On The Table Read Magazine, “the best entertainment eBook magazine UK“, discover the top 10 most relaxing TV shows like Bluey and Seinfeld to help you unwind and sleep better, while avoiding intense series like Hannibal that could disrupt your rest.
In the era of streaming services, falling asleep to the glow of a TV screen has become a nightly ritual for many. A recent survey reveals that 52.7% of people watch TV right before drifting off, with some believing it enhances their sleep quality. However, not all TV shows are created equal when it comes to promoting restful slumber.
Sleep experts at Bed Kingdom analyzed popular IMDb TV shows to determine the most relaxing ones to watch before bed, evaluating factors like content rating, genre intensity, average IMDb rating, episode runtime, and the presence of violence, gore, or intense scenes. Each show received a score out of 100, with lower scores for shows containing graphic or unsettling content.
Here’s a deep dive into the top 10 TV shows to help you unwind, along with a cautionary note about shows to avoid before bedtime.
Top 10 Most Relaxing TV Shows
1. Bluey (Score: 93.69/100)
Topping the list as the most relaxing TV show to fall asleep to is Bluey, the Australian animated children’s series that has captured hearts since its 2018 debut. With a staggering 55.62 billion minutes streamed in 2024, Bluey is the year’s most-watched show. Its short, seven-minute episodes follow the playful adventures of a lovable Blue Heeler puppy and her family, offering wholesome, low-stakes storytelling. The family-friendly genre and Universal rating make it ideal for viewers of all ages, ensuring a calm, soothing experience that won’t disrupt your sleep. Whether it’s Bluey’s imaginative games or her parents’ gentle humor, the show’s lighthearted vibe makes it the perfect pre-bedtime watch.
2. Seinfeld (Score: 84.37/100)
The iconic Seinfeld, which first aired in 1989, secures second place as a go-to show for bedtime relaxation. Known as the “show about nothing,” this comedy series follows Jerry Seinfeld and his friends navigating life’s mundane absurdities. Its 20-minute episodes deliver quick, laugh-out-loud moments without intense plotlines or graphic content. With a Universal rating and a focus on everyday humor, Seinfeld remains a comforting, familiar favorite for many, making it an excellent choice for winding down before sleep.
3. Mr. Bean (Score: 84.20/100)
Coming in third is Mr. Bean, the British comedy series starring Rowan Atkinson as the bumbling, mostly silent titular character. Since its 1990 debut, the show’s slapstick humor and low-stakes scenarios have made it a timeless classic. With episodes averaging 25 minutes and a Universal rating, Mr. Bean offers light, non-demanding entertainment that won’t overstimulate the mind before bed. Its visual comedy and minimal dialogue create a relaxing viewing experience, perfect for easing into sleep.
4. Pride and Prejudice (1995) (Score: 81.96/100)
The 1995 BBC adaptation of Jane Austen’s Pride and Prejudice ranks fourth, starring Jennifer Ehle and Colin Firth as Elizabeth Bennet and Mr. Darcy. This romantic drama, with its sweeping romance and gentle pacing, earns high marks for its low-stakes storytelling and Universal rating. Episodes run just under an hour, offering a longer but still soothing watch that immerses viewers in Regency-era England. The absence of violence or intense scenes makes this series a calming choice for those who enjoy a touch of romance before bed.
5. The Office (U.S.) (Score: 80.11/100)
The American version of The Office, which premiered in 2005, takes fifth place with its mockumentary-style comedy about the quirky employees of Dunder Mifflin. Boasting a 9/10 IMDb rating and over 201 episodes, the show has a dedicated fanbase drawn to its relatable humor and heartfelt moments. Despite a 15 rating, the absence of graphic violence or intense scenes keeps it relaxing. With episodes around 22 minutes, it’s easy to pop on a quick episode to unwind, making it a comforting bedtime staple.
6. Friends (Score: 79.98/100)
Friends, the beloved sitcom that aired from 1994 to 2004, lands in sixth place. With 236 episodes across 10 seasons and an 8.9/10 IMDb rating, it remains a cultural juggernaut. The show’s 20-minute episodes follow six friends navigating life and love in New York City, offering humor and heart without intense or violent content. Its Universal rating and familiar, rewatchable episodes make Friends a cozy choice for bedtime viewing, perfect for those seeking light entertainment before sleep.
7. Fawlty Towers (Score: 78.53/100)
The British comedy classic Fawlty Towers, which debuted in 1975, ranks seventh. Starring John Cleese as the chaotic hotelier Basil Fawlty, this series is widely regarded as a pinnacle of British humor, earning an 8.8/10 on IMDb. Its 30-minute episodes and mild 12 rating deliver sharp wit and farce without overwhelming the viewer. The show’s focus on comedic mishaps in a small hotel setting makes it an easy, stress-free watch before bed.
8. Haikyu!! (Score: 78.35/100)
The anime Haikyu!!, adapted from the manga and running from 2014 to 2020, takes eighth place. This sports drama follows a high school volleyball team, blending dynamic animation with uplifting themes of teamwork and perseverance. Its 20-minute episodes and relaxing animation style make it a surprisingly soothing choice for bedtime. With no graphic violence and a focus on lighthearted competition, Haikyu!! offers a gentle way to unwind, especially for anime fans.
9. Yes Minister (Score: 78.09/100)
The British political satire Yes Minister, which aired from 1980 to 1984, claims ninth place. This sharp comedy, with an 8.6/10 IMDb rating, follows a government minister navigating bureaucratic absurdities. Its 30-minute episodes and lack of intense or violent content make it a low-key, intellectually engaging watch. The show’s witty dialogue and mild humor provide a stress-free viewing experience, ideal for relaxing before sleep.
10. Arrested Development (Score: 78.04/100)
Rounding out the top 10 is Arrested Development, the American sitcom that premiered in 2003. Starring Jason Bateman and Michael Cera, this quirky comedy about the dysfunctional Bluth family maintains a loyal following. Despite its 15 rating, the show avoids graphic or intense scenes, relying instead on clever humor and absurd scenarios. With episodes around 22 minutes, it’s a light, engaging option for bedtime viewing.
Other Notable Mentions
Other relaxing shows include Only Fools and Horses, a British sitcom about lovable rogues; Taskmaster, a comedic game show with low-stakes challenges; Detectorists, a gentle comedy about metal-detecting enthusiasts; and Schitt’s Creek, a heartwarming sitcom about a wealthy family starting over. These shows share short runtimes, comedic or lighthearted genres, and minimal intense content, making them solid choices for bedtime.
Shows to Avoid Before Bed
Not all TV shows are conducive to restful sleep. The study identifies Hannibal as the least relaxing, scoring a mere 5.72/100 due to its graphic violence and disturbing psychological themes. Other shows to steer clear of include Sons of Anarchy, Dexter, Peaky Blinders, and Black Mirror, all of which feature intense violence, gore, or unsettling narratives that can elevate anxiety and disrupt sleep.
The Science of Watching TV Before Bed
While watching TV before bed is a common habit, it comes with caveats. The blue light emitted from screens can suppress melatonin, the hormone that regulates sleep, disrupting REM sleep and leading to fatigue. Watching intense or violent shows, like Black Mirror or Dexter, can trigger anxiety, potentially causing sleep disturbances, night terrors, or even insomnia. For those who rely on TV to fall asleep, sticking to familiar, low-stakes shows like Bluey or Friends minimizes disruption. However, experts recommend avoiding screens for at least an hour before bed or using white noise as a healthier alternative to background TV. Prioritizing a mindful evening routine—free from graphic content and excessive screen time—can unlock better sleep and long-term health benefits, reducing risks like heart disease and depression linked to poor sleep quality.
By choosing relaxing shows and limiting screen exposure, you can create a bedtime routine that supports both mental well-being and restful sleep. So, next time you reach for the remote, consider queuing up Bluey or Seinfeld for a peaceful night’s rest.
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