Back in the early days with our first child, when she’d drift off to sleep in the Moses basket beside us, my wife and I would finally get a quiet moment to ourselves. No interruptions. No chaos. Just us, a sofa, and something light on the screen.
But, as any parent knows, those calm evenings don’t last forever. Once our eldest got older and started choosing her own shows, those peaceful TV moments quickly disappeared. Now, with two daughters and a three-year age gap, watching anything uninterrupted feels like a rare luxury.
So when I do get the chance to sit down and binge, I don’t want to waste it scrolling.
I want TV comedy that’s short, easy to watch, and doesn’t require much brainpower. Let’s be honest, parenting uses up enough of that already.
Let’s kick things off with one of my absolute favourites: the UK version of Ghosts. This BBC TV comedy is pure genius. It’ll have you laughing, tearing up, and even questioning life a little, all in the best possible way.
Fair warning though, once you start, it’s hard to stop. I’ve lost count of the number of late nights it’s caused me. Combine that with 5 a.m. wake-ups from two energetic daughters and it makes for an interesting morning. You’d think I’d have learned my lesson by now, but honestly, it’s always worth it.
There is a US version of Ghosts, but I couldn’t quite get into it. For me, it didn’t have the same charm or standout performances as the UK original. That said, I know plenty of people who prefer it.
So what’s your take? Are you team UK Ghosts, or does the US version win you over?
This British TV comedy is a real gem, offering a hilarious and painfully relatable look at parenting through the eyes of two very different mums and a dad. Add in a cast of brilliantly chaotic side characters and you’ve got something special.
The show follows an unlikely friendship group navigating the pressures of school runs, birthday parties and everyday chaos. It’s sharp, awkward, and often painfully accurate. Honestly, it’s comedy gold. The cast is outstanding and I felt genuinely gutted when I realised there were only three series.
What I love most about Motherland is how familiar it feels. There were so many moments where I thought, yep, this is my life now. It’s weirdly comforting to know that the madness of parenting is a shared experience.
Let’s head across the pond to my ultimate TV guilty pleasure: The American Office. Based on the original UK version by Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant, this spin-off has become my go-to TV comedy for background noise or a quick laugh. Honestly, I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve rewatched it.
The first seven seasons are absolutely brilliant. Steve Carell as Michael Scott is comedy perfection. The last couple of seasons still have their moments, but losing Carell definitely changed the vibe. It felt like the show kept going just to squeeze out a bit more, even though it affected the overall quality.
That said, I still love it. The 20-minute episodes fit perfectly into a busy schedule. Whether I have time for a full binge or just need something light while folding laundry, The American Office never fails to deliver.
Now we’re back in the UK with another brilliant TV comedy from the BBC: Gavin & Stacey. The final-ever episode aired on Christmas Day 2024 and was a perfect send-off for this much-loved series.
I’ve been a fan since it first aired 17 years ago, back when life was a little quieter and I still looked (and felt) a bit more youthful. This feel-good comedy is a great example of the writing talent of James Corden and Ruth Jones.
If you haven’t seen it yet, I’d highly recommend getting the kids to bed early, grabbing some snacks, and diving in. With just three series and a few Christmas specials, it’s a quick binge that’s well worth your time.
Even better, James and Ruth have hinted they’re starting to work on something new. No pressure, of course, but we’re all hoping they can strike gold again, just like they did with Gavin & Stacey.
Rounding off the list is Santa Clarita Diet. This one’s a bit of a curveball, but hear me out. It’s absolutely worth a watch. The TV comedy follows a seemingly ordinary family whose lives are turned upside down when the mum becomes a zombie. It sounds bizarre, but after a few episodes, it really starts to click.
I first watched it on Netflix, and it’s such a shame it was cancelled after just three seasons. Apparently, production costs made a fourth season unworkable. That’s my only real gripe. Just as you get properly invested, it ends.
Still, what we do get is brilliant. It’s quirky, clever, and unlike anything else on this list. If you’re in the mood for something a little different, this is a solid choice.
Our Final Thoughts: A Perfect Blend of British and American Comedy
When it comes to TV shows, there’s something truly special about British comedies. The sharp wit, relatable characters, and effortless humour make them a joy to watch. Whether it’s the heartwarming chaos of Gavin & Stacey, the brutally honest parenting humour in Motherland, or the ghostly hilarity of Ghosts, British TV knows how to hit all the right notes.
That said, a couple of American gems have also made their mark. The American Office brings its own brand of awkward, laugh-out-loud moments, while Santa Clarita Diet takes a quirky, zombie-filled spin on the family sitcom formula. Both offer something unique, proving that great comedy knows no borders.
As parents, life is often a whirlwind of activity, responsibilities, and chaos. That’s why it’s so important to carve out a little time for yourself. These shows are perfect for winding down after a long day of parenting—whether you’re sneaking in a single episode during nap time or indulging in a late-night binge (just don’t blame us for the morning struggle!).
