Television has undergone a fascinating transformation throughout the years, particularly in the realm of sitcoms. Initially, these shows focused predominantly on family dynamics. Iconic series such as I Love Lucy and The Honeymooners revolved around the lives of families, which was fitting for the era. However, a shift occurred in the 1970s and 80s, as workplace-centered TV shows took center stage. The emphasis on family dwindled, replaced by tight-knit friendships that felt akin to family bonds. This trend has persisted and birthed some of the most adored “found family” shows ever.
One prime example of this category is Friends. Alongside it, sitcoms like How I Met Your Mother and New Girl feature groups of twenty- or thirty-somethings navigating life in bustling cities. Within these circles of friends, they discover solace, support, and even love, forming a sense of family that surpasses mere blood ties.
However, found family shows extend beyond the realm of sitcoms. Take Marvel’s The Runaways, for instance, which follows a group of super-powered friends uniting against their villainous parents. This exemplifies how the concept of found family transcends genres and remains just as captivating.
In our lives, we not only have the family we are born into, but also cherished friends who hold a special place in our hearts. It’s not uncommon to hear someone describe a friend as their brother or sister. This list showcases the most extraordinary shows that depict chosen families, and now it’s time for you to explore these remarkable series.
Some recent additions to this list include One Piece, Tokyo Alice, and Ex-Addicts Club. These shows prove that the concept of found family knows no bounds and can captivate audiences across various genres. Get ready to embark on a journey with these extraordinary shows and discover the power of chosen families.
1. Avatar: The Last Airbender
Join a thrilling adventure with a brave young hero and his new pals as they navigate through a world torn apart by war. Along the way, they discover the art of controlling the elements and gain valuable insights about life. This heartwarming story highlights the incredible strength of friendship, love, and unity when faced with challenges. As the group bonds, they become an unbreakable family, demonstrating that family isn’t solely defined by blood.
Actors: Zachery Tyler, Mae Whitman, Jack De Sena, Dee Bradley Baker, Dante Basco
Premiered: February 21, 2005
2. The Legend of Vox Machina
In a world full of magic and danger, a diverse group of adventurers find themselves unexpectedly brought together. Fate seems to have a hand in their meeting, as they embark on thrilling quests, face off against monstrous creatures, and dig deep to unravel long-lost mysteries. But it’s not just external challenges they must conquer; each member must also confront their own inner demons.
Amidst the chaos, something extraordinary happens. These individuals, with their unique strengths and weaknesses, realize that they are far stronger when united. Their shared experiences and battles forge a bond that cannot be broken. Through laughter, tears, and everything in between, they become a chosen family, proving that blood ties aren’t always the most significant.
Together, they face the unknown, relying on one another’s support and friendship. Whether it’s a daunting dragon or a haunting memory, they stand tall, knowing they can overcome anything as long as they stand united. In this world of magic and uncertainty, their camaraderie shines as a guiding light, reminding us all of the power of togetherness in the face of adversity.
Actors: Laura Bailey, Taliesin Jaffe, Ashley Johnson, Liam O’Brien, Marisha Ray
Premiered: January 28, 2022
3. Brooklyn Nine-Nine
This police procedural is a riot, thanks to an awesome crew of quirky detectives and staff members. They come from all walks of life and bring a diverse range of perspectives to the table. But what really sets them apart is the unbreakable bond they’ve formed through their triumphs and struggles. It’s not just a workplace for them, it’s a place where they’ve found true friendship and surrogate family.
These guys are constantly up to some hilarious antics and thrilling adventures. From chasing down suspects to solving mind-boggling cases, they always bring their unique personalities and skills to the table. And amidst all the chaos, they remind us that sometimes, our coworkers can become our closest confidants. They’re there for each other through thick and thin, providing support and laughter when it’s needed the most.
So, if you’re looking for a show that will make you laugh till your sides hurt, while also tugging at your heartstrings, this is it. Join this zany group of detectives and staff members on their wild journey, and you’ll quickly realize that they’re more than just colleagues – they’re family.
Actors: Andy Samberg, Andre Braugher, Terry Crews, Melissa Fumero, Joe Lo Truglio
Premiered: September 17, 2013
4. The Good Place
Imagine a bunch of strangers unexpectedly ending up in the afterlife. Now, picture them teaming up to face the tricky ethical choices that come with being dead. As they get to know each other’s backgrounds and evolve as individuals, they forge a profound bond that goes way beyond their initial circumstances. This show serves as a powerful reminder that even in the most improbable settings, we can stumble upon the family we never realized we were missing.
Actors: Kristen Bell, Ted Danson, William Jackson Harper, Jameela Jamil, D’Arcy Carden
Premiered: September 19, 2016
5. Community
Come hang out with a diverse group of students at a community college as they tackle the rollercoaster ride of life, love, and everything else. You’ll absolutely adore this bunch of characters as they bond and face all sorts of challenges together. They’ll show you that sometimes, the family you create is the one that truly counts.
Actors: Joel McHale, Gillian Jacobs, Danny Pudi, Alison Brie, Ken Jeong
Premiered: September 17, 2009
6. Teen Titans
There’s this awesome animated series that showcases five teenage superheroes. Each of them has their own special powers and backgrounds. But when they join forces, they become an unstoppable crime-fighting team. They’re all about battling villains and saving the day, but that’s not all. They also go through the ups and downs of friendship, loyalty, and even love!
This show really hammers home the idea that a family can be formed through shared experiences and unwavering support. It’s not just about the action-packed adventures, but also about the deep connections they build along the way. So get ready for some epic superhero action mixed with heartfelt moments that’ll leave you feeling all warm and fuzzy inside.
Actors: Hynden Walch, Scott Menville, Greg Cipes, Khary Payton, Dee Bradley Baker
Premiered: July 19, 2003
7. Young Justice
So, there’s this group of young superheroes who come together to fight evil and keep the world safe. But here’s the thing – they’re not just saving the day, they’re also dealing with all the ups and downs of being teenagers. It’s like a double whammy of challenges!
But hey, as they learn to work together as a team, something cool happens. They start forming these tight-knit bonds that go beyond their awesome powers. It’s like they become a family, you know? And that’s where the real magic happens.
This series is packed with action, I mean it’s non-stop excitement. But it’s not just about the badass fights and epic battles. It’s also about showing us how important it is to have each other’s backs and trust one another. Because when you have a strong support system, you can conquer anything.
So get ready for a wild ride with these kickass heroes. They’ll teach you the power of camaraderie and the importance of sticking together, no matter what.
Actors: Jesse McCartney, Jason Spisak, Khary Payton, Danica McKellar, Stephanie Lemelin
Premiered: November 26, 2010
8. Parks and Recreation
Welcome to Pawnee, Indiana! This quirky town is home to a group of local government employees who have come together with one mission: to make their community better. They work tirelessly, putting in their best efforts to bring about positive change.
But it’s not just about the work for these folks. As they navigate through the ups and downs of their jobs, they also manage to form deep and lasting friendships. They become each other’s support system, always there to lend a helping hand or a listening ear.
This heartwarming comedy reminds us that sometimes, our work family can become our real family. Through all the challenges and triumphs, these employees show us the power of coming together and making a difference in our communities. So join us in Pawnee and discover the incredible journey of these dedicated individuals.
Actors: Amy Poehler, Aziz Ansari, Nick Offerman, Aubrey Plaza, Chris Pratt
Premiered: April 9, 2009
9. Hawkeye
Join the thrilling escapades of a talented archer and his apprentice as they join forces to combat wrongdoing and safeguard the vulnerable. Together, they encounter perilous situations and obstacles, forging a connection that transcends the typical mentor-mentee relationship and blossoms into a tight-knit family. Through this exhilarating series, we witness the extraordinary power of found family and the resilience that emerges from placing unwavering trust and reliance in each other.
Actors: Jeremy Renner, Hailee Steinfeld, Vera Farmiga, Florence Pugh, Fra Fee
Premiered: November 24, 2021
10. Runaways
In this gripping series, a bunch of teenagers stumble upon a shocking revelation: their own parents are involved in some seriously shady business. With no time to waste, they join forces and vow to put an end to their parents’ sinister organization. Along the way, they unravel disturbing secrets and unlock their own unique powers. But it’s not just about superpowers and uncovering the truth – these teens become more than just friends, they become a family. Through thick and thin, they support and protect one another, proving that friendship can create an unbreakable bond, even in the face of adversity. Get ready for a thrilling ride packed with action, suspense, and the power of friendship!
Actors: Rhenzy Feliz, Lyrica Okano, Ginny Gardner, Ariela Barer, Gregg Sulkin
Premiered: 2017