Looking for your next TV obsession? We’ve got you covered! In this article, we’ve curated a list of 30 binge-worthy TV shows that might just become your new favorites. From intriguing dramas to hilarious comedies and everything in between, each of these TV series has something special to keep you hooked episode after episode. So, if you’re tired of endlessly scrolling through streaming platforms, fret no more! Sit back, relax, and let us introduce you to a delightful lineup of shows that are worth checking out.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003)
Created by Joss Whedon, Buffy the Vampire Slayer is an American fantasy television series that ran for seven seasons from 1997 to 2003 on The WB network. It follows Buffy Summers (Sarah Michelle Gellar), a young woman who is the latest in a line of Chosen Ones known as the Slayer tasked with fighting vampires, demons, and other supernatural threats. Buffy is aided by a group of friends and allies known as the Scooby Gang, which includes Willow Rosenberg (Alyson Hannigan), Xander Harris (Nicholas Brendon), and Giles (Anthony Head).
It’s one of the best shows to binge-watch because it’s well-written and features complex characters and relationships. Aside from being packed with action, adventure, and humor, it also tackles serious issues such as death, loss, and growing up in a relatable way. Featuring a strong female lead who is a role model for young women everywhere, Buffy the Vampire Slayer remains a cult classic to this day and continues to influence popular culture.
Where to watch: Hulu
Stranger Things (2016-present)
Created by the Duffer Brothers, Stranger Things is an American science fiction horror drama set in the 1980s in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana. The first season of the original Netflix series focuses on the investigation into the disappearance of a young boy (Will Byers) amid supernatural events occurring around the town, including the appearance of a girl with psychokinetic abilities (Eleven).
If you’re looking for shows to binge-watch, then you couldn’t go wrong with Stranger Things. A critics’ darling, the show has been praised for its characterization, atmosphere, acting, soundtrack, directing, writing, and homages to 1980s films. It has received numerous awards and nominations, including 39 Primetime Emmy Award nominations, winning six; four Golden Globe Award nominations; a British Academy Television Award nomination; two Directors Guild of America Award nominations; three Writers Guild of America Award nominations; a Grammy Award nomination; and three American Film Institute awards. The series has also won a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by an Ensemble in a Drama Series.
So what are you waiting for? Go binge-watch the show until the fourth season, before its fifth and final season comes out.
Where to watch: Netflix
Breaking Bad (2008-2013)
Set and filmed in Albuquerque, New Mexico, Breaking Bad follows Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a high school chemistry teacher who lives in a middle-class neighborhood with his wife and teenage son. White is diagnosed with Stage III cancer and given a prognosis of two years to live. Desperate to secure his family’s financial security, White chooses to enter a dangerous world of drugs and crime and ascends to power in the meth trade.
Considered by many to be the greatest TV series of all time, Breaking Bad set an unprecedented bar for drama entertainment during its five-season run. It has a strong plot from beginning to end, complex and morally ambiguous characters and sharp and believable dialogue. In addition to the fantastic performance of Cranston, the series also features a strong supporting cast, including Anna Gunn as Skyler White, Aaron Paul as Jesse Pinkman, and Dean Norris as Hank Schrader, among many others.
Where to watch: Netflix
American Horror Story (2011-present)
Created by Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk for the cable network FX. American Horror Story is an anthology series that is loosely inspired by true horror events. The seasons of American Horror Story are mostly conceived as self-contained miniseries, following a different set of characters in a new setting within the same fictional universe, which the show occasionally utilizes for crossover episodes. Each season has its own beginning, middle, and end.
Suspenseful and often shocking, the show features engaging storylines with a strong cast of actors. The is show is known for its graphic violence and gore, so if you’re fine with those stuff then feel free to add it to your list of shows to binge-watch.
Where to watch: Hulu
Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987-1994)
Set in the latter third of the 24th century, when Earth is part of the United Federation of Planets, Star Trek: The Next Generation follows the adventures of the USS Enterprise crew and their exploration of the Alpha quadrant in the Milky Way galaxy.
Considered to be one of the best science fiction TV series of all time, Star Trek: The Next Generation features a diverse cast of characters and presents an optimistic view of the future, with the message of hope and peace at its center. It won numerous awards, including 18 Primetime Emmy Awards, and spawned several spin-off series, films, and video games.
Where to watch: Paramount+
13 Reasons Why (2017-2020)
Based on Jay Asher’s 2007 novel of the same name, 13 Reasons Why revolves around high school student Clay Jensen (Dylan Minnette) and the aftermath of the suicide of fellow student Hannah Baker (Katherine Langford). Before her death, she leaves behind a box of cassette tapes in which she details the 13 reasons why she chose to end her own life, as well as the people she believes, are responsible for her death.
The show has been praised for its sensitive handling of difficult subject matter, such as suicide, sexual assault, and bullying. However, it has also been criticized for its graphic depiction of these same topics. While some critics have argued that the show could potentially glamorize suicide, others have praised it for its bold move to shed light on such important issues. Whatever side you’re on, there’s no denying that 13 Reasons Why is a binge-worthy TV series.
Where to watch: Netflix
You (2018-present)
You is a psychological thriller television series based on the books by Caroline Kepnes. It follows Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley), a charming and intelligent man who becomes dangerously obsessed with the women he dates. He uses social media and the internet to learn everything he can about them, and then he uses that information to manipulate them and get close to them. When his obsessions turn violent, he will stop at nothing to keep the women he loves.
Some viewers find You to be too addictive, thanks to its suspenseful plot, complex characters, and Badgley’s performance as a serial killer. The show, however, has been criticized for its graphic violence and dark themes.
Where to watch: Netflix
Weeds (2005-2012)
If you’re looking for a dark comedy show to binge-watch, then add Weeds to your watch list. Created by Jenji Kohan, the original Showtime series tells the story of Nancy Botwin (Mary-Louise Parker), a widowed mother of two boys who begins selling marijuana to support her family.
Praised for its humor, suspense, and well-developed characters, Weeds also stars Elizabeth Perkins, Justin Kirk, Tonye Patano, Romany Malco, and Hunter Parrish, among many others. It also won numerous awards, including two Golden Globe Awards for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy and Best Actress – Television Series Musical or Comedy for Mary-Louise Parker. The show was also nominated for 16 Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series.
Where to watch: Hulu
Schitt’s Creek (2015-2020)
Created by Eugene Levy and his son Daniel Levy, Schitt’s Creek is a Canadian comedy series that follows the Roses, a wealthy family who are forced to relocate to the small town of Schitt’s Creek after their business manager embezzles their fortune. The Roses must learn to adapt to their new life in a town that is far from what they are used to.
Although it’s packed with hilarious moments, Schitt’s Creek is actually a very heartwarming show about family. Praised by critics and audiences alike, the series won nine Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series.
Where to watch: Netflix
Squid Game (2021-present)
Squid Game is a South Korean survival drama TV series created by Hwang Dong-hyuk. It revolves around a secret contest where 456 players, all of whom are in deep financial hardship, risk their lives to play a series of deadly children’s games for the chance to win a ₩45.6 billion reward.
Praised for its suspenseful plot, well-developed characters, and social commentary, Squid Game has quickly become one of the most-watched original series on Netflix. The series has been renewed for a second season, which is set to be released in late 2023 or early 2024.
Where to watch: Netflix
Workin’ Moms (2017-2023)
Workin’ Moms is a comedy-drama series that follows four women as they balance their work life and family life. Kate Foster (Catherine Reitman) is a PR executive who is struggling to balance her career with her new role as a mother. Anne Carlson (Dani Kind) is a psychiatrist who is trying to juggle her busy schedule with her two young children. Jenny Matthews (Jessalyn Wanlim) is a shy IT tech who is trying to find her place in the world as a mother. And Frankie Coyne (Enuka Okuma) is a real estate agent who is trying to keep her career afloat while raising her two teenage children.
The show provides a refreshing and honest look at the challenges of motherhood. Instead of shying away from the messy and complicated realities of being a working mom, the series celebrates the humor and the heart of motherhood. So if you’re one of those who feel overwhelmed, stressed, or just plain exhausted by the demands of motherhood, make sure that you add Workin’ Moms to your list of TV shows to binge-watch.
Where to watch: Netflix
Friday Night Lights (2006-2011)
If you love football or sports in general, then you should put Friday Night Lights at the top of your list of shows to binge-watch. Set in the fictional town of Dillon, Texas, the series follows the East Dillon Panthers high school football team as they navigate the ups and downs of life on and off the field. The series also explores the lives of the players’ families, friends, and coaches, and how football impacts their lives.
Praised for its realistic portrayal of high school football and the small-town culture of Texas, the series features relatable storylines and complex characters like Coach Eric Taylor who was played impressively by Kyle Chandler. Aside from being a ratings success during its original run, the show was also nominated for numerous awards, including Golden Globes, Emmys, and Screen Actors Guild Awards.
Where to watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, Peacock
Gilmore Girls (2000-2007)
Set in the fictional town of Stars Hollow, Connecticut, Gilmore Girls follows the lives of Lorelai Gilmore (Lauren Graham) and her daughter, Rory (Alexis Bledel). Lorelai is a single mother who raised Rory on her own after running away from her wealthy parents at the age of 16. Rory, meanwhile, is a gifted student who dreams of attending an Ivy League college.
The show is known for its witty dialogue, cross-generational appeal, and effective mix of humor and drama. Critics and fans alike commended the show’s heartwarming storylines, its realistic depiction of a small-town community, and its portrayal of strong female characters. It has even been credited with inspiring a new generation of young women, and it has been cited as one of the most influential TV series of all time.
Where to watch: Netflix
Parenthood (2010-2015)
Loosely based on the 1989 film of the same name, Parenthood follows the Bravermans, a large family living in Berkeley, California. The family is headed by Zeek and Camille Braverman, who are the parents of four adult children: Adam, Sarah, Crosby, and Julia. Adam is a successful businessman who is married to Kristina and has three children: Haddie, Max, and Nora. Sarah is a single mother who is raising her two teenage children, Amber and Drew. Crosby is a struggling musician who is married to Jasmine and has two young sons, Jabbar and Aida. Julia is a stay-at-home mom who is married to Joel and has one young son, Victor.
Relatable and heartwarming, the show explores the joys and challenges of family life, as the Bravermans navigate the ups and downs of raising children, maintaining relationships, and dealing with the unexpected. The show is praised for its realistic portrayal of family life, as well as its strong cast of characters.
If you’re looking for a show to binge-watch with the entire family, then Parenthood won’t disappoint you.
Where to watch: Hulu
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (2015-2020)
Starring Ellie Kemper in the title role, Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt follows Kimmy Schmidt a woman who was kidnapped by Reverend Richard Wayne Gary Wayne (Jon Hamm) and held captive in an underground bunker for 15 years. After she is rescued, Kimmy decides to start a new life in New York City, where she experiences everyday life with wide-eyed enthusiasm. Kimmy also moves in with Titus Andromedon (Tituss Burgess), a gay aspiring Broadway actor who reintroduces her to modern life, and gets a job as a nanny for Lillian Kaushtupper (Carol Kane), an elderly woman.
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt is a funny and heartwarming show that is full of hope and optimism. It’s definitely a show that will stay with you long after you have finished watching it.
Where to watch: Netflix
Fleabag (2016-2019)
Based on Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s one-woman show, Fleabag follows the titular character, a free-spirited but confused young woman as she navigates life and love in London while trying to cope with the recent death of her best friend.
Though often funny, Fleabag also deals with some serious subject matters, such as mental health and grief. Praised for its clever writing and honest portrayal of female sexuality, the show can be heavy to watch, but it’s definitely worth seeing if you’re looking for something unique.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
The Haunting of Hill House (2018)
Based on Shirley Jackson’s 1959 novel of the same name, The Haunting of Hill House follows a family of five siblings who grew up in Hill House, a haunted mansion. Now adults, they are forced back together in the face of tragedy and must finally confront the ghosts of their past. Some of those ghosts still lurk in their minds, while others may actually be stalking the shadows of Hill House.
Atmospheric and suspenseful, The Haunting of Hill House was praised for the performances of its incredible cast which includes Michiel Huisman, Carla Gugino, Henry Thomas, Elizabeth Reaser, and Oliver Jackson-Cohen, among many others. The series was applauded for its sensitive and honest depiction of difficult subjects such as loss and grief.
Where to watch: Netflix
Downton Abbey (2010-2015)
Set on the fictional Yorkshire country estate of Downton Abbey between 1912 and 1926, this period drama depicts the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their domestic servants in the post-Edwardian era and the effects the great events of the time have on their lives and on the British social hierarchy.
A critical and commercial success, Downton Abbey features an amazing cast that includes Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, Elizabeth McGovern, Michelle Dockery, and Laura Carmichael. Beautifully shot with stunning costumes and sets, the show tells engaging and heartwarming stories throughout its six seasons with insightful writing and superb acting.
Where to watch: HBO Max
Game of Thrones (2011-2019)
Game of Thrones is set in a fantasy world created by George R.R. Martin. An adaptation of Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire novel series, the original HBO series revolves around the Iron Throne of the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros and the web of political conflicts among the noble families either vying to claim the throne or fighting for independence from whoever sits on it.
Although there are mixed reactions about its use of nudity and violence, the show is praised for its story, visuals, and large ensemble cast that includes Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Lena Headey, Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, Sophie Turner, Maisie Williams, Alfie Allen, Isaac Hempstead Wright, and Peter Dinklage, just to name a few.
Where to watch: HBO Max
The Crown (2016-present)
A historical drama about the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, The Crown opens its first season with Elizabeth’s marriage to Philip, Duke of Edinburgh, in 1947 and ta the disintegration of her sister Princess Margaret’s engagement to Group Captain Peter Townsend in 1955.
Featuring top-notch production value, brilliant writing, and a superb ensemble cast, The Crown is undeniably one of the best historical drama series ever created. But more than the lavish sets and costumes, the series provides a fascinating look at the inner workings of the British royal family and the events that have shaped the second half of the 20th century. The Crown stars Claire Foy, Matt Smith, Vanessa Kirby, Eileen Atkins, and Jeremy Northam, among many others.
Where to watch: Netflix
House (2004-2012)
If you’re looking for medical drama shows to binge-watch, then don’t forget to check out House. The original Fox series stars Hugh Laurie as Dr. Gregory House, an unconventional, misanthropic medical genius who, despite his dependence on pain medication, leads a team of diagnosticians at the fictional Princeton–Plainsboro Teaching Hospital in New Jersey.
Both intellectually stimulating and emotionally resonant, House is a highly acclaimed series that won numerous awards throughout its eight seasons. These include eight Primetime Emmy Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, and a Peabody Award.
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
The Office (2005-2013)
On the hunt for comedy shows to binge-watch? Look no further than The Office. Developed by Greg Daniels, The Office is an American mockumentary sitcom television series that depicts the everyday work lives of office employees at the Scranton, Pennsylvania branch of the fictional Dunder Mifflin Paper Company
The Office was met with mixed reviews during its debut season, but for the following seasons, it received significant acclaim from critics who praised the show’s character development, writing, and acting, particularly that of Steve Carell who played the lead character of Michael Scott. The series has become a cultural phenomenon, with catchphrases, memes, and GIFs all over the Internet.
Where to watch: Peacock
The Man in the High Castle (2015-2019)
Loosely based on the 1962 novel by Philip K. Dick, the series explores what the world might look like if the Axis Powers had won World War II. It is set in 1962, 15 years after the Axis Powers have divided the United States into three parts: the Greater Nazi Reich, which occupies most of the eastern United States; the Japanese Pacific States, which occupies the western United States; and the Neutral Zone, which is a buffer between the two. The series follows a group of people who are drawn into a resistance movement against the occupation.
The central story revolves around Juliana Crain (Alexa Davalos), her quest to uncover secrets about the past, and how this knowledge changes her view of the world she lives in. You will be left with a sense of anticipation at each episode’s end as more questions than answers arise due to all the conspiracies and plot twists presented throughout the series.
As the seasons progress, the characters grow more complex as destinies become intertwined by fate. This thrilling narrative will keep you hooked until the very last moment of season four’s finale – leaving you begging for another season!
Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video
Derry Girls (2018-2022)
Derry Girls is a British comedy-drama television series created by Lisa McGee. It tells the story of four teenage girls living in Derry, Northern Ireland during the 1990s who must navigate adolescence while also dealing with violence and political unrest caused by The Troubles.
The show follows best friends Erin Quinn (Saoirse-Monica Jackson), Orla McCool (Louisa Harland), Michelle Mallon (Jamie-Lee O’Donnell), and Clare Devlin (Nicola Coughlan) who always stick together to get through any situation that comes their way. Since its debut in 2018, it has become one of the most popular shows on Netflix UK, earning praise for its witty dialogue, endearing characters, and its perfect blend of drama and comedy.
Where to watch: Netflix
The X-Files (1993-2018)
The X-Files is a classic sci-fi series that follows FBI agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully as they investigate unexplained phenomena throughout the United States. The series features an array of supernatural elements like aliens, monsters, and conspiracies.
With complex plotlines full of mystery and excitement, it’s no wonder why this show continues to be so popular after all these years! The characters on The X-Files are just as captivating as its storylines, with each character having their own unique personality traits and quirks.
Where to watch: Hulu
Community (2009-2015)
Community was an instant hit when it premiered in 2009 and ran for six seasons until 2015. It follows the story of Jeff Winger (Joel McHale) who finds himself enrolled in Greendale Community College after being caught with a fake college degree. Alongside him are his ragtag group of friends—Britta Perry (Gillian Jacobs), Shirley Bennett (Yvette Nicole Brown), Annie Edison (Alison Brie), Abed Nadir (Danny Pudi), and Troy Barnes (Donald Glover). Together they form the study group known as “the Save Greendale Committee” and get into all sorts of hijinks throughout the show.
Featuring witty humor, Community is hilarious from start to finish, while also having heartwarming moments that make you care about these characters deeply. The relationships between each character are so endearing that you can’t help but root for them every step of the way. With its unique blend of comedy and drama, Community stands out among other sitcoms.
If you’re looking for funny shows to binge-watch, then give this beloved series a try!
Where to watch: Hulu
Gossip Girl (2007-2012)
Narrated by the unknown, omniscient blogger “Gossip Girl” (voiced by Kristen Bell), the series revolves around the lives of privileged upper-class adolescents living in Manhattan’s Upper East Side. The series begins with the return of Upper East Side teenage “it girl” Serena van der Woodsen (Blake Lively) from a mysterious absence and follows her as she reunites with her frenemy Blair Waldorf (Leighton Meester). Along the way, they are also forced to deal with the ever-present threat of Gossip Girl, who is always watching and always ready to expose their secrets.
If you love teen drama and fashion, then make sure to Gossip Girl to your list of shows to binge-watch. The show isn’t just about juicy gossip, scandalous hookups, and lavish parties, it also provides a sharp social commentary on the lives of the wealthy and privileged.
Where to watch: HBO Max
Archer (2009-Present)
Archer is an animated series that follows the adventures of Sterling Archer, a suave yet incredibly self-centered secret agent. The show takes place in a fictionalized version of the 1980s and often parodies popular culture from this era.
Each episode has its own unique plot, but recurring characters and themes are present throughout all the seasons so far. Archer’s crew consists of his former mother-in-law Malory, her loyal secretary Cheryl, and his coworkers at ISIS (International Secret Intelligence Service).
The show’s witty dialogue and clever use of dark humor make it one of the best shows to binge-watch right now. No matter how many times you’ve seen it before, each episode still holds surprises. From unexpected celebrity cameos to outrageous situations, there’s something new with every viewing experience.
Where to watch: Hulu
Arrested Development (2003-2006, 2013-2019)
Created by Mitchell Hurwitz, Arrested Development follows a wealthy family struggling to keep their business afloat after their father is arrested for fraud. Despite all of their misfortunes, there’s no shortage of laughs in each episode thanks to the hilarious characters that make up the Bluth clan.
Not only does it feature some great performances from its cast, but also clever writing and unexpected plot twists that will leave you guessing what happens next.
The show was unfortunately cancelled after three seasons due to low ratings, but years later Netflix stepped in and revived it with new episodes in 2013. The revival saw an even bigger fanbase emerge who appreciated how well the show held up over time despite being off the air for so long.
Where to watch: Netflix
Seinfeld (1989-1998)
Seinfeld is a timeless classic that continues to entertain millions of fans around the world. Taking place in New York City, this show follows the stories and mishaps of four close friends as they navigate life’s everyday situations with witty dialogue and hilarious banter.
Seinfeld truly changed television comedy forever with its clever writing, memorable characters, and groundbreaking storylines. The whole cast works together perfectly to create an unforgettable viewing experience; from the neurotic humor of Jerry Seinfeld to the bumbling antics of George Costanza, it all comes together in perfect harmony.
We may have said goodbye years ago but Seinfeld will always remain one of the most beloved shows in history – leaving viewers wanting more even after all these years!
Where to watch: Netflix