We already know and love #TGIT, the lineup of ABC dramas on Thursday nights created by the one-and-only Shonda Rhimes. Although I love those shows, I can’t watch dramas all the time. Sometimes I need a little comedy to brighten my day, and there’s something about ABC’s sitcom lineup this season that keeps me coming back. With Black-ish, Fresh Off the Boat, Modern Family, Dr. Ken, The Real O’Neals, The Goldbergs and their new comedy Uncle Buck, ABC has proven that they aren’t only good for dramatic programming — they also excel in the comedic department.
Talented actors paired with witty storylines make for family-friendly television that is certain to keep you laughing. ABC’s sitcoms are some of my favorites, hands-down. Check out the reasons why you should be watching them, too.
Watch when you need a laugh.
Times are hard and things are likely to get more difficult as we age. Being black is often exhausting. When you need a break from fighting the power, watching one of these hysterical sitcoms can be excellent relief.
Watch if you need a good cry.
Disney programs have a long-standing reputation for being heart-warming, and ABC’s sitcom lineup is no different. Some episodes are truly touching. You’re guaranteed to feel all warm and fuzzy inside after watching one of these shows.
They normalize cultures considered “different.”
By showing black and Asian families or families with gay children, these sitcoms work to alter negative perceptions about specific cultures — while poking a little fun at the stereotypes.
They’re great if you’re missing your own family.
I’m sure one of these sitcoms will remind you of your family in some way. When you aren’t able to be with your own family, it can be nice to watch something that reminds you of what you love (and hate) about them.
They’ll make you feel better about your family’s craziness.
You thought your family was bizarre? Try watching The Goldbergs and you’ll see that it’s not just your family that’s a little off-beat.
Watch when you’re feeling nostalgic about your teen years.
You’ll be sure to remember that being a teenager actually wasn’t so great.
Watch when you need a little optimism.
One of the best things about family sitcoms is that there’s always a positive takeaway. As parents teach their kids to see the glass half-full, you’ll be reminded of the power of optimism. Or, in Jessica Huang’s case, you’ll get a little dose of reality.
Even if you think you can’t relate to the characters, you can.
The best part about ABC’s sitcoms is that there’s always some character you can relate to, even if initially you think there won’t be. The Goldbergs might be a white, Jewish family, but they have a classic three-sibling dynamic. Barry is a textbook middle child — passionate, determined and always trying to get his family’s attention. I’m certain most middle children can relate to those struggles.
They teach life lessons and spark discussion.
Sitcoms are known for teaching lessons and starting discussions among the families watching them. One of the most important lessons sitcoms teach is that there’s always space to be silly. Sitcoms have serious moments, but the characters don’t take themselves too seriously. These families are constantly cracking jokes and having a good time. They’ll remind you to get silly once in a while — all while teaching you what’s important in life.
Regardless of the race, status or sexual orientation of these sitcom families, their shows send messages to people everywhere that real families aren’t perfect or ‘normal.’ They are phenomenal shows for demonstrating that there are many ways to raise a wonderful family and that you can have fun while doing so. That’s what makes them so powerful.
