The 21st century has been a golden era for television, offering everything from gripping dramas like Breaking Bad to spine-chilling horror like Midnight Mass. But not every great show needs to keep you on the edge of your seat. Sometimes, you just want to kick back and enjoy something that's simply, unapologetically fun. These eight series, spanning the last 26 years, are the ultimate feel-good picks—shows that bring a smile to your face and make you hit 'next episode' without a second thought.
8. 9-1-1 (2018–Present)
This procedural follows the high-stakes lives of Los Angeles first responders, from the firefighters at Station 118 to the dispatchers at the call center. Each episode throws them into a whirlwind of emergencies, from tsunamis to cruise ship disasters to a tornado made of bees. While the show doesn't shy away from emotional weight, it's also gloriously over-the-top, embracing its soapy, silly side. The characters regularly face bizarre calls—like a jinxed crew having a chaotic day or everyone accidentally getting high on hallucinogenic brownies. It's this blend of heart and absurdity that makes 9-1-1 so wildly entertaining.
7. The Summer I Turned Pretty (2022–2025)
Based on Jenny Han's beloved novels, this Prime Video series follows Belly Conklin (Lola Tung) as she spends her summers at a beach house in Cousins, Massachusetts, with her mother's best friend Susannah and her two sons, Conrad and Jeremiah. Belly has crushed on Conrad for years, but as she turns 16, the dynamics shift, and she finds herself in the middle of a love triangle that's as messy as it is addictive. With its sun-soaked setting and swoon-worthy romance, the show is a perfect mental escape—a summer vacation in TV form.
6. Psych (2006–2014)
Shawn Spencer (James Roday Rodriguez) has a photographic memory and an eye for detail, but he's also a slacker who'd rather coast through life. When he solves a crime by watching the news, he's arrested as a suspect. To talk his way out, he claims to be a psychic—and soon he's running a detective agency with his best friend Gus (Dulé Hill), consulting for the Santa Barbara Police Department. The twist? Shawn isn't psychic at all. He has to solve cases while pretending his deductions come from supernatural powers, leading to hilarious cover-ups and quick thinking. Psych is a buddy comedy that never takes itself too seriously, making it one of the most purely fun procedurals ever.
5. Ugly Betty (2006–2010)
This dramedy, based on the Colombian telenovela Yo soy Betty, la fea, stars America Ferrera as Betty Suarez, a smart but fashion-challenged young woman who lands a job as assistant to Daniel Meade (Eric Mabius), the new editor-in-chief of Mode magazine. Daniel's father hires Betty because he thinks she's the one assistant Daniel won't try to seduce. Betty faces judgmental coworkers, including the scheming Wilhelmina Slater (Vanessa Williams), who plots to take Daniel down. But Betty's journey is about proving herself while navigating family drama and dark Meade family secrets. It's a soapy, twist-filled ride that's endlessly entertaining, with Ferrera's charm anchoring every episode.
4. Community (2009–2015)
Created by Dan Harmon, Community is a sitcom set at Greendale Community College, where a ragtag group of students forms a study group. The show is known for its meta-humor, pop culture parodies, and heartfelt moments. Each character is a distinct archetype—from Jeff Winger (Joel McHale), the smooth-talking lawyer, to Abed (Danny Pudi), the pop culture-obsessed film student. The series gleefully experiments with genre, from paintball westerns to animated Christmas specials, making it a playground of creativity. It's a show that rewards repeat viewing and never fails to make you laugh.
3. Pushing Daisies (2007–2009)
This whimsical dramedy follows Ned (Lee Pace), a pie-maker who can bring the dead back to life with a touch—but only for one minute, or someone else dies. He uses this gift to solve murders with a private detective, but complications arise when he revives his childhood sweetheart, Chuck (Anna Friel), and can never touch her again. The show is a visual feast, with its candy-colored sets and quirky narration. It's a fairy tale for adults, blending mystery, romance, and dark humor in a way that's utterly unique. Despite its short run, Pushing Daisies remains a cult favorite for its sheer charm and inventiveness.
2. Schitt's Creek (2015–2020)
When the wealthy Rose family loses everything, they're forced to move to a small town they once bought as a joke: Schitt's Creek. The series follows Johnny (Eugene Levy), Moira (Catherine O'Hara), and their adult children David (Dan Levy) and Alexis (Annie Murphy) as they adapt to life without money. What starts as a fish-out-of-water comedy evolves into a heartwarming story about family, community, and love. The show's humor is sharp, but its heart is even bigger, culminating in one of the most satisfying finales in TV history. It's a masterclass in character growth and pure joy.
1. Ted Lasso (2020–2023)
At the top of our list is Ted Lasso, the Apple TV+ comedy about an American football coach (Jason Sudeikis) hired to manage an English soccer team—despite knowing nothing about the sport. Ted's relentless optimism and kindness win over skeptics, turning the show into a beacon of positivity. It's not just a sports comedy; it's a show about mental health, friendship, and believing in others. With its witty writing, lovable characters, and feel-good moments, Ted Lasso is the definition of fun television. It's a show that leaves you smiling long after the credits roll.
These eight shows prove that the 21st century has delivered plenty of lighthearted gems alongside its heavy hitters. Whether you're in the mood for a quirky procedural, a romantic summer fling, or a comedy that warms your heart, there's something here to brighten your screen. For more joyful picks, check out our list of the most joyful movies of the century or dive into the best sci-fi shows of the 21st century.
