If Schitt's Creek, Then Ted Lasso

We can all agree 2020 was the year the cinematic world hit its metaphorical ‘pause’ button: shows were indefinitely put on ice, movies pushed back (I’m talking the ENTIRE Marvel Universe), and movie theatres shutting down across the globe. However, this figurative fall of cinema helped give rise to the continued success of Netflix, Disney+, Hulu & HBO Max. With billions of people in quarantine, these streaming platforms helped sooth the boredom, or distract the crazy kids now home 24/7, with readily available shows to binge at every hour of the day.

Cue the discovery of Schitt’s Creek, a Canadian based show created by Dan & Eugene Levy that, at its core, focuses on the value of family bonds. Sure, this concept sounds cliché, I mean who needs another show about the trials and tribulations of family right? Well think again. Schitt’s Creek will have you roaring with laughter, crying your eyes out, and invested into every character’s story arc beyond any level you thought humanly possible.

Yes, having every episode of the series available on Netflix is part of why the show continues to do so well, but the heart of the show is largely what led to its success. It’s impossible not to route for each character along their journey, viewers genuinely find themselves wanting every person to succeed.

If you’re still in the deep, binge-watching coma that comes with discovering Schitt’s Creek, I have a show that will cure the heartbreak of knowing this *series has ended for good:

*And if you’re still sleeping on this hidden gem of a network television show, I HIGHLY recommend you jump on the bandwagon and binge it ASAP.

Ted Lasso

I can’t convey strongly enough how Ted Lasso is undoubtedly the best show on any streaming platform, and network television entirely. Apple TV+ scored big time when taking a chance on Jason Sudeikis, Brendan Hunt, Joe Kelly, and Bill Lawrence and their concept for the most hopeful, beautiful show of the decade.

The show follows Ted Lasso, an American college Football coach, on his journey across the sea as he accepts a job coaching Premier soccer for AFC Richmond in England. You don’t have to watch sports to fall in love with this show either! Ted’s journey of bringing the broken AFC Richmond team together in one short season, and the positivity he radiates along the way, leaves viewers believing in themselves and the good of the world again.

Just like Schitt’s Creek, fans will find themselves wholly invested in characters like Nate the Great, hotshot Jamie Tartt, Roy Kent, and the beautiful Keeley Jones, routing for each to triumph along their personal journeys. Beyond the individual characters, each episode touches upon overcoming emotional hardships, sticking up for what’s right, believing in yourself and the people around you, spreading love, and not listening to anyone who tries to bring you down. Simply put, the world would be a MUCH happier place if more people like Ted Lasso existed.

For these reasons, showrunner Jason Sudeikis and his team continue to sweep through award season with win after win. Just a few minor triumphs include:

• Golden Globe Award for Best Actor- Television series Musical or Comedy
• Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Actor in a Comedy Series
• Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Supporting Actress
• Critics’ Choice Television Award for Best Comedy Series
• Writers Guild of America Award for Best New Series
• Writers Guild of America Award for Best Comedy Series

The cherry on top of all this, Ted Lasso will be back for a second and third season to fill fans with continued joy and undeniable happiness.

Heed my words, this show will be watched for many generations to come!

-Patulak