Television mothers across the years have served as role models for more than just their fictional children. From the earliest days of TV until now, moms of the small screen have offered no shortage of maternal advice which, to this day, helps their fans straight through awkward pre-teen phases into adulthood. From Carol Brady to Marge Simpson, here's a look at some of the most iconic television mothers.
The Brady matriarch, portrayed by the late Florence Henderson, oversaw her blended brood of six with a cheery disposition and a gentle hand. Perhaps one of the most iconic on-screen mothers of all time, Carol Brady made sure it was always a “Sunshine Day” in her home, ultimately giving the world a very Brady example of just how rewarding and fun motherhood can be.
Lucille Ball’s iconic redhead broke barriers for TV moms in a major way. For example, she was the first character to ever be shown pregnant on the small screen. Beyond her status as a TV legend, Lucy was also just a fun mom. She always encouraged her son Little Ricky’s music talents, and often ended up on stage performing with him.
Mother of six, successful lawyer and devoted wife, Phylicia Rashad’s Clair was a role model in every facet of her life, especially how she ruled the Huxtable household in a firm but loving manner. Even the guy who played her TV husband can’t detract from Clair’s enduring legacy.
There might not be a closer mother-daughter duo in television history than the fast-talking, pop culture-obsessed Lorelai and Rory Gilmore. Despite their tight bond, Lauren Graham’s single mom was never afraid to put her foot down when Rory needed her to be a mother rather than a friend.
Dealing with Homer and Bart would make any mom want to pull her hair out, yet somehow Marge manages to keep her sanity, and her blue bouffant, intact due to her saintly good nature.
Tami Taylor has it all. Compassion, warmth, smarts and fabulous hair. In addition to her two daughters, Tami (Connie Britton) often served as a de facto mom to many of the show’s teens in her job as a high school guidance counselor.
Barbara Billingsley’s June Cleaver remains unchallenged as television’s most perfect mom, epitomizing the ideal of the warm, devoted mother who always has some kind words and fresh-baked cookies at the ready.
The show’s title is an ironic wink at Alicia standing by her husband after his cheating scandal. But Julianna Margulies’ character is an even better mom, providing normalcy and financial stability to her two kids by going back to work as a lawyer after their dad was sent to prison.
Constance Wu rightfully became the breakout star of the freshman sitcom due to her portrayal of Jessica as a hilariously no-nonsense mom. She’s the rare character who always speaks her mind without seeming overbearing.
Alex P. Keaton might be one of TV’s most iconic characters, but he could also be a pretty obnoxious guy. Part of what made him so lovable was how his down-to-earth mom, played by Meredith Baxter-Birney, kept him in line, including brokering peace between Alex and his sisters.
