I want to talk about something that’s been on my mind lately: the surge of television shows created and written by women. It’s so exciting to see more and more female-led content out there and I think there are a few factors that have contributed to this trend.

One is the rise of streaming services, which has allowed for more diverse programming to be produced and made available to audiences.

Another factor is the growing awareness of the gender pay gap and women’s struggles in the entertainment industry. Many female performers and creators have spoken out about the discrimination they’ve faced. I think this has helped raise awareness of the need for more women to be given opportunities to tell their stories.

So, let me dive into some of the shows that I’ve really enjoyed recently. First up is Crazy Ex-Girlfriend on Netflix. This show, created by Rachel Bloom, is a hilarious romantic comedy that’s also a musical. Yes, you read that right – the characters break into song and dance numbers, which may take some getting used to, but it’s all part of the fun. I love this show’s unique take on mental health issues. There’s a real thread of mental health running through the show, and one episode in particular, where a character takes SSRIs for depression, is a standout for me. It’s a great example of how comedy can be used to tackle serious issues in an entertaining and thought-provoking way.

Another show that I’ve really enjoyed is Shrill on Hulu, created by and starring Aidy Bryant. This show is all about the experiences of a full-figured woman navigating the dating world, and it’s both hilarious and heartwarming. Bryant’s comedy is just so spot-on, and I really appreciate the way that the show explores issues of body image and self-acceptance in a way that’s both relatable and empowering.

Next up is The Duchess on Netflix, created by and starring Canadian comedian Katherine Ryan. This show is set in England and follows the life of a single mother as she navigates the challenges of parenthood and dating. It’s a hilarious and heartwarming show that’s a great example of how female creators are bringing fresh perspectives to traditional sitcom formats.

Another show that I’ve loved recently is Normal People on Hulu, based on the novel by Sally Rooney. This show is a powerful exploration of the complexities of romantic relationships, and it’s one of the most moving series I’ve ever watched. The performances by Daisy Edgar Jones and Paul Mescal are incredible, and the storytelling is so nuanced and powerful. It’s a show that will stay with you long after you’ve finished watching.

Finally, I want to mention Tiny Beautiful Things on Hulu, starring Katherine Hahn. This show is based on a book by Cheryl Strayed, and it’s all about a woman who’s experienced a major loss and how she’s learning to cope with it. What I love about this show is the way that it really gets inside the character’s head and explores her internal struggles in a way that’s both relatable and raw.

All of these shows are great examples of how female creators are bringing fresh perspectives to television and streaming. They’re hilarious, heartwarming, and thought-provoking in their own ways, and I’m excited to see what other shows and creators will emerge in the coming years. What I love most about all of these shows is the way that they center women’s experiences and perspectives, which is something that’s been sorely lacking in television for far too long.