9 Uplifting TV Show Based on True Stories

The saying “truth is stranger than fiction” really holds up when you’re watching TV. Shows based on real events – like historical dramas, true crime stories, and biographies – often captivate us with their surprising twists and bold narratives. There’s something uniquely compelling about seeing actual events unfold on screen, especially when they involve drama or shocking discoveries. However, these stories aren’t always grim or upsetting; many are inspiring, moving, and genuinely positive.

There’s a growing trend in TV where shows are based on real-life events, but instead of focusing on negativity, they offer uplifting and inspiring stories. These programs highlight incredible true stories, showcase human creativity, and celebrate everyday heroes you might not read about in the news, ultimately leaving viewers feeling more hopeful and connected.

I’m always looking for shows that feel good but aren’t fluff, and I’ve found nine amazing TV series that fit the bill – the best part is, they’re all based on real life stories! If you need a little boost, these are definitely worth checking out.

‘A Small Light’ (2023)

A Small Light is a miniseries set in Amsterdam during World War II. It tells the true story of Miep Gies, a courageous young woman who risked her life to hide Otto Frank, his family – including Anne Frank – and several others from the Nazis. The eight-part series follows Miep’s transformation as she faces increasing danger and difficult choices alongside her husband while working to protect those in hiding.

An Act of Defiance That Changed the World

With grace and sensitivity, Joan Rater and Tony Phelan directed A Small Light, a moving drama that tells the story of Miep Gies – the woman who hid Anne Frank and her family, and preserved Anne’s diary. Bel Powley delivers a warm and strong performance as Miep, supported by Joe Cole and Liev Schreiber in a remarkably realistic cast. Based on the true story of Miep Gies, who risked her life to protect Anne Frank’s family and their writings for two years, the series celebrates courage and has been commended for its accuracy.

‘Mrs. America’ (2020)

As a film buff, I was completely gripped by Mrs. America. It’s set in the 1970s and really dives into the intense fight over the Equal Rights Amendment. The show primarily follows conservative activist Phyllis Schlafly and her efforts to block its passage, but what I loved is that each episode also shines a spotlight on a different, important woman from the feminist movement – people like Gloria Steinem, Shirley Chisholm, Bella Abzug, and Betty Friedan. It’s fascinating to see how both sides rose to prominence during that time.

Complex Women and History’s Turning Point

This series offers a complex and fascinating look at second-wave feminism, showcasing the disagreements, personal costs, and evolving relationships that shaped the movement. Set against the backdrop of a changing America, it presents a variety of viewpoints drawn from actual events and people. Rather than offering easy answers, the show portrays these figures with nuance and humanity. Grounded in real history – particularly the fight over the Equal Rights Amendment and the growth of conservative activism – it’s both informative and engaging.

‘Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty’ (2022 – 2024)

Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty tells the story of how the Los Angeles Lakers became a dominant force in the 1980s. The series begins with Jerry Buss buying the team and drafting Magic Johnson, and then follows the exciting rise of ‘Showtime’ basketball – a period known for its fast-paced play, glamorous fans, and multiple championships.

Celebration of Reinvention and Risk

This series dives into the drama both on and off the court that defined the team’s incredible success, showcasing the personalities of key figures like Pat Riley, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and Jerry West. Adapted from Jeff Pearlman’s book Showtime, it’s a revealing look at one of the most famous teams in sports history. John C. Reilly delivers a fantastic performance as the team owner, and Quincy Isaiah brilliantly portrays Magic Johnson’s drive and charisma. The show uses creative techniques like characters speaking directly to the audience and a vintage visual style, but at its heart, it’s an inspiring story of how a struggling team transformed into a major cultural force.

‘From the Earth to the Moon’ (1998)

As a huge space fan, I’m really excited about From the Earth to the Moon! It’s a 12-part series created with Tom Hanks and HBO, and it tells the whole story of the Apollo program – from when it was just a risky idea to the incredible moment they landed on the moon. What I love is that it doesn’t just focus on the astronauts; each episode looks at things from all sorts of angles – the engineers who built the rockets, the reporters covering the story, even the wives and families of the crew. It really gives you a complete picture of what it took to achieve this amazing feat.

A Tribute to Collective Vision

This film is inspiring because it focuses on the people behind the Apollo missions, not just the rockets themselves. From the Earth to the Moon combines dramatic scenes with real documentary footage, showing the technical challenges, political difficulties, and personal costs of NASA’s effort to reach the moon. Based on true events and Andrew Chaikin’s book A Man on the Moon, the series features excellent performances from Bryan Cranston, Tony Goldwyn, and David Andrews, who play the astronauts and leaders involved.

‘Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker’ (2020)

Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker is a four-part Netflix series about the incredible life of Sarah Breedlove, also known as Madam C.J. Walker – the first African American woman to become a self-made millionaire. The series, set in the early 1900s, shows Walker’s journey from working as a laundress to becoming a successful businesswoman, building a hair care empire specifically for Black women. Throughout her rise, she overcomes challenges like racism and sexism, and navigates betrayal, all while determined to succeed against the odds.

Entrepreneurship and Empowerment

Octavia Spencer delivers a powerful and heartfelt performance as Madam C.J. Walker, truly carrying the series. While taking some fictional turns, the show, inspired by A’Lelia Bundles’ biography On Her Own Ground (Bundles is Walker’s great-great-granddaughter), captures the essence of this remarkable woman. Self Made was praised for bringing Walker’s inspiring story to light, as she was a pioneer often left out of traditional history books. The show also features a talented supporting cast, including Blair Underwood and Tiffany Haddish, and a dynamic soundtrack. Ultimately, it’s a story about self-belief and recognizing your own value.

‘Rise’ (2018)

The movie Rise is set in a Pennsylvania working-class town and tells the story of Lou Mazzuchelli, a unique high school English teacher. He takes over the drama department and chooses a daring play, Spring Awakening, for the students to perform. Through the challenges of family life and finding their voices, the students discover how art can provide hope and connection in a community that often feels overlooked.

Inspired by Real Students and Stage Dreams

Inspired by the true story told in Michael Sokolove’s book Drama High, the series Rise highlights the impact of arts education in a single season. Josh Radnor stars, supported by Auli’i Cravalho and Damon J. Gillespie, who deliver compelling performances. The show centers around students like Robbie, a talented athlete choosing between sports and theater, and Lilette, a gifted singer facing challenges at home, and demonstrates how a teacher’s faith in them can be life-changing.

‘Friday Night Lights’ (2006 – 2011)

Considered by many to be one of the greatest sports dramas ever made, Friday Night Lights takes place in the small town of Dillon, Texas. The show follows Coach Eric Taylor as he guides the high school football team through all the challenges and triumphs of the season. But it’s more than just a football story—it also explores the lives of the players, their families, and the town itself, showing how much everyone invests in the excitement of Friday night games.

Small-Town Football, Big-Hearted Drama

For five seasons, Friday Night Lights drew viewers in with its realistic and heartfelt stories about the people involved in high school football in a small Texas town. Based on a book and movie of the same name, the show was inspired by the real-life story of the Permian Panthers and their influence on West Texas. It was praised for being genuine, thoughtful, and avoiding tired stereotypes.

‘Call the Midwife’ (2012 – Present)

Call the Midwife is a heartwarming period drama set in London’s East End during the 1950s and 60s. The show follows a team of courageous nurse-midwives at Nonnatus House, a convent, as they care for the residents of Poplar, a struggling community. Each episode blends real-life medical challenges with compelling personal stories, highlighting the strength and dedication of these women who bring new life into the world under difficult conditions.

True Stories Told With Grace

Over its 14 seasons, Call the Midwife has become a powerful story about a community and the changes it experiences. Based on the true story of midwife Jennifer Worth, who worked in Poplar, the show is praised for its historical accuracy. The talented cast, including Jenny Agutter, Helen George, and Laura Main, beautifully portrays the happiness and struggles of their characters. It’s consistently one of the BBC’s most popular and well-loved dramas, attracting a large and devoted audience.

‘The Durrells in Corfu’ (2016 – 2019)

Inspired by Gerald Durrell’s own life story, The Durrells in Corfu is a charming series about a quirky British family who move from England to the sunny Greek island of Corfu in the 1930s. The show follows Louisa Durrell, a mother raising four unique children, as she adjusts to life in Corfu, including the local culture and a few unexpected visitors – like goats wandering into the house!

The Joy of Building a Life

This charming series blends humor, heartwarming moments, and the excitement of life in the Mediterranean, with each episode offering a new glimpse into the Durrell family. Based on Gerald Durrell’s beloved Corfu Trilogy – a memoir of his childhood and growing passion for animals – the show follows Louisa Durrell (played by Keeley Hawes) as she navigates motherhood with a mix of frustration and unwavering love. Her sons, Larry and Gerry, are brought to life by Josh O’Connor and Milo Parker. Filmed beautifully on location in Corfu, the series captures the island’s stunning scenery and the kindness of its people, creating a gentle, optimistic, and feel-good story.

2025-11-05 03:38