- Phineas and Ferb season 5 is now streaming on Disney+, reviving nostalgia after a 10-year break.
- Arrested Development (75% RT) offers sharp humor and iconic performances across five seasons.
- Peep Show (96% RT) delivers cringe-worthy comedy with nine bingeable seasons.
- Ugly Betty (97% RT) blends humor and heart, addressing self-worth in four satisfying seasons.
The beloved animated series Phineas and Ferb is back with its fifth season streaming on Disney+ this weekend, marking a triumphant return after a decade-long hiatus. This iconic show, a staple of many childhoods, brings back the quirky adventures of Phineas Flynn and Ferb Fletcher, alongside their secret-agent platypus, Perry.
The excitement of revisiting this classic has sparked a wave of nostalgia, prompting us to explore other comedic gems from the past that are available to stream. Here are three nostalgic comedies, each boasting over 70% on Rotten Tomatoes, perfect for a cozy binge-watching session.
Arrested Development
- Where to watch: Netflix (US), Disney+ (UK, AU)
- Rotten Tomatoes score: 75%
- Seasons: 5
- Creator: Mitchell Hurwitz
- Main cast: Jason Bateman, Portia de Rossi, Will Arnett, Michael Cera, Alia Shawkat, Jessica Walter
Arrested Development remains a comedic masterpiece, even with its 75% Rotten Tomatoes score, the lowest of our picks. This sitcom, which wrapped up in 2019 after a revival, follows the dysfunctional Bluth family with sharp wit and unforgettable moments. Jessica Walter’s portrayal of the icy matriarch Lucille Bluth delivers iconic lines like, “Here’s some money, go see a Star War,” while Ron Howard’s narration adds a unique charm.
With stars like Jason Bateman and Michael Cera, the show’s clever humor and absurd family dynamics make it a must-watch. Like Phineas and Ferb, it experienced a significant gap between seasons, with season four arriving seven years after season three, making it a fitting addition to this nostalgic lineup.
Peep Show
- Where to watch: Hulu (US), Disney+, Netflix (UK), Stan (AU)
- Rotten Tomatoes score: 96%
- Seasons: 9
- Creators: Andrew O’Connor, Jesse Armstrong, Sam Bain
- Main cast: David Mitchell, Robert Webb, Olivia Colman
Peep Show is a British comedy gem with a stellar 96% Rotten Tomatoes score, known for its cringe-inducing humor and razor-sharp dialogue. Following the misadventures of two flatmates, one a pessimistic introvert, the other a delusional wannabe musician, this series is endlessly quotable and highly bingeable.
Created by Jesse Armstrong, who later penned Succession, Peep Show ran for nine seasons, offering plenty of content for fans old and new. Its absurd scenarios and awkward moments make it a standout, perfect for those craving a nostalgic laugh.
Ugly Betty
- Where to watch: Hulu, Netflix (US), Disney+ (UK, AU)
- Rotten Tomatoes score: 97%
- Seasons: 4
- Creator: Silvio Horta
- Main cast: America Ferrera, Eric Mabius, Alan Dale, Tony Plana, Ana Ortiz
Ugly Betty, which concluded in 2010, holds a special place in the hearts of many with its impressive 97% Rotten Tomatoes score. This dramedy follows Betty Suarez, played by America Ferrera in her breakout role, as she navigates life at a high-fashion magazine despite being deemed “plain.” The show tackles themes of self-worth and body confidence with humor and heart, remaining relevant today. Its four seasons offer a satisfying, complete story arc, making it an ideal pick for a nostalgic rewatch.
Why These Shows Are Worth Revisiting
These three comedies, much like Phineas and Ferb, capture the essence of their era while delivering timeless humor. Whether it’s the sharp wit of Arrested Development, the awkward brilliance of Peep Show, or the heartfelt charm of Ugly Betty, each show offers a unique nostalgic experience.
Available on popular streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Disney+, they’re easy to dive into for a trip down memory lane. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and enjoy these comedic classics!
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