Feel Good (2021-2022), created by the brilliant Mae Martin, is one of those rare gems that shines a light on the messy, complicated reality of recovery and relationships without pulling any punches. Over two tight and tantalizing seasons (only six episodes each), this series captures the highs, the lows, and everything in between—like a stand-up set you can’t stop thinking about long after the mic has dropped.
A Non-Binary Journey That Hits All the Feels
At the heart of Feel Good is Mae, a non-binary stand-up comic (played by Martin themselves) navigating love, identity, and addiction recovery. Their relationship with George (Charlotte Ritchie), a buttoned-up English teacher, is the core around which the series pivots. But don’t be fooled, this isn’t your typical rom-com. From the start, it’s clear this love story is laced with the real talk we crave.
Mae’s character is a recovering addict and former juvenile delinquent, and the show doesn’t shy away from exploring the ways trauma can sneak into every corner of our lives. The second season, in particular, is a masterclass in vulnerability—Mae’s struggle to connect and heal is so painfully relatable that it practically vibrates off the screen.
Addiction, Relapse, and Recovery—Unfiltered
What sets Feel Good apart, especially for those of us in the sober community, is how it approaches addiction and recovery. This isn’t your typical cookie-cutter portrayal of a “12-step convert” spouting cheesy slogans and oversimplified redemption arcs. Instead, the scenes with NA meetings are messy, funny, and deeply human. Honestly, I sometimes get frustrated with how 12-step recovery is shown on screen. While I didn’t personally relate to the exact experiences in these NA meetings—some felt a bit stereotypical and didn’t dig into actual solutions—I can appreciate that there are countless kinds of meetings and people out there. Plus, I recognize that showing what happens in meetings is just a small slice of the whole story, and I understand why those scenes played out the way they did.
Watching Mae navigate relapse, shame, and the ongoing process of recovery is like peeking into someone’s private journal. You can feel the sting of the shame spiral, but you can also see the spark of hope, like a candle flickering in a dark room.
Boldly Exploring the Tough Stuff
Sexual trauma, PTSD, gender identity, and the all-too-familiar panic of coming out—Feel Good refuses to treat these topics as mere plot points. Instead, the show treats them with the respect they deserve, weaving them into the fabric of the narrative with a deft touch. Anthony Stewart Head and Lisa Kudrow pop up in guest roles that add both levity and weight, reminding us that even in our messiest moments, there’s always room for laughter.
Final Thoughts: A Must-Watch for the Sober and the Curious
Feel Good is the perfect balance of humor and heartbreak, the sort of show that makes you snort-laugh and maybe even ugly-cry in the same breath. If you’ve ever struggled with addiction, identity, or just being honest about who you are, this one’s for you.
Mae Martin’s creation is a testament to the power of telling the truth, no matter how ugly or complicated it might be. And if you ask me, that’s exactly what makes it so damn beautiful.
The Mindful Binge Sobees Score: 3.5 out of 5
Feel Good Season One Trailer
Feel Good Season Two Trailer
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THE MINDFUL BINGE at The Sober Curator is where we binge-watch and chill—mindfully. In this TV series review section, we don’t just consume shows; we explore their stories, themes, and cultural impact through a sober lens. Using our signature Sobees Scoring System, we rate each pick to help you choose your next watch with intention.
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Addressing the intersection of LGBTQ+ identity and substance use requires a multifaceted approach that acknowledges the unique challenges faced by this community. By advocating for inclusivity and expanding resources, we can create recovery environments where all individuals, regardless of sexual orientation or gender identity, can find support and healing. Click Here for a list of LGBTQ+ Recovery Resources.
