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ArticlesTV Shows That Exist To Make You Cry

12 TV Shows That Exist To Make You Cry

Published by Likewise | Dec 02, 2024 Explore these twelve heart-wrenching TV shows that tug at your heartstrings and leave you sobbing.

Television has a magical way of pulling on our heartstrings, crafting stories that resonate deeply with our own experiences and emotions. The following twelve shows have earned their place as some of the most poignant series to grace our screens, each uniquely positioned to evoke tears through their powerful storytelling, complex characters, and heartbreaking moments. Grab some tissues as we dive into these unforgettable series that are designed to make you cry.

Six Feet Under

Six Feet Under
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When death is your business, what is your life? For the Fisher family, the world outside of their family-owned funeral home continues to be at least as challenging as—and far less predictable than—the one inside. The show dives deep into themes of mortality, relationships, and existential dread, making it a staple in emotional television.

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This Is Us

This Is Us
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Follows the lives and families of three adults living and growing up in the United States of America in present and past times. As their paths cross and their life stories intertwine in curious ways, we find that several of them share the same birthday - and so much more than anyone would expect. The emotional storytelling and relatable characters make it a moving exploration of family and love.

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The Leftovers

The Leftovers
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When 2% of the world's population abruptly disappears without explanation, the world struggles to understand just what they're supposed to do about it. 'The Leftovers' is the story of the people who didn't make the cut, exploring themes of loss, grief, and existential questions that can leave even the strongest individuals in tears.

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BoJack Horseman

BoJack Horseman
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Meet the most beloved sitcom horse of the 90s—20 years later. BoJack Horseman was the star of the hit TV show "Horsin' Around," but today he's washed up, living in Hollywood, and dealing with depression, addiction, and the fallout of his choices. This animated series offers a unique blend of humor and poignant life lessons that resonate with viewers, often from unexpected angles.

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The Last of Us

The Last of Us
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Twenty years after modern civilization has been destroyed, Joel, a hardened survivor, is hired to smuggle Ellie, a 14-year-old girl, out of an oppressive quarantine zone. As their journey unfolds, it becomes a brutal, heartbreaking tale of survival marked by deep emotional connections and immense sacrifice.

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The Wire

The Wire
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Told from the perspectives of both the Baltimore homicide and narcotics detectives and their targets, the series captures a universe where the national war on drugs has become a permanent, self-sustaining bureaucracy. 'The Wire' challenges viewers to confront uncomfortable truths about society, morality, and justice, often eliciting tears as it delves into human wreckage.

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Insecure

Insecure
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This show follows the awkward experiences and racy tribulations of a modern-day African-American woman navigating friendship, love, and career amidst the complexities of life. Its raw portrayals of relationships often tug at the heartstrings, making it relatable and tear-jerking.

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Maid

Maid
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After fleeing an abusive relationship, a young mother finds a job cleaning houses as she fights to provide for her child and build them a better future. Based on the memoir by Stephanie Land, 'Maid' highlights the struggles of poverty and resilience, sure to pull at your heartstrings as it depicts the challenges faced by women in tough situations.

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Normal People

Normal People
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Marianne and Connell weave in and out of each other's lives in this exploration of sex, power, and the desire to love and be loved. The depiction of young love's triumphs and heartbreaks strikes a chord with many, making it a beautifully devastating experience to watch.

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Parenthood

Parenthood
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The series follows the trials and tribulations of the very large, colorful, and imperfect Braverman family. With its relatable characters and heartfelt narratives about family dynamics, love, and loss, 'Parenthood' remains a stirring watch.

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Lost

Lost
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Stripped of everything, the survivors of a horrific plane crash must work together to stay alive. But the island holds many secrets, creating a gripping narrative that explores survival, tragedy, and the deep emotional connections that develop in desperate circumstances.

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Scrubs

Scrubs
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In the surreal world of Sacred Heart Hospital, the character John "J.D." Dorian learns the ways of medicine, friendship, and life. 'Scrubs' combines comedy with poignant moments, often bringing tears through its heartfelt exploration of life and loss intertwined with laughter and love.

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These twelve TV shows are not just entertainment; they are emotional odysseys that connect us to the fragility and beauty of human existence. Each carefully crafted narrative elicits tears for various reasons—loss, love, struggle, or growth, inviting us to reflect on our own lives and the people we hold dear. Whether you find yourself laughing through the tears or sobbing into your pillow, there’s something cathartic about immersing ourselves in these profoundly moving tales. So, which show will you binge next to unleash those emotional waters?

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