Sitcoms and TV Shows have become the #1 mode of entertainment for teenagers nowadays, as watching them requires no effort, and provides pure enjoyment. However, finding the best series to watch amongst the endless pool of choices on various streaming platforms and OTT, can be quite an overwhelming and time-consuming process.
That's where this article comes in handy: consisting of a carefully-curated list of diverse sitcoms created by, and for teenagers, you will become more then ready to start your journey with a new world of characters because these sitcoms are more than just TV shows - they will rope you in and have you emotionally bonded to the characters in a way where you will miss them when the show ends. Talking from experience, make sure you have a lot of free time before reading this, because once you do, it will be impossible to not sit and binge every episode in a week.
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Apply Now1. FRIENDS
Where to watch: Netflix
No. of seasons: 10 (236 eps)
Aired from: 1994 - 2004
There is no other show, that will even come close to the chemistry and connections exhibited by the cast of Friends. With every episode being equally interesting, Friends provides an all-round experience of warmth, humor, sadness, and joy. The characters will leave such an impression on you, that whatever they feel, you will feel through the screen.
Following a group of six friends in their high 20s, the show takes you through the ups and downs of their lives, and how friendship helps them get through it all. While it may not seem as interesting as a plot by itself, believe me when I say, you will NEVER get bored in a single episode. The specialty of Friends, is that it is completely realistic with no thrillers whatsoever, but will still somehow keep you hooked, solely with the charisma of the characters, and the reality of life.
Photo by various on Wikimedia Commons
I had the time of my life watching Friends, and literally binged all 236 episodes within two weeks. It was impossible to stop watching. I felt so connected to the characters that I just couldn't rest without knowing what happened to them each episode.
I will give you one warning based on my experience: you will have so much trouble watching the last episode. You will be in complete denial that you won't be able to follow their journey anymore. That things won't be the same. That's the impact that Friends will leave on you.
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2. Modern Family
Where to watch: Disney+ Hotstar
No. of seasons: 11 (250 eps)
Aired from: 2009 - 2020
With the world becoming more and more inclusive by the day, families are also becoming more modern. This series, follows a differently structured family, who navigate societal standards through each other's support and unconditional love. The American family consists of a gay couple who adopt an asian daughter, an elderly man who marries a young foreign woman, taking in her son, and a couple who struggle to raise 3 kids in the modern scene of America, due to cultural and generational gaps.
Seems confusing right? That's what I thought too, until I watched it for myself.
Photo by jdeeringdavis on Wikimedia Commons
The journey of watching Modern Family, will have you find a second family, whom you really care for. Whether you believe it or not, these characters too, will create an emotional bond with you, which will be strengthened through the seasons, as you watch the kids of the family grow up, and the adults of the family mature.
Since the cast for the series remains the same throughout, it will feel like a time travel, as you will visibly watch the children age up. Modern Family will teach you the importance of family bonds, as you watch the flawed family on screen, become better and better by the day, by being there for each other.
Photo by Modern Family on Wikimedia Commons
3. Young Sheldon
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
No. of seasons: 7 (141 eps)
Aired from: 2017 - 2024
Young Sheldon is a period series, set in the 90s, where a family of 5 with a pair of twins and a rebellious teenager, navigate life, as a very religious Christian family. One of the twins, Sheldon, is a prodigy who is extremely smart, and so demands a lot of attention from his parents, since he is not a normal kid whatsoever.
This makes the siblings feel jealous and neglected, and they become a team against him, as sibling rivalries begin. What makes it fun, is the fact that you will watch Sheldon grow up and navigate college life, and go along with him in his journey as he struggles to fit in as a kid at college.
Photo by White Pony Express on Wikimedia Commons
What started as a spin-off to Big Bang Theory, soon developed its own fanbase, even amongst people who have not watched BBT. Therefore, it is safe to say that Young Sheldon will be quite relatable, especially to siblings, and provide valuable entertainment with its unique twists and turns. Blending humor with family crises, Young Sheldon will truly be a fun watch.
Photo by Warner Bros. Television on Wikimedia Commons
4. Brooklyn Nine-Nine
Where to watch: Netflix
No. of seasons: 8 (153 eps)
Aired from: 2013 - 2021
This sitcom is one-of-a-kind, as it combines mystery with humor. It takes place in a detective agency, following carefree detective Jake Peralta who gets the job done, although he is a child at heart. How he overcomes hurdles and solves cases with his antics, is what makes the series interesting.
You will not only watch his life, but will be able to solve mysteries along with him. Therefore, it also has a thriller element, although it is a lighthearted watch. There are a very dynamic set of characters throughout the detective agency, who play such an important role in making the series more fun and watcheable. Once again, the chemistry between the characters and how they manage Jake and his antics in a professional crime atmosphere, is what makes Brooklyn Nine-Nine one of the best choices for summer.
Photo by Fox on Wikimedia Commons
5. Welcome to Waikiki (K-Drama)
Where to watch: Netflix
No. of seasons: 2 (36 eps)
Aired from: 2018 - 2019
While relatively shorter than usual, Welcome to Waikiki brings the summer vibes like no other, providing lighthearted comedy as the series follows a group of three friends who own a guesthouse and aspire to become a director, actor and writer. Their struggles to get money and pay rent, all while navigating their own life and relationships, combines to provide a lot of laughs and a wholesome experience. With each episode being over an hour, it will take a considerable amount of time to finish watching, despite being only one season long.
Photo by Cramk777 on Wikimedia Commons
There is also a Welcome to Waikiki 2, which follows a different set of characters in the same guesthouse, with one of them being in the previous season too. While it did not match up to the first season, the second was still a good watch, and is recommended for people who wished the first season never ended.
Every single series on this list, is here for a reason : rewatchability and comforting qualities. Whenever you feel down or bored, you will find yourself seeking comfort from these sitcoms because they provide warmth like no other. The fact that you can watch every single episode for the 100th time and not be bored, is the best part. So grab your popcorn and get ready for a binge-session!