Couch potato approved: 10 rom-com series to cozy up with

Escape the everyday with a dose of heartwarming romance and laughter. Streaming services are delivering a fresh wave of television that captures the magic of the classic rom-com, offering a comforting retreat from reality.

Emily in paris

Fantasy fodder for anyone who’s ever dreamed of moving to Paris. Lily Collins stars as a marketing executive who relocates to the French capital, navigating career complications and romantic entanglements. The series blends picturesque scenery with a lighthearted approach to love and self-discovery.

Bridgerton

While not aiming for broad laughs, Bridgerton’s comic charm is undeniable. The series offers a welcome departure from stuffy period dramas, embracing sexual yearning and diverse casting. Its storylines – from the classic love triangles to the societal pressures of the era – resonate with modern audiences.

Feel good

Mae Martin’s semi-autobiographical comedy is a triumph of vulnerability and wit. The series explores love, addiction, and identity with unflinching honesty, offering a refreshingly authentic portrayal of modern relationships. Its raw honesty is its greatest strength.

Him & her

This unconventional romantic comedy unfolds in a single London flat, focusing on the quiet, evolving relationship between two twenty-somethings. The series excels in its nuanced portrayal of everyday life, finding humor and heart in the mundane. It’s a testament to the power of understated storytelling.

Starstruck

A modern take on the classic “Notting Hill” story, Starstruck follows Jessie, a New Zealander who has a one-night stand with a famous movie star. The series deftly balances the challenges of fame with the realities of everyday life, exploring themes of class, identity, and the enduring pull of attraction.

Sex education

Set in a British high school, Sex Education tackles teen romance, sexual curiosity, and gender identity with intelligence and humor. The series’ strength lies in its ensemble cast and its willingness to explore complex issues with sensitivity and wit. Its frank discussions about sex have resonated with viewers of all ages.

Big boys

Jack Rooke’s semi-autobiographical comedy centers on the unexpected bond between two male students navigating grief and personal insecurities. While not a traditional romance, the series beautifully portrays the complexities of male friendship and the subtle ways love can manifest. The show's nuanced portrayal of grief offers a powerful emotional core.

Lovesick

A clever premise – a man diagnosed with chlamydia who must contact his past partners – drives this series. Lovesick explores the ripple effects of a single encounter, examining the changing lives and perspectives of the characters involved. The show’s exploration of relationships is both funny and poignant.

The office

While primarily a workplace comedy, The Office features a sweet, understated romance between Tim and Dawn. Their slow-burn courtship, filled with awkward moments and genuine affection, provides a heartwarming counterpoint to the show’s broader humor. The chemistry between the actors elevates their relationship beyond a typical sitcom trope.

The big bang theory

The series that launched a cultural phenomenon. The Big Bang Theory follows the unlikely friendship between physicists Leonard and Sheldon, and their interactions with their more socially adept neighbor Penny. The show's exploration of nerdy love, and the evolution of relationships over 12 seasons, cemented its place in television history.

These series prove that the rom-com isn't dead; it has simply evolved. Each offers a unique perspective on love and connection, validating the enduring appeal of stories that make us feel good.