Aarya Shenoy:
Sarah Nelson, Heartstopper
Colman’s character of Sarah Nelson left a pretty impressive impact on people, for understanding and loving her son without making a big fuss about his journey in discovering his sexuality. She’s instinctive and warm, and it’s unfortunate she wasn’t able to be part of series three.
Nalini Vishvakumar, Never Have I Ever
This one is close to my heart, as Nalini Vishvakumar is the typical Indian mother. She only wants the best for her daughter, and portrays the struggles of an immigrant family well, whilst also being strong and supportive after the death of her husband. Nalini’s one liners are the funniest, and she’s one of the best mother figures out there.
Claire Dunphy and Gloria Delgado-Pritchett, Modern Family
Notably one of the most popular shows, Modern Family showcases a big family unit. Claire Dunphy is warm and funny with not only her immediate family but her extended ones too, especially to Lily as she grows up. Gloria is wonderfully involved with her sons whilst navigating the blend between American culture and her own. She's plays a great mum but an even better America's Got Talent judge!
Joyce Byers, Stranger Things
Now, if there was a mother that would go to hell and back (literally) for her kid, it’s Joyce Byers. She will stop at nothing and no one to find Will, and continues making decisions throughout the seasons that put her kids first, even above herself.
Lorelai Gilmore, Gilmore Girls
This one is a little controversial to me, but Lorelai Gilmore is a pretty great mum to Rory, even when she didn’t deserve it. Moving out at 16, she built a life for the both of them from the ground up, and raised her daughter with the love and support that she felt she never received.
A couple of other mentions include Jessica Huang from Fresh off the Boat, Fiona Gallagher and a sister-mother figure on Shameless, and Stef and Lena Adams-Fosters from the early 2000’s show The Fosters.
All of these actors portray the trials and tribulations of motherhood, whilst also living their own lives to the fullest.
Cory Gourley:
Lynda Bellingham, The OXO Adverts
She was the nations favourite mum during the 1980's and 1990's. The late, great, Lynda Bellingham was the face of comfort as she starred front and centre of the OXO Adverts during a time where they were just as big as many of the shows on the box. She could often be seen seductively pouring gravy over a roast dinner for her husband or making bangers and mash for her doting children and that's why she was adored. A staple of British pop culture. "Remember Preston?".
Angie Watts , EastEnders
"Hello, Darling". The iconic first Lady of Soap and an amazing adoptive mother to Sharon. Although she battled the booze and a wayward husband she adored her daughter. The fabulous Anita Dobson even made a surprise cameo appearance during the show's 40th anniversary when our Shazza was lying on her deathbed. A propoer mother!
Marge Simpson, The Simpsons
It is the show that goes on forever but the one thing that has stayed at the heart of the show is the character of Marge. Our yellow queen takes care of three wonderful (ish) kids and if we are being honest, Mr. Homer Simpson is most definetly her fourth. Give this woman a medal, no questions asked!
So, there we have it from EastEnders to The Simpsons to Heartstopper and Gilmore Girls - TV shows, both old and new - we have covered some of the best TV mother's and mother figures that we have ever seen. If these shows haven't remined you to give your mum a hug, then I don't know what will. Much Love from your TV Sub-Eds!