Teen Shows Where the Adults Are the Main Characters

Teen dramas often center around high school relationships and the challenges of growing up, but increasingly, the stories of parents and teachers are taking center stage. These shows offer complex and engaging storylines for adults that are just as interesting as those focused on teenagers. Many viewers actually find themselves more drawn to the grown-ups’ struggles with marriage, careers, and life changes than the typical teen drama. Here’s a look at some TV shows where the adult characters are essential to the plot and the show’s success.

‘Gilmore Girls’ (2000–2007)

Lorelai Gilmore and her teenage daughter, Rory, live in the idyllic town of Stars Hollow. The show primarily follows Lorelai as she balances running an inn, dealing with her complex relationship with her parents, and finding romance. We see both Lorelai’s life and Rory’s journey through school and college, but at its heart, the series is about the strong connection between a mother and daughter.

‘Friday Night Lights’ (2006–2011)

In a Texas town where football is everything, Coach Eric Taylor and his wife, Tami, provide a strong sense of right and wrong. As the players deal with the stress of the game, the Taylors face their own difficulties at home and work. Eric works hard to build character in his players and lead them to victory, while Tami deals with the challenges of school politics. Their relationship shows how much compromise and support it takes to make a marriage last.

‘The O.C.’ (2003–2007)

Sandy and Kirsten Cohen open their home in affluent Newport Beach to Ryan Atwood, a troubled teen. Sandy is a public defender who frequently challenges the norms of their wealthy community, while Kirsten manages her family’s successful real estate business. The show focuses on their parenting and relationship as they help Ryan and other young people navigate difficult situations. The adults’ lives offer a realistic contrast to the dramatic experiences of the teenagers.

‘Cobra Kai’ (2018–Present)

Years after their first karate competition, Johnny Lawrence and Daniel LaRusso find their old rivalry rekindled as adults. The series delves into how past hurts and current struggles impact their choices as they each guide a new group of karate students. Johnny hopes to make amends by starting the Cobra Kai dojo again, while Daniel tries to navigate life without his teacher, Mr. Miyagi. The story mainly focuses on Johnny and Daniel’s viewpoints, even as it introduces a fresh group of teenage fighters.

‘One Tree Hill’ (2003–2012)

Lucas and Nathan Scott, two half-brothers, have a long-standing rivalry largely caused by their father, Dan Scott, who is the show’s main source of conflict. Dan’s controlling actions and complicated relationships with both of his sons’ mothers create a lot of the series’ drama. Lucas finds a positive father figure in Keith Scott, who offers a strong moral contrast to his brother Dan. Throughout the show, the adults grapple with issues of forgiveness and deception, which significantly affect the younger characters’ lives.

‘Stranger Things’ (2016–Present)

Joyce Byers and Police Chief Jim Hopper are dedicated to keeping the kids of Hawkins safe from strange and dangerous forces. Joyce never gives up on finding her son, and Hopper transforms from a hardened police officer into a father figure for Eleven. While the younger kids have their own adventures, Joyce and Hopper investigate the secrets of the Upside Down, providing vital support and resources in the fight to protect their town.

‘Riverdale’ (2017–2023)

This version of the Archie Comics story features parents with secrets just as compelling as those of their teenage kids. Adults like Alice Cooper and Hiram Lodge are involved in crime and complicated plots that move the story along. The relationships and history of these parents heavily impact the problems their children are dealing with now. The show explores how these older characters are still struggling with decisions they made in the past, and how those mistakes continue to affect the town.

‘Veronica Mars’ (2004–2019)

I’ve always been captivated by Keith Mars. He’s this incredibly resourceful former sheriff who, even after a fall from grace, became a private investigator. What really gets me is how he works with his daughter, Veronica – they have this amazing, close relationship. Together, they tackle all sorts of crimes in their town of Neptune, often exposing the secrets of the wealthy and powerful. He’s constantly putting himself on the line for her, and I love how his strong moral compass and experience really shape her into the brilliant detective she becomes. He’s a fantastic father and a truly admirable man.

‘Smallville’ (2001–2011)

Jonathan and Martha Kent are essential in guiding young Clark Kent as he learns about his powers and develops his sense of right and wrong. They offer him the wisdom and security he needs to deal with the typical struggles of growing up, all while keeping his alien background a secret. Meanwhile, Lionel Luthor is a powerful and often manipulative figure who creates many of the problems the characters face. The show heavily contrasts the Kents’ nurturing approach to parenting with the Luthors’ more controlling style.

‘Gossip Girl’ (2007–2012)

Lily van der Woodsen and Rufus Humphrey once had a relationship, which creates drama for their children, Serena and Dan. When they get back together and marry, their families combine into one household on the Upper East Side. The show often revisits their history and shows them trying to raise their strong-willed teenage kids amidst a life of wealth. Their story also reveals how mistakes from the past tend to repeat themselves with the next generation.

‘Glee’ (2009–2015)

Will Schuester works hard to maintain the glee club at McKinley High, despite constant challenges from cheerleading coach Sue Sylvester. Their competitive relationship drives much of the show’s humor and drama. The series focuses on Will’s personal life and his dedication to his students. Meanwhile, Sue repeatedly tries to shut down the arts program, forcing the teachers to find creative solutions and persevere.

‘The Fosters’ (2013–2018)

Stef and Lena Foster are a married lesbian couple who are raising a diverse family of both biological and adopted children. The show centers on their dedication to creating a supportive and loving home, despite the difficulties they encounter. Because Stef is a police officer and Lena a school vice principal, their work often overlaps with the challenges their kids are facing. The strong relationship between Stef and Lena is at the heart of the series.

‘Ginny & Georgia’ (2021–Present)

Georgia Miller, a young mother running from a troubled past, relocates her children to a New England town hoping for a new beginning. The story follows both her efforts to shield her family from her history and her teenage daughter Ginny’s typical high school experiences. It’s a series about the complicated relationship between a mother determined to protect her children at all costs, and a daughter who’s just starting to figure out life. Georgia’s choices and hidden secrets are at the heart of everything that happens.

‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ (1997–2003)

Rupert Giles is Buffy Summers’ Watcher and mentor, guiding her as she fights her destiny as the Slayer. He researches and provides the information needed to overcome evil, all while acting like a father figure. His relationship with Buffy and her friends is crucial to their ability to survive and win. He evolves from a formal librarian into a skilled fighter, demonstrating how vital he is to the team.

‘Pretty Little Liars’ (2010–2017)

As a fan, I’ve noticed how deeply involved the mothers of the main characters are in the ‘A’ mystery. It’s fascinating because they all have secrets from their past that seem to be connected to what’s happening now. We fans call them the ‘Wine Moms’ because they’re always getting together, often with a glass of wine, to deal with the constant drama. But things get really scary when they start becoming targets too, and you realize just how dangerous this whole situation is.

‘Teen Wolf’ (2011–2017)

In the town of Beacon Hills, Sheriff Noah Stilinski and Melissa McCall, both single parents, find themselves caught up in the strange and dangerous supernatural happenings. They support their sons, Scott and Stiles, as they face threats like werewolves and other creatures, offering both emotional strength and practical help. Chris Argent begins as a hunter of these creatures, but eventually becomes an ally, using his expertise to protect the town. These adults provide a sense of stability and frequently put themselves in harm’s way alongside the younger heroes.

‘Dawson’s Creek’ (1998–2003)

Mitch and Gail Leery are the main parental figures in the show, dealing with their own relationship problems while raising their son, Dawson. Their marriage has ups and downs, including a separation and attempt to reconcile, which are key storylines in the beginning. Meanwhile, Evelyn Ryan, known as Grams, transforms from a stern, religious woman into a warm and caring guardian for Jen Lindley. These adults offer a consistent and supportive home life as the teenagers figure out who they are.

‘Switched at Birth’ (2011–2017)

Kathryn and John Kennish learn their daughter was accidentally swapped at birth with the daughter of Regina Vasquez. The series follows both families as they decide to raise the teenage girls together. As the adults adjust to their different backgrounds and ways of parenting, they also form new bonds with their children. The parents’ personal growth and acceptance of each other are just as important as the girls’ experiences.

‘Freaks and Geeks’ (1999–2000)

In the 1980s, Jean and Harold Weir navigate the challenges of raising their teenage children, Lindsay and Sam, as society changes around them. The show humorously and honestly portrays the parents’ struggles with Lindsay’s rebellious phase and Sam’s difficulty fitting in. Meanwhile, McKinley High guidance counselor Jeff Rosso tries to help students, though his advice isn’t always the best. These adult characters ground the series in a realistic depiction of suburban family life.

‘90210’ (2008–2013)

Okay, so I’m really into this show! It’s about the Wilson family – Harry, Debbie, and their kids – who move from Kansas to Beverly Hills to look after Harry’s mom. It’s fun watching them adjust to such a different, super-rich world and trying to raise their kids normally. What’s really cool is seeing some of the original 90210 characters, like Kelly and Brenda, back as mentors to a new generation. The show isn’t just about the kids though; it dives into family drama, hidden secrets, and the struggles of being a parent when everyone’s under so much pressure.

Tell us which TV parents you think deserved even more screen time in the comments.

2025-11-28 06:46