Chuck Lorre’s name is nearly synonymous with TV comedy gold, huge hits such as The Big Bang Theory and Young Sheldon have that magic touch. Yet his creative genius goes way beyond these popular hits. Despite the diversity in his projects, Lorre has defined television gems with a combination of humor and warmth, exploring the nuances behind deeply relatable characters and much-needed laugh-out-loud bursts.
Here, we shine a light on five underrated Chuck Lorre gems that may not have received the attention they deserve but are absolutely worth your watch. These series showcase his talents as a producer and writer and demonstrate that he is far more than geekery and sitcom clichés.
Note: The opinions expressed are solely those of the writer.
1) Mom (2013–2021)
Allison Janney as Bonnie Plunkett on the set of Mom (2013-2021) ✨ pic.twitter.com/Te90JZvKud
— Daily Allison Janney (@janneymedia) December 20, 2024
Streaming on Amazon Prime
Mom is a unique sitcom that juggles comedy and emotional depth. Taking on subjects such as addiction, recovery and the impact of family dysfunction, the show is able to include both belly-laugh moments and gut-wrenching sincerity. Anna Faris (Christy) and Allison Janney (Bonnie), as the mother and daughter at the center of the show, propel the narrative with chaotic chemistry and heartfelt performances.
The show was groundbreaking in its blend of comedy and drama, and earned Allison Janney several Emmy Awards for her role. There are iconic moments, like Christy’s struggle to balance law school with sobriety and Bonnie’s quirky love affair with Adam, all shot through with the care and camaraderie of their A.A. group.
2) Mike & Molly (2010–2016)
Directing my final episode of Mike & Molly. It’s been a dream job. pic.twitter.com/TleuQ4MJSp
— Michael McDonald (@mcdonaldcomedy) December 16, 2015
Streaming on Amazon Prime
This warm and funny sitcom centers on Mike, a Chicago cop, and Molly, a school teacher, who meet at Overeaters Anonymous and go on to share a humorous and touching love story. Whether they’re on an awkward first date or getting married in a chaotic ceremony, Mike & Molly manages to combine what works in sitcom but with authentic kindness.
Melissa McCarthy as Molly is simply everyone, winning an Emmy for Outstanding Lead Actress. Molly’s turnaround toward a writing career, Peggy’s caustic attitude and the unforgettable buddy comedy of Mike and Carl were all iconic. Despite some controversy over its treatment of body image, the show is still a fun romp through love, family and self-discovery.2
3) Dharma & Greg(1997–2002)
Dharma & Greg is an American sitcom television series that aired for 119 episodes over 5 seasons on ABC from September 24, 1997, until April 30, 2002, starring Jenna Elfman and Thomas Gibson. pic.twitter.com/2pA0AWUwYB
— Killer 90s (@killer_90s) September 24, 2024
Streaming on Amazon Prime
Opposites attract in this quirky sitcom in which free-spirited yoga instructor Dharma appears to marry straight-laced lawyer Greg after a whirlwind first date. The series chronicles their working parents, loving, chaotic relationship as they take on life and family drama.
Jenna Elfman won a Golden Globe for her performance as Dharma, and the show was nominated for several Emmys and Golden Globes. Standout moments include the comical culture clashes between Dharma and Greg’s extremely different families and the couple’s sincere moments of compromise and understanding.
4) Bob Hearts Abishola (2019–2024)
Opari 😭🤣 A Scene from Bob Hearts Abishola, Just wait for it pic.twitter.com/DUby9hwrA8
— Yorùbáness (@Yorubaness) August 29, 2023
Streaming on Amazon Prime
Bob Hearts Abishola follows Bob, a frazzled sock kingpin, and Abishola, his hard-nosed Nigerian nurse. Bridging the gap between the East and West, the comedy genius of the show comes along with cultural nuances and values, making us warm-hearted with this cross-cultural love story.
Comebacks: Abishola’s wisecracks and Bob’s earnest wooing. The series also does a good job of exploring family dynamics — from Bob’s kooky siblings to Abishola’s stern aunt and uncle. While it never took over awards circuits, Folake Olowofoyeku was honored at the NAACP Image Awards, and the series built a devoted following for its heart and humor.
5) The Kominsky Method (2018-2021)
”The Kominsky Method” 『コミンスキー・メソッド』鑑賞終了。最後のシーズン３すごくよかった。おすすめです。見終わってからこの画像を見ると↓、😭です。 pic.twitter.com/soMFYnCS40
— yoko hayashi カフェアヤム (@yoko_kafeAyam) November 4, 2024
Streaming on Netflix
The Kominsky Method centers on Sandy Kominsky, a decrepit actor-turned-acting coach, and his sardonic agent Norman. Michael Douglas and Alan Arkin are lead characters with the cast to perfection — all cynical wit, craggy, aged pride, and tenderhearted warmth.
With humor and honesty, the series examines aging, friendship, and Hollywood’s absurdities. And there are indelible moments like those awkward Sandy acting classes, those Norman takedown comebacks, and Douglas’s reunion with Kathleen Turner, another old friend. The show won several awards, including a Golden Globe for Douglas, and is a surprisingly deep, bittersweet comedy.
These underrated Chuck Lorre shows are the ideal selections for your next binge-watch, if you want sharp writing, star performances, and a million laughs.
