From 'Schitt's Creek' to 'Gilmore Girls', top 5 family drama shows to binge before 'The Baxters' premiere

From heartwarming journeys to tearjerking moments, this list offers the perfect shows to prepare you for the arrival of 'The Baxters.'
PUBLISHED MAR 26, 2024
From 'Schitt's Creek' to 'Gilmore Girls,' here are 5 shows to binge-watch (@NBC/@AmazonPrimeVideo/@Disney+)
From 'Schitt's Creek' to 'Gilmore Girls,' here are 5 shows to binge-watch (@NBC/@AmazonPrimeVideo/@Disney+)

LOS ANGELES, CALIFORNIA: Calling all family drama fans! The heartwarming chaos of 'The Baxters' is coming soon, but to tide you over, we've curated a list of must-watch shows brimming with relatable characters, laughter, and tears.

This selection offers a range of emotions, from the gut-wrenching vulnerability of 'This Is Us' to the quirky charm of 'Schitt's Creek.'

Whether you crave an exploration of parenthood in 'Parenthood' or the thrill of high school football in 'Friday Night Lights,' there's a series here to captivate you. So dive in, grab some tissues (or popcorn!), and prepare to be entertained before 'The Baxters' graces your screens.

Parenthood (2010-2015)

A still from the show 'Parenthood' (@NBC)
A still from the show 'Parenthood' (@NBC)

Spanning six seasons, Amazon Prime Video's 'Parenthood' offers a beautifully nuanced exploration of the Braverman family. From laugh-out-loud moments to heartbreaking challenges, the series tackles parenthood in all its messy glory.

Each character, from parents Sarah and Zeek to their grown children with their own families, faces relatable issues like career struggles, relationship challenges, and the complexities of raising children. Parenthood is a heartwarming and emotional journey that celebrates the unbreakable bonds of family.

This Is Us (2016-2022)

A still from the show 'This is Us' (@NBC | @Ron Batzdorff)
A still from the show 'This is Us' (@NBC | @Ron Batzdorff)

Prepare for a tearjerker with Disney+'s 'This Is Us,' a show that masterfully weaves together the past, present, and future of the Pearson family. The series explores themes of adoption, grief, love, and loss, leaving a lasting impact on viewers.

Each episode unveils a new piece of the Pearsons' story, creating a captivating puzzle that keeps you wanting more. This Is Us will make you laugh, cry, and appreciate the importance of family in all its forms.

Gilmore Girls (2000-2007)

Alexis Bledel and Lauren Graham in a still from the show 'Gilmore Girls' (2000)
Alexis Bledel and Lauren Graham in a still from the show 'Gilmore Girls' (2000) (@CW)

Offering a lighter take on family drama, Netflix's 'Gilmore Girls' is a quirky and heartwarming series about Lorelai Gilmore and her teenage daughter Rory living in the charming small town of Stars Hollow. The show follows their close-knit bond, witty banter, and individual journeys as they navigate love, career aspirations, and small-town life.

Filled with pop culture references, fast-talking dialogue, and a lovable cast of characters, Gilmore Girls is a delightful escape that will leave you feeling nostalgic and hopeful.

Friday Night Lights (2006-2011)

Minka Kelly and Aimee Teegarden in a still from the show 'Friday Night Lights' (2006)
Minka Kelly and Aimee Teegarden in a still from the show 'Friday Night Lights' (2006)

If you crave drama with a touch of sports, Amazon Prime Video's 'Friday Night Lights' is a perfect choice. Set in the fictional town of Dillon, Texas, the series revolves around the Dillon High School Panthers football team and the hopes and dreams of the town resting on their shoulders.

But Friday Night Lights goes beyond the gridiron, delving into the lives of Coach Eric Taylor, his wife Tami, and the families of the players. It explores themes of community, ambition, race, and the challenges of adolescence, making for a compelling and heartwarming drama.

Schitt's Creek (2015-2020)

A still from the show 'Schitt's Creek' (2015)
A still from the show 'Schitt's Creek' (2015)

Craving a laugh with your family drama? Look no further than Netflix's 'Schitt's Creek.' This Emmy award-winning series follows the formerly wealthy Rose family who are forced to rebuild their lives in the small, quirky town of Schitt's Creek after losing their fortune.

As the Roses adjust to their new reality, they clash with the townsfolk and learn valuable lessons about humility, resilience, and the importance of genuine connection. Schitt's Creek is a hilarious and heartwarming series that celebrates the power of family and found family.

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