In a notable shift from previous years, 2025’s television landscape has been characterized by an abundance of lighthearted series, striking a contrast with the typically serious fare deemed worthy of our time. This year, viewers turned to shows that offer not just entertainment but also a much-needed sense of relief from a worrying news cycle, reports BritPanorama.
Highlighting this trend, the following list summarizes the top 10 TV shows of 2025, all of which deliver a unique blend of humour and engaging narratives.
10. The Studio
The Studio, a sharply satirical mockumentary, captures Hollywood’s biggest names poking fun at their industry. Director Seth Rogen’s character, Matt, dreams of creating artistic blockbusters but is forced to cater to commercial pressures, leading to absurd film projects. This humorous take provides both laughs and a sobering commentary on the state of modern filmmaking.
9. Amandaland
Following the popular sitcom Motherland, the spin-off Amandaland explores Amanda’s humorous fall from grace as she adjusts to life as a single mother in suburban London. Lucy Punch’s performance as Amanda showcases her ability to navigate comedic extremes without losing the audience’s affection, further complemented by a standout supporting cast.
8. Louis Theroux: The Settlers
In a return to documentary filmmaking, Louis Theroux’s The Settlers addresses the contentious topic of Israeli settlers in the West Bank. The documentary’s urgency is underscored by the backdrop of the ongoing conflict in Gaza, featuring moments of personal confrontation that reveal the complexities and tensions within the settlers’ narratives.
7. Big Boys
Jack Rooke’s Big Boys combines comedy with poignant themes of male mental health, culminating in a deeply emotional final episode. The series’ exploration of friendship and personal growth resonates, making it both touching and relatable.
6. Dying for Sex
In Dying for Sex, Michelle Williams portrays a woman embracing life after a terminal cancer diagnosis. The series effectively balances humour with the stark realities of mortality, creating a resonant and enjoyable viewing experience.
5. The White Lotus
The ongoing narrative of The White Lotus continues to captivate viewers, and the third season set in Thailand has added fresh layers of intrigue. Notable performances, particularly from Aimee Lou Wood and Parker Posey, highlight the show’s blend of comedy and social commentary.
4. Pluribus
Pluribus, from Breaking Bad creator Vince Gilligan, explores a future where most of humanity exists as a collective consciousness. The tension and humor inherent in the character of Carol, who resists this change, make for an engaging narrative.