Get ready to laugh until your sides hurt with these shows
BY ELLA GAUCI, IMAGE BY NETFLIX
Netflix’s beloved sitcom The Upshaws has released its sixth and final series much to fans’ disappointment. Created by Regina Hicks and queer icon Wanda Sykes, the show follows a working-class Black family in Indiana navigating the ups and downs of life, love, and chaotic family dynamics. In the last series, the show introduced its first LGBTQIA storyline after Bernard Jr came out. Expected to follow suit in series six, fans are excited to see what other queer representation will be served up.
If you’re looking for more queer comedy series like The Upshaws, you’re in luck. Here are a few you should try out.
One Day At A Time
One Day At A Time is a heartfelt sitcom that follows a Cuban-American family led by a single mother, Penelope, as they navigate life’s challenges with humour, love, and resilience. The series thoughtfully explores themes of identity, mental health, and immigration. LGBTQIA fans have flocked to the show due to the storyline of Penelope’s daughter Elena who comes out as lesbian during the show.
Where to watch: Netflix
Schitt’s Creek
Schitt’s Creek is a witty and endearing sitcom that follows the wealthy Rose family, who lose their fortune and are forced to rebuild their lives in the quirky small town they once bought as a joke. The series expertly balances humour and heartfelt moments while exploring themes of community, acceptance, and personal growth. LGBTQIA fans have embraced the show for its groundbreaking portrayal of pansexuality through David Rose and his tender, trailblazing relationship with Patrick Brewer.
Where to watch: Netflix
Work In Progress
Work in Progress is a darkly comedic and deeply personal series that follows Abby, a self-described “fat, queer dyke” navigating life, love, and mental health struggles with sharp humour and raw vulnerability. The show delves into themes of identity, self-acceptance, and LGBTQIA experiences in refreshingly honest and often hilarious ways.
Where to watch: Prime Video or AppleTV+
Dead To Me
Dead to Me is a darkly comedic drama that follows the unlikely friendship between Jen, a tightly wound widow, and Judy, a free-spirited woman with secrets, as they bond over shared grief and unexpected twists. The series masterfully blends sharp humor with emotional depth, exploring themes of loss, forgiveness, and resilience.
Where to watch: Netflix
The Fosters
The Fosters is a heartfelt family sitcom that follows a blended family led by two moms, Stef and Lena, as they navigate the challenges of raising a diverse group of foster and biological children. The series thoughtfully explores themes of family, identity, and acceptance.
Where to watch: Disney+
Superstore
Superstore is a witty and diverse workplace sitcom set in a store, focusing on the quirky group of employees who navigate their personal and professional lives with humour and heart. The series explores themes of friendship, inclusion, and identity, often tackling social issues with comedy. LGBTQIA fans appreciate the show’s inclusive representation, particularly through Dina and Garrett’s evolving relationship and the exploration of queer identity in a workplace setting.
Where to watch: Netflix
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