Jul 29th, 2024 on

Must-Watch TV Shows | Finding Body Positivity On Screen

Hey Friend! Been MIA the last month, life happened! So, for today’s post, I want to share with you my favorite TV shows that celebrate body positivity, each in their own unique way. Aren’t you sick of all the social media and the new skinniness craze? We had a moment where we talked about how all bodies are okay, and now it feels like we’ve jumped back thirty years. I’m wondering if Kate Moss will be back with the cocaine body or what. Sorry, I’m being harsh. It’s a long and heavy conversation, maybe for another post. Let’s keep it light and fun now! With all the darkness and fakeness out there, it’s refreshing to see shows that embrace and promote body positivity.

If you’re feeling vulnerable about your body this summer or anytime, mute all social media, and watch these shows. I hope they will make you feel a little bit better and remind you that you belong. Sending hugs and without further ado, let’s start!

P.S. If you are looking for books that embrace body positivity, I have another post. Check it out here.

This Is Us

Drama | Comedy | Romance

This Is Us is a drama with a touch of romance and minimal comedy. It’s a show you’ll either love or hate, with no middle ground. Over its six seasons, we follow the life of a family from the beginning to the end, exploring various relationship and family dynamics. Along the way, you might find a character whose life resonates with yours, as each of them experiences something relatable, like all normal people.

One character particularly relevant to today’s topic is Kate Pearson, played by Chrissy Metz. From childhood through adulthood, Kate struggles with weight issues. We see how this affects her in primary school, during her teenage years, and into her adult life. As someone who has been in her shoes, watching Kate’s journey felt like watching my own life unfold on screen. I felt like I was watching my life through the screen. It’s frustrating and comforting at the same time. I held on to the comfort, realizing I am not alone and I’m not the only one.

Millennials can especially relate, as we didn’t have the internet in the way younger generations do now. The best part about Kate’s story? She finds her purpose in life, but it’s not the typical happy ending we often see on screen. Instead, it reflects real life, with its ups and downs, good moments, and struggles.

In her late 30s, Kate finds a job she loves, has a child, marries, divorces, and finds love again. And the most important part? She doesn’t lose the weight, because that’s the “Ultimate Achievement”right? No! Instead, she tries to be the best version of herself, sometimes succeeding, sometimes not, but always living her life! While I enjoyed the rest of the family’s stories, Kate’s journey toward self-acceptance touched me the most because I related to it deeply. Her story on the small screen is unique and inspiring!

Shrill

Comedy

Shrill One of the best TV shows on Hulu that missed the hype, but we get it, it’s not for everyone. As I mentioned in my other post about books that helped me, I read the book after watching the show. Now, let’s talk about the show.

Annie, played by Aidy Bryant, is a journalist who writes for a magazine. Annie lives with her best friend but remains close to her parents, with whom she has a complicated relationship. Her mom always suggests methods for losing weight, while her dad stays neutral. Sound familiar? I thought, “Wait, what? This happens to others too? It’s not just me?” Oh! This show has it all: body positivity, feminism, workplace drama, family and relationship dynamics, and a lot of personal growth.

Annie’s romantic life is equally relatable. She has a casual and complicated relationship with a guy who doesn’t want to introduce her to his friends because of her body. When she discovers this, she gives him the finger and moves on. At work, she faces drama as a young woman with strong opinions, both from her boss and some readers of the site.

Annie grows stronger with the help of her friends, finding a community where she belongs and building lifelong connections. Although Shrill only lasted three seasons, it remains a gem, even if it’s for a limited audience. Since it’s based on a book, we can appreciate what we got and leave it at that.

I want more TV shows like this. I highly recommend watching the show and reading the book as well.

Mike And Molly

Drama | Comedy | Romance

Mike and Molly is a unique sitcom that brings a lot of heart and humor. Molly, played by Melissa McCarthy, and Mike, played by Billy Gardell, meet at an Overeaters Anonymous meeting and fall in love. Molly is a teacher living with her quirky sister and mother, who both have distinct personalities. Her mother’s boyfriend is another funny character who adds to the humor. Mike is a police officer who lives alone but has a mother you’d wish to never have. He also has a great partner at work.

Their families are all dealing with their own “problems” drinking, relationship issues, while Mike and Molly are the only ones with “logic” and a shared goal: they want to lose weight. We follow them from the start of their relationship through their marriage, witnessing their couple’s fights and good times, all presented with a comedic touch. They are a normal couple navigating life together.

Mike and Molly is funny, light, and a great sitcom to watch for a good time. It’s perfect for unwinding and finding comfort in seeing a loving, relatable couple face everyday challenges with humor.

G.L.O.W.

Drama | Comedy | Romance

G.L.O.W. Set in Los Angeles during the 80s, a hidden gem from Netflix that offers a delightful dose of nostalgia with its fashion, music, and overall vibe. If you love the 80s, this show is dedicated to you. With three seasons of funny, heartwarming, interesting, and sometimes exciting episodes, you’re in for a treat!

The story follows struggling actress Ruth Wilder (Alison Brie), who auditions at a gym for an unclear role. She soon discovers it’s for G.L.O.W. Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling, a scripted wrestling show. Ruth initially clashes with the director, Sam Sylvia (Marc Maron), but he decides to hire her after Debbie Eagan (Betty Gilpin), Ruth’s former friend whose husband had an affair with Ruth, also auditions. Their real-life conflict makes for compelling storylines.

How the show relates to Body Positivity and why to Watch? For the diverse range of body types and promoting self-empowerment and confidence, for fans of sports entertainment and those who appreciate strong female empowerment! The show is a fantastic blend of humor, drama, and 80s nostalgia, making it a must-watch!