A breakup can be a terrible experience, and regrettably, there isn’t a magic bullet that will make you forget about your ex right away. Nevertheless, a nice Netflix show adds little joys to help ease the tension and momentarily halt the tears.
Among the most effective diversion when you’re truly struggling? The lonely days pass quickly when you lose yourself in a Netflix show that is so captivating that you lose yourself in an episode or a whole season.
Naturally, different people have different ideas about what the ultimate comfort series is. During difficult times, we all require different things to make us feel better. A mindless reality show might be the perfect choice for those who want to completely escape their anger and sadness. Others might find comfort.
Here are some series available on Netflix that will distract you and lift your spirits:
1. Jane the Virgin
This hilarious five-season telenovela features Gina Rodriguez as a pregnant virgin, combining a heartwarming love story and outlandish plotlines (including an evil twin and a fake death) to ensure you won’t get too nostalgic about they-who-shall-not-be-named. If you still believe in love or want a relationship—just not with your ex, here is your show. Gina Rodriguez stars as Jane Villanueva, a religious, 23-year-old virgin who somehow becomes pregnant. Hilarious and messy as Jane can be, she’s also an empowering, badass role model to look up to when you’re at your lowest.
2. Queer Eye
Join the Fab Five as they transform lives in this feel-good reality series filled with positivity and relatable messages about self-love and rebuilding confidence. The five, a food connoisseur, an interior designer, a grooming guru, a relationship expert, and a style maven join forces to transform lives.
3. Emily in Paris
Escape the mess of your real-life breakup and adult responsibilities to Paris with Emily Cooper, where over-the-top fashion, romance, and vibrant scenery provide the perfect distraction. The hit features Emily Cooper, a free-spirited, happy-go-lucky American who moves to Paris for her dream job. There’s a new season out now, so it’s the perfect time to catch up on Emily’s Parisian adventures.
4. Dead to Me
This dark comedy about two women with polar-opposite personalities become unlikely friends at a grief support group explores themes of loss and forgiveness, mixing humor with suspense. The Emmy-nominated Netflix show includes a mysterious hit-and-run accident, an unexpected murder, featuring the ever-so-talented Christina Applegate.
5. The Great British Baking Show
For a calming distraction after a sad breakup, indulge in this cozy baking competition that’s all about fluffy cakes and the peaceful sounds of British countryside, and the comforting sounds of whisks and mixers at work.
6. Love is Blind
For some, watching other people fall in love might be the last thing they want after ending things. But for others, diving into a stranger’s unpredictable, drama-filled romance can be weirdly…comforting. This dating show offers a unique premise where couples fall in love without seeing each other, reminding you that love can be unexpected. Love is Blind will captivate you enough to take your mind off your own heartbreak,while also offering a little hope that there’s a special someone out there for everyone (including you!).
7. The Mindy Project
Mindy Kaling’s hilarious take on love and dating offers relatable moments and validation as the protagonist navigates her romantic misadventures. Mindy Kaling reminds us that even the smartest, most put-together people can be total fools when it comes to love. The Mindy Project follows a successful ob-gyn who, like many of us, struggles with her dating life. There’s something validating about seeing this high-achieving woman get lost in a hopeless romantic web and stumble around looking for The One. Whether Mindy’s faking a British accent or pretending to be Catholic to impress her boyfriend’s priest, “it’s refreshing to watch this protagonist hilariously make ‘dumb’ choices we so often beat ourselves up about post-breakup.
8. Killing Eve
This gripping thriller keeps you on the edge of your seat with its intense cat-and-mouse game, providing a perfect distraction from heartbreak. The tension in this show is truly unmatched, and you’ll be so enthralled that you won’t even think about your sadness but if that’s not enough, fantasizing about Villanelle should probably do the trick.
9. Bridgerton
Lose yourself in the romantic escapades of Regency-era London, where swoon-worthy love stories (crafted by the brilliant and prolific Shonda Rhimes) reignite your hope in romance. It will be hard to not feel optimistic (and slightly less bitter) after streaming all three seasons of Bridgerton. This show will whisk you away to a different world and time when true love was about more than just quick texts and hookups. Plus, empowering leads like Lady Danbury and Penelope Featherington will inspire you to embrace your independence while navigating the single life.
10. Sex and the City
Join Carrie and her friends as they navigate love and friendship in New York City, reminding you of the importance of good friends during tough times. One of the best ways to mend a broken heart is surrounding yourself with ride-or-die pals. And when you don’t have the energy to see your closest friends IRL, Carrie Bradshaw, Charlotte York, Samantha Jones, and Miranda Hobbes are here to remind you that you’re not alone. Throughout the show’s six seasons, these glamorous New York City gals support each other during challenges big and small—from dating disasters to major health scares.
Make sure to check the current availability on Netflix, as it can vary by region!