Entertainment
While the rest of the world is fighting through the crowds for Black Friday Deals, I am sitting snug in my sweatpants and participating in my favorite fall (OK, let’s be honest, year-round) activity — TV binge-watching. In my mind, there’s nothing better than snuggling on the couch — be it alone, alone, with your SO, your BFF, or your fur-baby — and enjoying some TV shows perfect for binge-watching. It’s why the winter months exist my friends!
The trick to a successful binge-watching session is finding a show that hits all of the marks. You want a show that makes you think, but doesn’t tire you out after 20 minutes. You want a show that captivates your with the characters, dialogue, and story lines. It doesn’t have to be an award-winning series — just one that entertains you. From beloved comedies that make you laugh out loud to high-stakes dramas that keep you on the edge of your seat, there are plenty of quality shows to invest in this year. So get comfy with some snacks and relish in the coziness of your couch. Winter is coming, and you’ll want to try one (or all) of these 23 binge-worthy TV shows.
1
'Breaking Bad'
I jumped on the Breaking Bad bandwagon shortly after my daughter was born. Smart, dark, and absolutely enthralling, I quickly became obsessed. Sure, my newborn daughter was subjected to storylines about meth, murder, and mayhem, but I think she turned out fine. She even dances to the mariachi band’s Heisenberg song.
Available on Netflix and Amazon
2
'How I Met Your Mother'
You want a show to invest in? How I Met Your Mother is the one. You will fall in love with every character and become overly invested in their fictitious lives. And if you pay close attention, you’ll notice and appreciate a series of inside jokes that continue from the first season to the last. It’s legen — wait for it —dary!
Available on Netflix and Amazon
3
'30 Rock'
If Saturday Night Live no longer makes you laugh, then 30 Rock may be the perfect substitute. Tina Fey is spectacular as Liz Lemon, the slightly awkward, cynical, and smart producer who has no issue going head-to-head with Alec Baldwin’s uptight, uber Republican Jack Donaghy. Thier banter also makes for some quotable moments that you’ll find yourself repeating throughout the day.
Available on Netflix and Amazon
4
'Orange Is The New Black'
Wondering why critics love the ladies of Litchfield Penitentiary? Well, now’s your time to find out. Providing an insightful look into prison life (and making us realize that no one is perfect), Orange is the New Black will keep you invested and sympathetic to these incredible characters.
Available on Netflix
5
'Key & Peele'
No topic is off limits in this hilarious sketch comedy series from Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele. They spoof everything from gay marriage to Neil Degrasse Tyson, making it a great way to stay up to date on current events.
Available on Hulu Plus
6
'I Love Lucy'
A show that stands the test of time, I Love Lucy is perfect for those days when you want to laugh out loud and feel better in thirty minutes or less. Lucille Ball’s wild antics are both believable and endearing, and are sure to cheer you up a blue day.
Available on Hulu Plus
7
'How To Get Away With Murder'
You don’t know fierce until you watch Viola Davis portray defense attorney and law professor Annalise Keating in How to Get Away With Murder. The show starts out simple with Keating selecting the top students to help at her law firm. But drama and darkness quickly ensue, turning the show into a can’t miss thriller.
Available on Hulu Plus and Amazon
8
'Modern Family'
For days when your family drives you crazy, tune into Modern Family. The perfect blend of well-written humor and physical comedy, this heartwarming sitcom has something for everyone.
Available on Hulu Plus and Amazon
9
'House Of Cards'
I savour House of Cards like some people do a glass of fine wine (granted, I’m usually doing both at the same time.) Kevin Spacey is mesmerizing as the cunning and cut-through Frank Underwood, and makes you wonder if this is what really happens in the White House.
Available on Netflix and Amazon
10
'Saved By The Bell'
In the mood for some lycra, hairspray, and a big dose of nostalgia? Saved by the Bell is just what you need. Admire the beautiful Zack Morris, watch Jessie OD on caffeine pills, and get some '90s fashion inspiration from the one and only Lisa Turtle. It’s basically a life guide.
Available on Netflix and Amazon
11
'New Girl'
New Girl is the funniest show on TV (at least, in my humble opinion.) These characters are hilarious because of who they are, not because of their lines or gag — although the writing is phenomenal. You will love watching Zooey Deschanel’s overly awkward Jess figure out how to live in harmony (and hilarity) with a trio of guys.
Available on Netflix and Amazon
12
'Friday Night Lights'
You don’t have to be a sports fan to get sucked into the life of the Dillon Panthers. Small town life coupled with a football team and a close-knit community make this show engaging and hard to resist.
Available on Netflix and Amazon
13
'Empire'
Empire is not a show to leave out of your marathons. Terrence Howard’s soft-spoken Lucious Lyons is balanced out by Traji P. Henson’s over-the-top Cookie Lyons (who happens to be the queen of one liners.) The drama is relentless, but it pulls you in rather than tiring you out.
Available on Hulu Plus and Amazon
14
'Roseanne'
When you need a funny, real family to laugh at, try this sitcom. The chemistry between John Goodman and Roseanne Barr is unreal, and you’ll relate to at least one of the Conner children, whether it’s smart-mouthed Darlene or goody-two-shoes Becky.
Available on Netflix and Amazon
15
'Parenthood'
I’ve never called a series ‘beautiful’ before, but I’ll totally use it to describe Parenthood. You will fall in love and identify with every member of the Braverman family. The show takes you on an emotional, tear-filled roller coaster ride, but still manages to make you happy at the end of the day.
Available on Netflix and Amazon
16
'Friends'
I may never understand how six 20-somethings can spend more time at a coffee shop than their office, but I’ll still jump into their lives whenever I need a good binge. Arguably the most quotable show ever, you’ll reminisce over some of your favorite characters (Oh. My. God, Janis.) and laugh at Jennifer Aniston’s ever evolving Rachel haircut.
Available on Netflix
17
'Nashville'
I’m not really a person who thrives on conflict, but if I’m going to watch a drama, I’ll choose Nashville. The show starts out with two country music superstars pitted against each other, and offers an incredible look at the music industry for all types of artists, whether they are veterans or newcomers. Even if you’re not a country music fan, you can appreciate all of the sequined dresses and cowgirl boots.
Available on Hulu Plus and Amazon
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18
'The Walking Dead'
You don’t have to be a fan of zombies to appreciate the drama of The Walking Dead. More surreal than scary, this show examines morality from the perspective of a group of survivors. Not to mention the series’ resident bad boy Daryl Dixon is easy on the eyes.
Available on Netflix and Amazon
19
'Parks And Recreation'
You might think a show about the Indiana government would be boring, but when you have Amy Poehler at the helm, you’re in for a hilarious ride. Parks and Recreation is just as silly as it is smart, and has a charm that is amplified by the chemistry of Poehler, Chris Pratt, Nick Offerman, and the rest of the amazing cast.
Available on Netflix and Amazon
20
'Family Guy'
Family Guy is the perfect show to watch while giving your brain a break. Seth McFarlane’s animated series takes shots at all races, religions, political parties, and sexualities, making the offensive jokes somewhat OK. Besides, who can resist a talking dog and baby?
Available on Netflix
21
'The Big Bang Theory'
Following the lives of four scientists and one aspiring actress, The Big Bang Theory is one of the smartest comedies — both literally and figuratively — on TV. Whether you’re a fellow physicist enthusiast or a fan of all things Star Wars, the series caters to and appreciates all types of nerds.
Available on iTunes and Amazon
22
'Downton Abbey'
Love history, a gorgeous setting, and crying your eyes out? Downton Abbey is for you! The PBS series offers an inside look at the not-quite-royals of 20th century England, and manages to do so with the right balance of drama and humor.
Available on iTunes
