25 shows that will make you happy to be single this summer
By Sundi Rose
Girlfriends
I love any show that focuses on female friendships, and you will definitely notice a running theme on this list. The idea of “being single” brings up so many negative images — sitting home alone, under a bare lightbulb, eating a big ol’ tub of ice cream. The best thing about these shows, especially Girlfriends, is that they don’t treat being single like it’s a disease that must be cured.
This show, which premiered on the UPN in 2000, and then continued on The CW until 2008, told the story of four African American female friends and their struggles through romance, marriage, divorce, pregnancy, and professional success. When Girlfriends returned in 2007 for its eighth season, it was the longest-running live-action sitcom on network television. It was super popular, and even spawned a spin-off The Game.
Its popularity is solely thanks to the charisma and charm of its cast, especially the dazzling Tracee Ellis Ross, who plays Joan. At the time, critics billed it as “the black Sex and the City” but it quickly found it’s own footing with its tongue in cheek humor and bawdy take on sex and relationships.
Although the show pushes the boundaries of network television, it also features authentic friendships among the women. Without the dynamics between the girlfriends. this show couldn’t fly the single flag as successfully or as boldly.
Where to watch: Seasons two through eight are available on The CW Seed. Season 1, the most lackluster season, is a little harder to get your hands on, but you can buy the DVD box set on Amazon.