The Best TV Shows to Binge Watch in 2023

Here are the finest series to binge and where to find them, so clear your schedules.

Over the past ten years, there has been a fundamental paradigm shift in how we consume information. TiVo, VOD, the emergence of streaming networks, and many more developments are all crucial stages in reshaping how we view serialised storytelling styles. It happened gradually. The opportunity that arises when most people spend the majority of their waking hours staring at a screen emerged at the same time as the emergence of smartphone and tablet culture. Naturally, binge-watching began to gain popularity soon after.

Of course, this is not to imply that people haven’t been binge-watching television for years. People have been binge-watching their favourite TV shows for as long as there have been geeks and a way to record them, whether on DVD or on their own VHS tapes. But more lately, binge-watching has evolved from a common practise to a motivating element that affects the fundamental structure of various forms of entertainment. Particularly Netflix is renowned for creating binge-worthy shows that force viewers to consume the entire narrative in one or two sittings, frequently blending the boundaries between cinema and television story formats.

But regardless of how long you’ve been a binge-watcher or how recently you’ve developed the practise, there are some series that are simply ideal to finish as quickly as possible. If you’re wondering “What programme should I watch?” when scrolling through streaming options, the Collider staff has compiled a helpful list of our favourite shows to binge-watch on Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, Disney+, and Prime Video below.

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Best TV Shows to Binge Watch Right Now

Mare of EastTown (2021)

Creator: Brad Ingelsby

Cast: Kate Winslet, Julianne Nicholson, Jean Smart

It’s time to travel to Easttown, Pennsylvania, so grab a hoagie and some water. The critically acclaimed criminal drama series Mare of Easttown, written and directed by Brad Ingelsby, stars Oscar winner Kate Winslet as Mare Sheehan, a cynical, no-nonsense detective sergeant who has seen it all.Despite being regarded by most as a local hero, she frequently fights to keep her personal life from sliding through the gaps and is haunted by a missing people case she was unable to solve. In order to uncover more of the horrific secrets buried in the sleepy hamlet, the tough (but endearing) detective unwillingly teams up with enthusiastic county detective Colin Zabel (Evan Peters) to take on the murder investigation of young mother Erin McMenamin (Cailee Spaeny). In the series, Jean Smart, Julianne Nicholson, and Angourie Rice all give outstanding performances. Emily Bernard

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Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story (2023)

Creators: Ian Brennan, Ryan Murphy

Cast: Evan Peters, Richard Jenkins, Molly Ringwald, Niecy Nash

Dahmer – Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story is a comprehensive recounting of serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer’s horrifyingly tragic murdering spree, despite being quite divisive. The critically praised anthology series Dahmer, produced by Ryan Murphy and Ian Brennan (X-Men: Days of Future Past), stars an alluring and mysterious Evan Peters as the title villain. However, it may be upsetting to some victim’s families. Dahmer is an intriguing attempt to salaciously depict the horror produced and possibly even show a shred of humanity in the cruel, infused with a slew of star power and dramatic licence. Yael Tygiel.

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The White Lotus (2021)

Created by: Mike White

Cast: Murray Bartlett, Connie Britton, Jennifer Coolidge, Alexandra Daddario

The White Lotus, an Emmy-winning anthology series, is an absolutely insane experience from beginning to end. The first season follows numerous resort visitors and staff members, many of whom become embroiled in intricate interpersonal connections. The group is rife with conflict between cynical college student Olivia (Sydney Sweeney), cynical newlywed Shane (Jake Lacy), demanding Armond (Murray Bartlett), the manager who is struggling to stay clean, Tanya (Jennifer Coolidge), an eccentric guest grieving her mother’s death, and Shane (Jake Lacy), a demanding newlywed. It produces nonstop gripping television. (Taylor Gates)

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Ms. Marvel (2023)

Created by: Bisha K. Ali

Cast: Iman Vellani, Matt Lintz, Yasmeen Fletcher, Zenobia Shroff, Mohan Kapur, Saagar Shaikh, Laurel Marsden, Azhar Usman

Ms. Marvel is a wonderful expansion to the MCU. The show follows Kamala Khan as she deals with both the ordinary struggles of high school and the distinctly untypical knowledge that she’s a superhero. It also stars breakout actor Iman Vellani as its first Muslim superhero. The series is firmly grounded by Vellani’s performance, which has earned her glowing accolades for her seamless blending of young curiosity and energising assurance. A sympathetic coming-of-age story and the big tension and action we’ve come to anticipate from Marvel are expertly woven together in Ms. Marvel. (Taylor Gates)

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Severance (2023-present)

Creator: Dan Erickson

Cast: Adam Scott, Zach Cherry, Britt Lower

Severance, a chaotic, fascinating, and intriguing science fiction series produced by Ben Stiller and developed by Dan Erickson, is set in a society in which workers can arrive at work severed from their personal lives. Mark, played by Adam Scott, is a man who divides his life as a heartbroken spouse from his role as a fantastic and amiable employee. After a strange individual poses as a coworker and approaches Mark in his personal life, Mark begins to doubt the veracity of what he is being told and looks into his place of employment.With funny actors like Zach Cherry (Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings) and Britt Lower (Future Man) playing unexpectedly nuanced roles, Severance is a brilliantly inventive series full of intriguing mysteries. Yael Tygiel.

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Ted Lasso (2020-present)

Creators: Brendan Hunt, Joe Kelly, Bill Lawrence

Cast: Jason Sudeikis, Brett Goldstein, Brendan Hunt

The emotional comedy Ted Lasso, in which Jason Sudeikis stars, is inspired on a role the former Saturday Night Live cast member portrayed in a commercial. It tells the story of a passionate American football coach who is hired to lead the AFC Richmond soccer team. Despite not requiring any prior soccer knowledge—and the title character appearing to lack any—Ted Lasso offers a calming atmosphere with friendly and endearing characters, providing for a genuinely endearing viewing experience. Brendan Hunt, Joe Kelly, and Bill Lawrence, the show’s creators (Scrubs), combine humour and emotion to provide an upbeat and genuinely kind viewpoint. Yael Tygiel.

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Squid Game (2021-present)

Creator: Hwang Dong-hyuk

Cast: Lee Jung-jae, Park Hae-soo, Hoyeon

Squid Game is a terrifyingly interesting Korean sitcom that uses an exaggerated lens to investigate fundamental societal problems. Squid Game centres on a group of individuals who are forced to compete in risky, life-or-death kid’s games in order to survive and win money. Squid Game, starring Lee Jung-jae and Park Hae-soo as compelling characters, transcended language barriers by presenting sympathetic, credible, and horrifying situations. With spectators admiring the mesmerizingly gruesome graphics, specially designed costumes, and somberly timely plot about social inequality, Squid Game swiftly became a global phenomenon. Yael Tygiel.

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The Bear (2023-present)

Creator: Christopher Storer

Cast: Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ayo Edebiri

The Bear has been a sensation on social media, and for good reason. One of the top new dramedies of 2023 is the highly regarded programme. Carmy Berzatto, an accomplished chef played by Jeremy Allen White of Shameless, serves as the protagonist of the show. He gives up his fine-dining kitchen after his brother commits suicide and takes over his struggling family’s beef sandwich shop. There is tremendous chemistry among the kitchen staff, which includes ambitious Sydney (a brilliant performance by Ayo Edebiri), adorable Marcus (Lionel Boyce), and Carmy’s gruff “relative” Richy (Ebon Moss-Bachrach).The show completely immerses viewers in the atmosphere, including Chicago and the food business. You will use exclamations like “corner!” and “yes, chef!” in everyday conversation after watching the episode. (Taylor Gates)

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The Umbrella Academy (2019-present)

Creator: Steve Blackman

Cast: Elliot Page, Tom Hopper, David Castañeda

The Umbrella Academy is set in an universe where 43 women gave birth at the same time on October 1, 1989, despite the fact that none of the women had previously displayed any signs of pregnancy. Seven of those kids were adopted by eccentric businessman Sir Reginald Hargreeves (Colm Feore), who oversaw their training to become superheroes.After Hargreeves’ untimely passing, the estranged siblings are brought back together as adults at the start of the series. They need to find a way to stop the end of the world from occurring in eight days while avoiding the wrath of a top-secret time travel agency whose aim is to safeguard their version of the timeline. In addition to dealing with some of the trauma Hargreeves caused with his incredibly strict “parenting” style.Family problems, you know, absolutely typical. In a world overrun with on-screen heroes, The Umbrella Academy’s plot manages to stand out, and the show will keep you going back to see what turmoil the broken Hargreeves gang gets themselves into next. (Brynna Arens)

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Stranger Things (2016-present)

Creator: The Duffer Brothers

Cast: Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Finn Wolfhard, Millie Bobby Brown, Gaten Matarazzo

Here is where the distinction between TV and film begins to fuzziness. When it comes to structure and presentation, a show like House of Cards is plainly a traditional TV series—just one made for binge-watching. The wildly popular Stranger Things, however, has a considerably more filmic feel to it, both in terms of the overall format and the smaller number of episodes. When watching Stranger Things in a marathon, it’s more like reading a fantastic book than watching a lot of television at once because the episodes function more like sections of a whole than isolated ones.The fact that the show’s creators, brothers Matt and Ross Duffer, view each season as more of a film than a TV series may make it the most enjoyable binge-watch on our list. Each of the first two seasons has a distinct beginning and end, even though the concluding episode allows room for additional speculation. Adam Chitwood

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The Sopranos (1999-2007)

Creator: David Chase

Cast: James Gandolfini, Lorraine Bracco, Edie Falco

The Sopranos is the greatest television programme ever. HBO’s spectacular mob drama still holds the title as the greatest programme to ever grace the small screen, despite the fact that shows like The Wire, Mad Men, Breaking Bad, The West Wing, etc. are all fantastic. With the intention to take on standalone episodes like “College” or “Pine Barrens” or to fully commit to a multi-episode dream cycle like the start of season 6, which takes a deep dive into Tony’s psyche, creator/showrunner David Chase helped usher in the era of approaching television like a novel.The programme is simultaneously a biography of a vile individual, a family drama, and a dark comedy. It’s most notable for its never-ending suspense, complex characters, intense emotion, and outstanding series finale. You must watch The Sopranos if you’re a fan of the visual storytelling genre. Adam Chitwood

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Yellowjackets (2021-present)

Creator: Ashley Lyle, Bart Nickerson

Cast: Melanie Lynskey, Tawny Cypress, Ella Purnell, Sophie Nélisse, Jasmin Savoy Brown

The worst thing about Yellowjackets, one of this year’s most surprise hits, is that there isn’t any more to see. It follows the same characters in two timeframes while blending genre and setting. On their route to a soccer game, the characters’ younger selves crash land and wind up trapped. The elder versions we see today have established families, occupations, and lives. But there’s still a nagging feeling that everyone involved will eventually have to face up to their history, which won’t stay hidden for much longer.Although movie has a stellar ensemble, Melanie Lynskey, who plays the older Shauna, steals every scene. With each new episode, the suspense grows more intense. It is exciting in its plot and moving in its characters. When you reach the jaw-dropping finale, you’ll be both astounded at how quickly the time has passed and antsy for more. Chase Hutchinson

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Succession (2018-present)

Creator: Jesse Armstrong

Cast: Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook

Succession exist both in the present and in its own bubble cosmos. The environment that the Roy family has constructed for themselves is what gave rise to this dualism. This prominent family is obscenely wealthy because they run a global media and entertainment firm. Even though they have a tremendous amount of impact on the outside world, the series spends a lot of time focusing on their dysfunctional families, making it difficult to imagine that such a world actually exists. Succession’s characters are disorganised, disorganised, and selfish, yet it is what makes the drama so compelling.When their father, Logan (Brian Cox), ineluctably retires one day, the Roy siblings all want to lead the business. Because they are genuinely bad individuals, it is difficult to determine who to support during each season as their allegiances to each other and their father shift (except maybe Cousin Greg). Succession doesn’t try to be relatable, but not everyone can connect to the struggles of evil, wealthy people who struggle to trust their own family members. Once you’ve been drawn in, it’s virtually impossible to stop watching because it’s drama for the sake of drama. [Brynna Arens]

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The Wheel of Time (2021-present)

Creator: Rafe Judkins

Cast: Rosamund Pike, Daniel Henney, Zoë Robins

This epic fantasy series, which is based on the well-known Robert Jordan book series, follows Moiraine (Rosamund Pike) as she sets out to discover the identity of the Dragon, a potent channeler who has the potential to either save the world from the Dark One or destroy it. Their lives and the planet itself are permanently altered as she focuses her hunt on five young villagers. Things are not what they appear, and over the course of eight episodes, the true motivations of characters start to emerge as the balance between the powers of light and dark is threatened. It has a wide vision, enveloping you in a magical world while simultaneously providing Game of Thrones-caliber action, appealing to aficionados of fantasy as well. [Meredith Loftus]

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Bridgerton (2020-present)

Creator: Chris Van Dusen

Cast: Nicola Coughlan, Jonathan Bailey, Ruth Gemmell

What happens when the era of Jane Austen’s Regency is combined with the seduction and scandal of Gossip Girl? This fascinating series is yours. The period romance series, which centred on the Bridgertons, an aristocratic family among London’s elite, is an adaptation of the well-known novel series by Julia Quinn.The other members of her family are attempting to fit in with society while Daphne, the oldest daughter (Phoebe Dynevor), is out looking for a husband. But can they avoid the curious Lady Whistledown’s (Julie Andrews), London’s top gossip columnist, scrutinising eye? Come for the lavish costumes and sense of escapism of the 19th century; stay to discover Lady Whistledown’s identity and fall in love with Daphne and Simon’s love tale (along with the passionate hookups!) [Meredith Loftus]

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Euphoria (2019-present)

Creator: Sam Levinson

Cast: Zendaya, Maude Apatow, Angus Cloud

Euphoria based on the Israeli television miniseries of the same name, the show follows a group of kids as they battle through high school. It’s one of those shows that, no matter how many episodes in, you find yourself wanting to watch more. But these teenagers deal with more than just challenging classes and unfulfilled crushes; they also have to deal with murder, drugs, sex, identity issues, and more as Ruby “Rue” Bennett (Zendaya) struggles through the high school grind after just getting out of rehab.Even though the themes presented are occasionally difficult to confront, the cinematography, soundtrack, story, and incredible acting on the part of the actors keep the viewer rooted to the spot. It’s challenging not to wince at the decisions characters make in their attempts to survive some of the hardest years of their lives. Olivia Fitzpatrick

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Foundation (2021-present)

Creator: David S. Goyer, Josh Friedman

Cast: Jared Harris, Lee Pace, Lou Llobell

The first season of Foundation is one of the most ambitious and intense works in the genre in recent memory, a science-fiction epic unlike anything else. In adapting Isaac Asimov’s writing, it undertook a challenging undertaking that many people thought was impossible. The harder sci-fi components of its source material are fully embraced, and it doesn’t back away from the more abstract concepts. Considering everything, it is also utterly captivating to see play out in such an uncontrolled manner.It wrestles with these concepts while simultaneously producing a visually stunning sight that is both frightful and inspirational. It represents a future that may appear far off but is far closer in its crisis than we may think, beginning with the announcement that the world is about to end and unravelling from there. It is thick but in a good manner, giving you a lot to think about before the show’s next season premiere. Chase Hutchinson

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Invincible (2021-present)

Creator: Robert Kirkman

Cast: Steven Yeun, Sandra Oh, J. K. Simmons

If you go into Invincible thinking it will be just like any other animated superhero show, you’re in for a bit of a shock; while the show features a surprising amount of mystery and nuance, it also has its fair share of action and drama as well as teenage struggles. The programme challenges some of the most well-known superhero clichés and challenges the audience to consider the true cost of superhuman abilities. Additionally, this show is as visually appealing as its captivating plot thanks to creative animation and a willingness to get nasty and gruesome. Invincible appears to be practically invincible when it comes to adult superhero series thanks to an all-star ensemble! Olivia Fitzpatrick

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Arcane (2021-present)

Creator: Christian Linke, Alex Yee

Cast: Hailee Steinfeld, Ella Purnell, Kevin Alejandro

Who would have imagined that a television show based on a video game could rank among the finest of the past ten years? Given that it reuses some of the game’s most renowned characters and settings, Arcane is undoubtedly a League of the Legends franchise. Arcane, however, produces an original plot that examines how social inequality and the fear of war effect people’s lives rather than being constrained by the game’s rules.The sisterly conflict between Vi (voiced by Hailee Steinfeld) and Jinx (voiced by Ella Purnell) lies at the heart of the narrative, raising the stakes in each battle. Last but not least, Arcane is a show that anybody can watch because it is more focused on delivering a compelling tale than promoting a game. With the addition of a cutting-edge animation style, you have the ideal TV programme for binge-watching. Marco Vito Oddo

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Hawkeye (2021)

Creator: Jonathan Igla

Cast: Jeremy Renner, Hailee Steinfeld, Tony Dalton

This series is a surefire hit if you enjoy both superheroes and the holiday season. The Disney+ series Hawkeye follows our favourite archer Clint Barton (Jeremy Renner), who is still reeling from his messy past as Ronin and is attempting to move on from his perilous life as an Avenger and S.H.I.E.L.D. agent. Hawkeye takes place one year after the Thanos-filled events of Avengers: Endgame. All the wounded hero wants is to get back to his family in time for Christmas, but when he meets Kate Bishop (Hailee Steinfeld), a self-taught great archer and quite possibly Clint’s biggest admirer, his plans are upset.The unusual duo teams together to defeat Yelena Belova, Black Widow’s sister, the Tracksuit Mafia, and crime boss Wilson Fisk (Vincent D’Onofrio) (Florence Pugh). Emily Bernard

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Hacks (2021-present)

Creator: Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, Jen Statsky

Cast: Jean Smart, Hannah Einbinder, Carl Clemons-Hopkins

Hacks, an Emmy-winning dark comedy series created by Lucia Aniello, Paul W. Downs, and Jen Statsky, centres on Deborah Vance (Jean Smart), a legendary stand-up comic with diva tendencies who struggles to keep her act fresh for her Las Vegas residency. In the meantime, Ava (Hannah Einbinder), an aspiring comedy writer who is obstinate, is dealing with the repercussions of sending an offensive tweet and is eager to establish herself in the field.The two try to work together to better Deborah’s act after receiving a strong push from their shared manager Jimmy (Paul W. Downs), and in the midst of the chaos, they wind up developing an unexpected and downright charming friendship. They are the furthest things from hacks, as you’ll soon discover. Emily Bernard

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Only Murders in the Building (2021-present)

Creator: Steve Martin & John Hoffman

Cast: Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez

A murder has occurred! And if you enjoy true crime as much as they do, you’ll be eager to solve it. In the SAG Award-nominated crime comedy Only Murders in the Building, which was co-written by John Hoffman and Steve Martin, retired actor Charles-Hayden Savage (Steve Martin), unsuccessful Broadway director Oliver Putnam (Martin Short), and young artist Mabel Mora (Selena Gomez) work together to create their own murder mystery podcast in an effort to find the murderer who is hiding in their building. As it examines the age disparities between the tenants and tries to pinpoint whodunit, this adorable whodunit will have you gasping and laughing. Emily Bernard

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The Leftovers (2014-2017)

Creator: Damon Lindelof, Tom Perrotta

Cast: Justin Theroux, Amy Brenneman, Christopher Eccleston

Damon Lindelof’s second twisty television series is also well worth seeing if you liked the recurring mysteries of Lost and HBO’s Watchmen. The series, which is based on the Tom Perrotta novel, takes set three years after a mysterious occurrence known as the “Sudden Departure,” in which 2% of the world’s population vanished. As they look for solutions, the citizens of a tiny town deal with their shared loss. Although Justin Theroux, Carrie Coon, Regina King, Christopher Eccelston, and many others give outstanding performances, The Leftovers also shows the resilient side of the human spirit. It’s a spooky yet reassuring series for the post-COVID era. [Liam Gaughan]

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Legion (2017-2019)

Creator: Noah Hawley

Cast: Dan Stevens, Rachel Keller, Aubrey Plaza

The odd Noah Hawley adaptation of the X-Men spinoff series by Chris Claremont and Bill Sienkiewicz is the programme for you if you prefer your superhero stories when they’re not afraid to get weird. David Haller (Dan Stevens), a mental patient who is kept in a very guarded facility because he can’t stop hearing eerie voices, is the subject of the FX series. Actually, David is a descendant of a well-known superhero. He has power over several different personas, each of which has a special talent. As David discovers his abilities, Legion spends three seasons examining mental health issues. [Liam Gaughan]

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Lucifer (2016-2021)

Creator: Tom Kapinos

Cast: Tom Ellis, Lauren German, Kevin Alejandro

Based on the same-named comic book series, Lucifer follows the main Satan as he leaves Hell and establishes a residence as a high-end club owner in Los Angeles. He becomes involved in the police investigation after a friend is slain at his club and discovers that he enjoys the work—almost as much as he like the detective on the case, Chloe Decker. The programme premiered on Fox before being cancelled after three seasons.Following a huge outpouring of support from the audience, Netflix decided to renew the show for three more seasons. Lucifer is a fun, carefree show with just enough supernatural elements to keep it from being overly procedural. The programme introduces us to the first woman, Eve, God and his wife, the Goddess of all creation, Lucifer’s cunning twin brother, Michael, Lucifer’s best friend, a demon named Mazikeen, and the devil’s therapist in addition to solving murders. [Alyse Wax]

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WandaVision (2021)

Creator: Jac Schaeffer

Cast: Elizabeth Olsen, Paul Bettany, Kathryn Hahn

WandaVision, which takes place immediately after Avengers: Endgame, depicts Scarlet Witch, called Wanda, and her husband, Vision, as leading idyllic suburban lives. It soon becomes apparent that Wanda has charmed an entire village with her magic and imprisoned everyone into her ideal life, which is based on her intake of American TV series. Since each episode parodies a different television programme from a different era, such as I Love Lucy, The Brady Bunch, Full House, Malcolm in the Middle, and Modern Family, this series appeals to fans of superheroes as well as TV nerds. It resembles the entire eight-hour history of television. — Alyse Wax

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The Boys (2019-present)

Creator: Eric Kripke

Cast: Karl Urban, Jack Quaid, Antony Starr

The Boys, an Amazon superhero series, is the ideal fusion of a “prestige”-style programme and the machinery of a well-run serialised network drama. The television programme, which is based on the same-named comics, is set in a society in which superheroes are not only real but also well-known. However, it turns out that the majority of those superheroes are overpowered and frequently commit crimes with no repercussions.Here come The Boys, a motley crew of everyday people with personal vendettas against the superhuman team known as The Seven. The programme deals with issues like capitalism, fame, and even sexual misconduct. It is also incredibly violent, darkly funny, and unsuitable for children. The Boys is, above all else, just a tonne of fun, despite the fact that it goes to some very dark areas. Adam Chitwood

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Hannibal (2013-2015)

Creator: Bryan Fuller

Cast: Hugh Dancy, Mads Mikkelsen, Caroline Dhavernas

You’ve never seen a television programme quite like Hannibal, and if you enjoy artistically told tales of serial killers with lots of sexual tension, you’re going to adore it. Mads Mikkelsen plays forensic psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal Lecter, who is enlisted by talented criminal profiler Will Graham (Hugh Dancy) and the Behavioral Sciences Unit of the FBI to assist in the hunt for a serial killer in the show, which is based on the Thomas Harris novel of the same name.When Will starts to believe Hannibal might be involved in these murders, their already wildly inappropriate and intensely linked connection becomes even more complicated. And for Harris devotees, the programme features several cherished Lecter book plots (like Red Dragon). Hannibal is a completely original series that becomes weirder and crazier as it goes along, but manages to keep you enthralled the entire time. It’s equal parts crime procedural mystery, psychological thriller romance, and outright horror narrative. You’ll quickly begin to question how in the world NBC allowed a programme this vivid, poetic, and bizarre to air for three seasons. Adam Chitwood

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The Witcher (2019-present)

Creator: Lauren Schmidt Hissrich

Cast: Henry Cavill, Freya Allan, Eamon Farren

The Witcher is two-thirds of an absolute blast. The fantasy series does indeed embrace all aspects of fantasy storytelling and gaming, including enjoyable side quests, POV battles, and even a bard who follows Henry Cavill’s titular human/creature hybrid around singing songs about his glories. It is more Lord of the Rings than Game of Thrones.Three interconnected stories are followed in the first season of the programme: Yennefer of Vengerberg (Anya Chalotra) is a strong sorceress in training who struggles to control her emotions; princess Ciri (Freya Allan) is on the run after the sacking of her city but harbours secrets of her own; and Cavill’s Witcher is a muscle-for-hire monster hunter who starts to wonder why so many princesses have been turning into creatures. The Witcher is the ideal kind of binge-watching programme since it’s rich in lore and world-building but never loses its grip. Adam Chitwood

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Schitt’s Creek (2015-2020)

Creator: Eugene Levy, Dan Levy

Cast: Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, Dan Levy, Annie Murphy

Schitt’s Creek, one of the happiest sitcoms on television, is a combination between a less cynical Arrested Development and an inverted Beverly Hillbillies. A affluent family in the Canadian sitcom loses everything after being conned by their business manager. They are compelled to relocate there and live in a motel because the only thing they own is a tiny, rural village that the dad (Eugene Levy) bought for his son (Daniel Levy) as a joke gift back in 1991.Despite their many, many eccentricities, they gradually learn to appreciate their new lives and their new town. The comedy is excellent, and Catherine O’Hara, who plays the family matriarch and was a soap opera actor in the past, gives a fantastic performance. The son’s pansexuality is welcomed with a warm embrace rather than derision or judgement, making it a beautifully progressive series. Schitt’s Creek is the perfect show for when you need a pick-me-up since it is hilarious, smart, and oh-so-sweet. Adam Chitwood

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Game of Thrones (2011-2019)

Creator: David Benioff, D. B. Weiss

Cast: Peter Dinklage, Lena Headey, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Emilia Clarke

When you’re pulling your hair out while waiting for new episodes each week and new seasons each year, you can be sure that a show will be enjoyable to binge-watch.The Game of Thrones television adaptation, created by David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, builds on the shock drama and high fantasy elements of George R. R. Martin’s best-selling book series. It transforms all the political manoeuvring, royal intrigue, and post-apocalyptic fantasy underpinnings into television gold. Game of Thrones, which is supported by a game-changing HBO budget, may be the most spectacular thing to ever air on television. HBO’s lavish focus creates an entirely immersive world where anything can happen, anyone can die, and each new twisting cliffhanger and violent punctuation leaves you eagerly anticipating what comes next. (Haleigh Foutch)

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Parks and Recreation (2009-2015)

Creator: Greg Daniels, Michael Schur

Cast: Amy Poehler, Rashida Jones, Paul Schneider

Parks and Recreation is a fantastic programme to binge watch because it changed so much over the course of its existence. Showrunner Mike Schur was never one to settle for the status quo, and this ode to public service takes great pleasure in upending its characters’ situations in exciting and interesting ways. Additionally, Amy Poehler’s Leslie Knope’s incredible journey from deputy head of the Parks and Recreation Department to prospective candidate for president of the United States is flawlessly portrayed. With the exception of the shaky first season, there isn’t a false note to be found in this show. Its empathy for its characters and constantly shifting situations make it a perfect binge-watch at any time. Adam Chitwood

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Veronica Mars (2004-2019)

Creator: Rob Thomas

Cast: Kristen Bell, Percy Daggs III, Teddy Dunn

Veronica Mars It shouldn’t be this good. The creator/showrunner Rob Thomas always keeps his series firmly set in reality, grounded by a star-making performance by Kristen Bell. There are so many ways a teen-centric private eye show may go wrong. This is a tribute to both Thomas’ writing and Bell’s maturity as a performer because the titular high school student never feels like a conduit for a middle-aged adult’s wisecracks. Additionally, the teen drama is enticing, the riddles are actually interesting, and the cast is (usually) made up of charismatic actors who truly inhabit the screen. Think of Veronica Mars as True Detective and The O.C. combined. Adam Chitwood

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True Detective (2014-2019)

Creator: Nic Pizzolatto

Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, Michelle Monaghan

The intriguing anthology by Nic Pizzolatto and Cary Fukunaga is a rabbit hole of a mystery that kept viewers guessing about the (perhaps mythological) killer for a very long time. But the aesthetically opulent investigation of this crime thriller, which takes place in Louisiana, is actually about the two disturbed men who, as portrayed by Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, slowly piece together what happened.After a totally southern gothic crescendo, True Detective’s plot eventually comes together as it weaves through the atrocities inflicted by The Yellow King and focuses on the difficult relationship between its two detective leads. It’s a captivating and hypnotic experience that established a bar that its own Season 2 (which featured a new cast, set, and directors) could not even come close to meeting. Allison Keene

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Breaking Bad (2008-2013)

Creator: Vince Gilligan

Cast: Bryan Cranston, Anna Gunn, Aaron Paul

Breaking Bad, the iconic Golden Age series created by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould, can feel like an emotional marathon to binge watch, but the conclusion is well worth the upheaval of the ride. Breaking Bad is a masterwork of long-form narrative that constantly throws you off course and isn’t afraid to go for broke with depicting reprehensible human behaviour and the far-reaching consequences of evil deeds.Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned drug lord, is a revelation, and an ensemble of extraordinarily brilliant peers backs him up at every turn. The television series Breaking Bad is expertly designed, with each season seeming like both a standalone narrative unit and a component of a larger totality. Your stomach will turn and your nerves will be on edge as you ride a thrilling rollercoaster of character drama through crime and retribution. (Haleigh Foutch)

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Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997-2003)

Creator: Joss Whedon

Cast: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Nicholas Brendon, Alyson Hannigan

Buffy the Vampire Slayer, the enduring teenage drama that chronicled coming of age via the conquering of real monsters, enormous and, on at least one occasion, very small, was created by Joss Whedon and redefined the conventions of genre television. Buffy, which debuted in 1997 and is still a joy to watch today, chronicles the long-term maturation of a cast of lovable characters from the teenage turmoil to the disappointments of early adulthood. It’s also a terrific monster series, offering one horrifying creature after another with amazing practical effects and unbridled enthusiasm for the subject.My first binge was Buffy, years before the phrase even existed. Watching the seasons back-to-back on my well-used DVDs is what I think I used to refer to as “marathoning Buffy.” However, it never ages. (Haleigh Foutch)

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Twin Peaks (1990-1991)

Creator: Mark Frost, David Lynch​​​​​​​

Cast: Kyle MacLachlan, Michael Ontkean, Mädchen Amick

You don’t need much more of a reason to watch than the series’ unique combination of semi-traditional and propulsive genre pleasure and pure Lynch-brand surrealism, even though there has never been a better time to watch David Lynch’s landmark network series (as well as its jaw-dropping revival run). Twin Peaks, starring Kyle Maclachlan at the height of his charisma and set in a magical realist dream world somewhere in the misty Pacific Northwest, is probably the most approachable work Lynch has produced, but it’s also quite possibly his most intimate. Even if Twin Peaks isn’t quite Lynch at his greatest, it is undoubtedly at his most recognisable because of how emotionally gripping it is and how deeply hidden there is beneath the sparkling craziness. (Aubrey Page)

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The Haunting of Hill House (2018)

​​​​​​​Creator: Mike Flanagan

Cast: ​​​​​​​Michiel Huisman, Carla Gugino, Henry Thomas

With The Haunting of Hill House, Hush and Gerald’s Game director Mike Flanagan gives Netflix his most ambitious project to yet (and that’s saying a lot considering he successfully adapted Gerald’s Game). The series is based on Shirley Jackson’s iconic ghost story, but instead of focusing on Jackson’s narrative (though there are times when her prose is overused), it instead concentrates on the haunting lives of the dying Crain family.Back and forth between the Crain family’s summer spent in the fictitious haunted mansion and the years of loss and trauma they experienced as a result. The Haunting of Hill House is a superb example of Flanagan’s ability to combine the scares into a complex, interwoven story of family tinged with grief. Flanagan has demonstrated in earlier works that he has a talent for unsettling images and well-composed horrors. The series, which is led by a great ensemble, alternates between emotional revelation and spine-tingling scares. Although it may give you a lot more nightmares, it is the most touching and genuine picture of mortality and sadness since Six Feet Under. [Haleigh Foutch]

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Archer (2009-present)

​​​​​​​Creator: Adam Reed

Cast: H. Jon Benjamin, Judy Greer, Amber Nash

It’s uncommon for a TV show to go seven seasons (and counting) while still seeming new, but Archer is always hilarious, fashionable, and unexpected. It’s best to binge-watch the FX sitcom because Adam Reed, who created it, like to use running jokes or callbacks a lot. It’s always fun to watch H. Jon Benjamin’s highly skilled and utterly stupid spy fumble his way through numerous tasks. This animated series is also a delight to binge watch because it has a tendency to reinvent itself one season at a time, focusing on a single expansive plot arc for the duration of each season. Archer is essentially a big machine that produces delight. Adam Chitwood

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Westworld (2016-present)

Creator: Jonathan Nolan, Lisa Joy​​​​​​​

Cast: Evan Rachel Wood, Thandiwe Newton, Jeffrey Wright, James Marsden

It was a joy to have enough time in between each chapter to put the pieces of the puzzle Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy painstakingly constructed for their show Westworld. God knows, the enticing secrets of Westworld were wonderful when doled out at a weekly pace. Despite this, the show also encourages binge-watching, especially on a second viewing when you can fully appreciate the vastness of the time-twisting, twisted plot.Westworld is the ideal fusion of pulpy fantasy and cerebral sci-fi, packing in HBO’s signature sex and death spectacle along with a heavy dose of complex brain-twisters. Whether you watch it week by week or all at once, both vantage points offer new aspects to appreciate. Westworld is set in an Old West theme park where robots are at human disposal for whatever dark urges they may possess. (Haleigh Foutch)

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Community (2009-2015)

​​​​​​​Creator: Dan Harmon

Cast: Joel McHale, Gillian Jacobs, Danny Pudi

Yes, we have our six seasons, but the movie is still on the way. A Community binge is always enjoyable in the interim.Despite having its ups and downs throughout the course of the seasons, Dan Harmon’s irreverent comedy series was consistently among the sharpest and most original comedies on television. It never shied away from mocking the rules of the half-hour comedy format or entirely smashing the mould. Community, which purports to be about a study group at a wholly boring community college, waltzes across genres with complete chameleon flexibility while never losing sight of the long-term arcs. What’s not fantastic about binge-watching Community, which essentially feels like hanging out with a bunch of your strangest friends? (Haleigh Foutch)

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Castle Rock (2018-2019)

​​​​​​​Creator: Sam Shaw, Dustin Thomason​​​​​​​

Cast: André Holland, Melanie Lynskey, Bill Skarsgård, Jane Levy, Sissy Spacek

Castle Rock tells tales set in Stephen King’s imaginary world, which is home to his well-known—and occasionally infamous—characters, settings, and paranormal forces. This pays respect to the king of horror. This is an original story that sounds like it might have been lifted straight out of a Stephen King story, not just a wink-wink imitation.Longtime King fans will have a difficult time keeping up with all the character and plot references while still following the intriguing mystery that lies at the book’s centre. It’s possible that more casual readers will fall in love with all the small winks and nods and decide they’d like to explore King’s collected works a little further. That results in mutual benefit. Sam Shaw and Dustin Thomason, the show’s creators, certainly know how to write a Stephen King-like tale, and J.J. Abrams is no pushover when it comes to opening the mystery package.

Like many of King’s stories, Castle Rock centres on a small village with a sinister mystery and an even more sinister evil. The disappearance of young Henry Deaver in 1991 and the current apparition of Skarsgard’s The Kid in 2018 are at the heart of the mystery plot in this first season. It’s that easy. However, as with any King narrative, the true significance is not only revealed by solving the riddle but also by observing how the characters respond to the events, interact with one another, and are eventually held accountable for their deeds. For lovers of Stephen King and dark, suspenseful, character-driven mysteries, Castle Rock is a series not to be missed. Dave Trumbore

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Weeds (2005-2012)

​​​​​​​Creator: Jenji Kohan

Cast: Mary-Louise Parker, Elizabeth Perkins, Justin Kirk

Weeds, a Showtime half-hour dark comedy about a suburban single mother who turns to dealing and selling pot as a means of revenue, existed before binge-watching was a thing. It’s not surprising that creator/showrunner Jenji Kohan would go on to produce another very binge-worthy show in Orange Is the New Black because Mary-Louise Parker is endlessly entertaining in the lead character. Weeds was exceptional for a half-hour series because it frequently made big narrative jumps and gave equal attention to unexpected plot twists and characters. Some argue that the series should never have left its suburban setting, yet there is still good television in the latter seasons when the Botwin family expanded their empire. Adam Chitwood

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Broadchurch (2013-2017)

​​​​​​​Creator: Chris Chibnall

Cast: David Tennant, Olivia Colman

In a sleepy coastal hamlet in England, a small child goes missing, and later his body is discovered on the beach. From there, the inquiry into the murderer, who was a member of this close-knit community, causes the people of Broadchurch to witness how their entire worlds are flipped upside down. Because of a stellar ensemble, Broadchurch’s popularity, at least in its first season, can be attributed to the way its crime tale is subordinated to the character drama it delves into.The series’ idyllic backdrop is dramatically contrasted with the evil within it, from the two squabbling detectives (played by David Tennant and Olivia Colman) to the bereaved mother (Jodie Whittaker) trying to pull her family back from the edge, leading to a devastating and horrific finale (that should have ideally ended the series). Allison Keene

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Rick and Morty (2013-present)

​​​​​​​Creator: Justin Roiland, Dan Harmon​​​​​​​

Cast: Justin Roiland, Chris Parnell, Spencer Grammer

Binge watching Rick and Morty has benefits and drawbacks. On the other side, it’s a sometimes excruciatingly funny show that offers an absurd number of giggles per episode combined with unexpectedly substantial character arcs. The drawback is that you might damage your brain. Hard sci-fi with sharp edges, Rick and Morty might be challenging to follow because of its fast-paced, mind-bending ideas.You won’t be able to stop yourself, that’s the thing. The series is so compelling, captivating, and thoroughly insane that you just can’t resist the urge to hit play on the next bit of madness, even though it’s fun to sit with an episode for a while to break down the layers and implications of everything that buzzes by on-screen in each tight half-hour episode. (Haleigh Foutch)

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Upload (2020-present)

Creator: Greg Daniels

Cast: Robbie Amell, Andy Allo, Allegra Edwards

Upload is what you would get if The Good Place were set in the future. Greg Daniels, who also created and oversaw the American version of The Office and co-produced Parks and Recreation, is the man behind this Amazon original sitcom, and he is what makes it distinctive. In Upload, which is set in a near-future in which people can have their consciousness uploaded into a digital afterlife—provided they can afford it—Daniels’ predilection for fusing comedy with romance is still very much alive.Robbie Amell plays a programmer who uploads after dying and finds it difficult to deal with his shallow girlfriend who is still alive as well as his romantic feelings for the customer service agent. Oh, and he might or might not be investigating whether he was murdered. You can be confident that the show’s ending cliffhanger will be handled because Upload has been renewed for a second season and features all of your favourite comedic, romantic, and mystery elements. Adam Chitwood

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Marcella (2016-present)

​​​​​​​Creator: Hans Rosenfeldt, Nicola Larder​​​​​​​

Cast: Anna Friel, Nicholas Pinnock, Ray Panthaki

For better or worse, binge-watching has the tendency to blur one’s attention on the specifics of each episode. Although Marcella is not a fantastic series, it is a wonderful binge watch due of its tempo and intriguing primary mystery, which make it easier to get engrossed in the plot and overlook some of its flaws.A transgender version of the classic crime narrative protagonist—brainy, tormented, and with a deteriorating personal life due to her dedication to her work capturing terrible killers—Anna Friel provides a superb performance. However, Marcella is also prone to blackouts and acts violently, which adds another level of intrigue to the question of what crimes she may be doing (as well as her dubious choices to cover them up). Few crime dramas, in general, are as rapidly riveting as Marcella, which keeps you guessing right up to the very end. Allison Keene

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Futurama (1999-2023)

​​​​​​​Creator: Matt Groening​​​​​​​

Cast: Billy West, Katey Sagal, John DiMaggio

For whatever reason, animated programmes feel like much more enjoyable binge-watches than live-action comedies that last for only 30 minutes. Futurama, which is equally prone to single episodes as it is to multi-episode arcs, is a prime example of this. The show’s strong sci-fi elements make it a lot of fun to watch in one sitting because each episode takes you to a different universe, introduces you to fresh characters, and delves into fascinating sci-fi concepts and themes. However, Futurama’s main characters are what really hold the show together, and the writers’ propensity for expressing emotion when necessary makes the programme all the more interesting. Adam Chitwood

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Bodyguard (2018)

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Creator: Jed Mercurio ​​​​​​​

Cast: Richard Madden, Keeley Hawes, Gina McKee

The first episode of Bodyguard catches you from the get-go, and the six-episode first season of the show never really lets up.The series follows David Budd (Richard Madden), a metropolitan police officer who is tasked with protecting the life of Conservative Home Secretary Julia Montague (Keeley Hawes), in the midst of a political crisis—specifically, the debate over how to deal with terrorism. The series premiered in the UK to astounding numbers before making its US debut on Netflix. Budd’s personal life and history are gradually disclosed during the programme, making it difficult for viewers to decide if he is a genuine hero or a possible monster. Homeland fans will undoubtedly enjoy this show if they enjoyed the first season. Adam Chitwood

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GLOW (2017-2019)

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Creator: Liz Flahive, Carly Mensch​​​​​​​

Cast: Alison Brie, Betty Gilpin, Sydelle Noel

A number of aspiring actresses and other down-on-their-luck women audition for and decide to enter the world of professional wrestling in the Netflix original series GLOW, which boasts one of the more inventive premise in recent TV history. Alison Brie portrays a theatre nerd and aspiring actress who takes everything way too seriously, Marc Maron plays the schlock B-movie director tasked with turning GLOW into a show, and Betty Gilpin portrays Brie’s former friend and soap opera star who serves as the focal point of the wrestling event.Although Season 1 of a Netflix TV show is lovely, Season 2 is among its best seasons. And did I mention the killer 80s soundtrack? It’s purely joyful, focused, character-rich, and wonderfully entertaining. Adam Chitwood

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Skins (UK) (2007-2013)

​​​​​​​Creator: Bryan Elsley, Jamie Brittain​​​​​​​

Cast: Nicholas Hoult, Hannah Murray, Larissa Wilson

Skins began as a UK series that sought to depict teens in their own terms (the writing staff was young, the music is flawless, the tales are all about raging hormones, parties, and awkwardness), but as it went on and the cast changed, it started to take on a somewhat different identity. But even though you feel burdened by school, your parents, and unrequited love, the first few seasons are nevertheless packed with incredible moxie, enthusiasm, and the pleasures of being young and free. Even if Skins isn’t always right or makes sense, it’s an entertaining adventure with a number of budding performers who have since gone on to star in some major movies. Allison Keene

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Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (2015-2019)

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Creator: Tina Fey, Robert Carlock ​​​​​​​

Cast: Ellie Kemper, Tituss Burgess, Carol Kane, Jane Krakowski

Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt is remains the benchmark for half-hour shows on the streaming site, despite Netflix’s constantly expanding selection of content bringing viewers a variety of programmes meant to be binge-watched. The Robert Carlock and Tina Fey comedy tackles PTSD and trauma issues in a way that is both humorous and accurate. This is a programme that you might easily wind up watching in five, six, or seven-episode batches without realising it because Ellie Kemper’s happiness is contagious. Adam Chitwood

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The Expanse (2015-2023)

​​​​​​​Creator: Mark Fergus, Hawk Ostby​​​​​​​

Cast: Thomas Jane, Steven Strait, Cas Anvar

The Expanse, a former Syfy series, continues its outstanding run as one of the most difficult, gratifying, and sophisticated sci-fi dramas now airing at its new home on Amazon Prime Video, now with more resources and creative flexibility than ever. The Expanse is based on the award-winning, ongoing sci-fi novel series by James S.A. Corey. It is set 200 years in the future in a colonised solar system where people from Earth, Mars, and the asteroid belt constantly fight over territories, freedoms, and the future of humanity while evil government conspiracies and secrets threaten the galaxy in the distance.

It’s a deep and comprehensive body of work that creates an immensely textured science fiction world while paying attention to the real-world realities of pandering and politicking. A new world is introduced to the characters in the most recent batch of episodes of The Expanse, allowing the show to craft its colonialist examination with more immediate consequences than ever. This is in addition to bringing the show to its new streaming home. And it still still manages to be absolutely intriguing; a nuanced examination of political structures and the stoking of diametrically opposed worldviews that never skimps on rich character development or good, ol’-fashioned space spectacle. (Haleigh Foutch)

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Gossip Girl (2007-2012)

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Creator: Josh Schwartz, Stephanie Savage​​​​​​​

Cast: Blake Lively, Leighton Meester, Penn Badgley

Pure energising soap and glitzy high fashion show Gossip Girl, a peak teen drama in the vein of Melrose Place and 90210 before it, follows the lives of upper class private school students in New York City’s Upper East Side. The show is as juicy and high drama as its name suggests. They engage in a never-ending, constantly changing series of courtships and betrayals, each bitchier and better dressed than the last and more twisted than Blair Waldorf’s flawless curls. They are crazily trendy, indulgent, and so very lovely. It’s delectable, indulgent, and completely binge-worthy. (Haleigh Foutch)

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The West Wing (1999-2006)

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Creator: Aaron Sorkin​​​​​​​

Cast: Rob Lowe, Moira Kelly, Dulé Hill, Allison Janney

The West Wing is a great fit for that particular mode of consumption, despite the fact that television in the 1990s and early 2000s was not meant to be binge-watched. There isn’t exactly a wrong way to watch The West Wing, one of the best TV shows of all time, but soaking up Aaron Sorkin’s rat-a-tat dialogue for hours at a time is a special pleasure—at least until that terrible fifth season. Adam Chitwood

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Fleabag (2016-2019)

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Creator: Phoebe Waller-Bridge

Cast: Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Sian Clifford, Andrew Scott

The first and second seasons of Fleabag, which ran an efficient six half-hour episodes each, starred Phoebe Waller-Bridge as the titular woman who deals with the difficulties of dating in London while avoiding all of the clichés of the genre.Fleabag periodically conspires with viewers by breaking the fourth wall and confirming that yes, everything we are seeing is true and absurd. It is disarmingly raw, honest, and sincere. Despite the fun in her dating misadventures, over the course of the first season, a darker undercurrent regarding her closest friend’s tragic death begins to emerge. Fleabag embarked on a new healing journey through love and religion this time as much as through family and grief in Season 2, giving the zeitgeist to Andrew Scott’s Hot Priest. Fleabag is among the best, brightest, and funniest TV shows because of the skillful handling of the situation. — Allison Keene

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Enlightened (2011-2013)

​​​​​​​Creator: Mike White​​​​​​​

Cast: Laura Dern, Luke Wilson, Diane Ladd

Enlightened, a sharply hilarious and emotionally open television series by Mike White, was abruptly cancelled four years after its final episode aired on HBO. And while it’s true that the network only gave the series a meagre two seasons out of a planned three, the creativity of a programme that was too subdued for its time is sometimes overlooked.Enlightened, which debuted on television during what may be called the first phase of #PeakTV, stars Laura Dern as Amy Jellicoe, a dissatisfied, imperfect, and fully human character whose emotional breakdown at a posh corporate firm sparks a sincere quest for personal enlightenment. The problem? Amy struggles a lot to maintain her calm. Enlightened is an almost perfect series with a hyper-watchable expose-style hook that will keep you watching – even through the tears. It is bravely political and almost uncomfortably honest. Aubrey Page

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The Wire (2002-2008)

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Creator: David Simon​​​​​​​

Cast: Dominic West, John Doman, Idris Elba

One of the shows, The Wire, gained more popularity after airing for a few seasons or after having completed its erratic schedule. The method of bingeing was via DVDs, which makes it harder to understand now with the modern method where Netflix or whatever programme you use actually needs you to decide when to stop watching because they’ll autoplay you into oblivion, giving you only a few seconds to decide if you’re going to continue or not. There were occasional editorials about how it was one of the best shows ever made and needed a new season.The Wire has reached mythological status and is a surefire discussion starter at gatherings after completing a five-season order that included more than a year’s worth of breaks (due to the ratings being so low). Although a binge was never intended, many people felt that it was necessary due to the buzz from friends and reliable critics.

My first real binge was on The Wire, which is perhaps the best show to binge on. Each season presents one side of a hexagon about the drug trade and how it corrupts neighbourhoods, politicians, trade, education, and journalism using Baltimore as the scenario (a city with drug troubles, poverty lines, violence, and elected corruption all above the national average). Despite changing locations and introducing whole new characters, David Simon’s brilliant series naturally keeps the audience’s favourite drug dealers and investigators relevant to the plot. All of them are bones in a massive skeleton.The humiliation of the drug war and how it has damaged every pillar of American society is what Simon is unearthing. Here is your one millionth request for you to watch The Wire if you haven’t already. Since it’s frequently described with such ecstatic praise, you might not believe it’s a binge-worthy affair, but trust me when I say that once you start, you’ll have to clear your schedule, cancel social events, and call in sick because you’ll be hooked. The Wire spans more than 60 hours. Your friends and coworkers will be curious about your whereabouts. You’ll also come out of your binge paler and dirtier, but with a greater understanding of the harm narcotics have done to communities. Brian Formo

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The Office (U.S.) (2005-2013)

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Creator: Greg Daniels​​​​​​​

Cast: Steve Carell, Rainn Wilson, John Krasinski

Let’s face it: most American adaptations of British TV series are terrible. The American The Office’s original launch wasn’t spectacular, in truth. The first season’s six episodes had its moments, largely because to Steve Carell’s sincere performance, but it lacked in terms of plot and characters. The show’s second season, which is regarded as one of the best seasons of comedy television in history, was however made possible by the last few episodes expanding on what had already been successful.From that point on, the show took off, establishing a fantastically engaging will they/won’t they with Jim and Pam and developing Michael Scott into a character who is both extremely annoying and human. The series itself overstayed its welcome by two or three seasons, but despite that, it is still one of the most rewatchable shows ever produced and it’s a shame Carell never received an Emmy for his outstanding performance throughout the length of the series. Adam Chitwood

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The Magicians (2015-2020)

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Creator: Sera Gamble, John McNamara​​​​​​​

Cast: Jason Ralph, Stella Maeve, Olivia Taylor Dudley

Do you want to watch attractive magicians perform sexual magic with some of the best television writing of the last ten years, instantly recognisable costume design, and an ensemble cast that acts like scene-stealing is an Olympic sport? Look no further than The Magicians, the controversial, forward-thinking, and emotionally nuanced Syfy fantasy series based on the acclaimed Lev Grossman book trilogy.Sera Gamble and John McNamara, the show’s creators, have expanded the extensive mythology throughout the years, making it more crazier and wilder than the books (which is really saying something), and they’ve exploited the space of serialised TV to give the characters more depth and humanity. The Magicians’ cast is one of the most endearing ever, and dialogue doesn’t get any more witty or imaginative in fantasy. (Haleigh Foutch)

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Russian Doll (2019-present)

​​​​​​​​​​​​​​Creator: Natasha Lyonne, Leslye Headland, Amy Poehler ​​​​​​​

Cast: Natasha Lyonne, Greta Lee, Yul Vazquez

Russian Doll, a Netflix existential comedy that is ideal for binge-watching, features Natasha Lyonne’s character Nadia, a lady who passes away the night of her birthday party only to wake up and start reliving the night (and her many, many) deaths over and over again.Lyonne proves that an actor’s best route to the role of their career is writing it oneself by acting from a script she co-wrote with Amy Poehler and Leslye Headland (who also directs, with Jamie Babbit and Lyonne herself). Russian Doll offers an incisive look into the self-destructive loops we catch ourselves in and the empathy and self-forgiveness required to break free. It is cheeky, provocative, not to mention deliciously foul-mouthed. (Haleigh Foutch)

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The X-Files (1993-2018)

​​​​​​​Creator: Chris Carter​​​​​​​

Cast: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Robert Patrick

There are an alarming number of theories revealed in The X-Files that are still relevant today, despite the fact that the initial run of the show was shot nearly 30 years ago. vaccines that keep track of and catalogue individuals? A virus that decimates populations? Aliens? Sounds recognisable. Of course, there are also subjects that are purely for fun, like flukeworm/human hybrids, time travel, and sea animals. The X-files is a division of the FBI that deals with enigmatic phenomena and puzzling murders. It is headed by Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny, who play FBI Agents Scully and Mulder.In the 1990s, if you didn’t see this show, you obviously weren’t living because it was the biggest show ever. Over 200 episodes, nine seasons, two revival seasons, and two feature films were produced for The X-Files. The love story between Mulder and Scully is the greatest, most nuanced tale ever written if you need something a little more than “monsters of the week” and “conspiracy theories.” For them, the word “ship” was actually coined. — Alyse Wax

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