, stylish, and incredibly satisfying series, a perfect comfort watch for anyone who loves a good mystery. The show’s brilliant plotting is as impressive as that of the best detective shows of the 2010s.

Stream Poker Face now on Peacock.

9. Shrinking (2023-Present) - Apple TV+

The Vibe: A hilarious and heartbreakingly honest "sad-com" about grief and friendship.

Detailed Description: From the creative minds of Jason Segel, Bill Lawrence, and Brett Goldstein (Ted Lasso), Shrinking is a show that perfectly balances gut-busting laughter with profound emotional depth. The series stars Segel as Jimmy, a therapist who, a year after the sudden death of his wife, decides to burn his professional life to the ground by telling his patients exactly what he thinks. This radical, often disastrous, new approach to therapy sets off a chain of events that forces him, his colleagues, and his patients to confront their own lives head-on.

Why It's Binge-worthy: The show is a masterclass in ensemble comedy, featuring a career-best, Emmy-winning performance from Harrison Ford as Jimmy's grumpy but secretly soft-hearted boss. The writing is incredibly sharp, filled with witty banter and hilarious situations. But the show's true power lies in its beautiful and compassionate exploration of grief. It’s a series that understands that the process of healing is messy, non-linear, and often, surprisingly funny. It’s a warm, life-affirming, and deeply moving show that will make you feel the full spectrum of human emotion. The show’s deep character work is a quality shared by the best TV comedies of the 2010s.

Stream Shrinking now on Apple TV+.

External Link: The official Apple TV+ Press page for Shrinking is a great source for cast interviews and official news.

8. Somebody Somewhere (2022-Present) - HBO

The Vibe: A quiet, gentle, and profoundly moving slice-of-life comedy about finding your voice in middle age.

Detailed Description: Somebody Somewhere is a beautiful and understated gem of a show. Created by and starring the brilliant comedian and singer Bridget Everett, the series is a semi-autobiographical story about Sam, a woman who has returned to her small Kansas hometown to care for her dying sister. In the aftermath of her sister's death, Sam is adrift, grappling with grief and a sense of profound loneliness until she reconnects with a former high school classmate, Joel, who introduces her to a vibrant community of outsiders and singers at a local "choir practice."

Why It's Binge-worthy: This is a show that finds its beauty in the small, quiet moments of everyday life. It is a deeply authentic and moving portrayal of friendship, family, and the search for belonging. The humor is gentle, character-driven, and incredibly real. Bridget Everett is an absolute revelation, her performance a perfect blend of laugh-out-loud comedy and heartbreaking vulnerability. It is a show that is not afraid of silence, a series that understands that the most profound connections are often forged in the spaces between the words. It is a beautiful, hopeful, and deeply human show that is one of the best-kept secrets on television.

Stream Somebody Somewhere now on Max.

7. Reservation Dogs (2021-2023) - FX on Hulu

The Vibe: A hilarious, surreal, and groundbreaking coming-of-age story about four Indigenous teenagers in rural Oklahoma.

Detailed Description: Created by Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi, Reservation Dogs was a landmark television series, the first-ever show to feature an all-Indigenous team of writers and directors, and a main cast of Indigenous actors. The series follows Elora, Bear, Willie Jack, and Cheese, four teenagers who, after the death of their friend, dream of saving up enough money from their small-time crimes to escape their reservation and move to the mythical, far-off land of California.

Why It's Binge-worthy: This show is a masterpiece. It is a perfect, genre-defying blend of deadpan, character-driven humor, surrealist flourishes (including Bear's frequent visits from a hapless spirit guide), and a profound, often heartbreaking exploration of grief, community, and cultural identity. The show is a beautiful and authentic portrait of a community that has rarely been seen on screen with such depth and humanity. The performances from its young cast are incredible, and the writing is consistently brilliant, funny, and deeply moving. It is a short, perfect, three-season series that tells a complete and utterly satisfying story. The show’s powerful storytelling is a testament to the importance of authentic representation in media.

Stream Reservation Dogs now on Hulu.

External Link: A retrospective review from a publication like The Ringer can offer a deep dive into the show's cultural significance.

6. What We Do in the Shadows (2019-Present) - FX on Hulu

The Vibe: A brilliant, hilarious, and absurdly inventive mockumentary about a group of bumbling vampire roommates.

Detailed Description: Based on the cult film by Jemaine Clement and Taika Waititi, the television adaptation of What We Do in the Shadows has become a critically beloved, Emmy-nominated masterpiece in its own right. The series follows the nightly lives of four ancient, out-of-touch vampires—Nandor, Laszlo, Nadja, and the soul-suckingly boring energy vampire, Colin Robinson—who live together in a crumbling mansion on Staten Island. Their chaotic existence is documented by a long-suffering human familiar, Guillermo, who secretly happens to be a descendant of the great vampire hunter, Van Helsing.

Why It's Binge-worthy: This show is one of the most consistently funny and creative comedies on television. The mockumentary format is used to brilliant effect, contrasting the mundane, roommate-squabble reality of the vampires' lives with their ancient, supernatural powers. The cast is a comedic dream team, the world-building is endlessly inventive (Jackie Daytona, regular human bartender, is a fan-favorite creation), and the show is packed with some of the most quotable lines of the decade. It’s a brilliant, silly, and surprisingly heartfelt show that is pure, joyful escapism. It is a show that is perfect for a spooky season binge.

Stream What We Do in the Shadows now on Hulu.

5. Only Murders in the Building (2021-Present) - Hulu

The Vibe: A charming, clever, and incredibly cozy murder mystery comedy.

Detailed Description: Only Murders in the Building is a show that feels like a warm hug from a slightly eccentric and very stylish old friend. The series follows the unlikely trio of Charles (Steve Martin), a lonely former TV star; Oliver (Martin Short), a flamboyant and struggling Broadway director; and Mabel (Selena Gomez), a mysterious and artistic young woman. The three lonely residents of a luxury New York apartment building, the Arconia, bond over their shared love of true crime podcasts and decide to start their own when a murder occurs in their building.

Why It's Binge-worthy: The show is a perfect blend of a genuinely compelling whodunnit and a hilarious, character-driven comedy. The intergenerational chemistry between the legendary Martin and Short and the wonderfully deadpan Gomez is the heart and soul of the series. The show is stylish, witty, and packed with a stunning roster of A-list guest stars. It is the definition of a "cozy mystery," a show that is thrilling without ever being too dark or scary. It’s a smart, sophisticated, and incredibly binge-worthy series that has become a flagship show for Hulu. The show’s clever plotting is as satisfying as any of the great detective dramas of the 2010s.

Stream Only Murders in the Building now on Hulu.

4. Abbott Elementary (2021-Present) - ABC

The Vibe: A heartwarming, hilarious, and brilliantly written network sitcom that has restored our faith in the format.

Detailed Description: In an era dominated by streaming, Quinta Brunson's Abbott Elementary is a glorious testament to the enduring power of the network sitcom. This mockumentary series about a group of passionate, underfunded teachers at a Philadelphia public school is a genuine cultural phenomenon. The show follows the eternally optimistic Janine Teagues (Brunson) and her beloved colleagues—the tough-as-nails veteran Barbara Howard, the slightly shady principal Ava Coleman, and the slow-burn love interest Gregory Eddie—as they do their best to give their students the education they deserve.

Why It's Binge-worthy: Abbott Elementary is the ultimate "comfort show." The ensemble cast is one of the best on television, a perfect collection of characters who feel like real people you would want to be friends with. The writing is incredibly sharp, joke-dense, and full of heart. It is a show that is both a hilarious workplace comedy and a powerful, timely commentary on the state of public education in America. But above all, it is a show that is deeply kind. It believes in the power of good people working together to make a difference. It is, without a doubt, the most universally beloved comedy on television right now.

Stream Abbott Elementary now on Hulu.

External Link: The official IMDb page for Abbott Elementary is a great place to see the show's incredible cast and its numerous awards.

3. Hacks (2021-Present) - Max

The Vibe: A sharp, sophisticated, and brilliantly funny two-hander about an intergenerational friendship in the world of comedy.

Detailed Description: Hacks is a critically adored, multi-Emmy-winning masterpiece. The series follows the complex and often contentious relationship between Deborah Vance (the magnificent Jean Smart), a legendary but aging Las Vegas comedy diva, and Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder), an entitled, young, and recently "cancelled" comedy writer who is hired to help freshen up Deborah’s act. What begins as a forced, antagonistic partnership slowly blossoms into a deep, meaningful, and incredibly complicated mentorship and friendship.

Why It's Binge-worthy: The show is a showcase for two of the best performances on television. Jean Smart is an absolute force of nature as Deborah Vance, a character who is both a monstrous diva and a deeply vulnerable woman. The writing is incredibly smart and sharp, a brilliant behind-the-scenes look at the world of stand-up comedy. But the show's true power lies in its beautiful and nuanced exploration of its central female relationship. It’s a show that taps directly into the trend of brutally honest and relatable female-led stories, exploring themes of ambition, artistry, and the sacrifices women must make to succeed. It is, without a doubt, one of the best shows of the decade. The show's complex central relationship is a fascinating watch, a theme also explored in some of our favorite romance books.

Stream Hacks now on Max.

2. Ted Lasso (2020-2023) - Apple TV+

The Vibe: The ultimate feel-good, "cozy" comedy that became a global phenomenon.

Detailed Description: Arriving in the summer of 2020, when the world was in desperate need of a dose of radical optimism, Ted Lasso was more than just a television show; it was a cultural balm. The series follows the titular character, an endlessly positive and folksy American college football coach who is hired to manage a professional soccer team in England, despite having no experience with the sport. What begins as a plot by the team's owner to sabotage her ex-husband's beloved club slowly transforms into a heartfelt story about the power of kindness, mentorship, and belief.

Why It's Binge-worthy: Ted Lasso is the definition of a "comfort show." It is a series that is built on a foundation of warmth, empathy, and the idea that being a good person is more important than winning. The ensemble cast is phenomenal, a true found family of lovable characters. While the show is famous for its folksy wisdom and its hilarious one-liners, it also evolved into a surprisingly nuanced exploration of mental health, anxiety, and the importance of therapy. It was a show that captured the hearts of millions and became a genuine force for good in the world. Its legacy as one of the definitive feel-good shows of the 2020s is secure. The show's focus on personal growth is a powerful one, a theme we also explore in our Transform Your Life series.

Stream Ted Lasso now on Apple TV+.

1. The Bear (2022-Present) - FX on Hulu

The Vibe: A breathtakingly intense, cinematic, and profoundly moving "traumedy" that has redefined the boundaries of the half-hour comedy.

Detailed Description: Taking the top spot on our list is the show that has completely dominated the critical and cultural conversation since its debut. The Bear follows Carmen "Carmy" Berzatto (a revelatory Jeremy Allen White), a world-class chef from the world of fine dining who returns to his hometown of Chicago to run his family's chaotic Italian beef sandwich shop after the suicide of his brother. The series is a visceral, high-anxiety look at the high-pressure world of the restaurant industry, but it is also a beautiful and deeply moving exploration of grief, family trauma, and the search for purpose.

Why It's Binge-worthy: The Bear is a masterpiece of modern television. It is a show that is so stylistically confident, so brilliantly acted, and so emotionally raw that it feels like nothing else on TV. The performances are incredible across the board, the direction is stunningly cinematic, and the writing is a perfect blend of laugh-out-loud humor and devastating pathos. The show is famous for its anxiety-inducing, single-take episodes that perfectly capture the chaos of a busy kitchen, but it is also capable of incredible moments of quiet, breathtaking beauty. It is the definitive "traumedy" of the 2020s, a show that understands that the deepest pain and the biggest laughs are often inseparable. It is not just the best comedy of the decade; it is one of the best television shows, period.

Stream The Bear now on Hulu.

Conclusion

The first half of the 2020s has been a remarkable and transformative period for television comedy. In a world that often feels fractured and uncertain, the fifteen shows on this list have offered us a vital source of connection, laughter, and profound emotional truth. They are a testament to the incredible diversity and artistic ambition of the modern comedy landscape, a world where a show can be a heartwarming comfort blanket, a surrealist work of art, or a devastating exploration of the human condition. They are the series that are not just reflecting our world, but are actively helping us to navigate it, one hilarious, heartbreaking, and deeply human episode at a time.

We hope you found this article a joyful and helpful guide! If you enjoy our content, please consider supporting our work with a small donation or by sharing our articles with your friends and family. Your support helps us continue to create insightful and entertaining content.

External Links

1. IMDb - Top Rated TV Shows of the 2020s: Explore user ratings for the most popular shows of the decade so far.

2. Rotten Tomatoes - Best TV of 2025: See the critical consensus on the best television of the year.

3. The Ringer's "The Best TV Shows of the 2020s (So Far)": A deep dive and critical ranking from one of the best pop culture sites.

4. The A.V. Club - TV Reviews: Find insightful contemporary reviews of all the shows on this list.

5. The official YouTube Channel for FX: Find trailers and clips for shows like The Bear and Reservation Dogs.

6. The official YouTube Channel for Max: Find trailers and clips for shows like Hacks and Our Flag Means Death.

7. Wikipedia's List of Primetime Emmy Award winners for Outstanding Comedy Series: See the incredible critical acclaim these shows have received.

8. Vulture's TV Section: Read in-depth reviews, recaps, and think pieces on modern television comedy.

FAQs

1. Where can I watch these shows? The shows are spread across multiple platforms: The Bear and Reservation Dogs are on FX/Hulu (and Disney+ internationally); Hacks and Our Flag Means Death are on Max; BoJack Horseman is on Netflix; Parks and Rec and Brooklyn Nine-Nine are on Peacock; Ted Lasso, Shrinking, and Mythic Quest are on Apple TV+; and Abbott Elementary is on ABC/Hulu.

2. What is a "traumedy"? A "traumedy" is a popular term for a type of television show, also known as a dramedy, that finds its humor in the exploration of serious, often tragic themes like grief, addiction, and mental health. The Bear and BoJack Horseman are prime examples.

   
   

3. Which of these shows are best for a lighthearted "comfort watch"? Ted Lasso, Abbott Elementary, and Schitt's Creek are the ultimate comfort shows on this list. They are known for their warmth, optimism, and lovable "found family" dynamics. Bob's Burgers is also a fantastic choice.

4. Are any of these shows animated? Yes, BoJack Horseman and Bob's Burgers are two of the most critically acclaimed animated comedies of all time. Harley Quinn is also on the list as a brilliant adult animated series.

   
   

5. I love a good workplace comedy. Which show should I start with? Abbott Elementary is the gold standard of the modern, heartwarming workplace sitcom. Mythic Quest is perfect if you enjoy a more tech-focused, satirical take on the workplace.

   
   

6. What does "binge-worthy" mean? A "binge-worthy" show is a series that is so compelling and easy to watch that it is difficult to stop watching after just one episode, often leading viewers to watch multiple episodes or even entire seasons in a single sitting.

7. Why isn't a show like The Big Bang Theory on this list? The Big Bang Theory ended its run in 2019, so it is primarily considered a show of the 2010s. This list focuses on shows that premiered or had a significant portion of their run in the 2020s.

   
   

8. Which of these shows have the best series finale? The Good Place and Fleabag are widely regarded as having two of the most perfect, emotionally satisfying, and thematically resonant series finales in modern television history. Reservation Dogs also has a perfect, self-contained three-season arc with a beautiful ending.

   
   

9. What does "meta" comedy mean? "Meta" comedy is a style of humor that is self-referential and aware of its own status as a piece of fiction. Community is a prime example, with characters who are constantly referencing TV tropes, story structures, and the fact that they are in a show.

   
   

10. If I could only watch one show from this list, which one should it be? This is an impossible choice! For a perfect blend of heart and humor that defines the "comfort show," watch Ted Lasso. For a brilliant, challenging, and artistically ambitious masterpiece that will change the way you think about television, watch The Bear.