As parents, we often look to other mothers for a benchmark on our own parenting styles. Sometimes it’s to reassure ourselves that our kids aren’t the ones licking the goat-food dispenser at the petting zoo (sorry if that’s your little one!). We even gauge ourselves against our own mothers, often for the same reasons: we want to feel either uplifted or completely overwhelmed by guilt. But another reason we seek out fellow moms is to find our tribe — those who understand the chaos of parenting without judgment. While we may not hang out with them in reality, certain TV moms embody the kind of friends we wish we had in our corner.
Television is filled with diverse representations of motherhood, from the meticulously organized moms of older shows, like Harriet from The Adventures of Ozzie and Harriet, to the more relatable ones like the chaotic Lorelai Gilmores from Gilmore Girls. They are not flawless; in fact, they are often a delightful mess, much like ourselves. These are the moms we’d love to chat with during school meetings or share a bottle of wine with while binging The Bachelor. Here’s a toast to those wonderfully flawed, relatable TV moms:
- Beth Parker, This Is Us
Beth Parker has been the heart and soul of This Is Us since day one. She’s smart, witty, and unafraid to speak her mind. If you’re unsure whether your outfit is a fashion faux pas, Beth is the friend to ask. Need an unfiltered opinion about your child’s behavior? She’s got you covered. Her honesty is refreshing, yet she knows how to soften the blow. - Lorelai Gilmore, Gilmore Girls
Lorelai Gilmore turned up at Rory’s elite prep school in cut-offs and cowgirl boots, while also managing to date her daughter’s teacher. She juggles a hectic personal life with her career as a successful businesswoman. She knows the best coffee spots, and you can enjoy a caffeine-fueled banter session with her that’s faster than anyone can keep up. - Sophia Green, Golden Girls
Sophia is the original TV mom we’d love to share a drink with. Who wouldn’t want to hear her stories about parenting revenge? She embodies that spirit of mischievous fun and would certainly be the one to remind us that we can still hold our own even when the kids drive us crazy. - Bow Johnson, Black-ish
Bow is an engaging character who tackles racial stereotypes while managing a family of five kids and a demanding medical career. She’s fiery, relatable, and the perfect partner in crime for social media battles against any trolls out there. - Jenna Harrison, Dead to Me
Jenna is the epitome of a grieving widow who wears her anger like armor. With her sharp wit and humor, you can bond over everything from shared frustrations to gossip while sipping on a glass of orange wine by the fire. - Tara Ellis, Friday Night Lights
Tara is the quintessential Texan mom with a heart of gold and hair to match. As a surrogate mother to many, she’s the perfect companion for margaritas and gossip about the latest happenings in your lives. - Chloe Lyon, Empire
Chloe is a force to be reckoned with. If you want someone who keeps it real, she’s your go-to. Expect a night filled with laughter, fashion critiques, and just a hint of chaos as you sip wine and navigate the complexities of motherhood. - Annie Wells, I’m Sorry
Annie is the embodiment of the mom who makes you feel normal about your less-than-perfect life. She doesn’t care about being prim and proper, which makes her the ideal friend to binge junk food with and share hilarious stories. - Megan Bailey, Grey’s Anatomy
Dr. Megan Bailey may not always focus on motherhood, but she’s the kind of friend you want on your side when life gets tough. Her piercing gaze could stop anyone in their tracks, and her advice is always spot-on. - Nina Carter, Workin’ Moms
Nina is ambitious yet relatable and can roll with the punches just like you. While she might judge your choices, she does so with a sense of humor that makes you feel better about your own missteps. - Sophie Fox, Better Things
As a single mom juggling a full-time job and her own mother’s needs, Sophie is the friend who may not be at every event but will show up when it counts. Plus, her culinary skills are top-notch! - Maya Rose, Schitt’s Creek
Maya can turn any situation into her own drama, making her both charming and endearing. You can confide in her without fear, and she’ll quickly make your problems her own—because that’s just how she rolls. - Darla Targaryen, Game of Thrones
Sure, she may not have kids, but Darla is the fierce protector of her dragons. She embodies that fierce mama bear spirit that resonates with all parents. Just try to mess with her, and you’ll see the fire! - Linda Lou, Bob’s Burgers
Linda is the animated mom who represents so many of us—quirky, loving, and always there for her family. She’ll drag you into a karaoke bar and make sure you have the time of your life. - Martha Addams, Addams Family Values
Martha is a bit eccentric and has her own unique sense of style, making her the perfect friend for those looking to add a little flair to their lives. She’s also a pro at hosting memorable gatherings. - Rebecca Parker, This Is Us
Although This Is Us has concluded, Rebecca’s legacy continues. Her wisdom and support through tough times make her the ultimate mom friend, always knowing how to lift you up. - Gina Pritchett, Modern Family
Gina is a recent addition to her family but puts family first, and her down-to-earth nature makes her relatable. She’s hilarious and fiercely loyal, the kind of friend you want by your side through thick and thin.
In the end, we cherish our TV moms just like we adore our children: messy, imperfect, yet lovable in their own unique ways. For more parenting tips and advice, check out our other blog post on at-home insemination kits at Make a Mom. Also, if you’re seeking postpartum nutrition essentials, Intracervical Insemination has got you covered. Don’t forget to refer to the CDC for reliable information on pregnancy and home insemination.