Learning a new language doesn’t always have to be doing practice exercises from a textbook. Watching French TV shows to study French is likely one of the most fun ways to practice the language. Watching French TV helps with listening skills, accents, and understanding French culture better. It may sound difficult for beginner learners, but there are plenty of beginner-friendly French TV shows as well.
This post shows the best French TV shows to study French to help you in your French learning process. There are shows on this list for all levels of learners, and shows from a variety of genres. Regardless of what TV you enjoy, there will be something on this list for you.
1. Les Aventures de Tintin
Learning Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Genre: Comedy, Children’s Show, Cartoon
You may have heard of Tintin before. The young detective who would go on adventures all around the globe with his trusty dog, Snowy. “Les Aventures de Tintin,” was first an immensely popular children’s comic that was loved by people of many ages. The comic book series was eventually turned into a cartoon.
Since the cartoon was created for children, the French used is simpler. Which makes it one of the best French TV shows to study French for beginner learners. The plot itself is also fun without being overly “childish.”
2. Fais pas ci, Fais pas ça
Learning Level: Intermediate
Genre: Comedy
“Fais pas ci, Fais pas ça,” is a great French TV show for those that want to learn more about French culture. The hilarious show is the pinnacle of French humor, and shows a more realistic view of French culture. Being a comedy show, the language used is more about daily life than complicated political issues. It is a good middle ground for those that are intermediate learners.
The plot revolves around two families that are complete opposites. Although they differ greatly, they start to become closer and learn to (mostly) get along better. If you need a good laugh, study French with “Fais pas ci, Fais pas ça.”
3. Un Gars, une Fille
Learning Level: Advanced
Genre: Dramedy
Squeezing in time to watch French TV shows to study French can be difficult sometimes. “Un Gars, une Fille,” has shortened episodes that are about seven minutes each. So, there is no reason you can’t watch an episode during even the most hectic days. “Un Gars, une Fille,” takes a deep dive into the lives of a French couple. The themes of the French TV show can get quite complex, so it is more for advanced learners.
Not only is watching “Un Gars, une Fille,” a convenient choice, it is a great way to learn about French culture. It shows the reality of issues that pop up for many French couples, and gives a realistic depiction of French couple culture. There is a reason why this show is so loved and has so many episodes!
4. Plus Belle la Vie
Learning Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Genre: Soap Opera, Drama
There is nothing more dramatic than a soap opera, and that is proven true in the French TV show “Plus Belle la Vie.” It may not be the most high-class TV show, but it will keep you hooked with its endless plot twists. French soap operas are a great tool for learning French, because of just how dramatic they are.
The over exaggerated actions and scenes make understanding the situation much easier for beginner learners. “Plus Belle la Vie,” is one of the best French TV shows to study French for that reason. It also has many episodes, so you can build up your comprehension by having consistent characters and plot lines throughout the series.
5. Les Mystérieuses Cités d’Or
Learning Level: Beginner to Intermediate
Genre: History, Cartoon
This French cartoon has quite the unique story. “Les Mystérieuses Cités d’Or,” was a joint effort with a Japanese production company, so it is technically a French anime. This charming French cartoon is great for beginners as it uses simple vocabulary and grammar. The plot lines are also easy to follow, so you can keep up with the story regardless of your level.
“Les Mystérieuses Cités d’Or,” is a fantasy anime that follows a young boy and father as they discover lost cities in the search for gold. Its cute concept and fantasy-like storylines will keep you entertained each episode. Just because you are learning French, doesn’t mean it has to be boring.
6. Scène de ménage
Learning Level: Intermediate
Genre: Dramedy, Romance
“Scène de ménage,” follows the stories of three couples from different generations. It is a great way to see what the “typical” French household is like. As it shows a variety of age groups, you can see how relationships differ between different groups in France. It is one of the best French TV shows to study French culture.
As any show that centers around relationships, there are many ups and downs in the series. There are many comedic moments in this French program, but French humor can be quite dark, so be prepared. “Scène de ménage,” follows the same three couples throughout the show, making it easier to grow accustomed to their styles of speaking. When you are at a beginner or intermediate learning level, it is helpful to have consistent characters, accents, and plot lines to follow.
7. Mafiosa
Learning Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Genre: Drama, Mafia
If comedy shows aren’t your thing, then “Mafiosa,” might just be the French TV show to study with. Its dramatic and intense plot lines are a fantastic challenge for more advanced learners. “Mafiosa,” is not the most family-friendly French program as it is about the main character taking over her family’s mafia.
Despite the main character, Sandra, becoming a notorious Mafia head, you can’t help but root for her. She knocks through all adversities that come her way, giving this show a feminist twist to the typical mafia-style drama program. As “Mafiosa,” covers heavy topics, it is likely one of the most challenging French TV shows to study French with on this list. However, it is always good to challenge yourself when studying!
8. Lupin
Learning Level: Intermediate to Advanced
Genre: Drama
There is a reason “Lupin,” was one of the most watched Netflix series in 2021. Its riveting plotlines and amazing lineup make it stand out for non-French learners as well. The famous French TV show is known for its complex mysteries and plot lines. It is best for advanced learners, or intermediate French learners looking for a challenge.
“Lupin,” follows the titular character attempting to steal an important artifact from the Louvre. The heart-racing drama will keep you on the edge of your seat the whole time. Though the plot lines will likely suck you in, don’t forget to pick up on the different accents used throughout the show. “Lupin,” has become one of the most popular French TV shows to study French in the past few years, so give it a try.
Hear more about the character of Lupin directly from its lead actor, Omar Sy in this interview.
Conclusion
Take a break from the textbooks and put your listening skills to the test. French TV shows are an amazing tool to see how well you understand French when used in a natural environment. You have the ability to hear different accents, slang words, and expressions that will help you to speak more naturally. Start enjoying your French learning process by watching one of the French TV shows on this list.
Want to watch a French movie instead? Read our list of 9 classic French movies to explore the culture and language of France.
