The 10 Best TV Shows with Realistic Depictions of Friendship
Friendships on TV often feel larger than life, but some shows nail the messy, authentic bonds that mirror our own. These series capture the laughter, fights, and quiet support that define real connections, without leaning on clichés.
We’ve ranked 10 TV shows that shine for their grounded portrayals of friendship, from heartfelt to unforgettable. Here’s why these stories resonate with anyone who’s ever had a true friend.
10. New Girl (2011-2018)
Jess and her quirky loftmates bumble through life’s chaos, from breakups to career flops. Zooey Deschanel’s charm and the ensemble’s banter feel like a real friend group’s vibe.
Their petty spats and fierce loyalty hit home. We laugh at their antics while rooting for their bond.
9. Atlanta (2016-2022)
Earn, Paper Boi, and Darius navigate Atlanta’s music scene with a mix of hustle and absurdity. Donald Glover’s sharp writing grounds their friendship in quiet, unspoken trust.
Their deadpan humor and shared struggles feel raw. We’re drawn to their understated, loyal dynamic.
8. Insecure (2016-2021)
Issa and Molly’s friendship wrestles with career envy, bad dates, and growing apart. Issa Rae and Yvonne Orji’s chemistry captures the real highs and lows of adult bonds.
Their awkward fights and make-ups ring painfully true. We see ourselves in their messy, loving connection.
7. Community (2009-2015)
A misfit study group at Greendale Community College forms a chaotic, heartfelt bond. Joel McHale, Alison Brie, and the cast turn quirky humor into genuine warmth.
Their absurd adventures and emotional support feel like a found family. We cherish their weird, loyal crew.
6. Scrubs (2001-2010)
JD and Turk’s bromance thrives through hospital chaos, blending goofy humor with deep support. Zach Braff and Donald Faison’s dynamic feels like lifelong best friends.
Their silly rituals and raw heart-to-hearts hit close. We smile at their unshakable bond.
5. Broad City (2014-2019)
Abbi and Ilana’s wild New York adventures are fueled by unfiltered loyalty. Abbi Jacobson and Ilana Glazer’s crude humor and ride-or-die vibe feel refreshingly real.
Their chaotic support through bad jobs and worse dates resonates. We love their fearless, messy friendship.
4. Freaks and Geeks (1999-2000)
High school outcasts Lindsay, Sam, and their pals face teen angst with awkward, loyal bonds. Linda Cardellini and James Franco lead a cast that feels like real kids.
Their small wins and crushing losses capture youth’s raw friendships. We ache for their short-lived story.
3. The Good Place (2016-2020)
Eleanor, Chidi, and their afterlife crew bond over ethical dilemmas and cosmic stakes. Kristen Bell and William Jackson Harper’s group grows from strangers to soulmates.
Their flawed, supportive dynamic feels earned through shared growth. We’re moved by their heartfelt journey.
2. Derry Girls (2018-2022)
Four Irish teens and a boy navigate 1990s Northern Ireland with biting humor and fierce loyalty. Saoirse-Monica Jackson’s crew faces teen drama amid political unrest.
Their snarky banter and unwavering support feel vividly real. We laugh and cry with their tight-knit chaos.
1. My So-Called Life (1994-1995)
Angela Chase and her friends tackle teen life with raw, messy bonds. Claire Danes and Bess Armstrong capture the awkward, intense friendships of high school.
Their betrayals, apologies, and quiet support feel painfully authentic. We’re hooked by their emotional, fleeting story.
Which TV friendship feels truest to you, or did we miss a show that nails it? Share your thoughts in the comments!
