Couch Time with Mom: Five Shows to Binge-Watch This Mother’s Day (and Beyond)
Mother’s Day is around the corner, and while flowers and brunch are always appreciated, sometimes the best gift is quality time. What better way to spend quality time than snuggled on the couch, sharing laughs and maybe even a few tears over a great TV show?
Forget the pressure of planning an elaborate outing. A cozy night in, complete with takeout, a thoughtful gift, and a binge-worthy series, can be the most rewarding way to celebrate the woman who gave you everything. And while there are countless shows featuring mother-child relationships, let’s venture beyond the familiar and discover some hidden gems that offer unique perspectives on motherhood, family, and the enduring bond between mothers and their children.
So, ditch the usual suspects and dive into these five shows that are perfect for watching with your mom this Mother’s Day – and every other day of the year you want to show her how much you care.
1. Derry Girls: Northern Irish Shenanigans and Mammy Mayhem
Is "Gilmore Girls" your go-to mother-daughter show? That’s great, but have you ever experienced the pure comedic brilliance of "Derry Girls"? This series is a riot, and it’s guaranteed to have you and your mammy cackling over the antics of a group of teenagers navigating life in 1990s Northern Ireland during the Troubles.
"Derry Girls" is not just a sitcom; it’s a cultural phenomenon. Erin Quinn, played by the brilliant Saoirse-Monica Jackson, leads a motley crew of friends – Orla, Michelle, Clare, and the "wee English fella" James – through a series of hilariously ridiculous situations. From disastrous school trips to misguided attempts at rebellion, these teenagers are constantly finding themselves in trouble.
But the real magic of "Derry Girls" lies in the relationships between the teenagers and their exasperated parents, particularly their mothers. These mammys are the backbone of the family, dealing with their children’s antics with a mix of exasperation, tough love, and unwavering support. The dynamic between Erin and her mother, played by Tara Lynne O’Neill, is particularly endearing, full of witty banter and relatable moments of mother-daughter friction.
The show’s seasons are short and sweet, typically consisting of only six or seven episodes. This makes "Derry Girls" the perfect binge-watching option for a weekend with your mom. And don’t miss the Season 3 episode that flashes back to the parents’ teenage years, offering a touching reminder of the carefree youth mothers have left behind. It’s a poignant reminder that even the most responsible adults were once wild and rebellious themselves.
"Derry Girls" is a celebration of family, friendship, and the unique spirit of Northern Ireland. It’s a show that will make you laugh, cry, and appreciate the unwavering love of your own mammy.
Stream on Netflix.
2. Jane the Virgin: A Modern Telenovela with Heart
If you’re looking for a show with a bit more drama and intrigue, "Jane the Virgin" is a must-watch. This CW series, which aired from 2014 to 2019, is a clever and heartfelt take on the telenovela genre. It’s filled with outlandish plot twists, romantic entanglements, and a healthy dose of humor.
At its core, "Jane the Virgin" is a story about motherhood. When Jane Villanueva, played by the incredibly talented Gina Rodriguez, is accidentally artificially inseminated, her life is turned upside down. As she navigates the challenges of unexpected pregnancy and motherhood, she gains a deeper understanding of her own mother and grandmother.
The show beautifully explores the complexities of intergenerational relationships. Jane’s relationships with her mother, Xiomara, and her grandmother, Alba, are central to the story. They provide her with guidance, support, and unwavering love as she navigates the joys and challenges of motherhood.
"Jane the Virgin" is more than just a dramatic soap opera. It’s a thoughtful exploration of family, love, and the choices that shape our lives. It’s a show that will keep you entertained while also making you reflect on the meaning of motherhood.
Available for purchase on Amazon, Fandango at Home and Apple TV.
3. Call the Midwife: A Sentimental Journey into Motherhood’s History
For a more heartwarming and sentimental viewing experience, consider "Call the Midwife." This long-running British series follows a group of midwives working in the impoverished East End of London during the 1950s and 60s.
Each episode of "Call the Midwife" features at least one birth scene, often set against the backdrop of challenging social and economic conditions. The show offers a visceral and vivid reminder of what mothers go through to bring life into the world. It’s a powerful and moving portrayal of the sacrifices, strength, and resilience of women.
The series also explores a wide range of social issues affecting mothers during this period, including poverty, disease, and the changing roles of women in society. It’s a fascinating glimpse into the past and a reminder of the progress that has been made in maternal healthcare.
"Call the Midwife" is a show that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you with a deep appreciation for your own mother. It’s a reminder of the enduring power of motherhood and the unwavering love that mothers have for their children. Be prepared to shed a tear or two (or maybe more!) while watching this deeply moving show.
Stream on Netflix; Season 14 airs on PBS (Sundays, 8 ET/PT; check local listings).
4. Schitt’s Creek: A Hilariously Unconventional Family
Not all TV moms are nurturing and traditional. Sometimes, the most memorable TV moms are the ones who are a little bit eccentric and unconventional. Moira Rose, played by the incomparable Catherine O’Hara in "Schitt’s Creek," is a prime example.
"Schitt’s Creek" follows the wealthy Rose family as they lose their fortune and are forced to relocate to the small town they once bought as a joke. Moira, a former soap opera star, is a snobbish and aloof delight who provides endless comedic moments.
Her relationship with her children, David and Alexis, is complex and often combative, but ultimately loving. While she may not always be the most emotionally available mother, her wit, her dramatic flair, and her unwavering loyalty to her family make her a truly unforgettable character.
"Schitt’s Creek" is a show that celebrates family, even in its most unconventional forms. It’s a reminder that love can be found in the most unexpected places and that even the most dysfunctional families can find a way to support each other. And of course, you and your mom can bond over trying to figure out what "fold in the cheese" actually means.
Stream on Prime Video, Hulu, Fubo TV and Philo.
5. One Day at a Time: A Modern Family with Timeless Values
Finally, for a show that is both hilarious and heartwarming, look no further than "One Day at a Time." This Netflix remake of the 1970s Norman Lear sitcom is a modern take on the classic family sitcom.
The show follows Penelope Alvarez, a single mom and veteran, as she raises her two children with the help of her mother, Lydia. Penelope is a strong and resilient woman who is doing her best to make a living and raise good humans.
What makes "One Day at a Time" so special is its authenticity. The show tackles important social issues with humor and heart, and the relationships between the characters feel real and believable. Penelope’s interactions with her children are particularly touching, filled with love, laughter, and honest conversations. And Lydia is one of television’s great grandmothers, providing wisdom and guidance (and plenty of hilarious antics) to the entire family.
"One Day at a Time" is a show that celebrates the power of family, the importance of community, and the resilience of the human spirit. It’s a show that will make you laugh, cry, and appreciate the people who love you unconditionally. It’s a shame that it was cancelled too soon, but the available episodes are more than worth your time.
Stream on Netflix.
This Mother’s Day, skip the ordinary and embrace the extraordinary. Gather your mom, prepare a cozy space, order some delicious takeout, and dive into one of these fantastic TV shows. It’s a simple yet meaningful way to celebrate the woman who has always been there for you. After all, the best gifts are often the ones that create lasting memories and strengthen the bonds of family. Happy Mother’s Day!
