25 incredible TV moms we love to watch

Rainbow Johnson – Black-ish

Modern mothers, take note. Everything about Rainbow Johnson is absolutely on point. Whether she’s juggling her successful career as a doctor, balancing her five children, or wrangling her man-child husband, Bow does it with class and grace.

The series isn’t afraid to take on the tough issues. From racism to postpartum depression to their latest marital problems, she never pretends to be anything else. Although her status as a fictional character offers viewers a certain amount of suspension of disbelief, her approach feels relatable and authentic.

Tracee Ellis Ross plays Rainbow with a fun eccentricity and quirkiness, and it’s easy to forget her strength and resolve as a woman and a mother. Even though she’s laid back and (mostly) easy-going, when it comes down to it, she has resolve, grit, and fight.

Anyone with any kids at all (much less 5) understands how hectic it can be to run a household. You are constantly being pulled in a hundred different directions, and it’s a stressful experience trying to be all things to everyone. Rainbow is an exemplary illustration of what a contemporary mother looks like.

Although she and her family have a pretty firm upper-class lifestyle, it doesn’t detract from the effort it takes to mother her children, ranging in ages from one to 21. Can you imagine the emotional energy it takes to meet the needs of kids so far apart in years? She embodies all the mother-related cliches about being a project manager, chauffeur, chef, counselor, etc. She does it all, all the while fighting for her marriage and her career. I’m exhausted just thinking about it.

Bravo Rainbow, Bravo.