Because sometimes a lot of episodes of one TV series are best enjoyed in a single sitting. The 40 best TV shows to bingewatch right now

Because sometimes a lot of episodes of one TV series are best enjoyed in a single sitting.

The 40 best TV shows to binge-watch right now

Because sometimes a lot of episodes of one TV series are best enjoyed in a single sitting.

By Robert English

and Kevin Jacobsen

on August 7, 2025 06:14AM EDT

Noah Wyle as Dr. Michael 'Robby' Robinavitch on 'The Pitt'; Phoebe Waller-Bridge as Fleabag on 'Fleabag, Wirt (voice: Elijah Wood) in 'Over the Garden Wall'. Credit:

John Johnson/Max; BBC/Amazon; Cartoon Network

Because the advent of streaming made binging shows possible for those without complete seasons on DVD, fans have been devouring content like it's their second job. But with the sheer excess of TV shows coming out every week, it can be difficult to filter through all the titles and find something that's actually worth watching.

Whether it makes us laugh, gives us an inside look into history, scares our pants off, or hooks us to the point that we forgo sleep to watch it, a good series is truly something special. So kick back, order some food, and get ready to watch a new favorite or a reliable classic in a single sitting or over a weekend. Here are the 40 best shows for your next binge.

Abbott Elementary (2021–present)

Quinta Brunson as Janine Teagues on 'Abbott Elementary'. ABC/Scott Everett White

ABC struck awards season gold with *Abbott Elementary*, the fantastic workplace comedy about public school teachers trying to do their best for their Philadelphia students. Creator Quinta Brunson stars as Janine Teagues, an optimistic second-year teacher at Abbott in which every day is a new, hilarious challenge. She works alongside the awkward but well-meaning Jacob (Chris Perfetti), the tough-loving Melissa (Lisa Ann Walter), the no-nonsense Barbara (Sheryl Lee Ralph), the devoted Gregory (Tyler James Williams), the underqualified principal Ava (Janelle James), and the quirky janitor Mr. Johnson (William Stanford Davis).

If you haven't started watching this Emmy-winning series, now is the time to catch up on all four seasons (thus far) of antics, the laughs, the romances, and the touching ode to American teachers. *—Robert English*

Where to watch *Abbott Elementary*: Hulu and HBO Max

**EW grade:** A– (read the review)

**Cast:** Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, Lisa Ann Walter, Chris Perfetti, Sheryl Lee Ralph, William Stanford Davis

Adolescence (2025)

Mark Stanley as Paulie Barlow, Owen Cooper as Jamie Miller, and Stephen Graham as Eddie Miller in 'Adolescence'.

Courtesy of Netflix

This whopper of a four-part miniseries tells the story of a 13-year-old boy named Jamie (Owen Cooper) who is accused of murdering a female classmate. But, rather than focus on whether he did it, the British series delves into *why* he did it, deftly exploring issues plaguing teens today while also showing how Jamie's family is left in shambles following his detention. Smartly written and performed, *Adolescence* is necessary viewing that will give you a lot to think about, long after you've finished the final episode. —*Kevin Jacobsen***

Where to watch *Adolescence*: Netflix

**Cast:** Stephen Graham, Owen Cooper, Ashley Walters, Erin Doherty, Faye Marsay, Christine Tremarco, Mark Stanley, Jo Hartley, Amélie Pease**

Arcane (2021–2024)

Vi (voice: Hailee Steinfeld) on 'Arcane'.

This animated series brings the video game *League of Legends* to a wider audience in a moving tale about two sisters, Vi and Jinx, who find themselves on opposing sides of a conflict between the rich and oppressed. Hailee Steinfeld and Ella Purnell give emotional weight to this story that was well-received by both longtime fans of the game and casual viewers who found their next binge-watch.

*Arcane* takes viewers into a complex fantasy world full of expressive animation and intriguing characters, setting records at Netflix as the most-watched show in the first week it was released, making it a global phenomenon. For fans of science fiction, animation, and drama in general, *Arcane* is well worth your time. *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Arcane*: Netflix

**Cast:** Hailee Steinfeld, Ella Purnell, Kevin Alejandro, Katie Leung, Jason Spisak, Toks Olagundoye, Harry Lloyd, JB Blanc, Reed Shannon, Mick Wingert

Baby Reindeer (2024)

Richard Gadd as Donny and Jessica Gunning as Martha in 'Baby Reindeer'.

Ed Miller/Netflix

This Netflix sensation isn't quite like anything you've seen before. Based on his one-man show, Richard Gadd plays Donny, a fictionalized version of himself, whose life is disrupted when a middle-aged woman named Martha (Jessica Gunning) takes a dangerously obsessive liking to him. As the limited series goes on, we see how Donny also lives with the trauma of a past event, informing his behavior in the present. Raw yet bleakly comedic, *Baby Reindeer* is an unforgettable watch with riveting, Emmy-winning performances by Gadd and Gunning. —*K.J.***

Where to watch *Baby Reindeer*:* *Netflix

**Cast:** Richard Gadd, Jessica Gunning, Nava Mau

The Bear (2022–present)

Jeremy Allen White as Carmy Berzatto, Lionel Boyce as Marcus Brooks, and Ebon Moss-Bachrach as Richie Jerimovich on 'The Bear'. FX

"It would be weird to work in a restaurant and not completely lose your mind." Created by Christopher Storer, *The Bear* is one of the hottest shows out right now. It stars *Shameless'* Jeremy Allen White as Carmy, a fine-dining NYC chef who returns to Chicago to run his family's sandwich shop after his brother dies by suicide. With the added pressure of massive debt, Carmy works to keep the restaurant going with manager Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach), new sous chef Sydney (Ayo Edebiri), passionate baker Marcus (Lionel Boyce), and defiant line cook Tina (Liza Colón-Zayas). The Emmy-winning series is often funny, very tense, and an incredibly detailed look into the back door of the restaurant business, anxiety and all. Season 4 dropped in full in June. *—R.E.*

Where to watch *The Bear*: Hulu

**EW grade:** A (read the review)

**Cast:** Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ayo Edebiri, Lionel Boyce, Liza Colón-Zayas, Abby Elliott, Matty Matheson**

Black Doves (2024–present)

Ben Whishaw as Sam Young and Keira Knightley as Helen Webb on 'Black Doves'.

Ludovic Robert/Netflix

Keira Knightley and Ben Whishaw are a match made in spy heaven on this gripping British thriller series. Knightley stars as Helen, a spy for a private organization, secretly gathering intel within her role as the Secretary of State of Defence's wife. After her secret lover is murdered, Helen goes on the hunt for the killer as her hitman friend Sam (Whishaw) helps her uncover a vast conspiracy. EW's critic calls *Black Doves* "a remarkably fresh, exciting, and laugh-out-loud funny caper, driven by a sharp comedic sensibility and wildly entertaining performances." —*K.J.***

Where to watch *Black Doves*: Netflix

**EW grade:** A– (read the review)

**Cast:** Keira Knightley, Ben Whishaw, Sarah Lancashire

Bodyguard (2018)

Richard Madden as David Budd on 'Bodyguard'. Sophie Mutevelian/World Productions/Netflix

In this British political drama, Richard Madden portrays David Budd, a war veteran suffering from PTSD and serving as the security detail of conservative Home Secretary Julia Montague (Keeley Hawes), but their political differences are difficult to reconcile. *Bodyguard* is an absorbing series, particularly due to Madden's powerhouse, Golden Globe-winning performance. His face is a canvas of emotions that make us care deeply for him, whether he's grieving, trying to save friends and strangers, or making decisions that put his own life at risk.

The show was an immediate success in Britain, which grew to a worldwide following of viewers drawn in by themes of governmental oversight, mental health, and flawed leadership. It's a show that's hard to turn off, and the six episodes fly by as we delve deeper into the world of domestic terrorism and political misgivings. *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Bodyguard*: Netflix

**Cast:** Richard Madden, Keeley Hawes, Gina McKee, Sophie Rundle

Chernobyl (2019)

Stellan Skarsgård as Boris Shcherbina in 'Chernobyl'. Liam Daniel/HBO

Winner of 10 Emmys, including Outstanding Limited Series, *Chernobyl* is a striking retelling of the 1986 nuclear disaster told through the lens of the scientists, government officials, and everyday people affected by the fallout. The show follows a stellar main cast headed by Jared Harris as Valery Legasov, a chemist who leads the response to the disaster; Stellan Skarsgård as council chairman Boris Shcherbina; and Emily Watson as nuclear physicist Ulana Khomyuk.

The first episode painstakingly recreates the explosion and immediate devastation with such dramatic flair that you'll hold your breath as if you were a part of the historic day. The rest of the series explores the aftermath with carefully constructed scenes depicting often-overlooked pockets of the disaster, from the doomed workers stripped down to their skin burying radioactive materials to the men assigned to execute pets left in the quarantine zone. *Chernobyl* is a show seeping with tension, and its five-episode run will stay with you long after you complete it. *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Chernobyl*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** A– (read the review)

**Cast:** Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgård, Emily Watson

Dying for Sex (2025)

Michelle Williams as Molly and Jay Duplass as Steve in 'Dying for Sex'.

Too often, stories about living with cancer dwell too much on the misery of the situation, depicting the character(s) as suffering in silence or fearing the end. This eight-episode dramedy offers a refreshing, well-balanced depiction of a woman who uses her scary diagnosis as an opportunity to satisfy her deepest fantasies. The series stars Michelle Williams, turning in yet another multilayered performance as Molly, who has Stage IV breast cancer and leaves her husband to explore her sexuality. EW's critic calls *Dying for Sex* "a heartbreaking (and at times, very horny) story about female friendship, self-actualization, and the realization that it's never too late to heal." —*K.J.***

Where to watch *Dying for Sex*: Hulu

**EW grade:** B+ (read the review)

**Cast:** Michelle Williams, Jenny Slate

Enlightened (2011–2013)

Mike White as Tyler and Laura Dern as Amy Jellicoe on 'Enlightened'. Everett Collection

Another two-season gem that was canceled due to low ratings, *Enlightened* is an underrated and short-lived series from HBO following Amy Jellicoe (Laura Dern), a self-destructive woman who is trying to make amends with her past relationships while finding passion in her work and life. Dern teamed up with future *White Lotus* creator Mike White to craft this dark comedy that is utterly hilarious and effectively moving. Her mental breakdowns and failed attempts at being a good person don't just play for laughs, but also serve as illuminating looks at the human condition. In her argument for why it's "the best show nobody is watching," EW's critic writes, "the more maniacal Amy's antics, the funnier and more poignant *Enlightened* gets." *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Enlightened*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Laura Dern, Luke Wilson, Diane Ladd, Sarah Burns, Timm Sharp, Mike White

Firefly (2002–2003)

Adam Baldwin as Jayne Cobb, Jewel Staite as Kaylee Frye, Ron Glass as Shepherd Derrial Book, Sean Maher as Dr. Simon Tam, Morena Baccarin as Inara Serra, Nathan Fillion as Captain Mal Reynolds, Gina Torres as Zoë Washburne, Alan Tudyk as Wash Washburne, and Summer Glau as River Tam on 'Firefly'. Everett Collection

This highly underappreciated, single-season series has since found a large following. Starring Nathan Fillion as Mal Reynolds, captain of the *Serenity*, *Firefly* is a brilliant Western-style sci-fi story following a crew of independent rebels on the run from the totalitarian Alliance in a fully realized and unique future world.

Due to poor advertising and a lack of faith in this series, *Firefly* was too late in proving itself as an engaging, thought-provoking program with a great cast. But, even from the beginning, fans of the series saw something special in Joss Whedon's vision, as EW's critic noted in his original review, "Count me as being on board for this sucker." While the show is easily one of the most bingeable seasons of television, fans are also able to see their favorite crew in the high-budget, emotional sequel film, *Serenity* (2005). *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Firefly*: Hulu

**Cast:** Nathan Fillion, Gina Torres, Alan Tudyk, Morena Baccarin, Adam Baldwin, Jewel Staite, Sean Maher, Summer Glau, Ron Glass

Fleabag (2016–2019)

Phoebe Waller-Bridge as Fleabag and Andrew Scott as the Priest in season 2 of 'Fleabag'. Steve Schofield/Amazon Studios

Phoebe Waller-Bridge's *Fleabag* is a hilarious and poignant series about a young woman just trying to get by in London while coping with the loss of her best friend, tensions with her family, and her own inability to not be completely inappropriate in any given situation. Writer Waller-Bridge doubles as our nameless star, the fourth-wall-breaking, sexually deviating, guinea pig cafe-owning main character who is the master of her own undoing, but not without garnering every ounce of our sympathies.

The antihero often addresses the viewer directly, as each episode peels back the layers of her emotional state and relationships with her strung-out sister (Sian Clifford), passive-aggressive stepmother (Olivia Colman), and an alluringly sexy priest (Andrew Scott). Though it only spans 12 short episodes, these gut-punch chapters are more than enough to bring you to your knees, possibly in prayer, but more likely in tears. *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Fleabag*: Amazon Prime Video

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

The Four Seasons (2025–present)

Steve Carell as Nick and Kerri Kenney-Silver as Anne on 'The Four Seasons'.

Jon Pack/Netflix

Tina Fey's latest TV creation may not have the joke-per-minute wackiness of *30 Rock* or *Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt*, but this warm dramedy is just as bingeable. Adapted from the 1981 film of the same name by Alan Alda, *The Four Seasons* follows three married couples as they go on vacation together every quarter of the year, where they face various challenges in their relationships. Fey's costars include Steve Carell, Will Forte, Colman Domingo, Kerri Kenney-Silver, and Marco Calvani, who each bring their unique charisma to a group of fascinating, flawed characters. —*K.J.*

Where to watch *The Four Seasons*: Netflix

**Cast:** Tina Fey, Will Forte, Steve Carell, Colman Domingo, Kerri Kenney-Silver, Marco Calvani, Erika Henningsen**

Freaks and Geeks (1999–2000)

(Front row, from left to right): Martin Starr as Bill Haverchuck, John Francis Daley as Sam Weir, Linda Cardellini as Lindsay Weir, Busy Philipps as Kim Kelly, and Jason Segel as Nick Andopolis; (Center row, from left): Samm Levine as Neal Schweiber and James Franco as Daniel Desario; (Back row): Seth Rogen as Ken Miller on 'Freaks and Geeks'. Chris Haston/NBC

Fans of *Freaks and Geeks* still can't believe they only got one season of this cult classic from Paul Feig and Judd Apatow about teenage life in the early-'80s Detroit suburbs. Following burnout "freaks" and their smoke-clouded misadventures in contrast to the underclassmen "geeks" who are just trying to survive school between D&D sessions, the show has all the heart of an after-school special while tossing the moralizing out with the disco records.

Since it hit streaming, new generations of fans have discovered this earnest comedy series that touts big 21st-century stars in some of their earliest roles, launching the careers of James Franco, Seth Rogen, Jason Segel, Linda Cardellini, and more. As Segel told EW, "It was this really amazing cast before we really knew anything." *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Freaks and Geeks*: Hulu

**Cast:** Linda Cardellini, John Francis Daley, James Franco, Samm Levine, Seth Rogen, Jason Segel, Martin Starr, Becky Ann Baker, Joe Flaherty, Busy Philipps

The Haunting of Hill House (2018)

(From left to right) Mckenna Grace as Young Theo, Lulu Wilson as Young Shirley, Paxton Singleton as Young Steven, Violet McGraw as Young Nell, Julian Hillard as Young Luke, and Henry Thomas as Young Hugh Crain in 'The Haunting of Hill House'. Steve Dietl/Netflix

Told over the course of many years, *The Haunting of Hill House* is an intimate drama about a fractured family left to reconcile with the supernatural terrors that drove them from their home. Creator Mike Flanagan (*Midnight Mass*) dutifully adapts this Shirley Jackson classic for the modern era, making it as eerie for audiences as it is for the fictional Crain children.

Beyond the scares, the series is also a spine-tingling look into human psychology, adeptly drawing on Jackson's themes of trauma in the original novel. As Flanagan told EW, "I find myself drawn to human stories, often stories of family, because the ghosts we get to explore really are extensions of very relatable relationships and dynamics in our lives." *—R.E.*

Where to watch *The Haunting of Hill House*: Netflix

**Cast:** Michiel Huisman, Carla Gugino, Henry Thomas, Elizabeth Reaser, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Kate Siegel, Victoria Pedretti, Timothy Hutton

Heartstopper (2022–2024)

Kit Connor as Nick Nelson on 'Heartstopper'.

Rob Youngson/Netflix

Adapted from a webcomic by Alice Oseman, *Heartstopper* is a joyous comedy-drama series about young love as Charlie (Joe Locke) and Nick (Kit Connor) explore their ever-deepening relationship. Serving as the showrunner, Oseman has brought her series to a global audience that celebrates its story and LGBTQ representation.

Locke spoke with EW in 2022 about *Heartstopper*'s themes of mental health and acceptance, saying, "I think what our show has really done well so far is tackling issues, but from an optimistic lens. I think it'd be really great to look at that more." Until then, you can join the millions of fans who can't ignore *Heartstopper*'s charm. *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Heartstopper*: Netflix

**Cast:** Kit Connor, Joe Locke, William Gao, Yasmin Finney, Corinna Brown, Kizzy Edgell, Tobie Donovan

I May Destroy You (2020)

Michaela Coel as Arabella in 'I May Destroy You'. HBO

Michaela Coel created and stars in this can't-miss drama about modern dating and the distinction between liberation and exploitation. The miniseries begins with Arabella (Coel), a young writer spending an evening in London who is, at one moment, out drinking with friends, and the next, back to worrying about a deadline while experiencing memories of sexual violence.

Partially based on Coel's lived experiences, *I May Destroy You* is an engaging, personal series that holds up a mirror to the nuances of our modern world. As EW's critic praises, "Coel lets her characters grapple with knotty questions of consent and responsibility without ever judging their actions or promoting answers that don't actually exist." *—R.E.*

Where to watch *I May Destroy You*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** B (read the review)

**Cast:** Michaela Coel, Weruche Opia, Paapa Essiedu**

Love, Death & Robots (2019–present)

K-VRC (voice: Josh Brenner) on 'Love, Death & Robots'.

This anthology series from Tim Miller and David Fincher is a masterpiece of adult animation. Each episode comes from different animators, giving audiences an assortment of stories, themes, and styles that are all interconnected in some way to the titular big three: love, death, and/or robots. The project, initially pitched as a reboot of the film *Heavy Metal*, was in development hell for years before Miller was able to pitch it to Netflix as a series. And the show only gets better with each passing episode, finding a balance in tone and thematic material while also continuing to astound viewers with impressive visuals. Volume 4 just dropped in May. *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Love, Death & Robots*: Netflix

**Cast:** Various

Mare of Easttown (2021)

Kate Winslet as Mare Sheehan in 'Mare of Easttown'. Michele K. Short/HBO

By the time *Mare of Easttown* debuted on HBO Max, there were already many high-profile crime dramas starring some of the biggest names in Hollywood (See: *True Detective* and *Fargo*). Yet, *Easttown* showcases enough acting prowess and surprising mystery to suck viewers in. Kate Winslet portrays Mare, a tired, emotionally spent detective who becomes consumed by the murder of a young teenage mother in their small Pennsylvania town. Everyone becomes a suspect and answers are few and far between, though Mare already has plenty on her personal plate as she and her mother (Jean Smart) care for her grandson after her son's death, attempt to connect with her teenage daughter (Angourie Rice), and deal with her ex-husband (David Denman)** **living next door.

The bleak atmosphere and experienced ensemble cast immerse the audience in moments both beautifully human and totally tragic. As EW's critic writes, "Winslet plus Smart equals a megazord of intimidating acting talent," which makes the supporting cast's standout performances all the more impressive. Also joining Mare is the hot professor who sees something great in her (Guy Pearce), and the eager Det. Colin Zabel, played by Evan Peters, who won his first Emmy for the role. *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Mare of Easttown*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** B– (read the review)

**Cast:** Kate Winslet, Angourie Rice, Evan Peters, Julianne Nicholson, Jean Smart

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The Night Of (2016)

Riz Ahmed as Naz Khan in 'The Night Of'. Craig Blankenhorn/HBO

Riz Ahmed stars in *The Night Of* as Naz, a young man who wakes up after a night of partying to find himself charged with the murder of a woman (Sofia Black-D'Elia) whom he met the previous evening. As crime dramas are increasingly common these days, each TV series must attempt the daunting task of standing out from the herd. And *The Night Of* is one that announces its power outright and only revs up from there, grabbing viewers and not letting them go until the finale.

Between the acting of the main cast — which includes John Turturro and Bill Camp — and the complexities of modern-day law and order, *The Night Of* is, as EW's review puts it, a "spectacle of people wrestling with their consciences and overcoming their weaknesses and their stories to serve true justice and do the right thing." *—R.E.*

Where to watch *The Night Of*: HBO Max

**Cast:** John Turturro, Riz Ahmed, Michael Kenneth Williams, Bill Camp, Jeannie Berlin

Normal People (2020)

Paul Mescal as Connell Waldron and Daisy Edgar-Jones as Marianne Sheridan in 'Normal People'. Enda Bowe/Element Pictures/Hulu

Sally Rooney's best-selling novel received a smash-hit small-screen adaptation in this affecting romance drama. *Normal People* follows Marianne Sheridan (Daisy Edgar-Jones) and Connell Waldron (Paul Mescal), two lovers who meet in secondary school, as they navigate relationships and their own emotions throughout their teens and 20s.

The miniseries owes much of its success to the chemistry between the two leads, as viewers see them fall in and out and back in love multiple times over, all while helping each other through the seasons of their young lives. Beyond the perfectly cast magnetism between Mescal and Edgar-Jones, the script is finely tuned in its exploration of sex, depression, and relationships while never loosening its grip on your heartstrings. *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Normal People*: Hulu

**Cast:** Daisy Edgar-Jones, Paul Mescal, Sarah Greene

Only Murders in the Building (2021–present)

Steve Martin as Charles-Haden Savage, Selena Gomez as Mabel Mora, and Martin Short as Oliver Putnam on 'Only Murders in the Building'. Craig Blankenhorn/Hulu

What happens when you combine unstoppable comedy duo Steve Martin and Martin Short with superstar entertainer Selena Gomez? As it turns out, you have a recipe for success as we've seen over this mystery comedy series' four seasons thus far. The trio plays true crime podcast enthusiasts who start up their own amateur podcast to investigate murders happening in the apartment building they share, with enough shocking twists and turns to keep them (and us) guessing. Like a juicy true crime podcast, you won't be able to stop at just one episode. —*K.J.*

Where to watch *Only Murders in the Building*: Hulu

**EW grade:** B (read the review)

**Cast:** Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez, Michael Cyril Creighton

Over the Garden Wall (2014)

(Center): Wirt (voice: Elijah Wood) on 'Over the Garden Wall'. Cartoon Network

When creator Patrick McHale adapted *Over the Garden Wall* from his short film *Tome of the Unknown*, he gifted Cartoon Network one of the greatest hidden gems of the 2010s. The beloved animated adventure sees two brothers, Wirt (Elijah Wood) and Gregory (Collin Dean), as they embark on a journey across a fantastical forest realm to return to their home.

Over the course of 10 brief episodes, viewers are treated to world-building that's both charming and frightful, often at the same time — pumpkin-head cults, trees as soul prisons, a familial bluebird curse — between meeting whimsical creatures voiced by the likes of Melanie Lynskey, Christopher Lloyd, Tim Curry, John Cleese, and more. *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Over the Garden Wall*: Hulu

**Cast:** Elijah Wood, Collin Dean, Melanie Lynskey, Christopher Lloyd, Tim Curry, Jack Jones, Samuel Ramey

Overcompensating (2025–present)

Corteon Moore as Gabe and Benito Skinner as Benny on 'Overcompensating'.

Jackie Brown/Prime

Shows set in college don't always get it right, but this outrageous yet sweet comedy is looking to be one of the good ones. *Overcompensating* centers on Benny (Benito Skinner, who also created the series) a jock who's beginning his first year at university. Benny also happens to be gay, a secret he's hoping to keep hidden but struggling to do so. He soon befriends Carmen (Wally Baram), who also feels like an outsider, and the pair explores the brave new world of college and tries to figure out their true selves. Full of sharp observational humor and bolstered by a charismatic cast, this is a show that will resonate most with millennials in the audience (trust us). —*K.J.*

Where to watch *Overcompensating*: Amazon Prime Video

**Cast:** Benito Skinner, Wally Baram, Mary Beth Barone, Adam DiMarco, Rish Shah**

Paradise (2025–present)

Sterling K. Brown as Xavier Collins on 'Paradise'.

Brian Roedel/Disney

Much like Phil Collins' "Another Day in Paradise," which is featured heavily in the pilot, there's a lot more going on beneath the surface of this Hulu thriller series. *Paradise* centers on Secret Service agent Xavier Collins (Sterling K. Brown) as he tries to find the person responsible for assassinating the President of the United States. But this is only one element of the story that's better left unspoiled; much like *This Is Us*, series creator Dan Fogelman's previous show, the end of the pilot pulls off a spectacular twist, setting up a riveting story that provokes thought about our own world. —*K.J.*

Where to watch *Paradise*: Hulu

**EW grade:** B– (read the review)

**Cast:** Sterling K. Brown, James Marsden, Julianne Nicholson, Sarah Shahi, Nicole Brydon Bloom, Aliyah Mastin, Percy Daggs IV

The Pitt (2025–present)

Patrick Ball as Dr. Frank Langdon and Katherine LaNasa as Dana Evans on 'The Pitt'.

Warrick Page/Max

The medical drama has been one of the staples of television for decades now, likely because of the universality of its life-or-death stakes. One would imagine the difficulty in making the genre fresh after all this time, but *The Pitt* proves how engrossing it can be to watch doctors simply be good at their jobs. This addictive Max series follows a chaotic day in the lives of emergency room doctors and nurses as they struggle to treat various patients, overseen by senior attending physician Dr. Michael "Robby" Robinavitch (Noah Wyle). Bolstered by charismatic performances and refreshing realism, *The Pitt* is an essential watch about essential workers. —*K.J.*

Where to watch *The Pitt*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Noah Wyle, Tracy Ifeachor, Patrick Ball, Katherine LaNasa, Supriya Ganesh, Fiona Dourif, Taylor Dearden, Isa Briones, Gerran Howell, Shabana Azeez

Pushing Daisies (2007–2009)

Anna Friel as Charlotte 'Chuck' Charles and Lee Pace as Ned on 'Pushing Daisies'.

Adam Taylor/ABC

From Bryan Fuller (*Hannibal*), *Pushing Daisies* is a comedy series about Ned (Lee Pace), a pastry chef who has the power to bring dead people back to life — and uses it to solve murder mysteries. Ned is joined on his escapades by his childhood sweetheart (Anna Friel), a private investigator (Chi McBride), and a lovesick waitress (Kristin Chenoweth). *Pushing Daisies *was a short-lived, two-season wonder that shone across bright sets, fun plotlines, and wacky supporting characters that propelled this comedy to legendary status. *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Pushing Daisies*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Lee Pace, Anna Friel, Chi McBride, Kristin Chenoweth, Ellen Greene, Swoosie Kurtz

The Queen's Gambit (2020)

Anya Taylor-Joy as Beth Harmon in 'The Queen's Gambit'.

Phil Bray/Netflix

*The Queen's Gambit*, based on the novel by Walter Tevis, stars Anya Taylor-Joy as Beth Harmon, an introverted chess prodigy who becomes a world-renowned player while struggling to deal with fame and addiction throughout the '50s and '60s. While "star deals with substance abuse" is a tired trope, *The Queen's Gambit* works so well because of director Scott Frank's eye for the era and Taylor-Joy's multifaceted performance. She's a wonder as a young teen discovering her escape in the game while trumping overconfident men, and as an actualized woman facing the consequences of celebrity status.

The Emmy-winning miniseries also wowed audiences with its dramatization of the game of chess. As EW's critic writes, "It's an environment of cerebral swagger, diffident competitiveness, and geek love." *—R.E.*

Where to watch *The Queen's Gambit*: Netflix

**EW grade:** B (read the review)

**Cast:** Anya Taylor-Joy, Bill Camp, Moses Ingram, Isla Johnston, Christiane Seidel, Rebecca Root, Chloe Pirrie, Akemnji Ndifornyen, Marielle Heller, Harry Melling

The Residence (2025)

Nathan Lovejoy as Ambassador Alden Tamridge, Ken Marino as Harry Hollinger, and Brett Tucker as David Rylance on 'The Residence'.

Jessica Brooks/Netflix

Murder mysteries make for a perfect binge, as demonstrated by this lighthearted yet compelling Netflix dramedy. Emmy winner Uzo Aduba is our resident sleuth, Cordelia Cupp, a detective/avid bird watcher investigating a shocking death at the White House. With the incident happening during a state dinner, there are numerous suspects on the table as Cordelia tries to put together the pieces of a complicated puzzle. "There are a lot of suspects and clues, and the careful viewer will be rewarded by paying attention to these things," series creator Paul William Davies told EW, and we tend to agree. Happy sleuthing! —*K.J.*

Where to watch *The Residence*: Netflix

**Cast:** Uzo Aduba, Giancarlo Esposito, Susan Kelechi Watson, Jason Lee, Ken Marino, Edwina Findley, Randall Park, Molly Griggs, Al Mitchell, Dan Perrault, Spencer Garrett, Bronson Pinchot, Isiah Whitlock Jr., Mary Wiseman

Sense8 (2015–2018)

Bae Doona as Sun Bak on 'Sense8'. Murray Close/Netflix

Many of the shows on this list fell unjustly on the network chopping block, and one of the more devastated fan bases is that of *Sense8*, a sci-fi series about a group of people whose minds are inexplicably connected, causing them to be hunted by those who see them as a threat.

Created by the Wachowski sisters (*The Matrix*) and J. Michael Straczynski, *Sense8* is prime binging material, having enchanted viewers with a diverse cast and an intricate, imaginative plot. The show's subsequent cancellation was indicative of the diversity problem in mainstream streaming platforms, leaving dedicated fans angry and heartbroken (though they still received a two-hour finale special to round out the story). Regardless of its rushed goodbye, *Sense8* is a groundbreaking, inclusive, and engaging series that needs to be viewed in its entirety. *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Sense8*: Netflix

**Cast:** Aml Ameen, Bae Doona, Jamie Clayton, Tina Desai, Tuppence Middleton, Max Riemelt, Miguel Ángel Silvestre, Brian J. Smith

Severance (2022–present)

Adam Scott as Mark S. on 'Severance'. Atsushi Nishijima/Apple TV +

Adam Scott leads a stellar ensemble cast in this inventive sci-fi drama about a group of co-workers whose brains have been surgically split between their work lives and their personal lives. From the first episode, *Severance* sets up a chilly atmosphere of gray sparsity in the workplace as Mark (Scott) and his colleagues careen toward unknown truths about the nature of their jobs. Christopher Walken, Patricia Arquette, Britt Lower, Zach Cherry, Tramell Tillman, and John Turturro join Scott in this surprising series that was one of 2022's best.

Executive producer Ben Stiller, who directed many of the episodes, perfectly sets up the world and mystery, leading to a season 1 finale that is full of, as EW's critic writes, "cloak-and-dagger intrigue and artful weirdness as Mark's parallel lives careen toward intersection." *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Severance*: Apple TV+

**EW grade:** B+ (read the review)

**Cast:** Adam Scott, Zach Cherry, Britt Lower, Tramell Tillman, John Turturro, Christopher Walken, Patricia Arquette

Shōgun (2024–present)

Anna Sawai as Toda Mariko (center) on 'Shōgun'.

This impeccably crafted adaptation of the James Clavell novel of the same name is a Shakespearean-esque saga of war and political intrigue. Set in 1600s feudal Japan, the series begins with the arrival by ship of an English pilot (Cosmo Jarvis), who is soon thrust into an ongoing battle for power among Lord Toranaga (Hiroyuki Sanada) and rival regents. With Toranaga's ally Toda Mariko (Anna Sawai) serving as a translator between the men, a metaphorical chess game ensues as the warlord makes a series of big plays for control.

The first season of *Shōgun* won a record-breaking 18 Emmys, the most ever for a single season of television, with EW's critic calling the series "a stunning epic." Originally envisioned as a miniseries, the show's popularity with fans, critics, and awards bodies led to renewals for a second and third season. —*K.J.***

Where to watch *Shōgun*: Hulu

**EW grade:** A– (read the review)

**Cast:** Hiroyuki Sanada, Cosmo Jarvis, Anna Sawai, Tadanobu Asano, Takehiro Hira, Tommy Bastow, Fumi Nikaido

Shrinking (2023–present)

Harrison Ford as Dr. Paul Rhoades and Jason Segel as Jimmy Laird on 'Shrinking'.

Beth Dubber/Apple

TV producer Bill Lawrence has a strong portfolio of shows where you wish you could hang out with their characters, from *Scrubs* to *Cougar Town* to *Ted Lasso*. *Shrinking* is no exception, centering on a therapist named Jimmy (Jason Segel) who is struggling to raise his teenage daughter while grieving the death of his wife. He opts for a more direct approach at work, leading to deeper (and sometimes messy) relationships with his patients and fellow therapists. EW's critic calls *Shrinking* "a funny, brainy grief-com about the power — and dangers — of radical honesty." —*K.J.***

Where to watch *Shrinking*: Apple TV+

**EW grade:** B+ (read the review)

**Cast:** Jason Segel, Harrison Ford, Jessica Williams, Luke Tennie, Michael Urie, Lukita Maxwell, Christa Miller

Squid Game (2021–2025)

Lee Jung-jae as Seong Gi-hun and Jung Ho-yeon as Kang Sae-byeok on 'Squid Game'. Noh Juhan/Netflix

In the age of social media, TV show fandoms can spread like wildfire. *Squid Game* lit the fuse better than any show before it, uniting the internet in favor of this unique South Korean thriller series. Created by Hwang Dong-hyuk, *Squid Game* is a global phenomenon about a group of debt-ridden people who compete in deadly games for an absurd cash prize.

Viewers couldn't help but binge the series as fast as possible to talk about it with friends who were just as mesmerized by the engaging plot and moving acting, with turns from Lee Jung-jae, Park Hae-soo, Jung Ho-yeon, O Yeong-su, and more. The hype even spawned a reality series (which may have missed the underlying themes), but nonetheless kept the *Squid Game* craze going. The third and final season was released in June. *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Squid Game*: Netflix

**Cast:** Lee Jung-jae, Park Hae-soo, Wi Ha-joon, Jung Ho-yeon, O Yeong-su, Heo Sung-tae, Anupam Tripathi, Kim Joo-ryoung

The Studio (2025–present)

(From left to right): Ike Barinholtz as Sal Saperstein, Kathryn Hahn as Maya Mason, Seth Rogen as Matt Remick, and Chase Sui Wonders as Quinn Hackett on 'The Studio'.

Movies are so much more difficult to produce than you can even imagine. A million small decisions need to be made, any one of which could tank the project. This frenetic, Emmy-nominated comedy from the dynamic duo of Seth Rogen and Evan Goldberg satirizes the modern-day struggles of doing business in Hollywood, starring Rogen as the newly promoted head of a legacy studio. As he tries to balance his artistic integrity with the ever-growing demands of needing to generate revenue for the studio, anything that can go wrong does go wrong. *The Studio* may be a bit too inside-baseball for some viewers, but it's a special treat for those of us consumed by the latest entertainment news. —*K.J.***

Where to watch *The Studio*: Apple TV+

**Cast:** Seth Rogen, Catherine O'Hara, Ike Barinholtz, Chase Sui Wonders, Kathryn Hahn

Survivor (2000–present)

Jeff Probst hosting 'Survivor'.

Robert Voets/CBS

Don't be alarmed by the fact that *Survivor* is now 48 seasons and counting. Because so many seasons of the reality juggernaut have entirely new casts, you can pick and choose which ones you want to watch (though it's certainly fun to watch the series evolve over 25 years!). *Survivor* strands 16 to 20 people in a remote location — typically an island — where they are forced to work together as tribes, and then vote each other off until only one remains to claim the title of Sole Survivor. Social politics, tests of physical strength, and game theory combine to create one of the greatest competitions in the world. —*K.J.***

Where to watch *Survivor*: Paramount+

**Cast:** Jeff Probst

Ted Lasso (2020–present)

Jason Sudeikis as Ted Lasso on 'Ted Lasso'.

Based on a brief promotional campaign for NBC's coverage of the English Premier League, the character Ted Lasso evolved from a marketing pawn to the center of a 13-time Emmy-winning series that has stolen viewers' hearts everywhere. Jason Sudeikis is fantastic as the mustachioed, metaphor-making poster of positive masculinity who agrees to take a head coaching job for AFC Richmond in London despite not knowing anything about soccer. *Ted Lasso* follows his exploits to make a difference not only on the sidelines but off the field as well, roping the rest of the lovable cast into his genuine world.

If you still don't know what all the fuss is about, it's not too late to hop on the bandwagon — you'll laugh until you cry, or cry until you're smiling. *—R.E.*

Where to watch *Ted Lasso*: Apple TV+

**EW grade:** A– (read the review)

**Cast:** Jason Sudeikis, Hannah Waddingham, Jeremy Swift, Phil Dunster, Brett Goldstein, Brendan Hunt, Nick Mohammed, Juno Temple

The Traitors (2023–present)

Alan Cumming hosting 'The Traitors'.

Euan Cherry/Peacock

Who doesn't love a good murder mystery? Combine that with the appeal of seeing divisive reality stars get humbled, and you have the perfect, Emmy-winning concoction, with Alan Cumming as the acid-tongued master of ceremonies. The reality competition is set at a Scottish castle, where the goal is to identify which of the contestants' fellow castmates are "traitors," a select group of three or four people who have been secretly tasked with eliminating players from the game in the dead of night. Each season thus far is a delectable binge, chock-full of intrigue and duplicity. —*K.J.***

Where to watch *The Traitors*: Peacock

**Cast:** Alan Cumming

Twin Peaks (1990–1991)

Sherilyn Fenn as Audrey Horne and Kyle MacLachlan as Special Agent Dale Cooper on 'Twin Peaks'. ABC Photo Archives/Disney General Entertainment Content via Getty Images

Television viewers in 1990 had never seen anything like *Twin Peaks* before — and there hasn't been anything like it since. David Lynch and Mark Frost's crime mystery series begins with a familiar setup: A teenage girl washes up on shore in a small Pacific Northwest town, and the police try to figure out who killed her. But, as the series goes on, we bear witness to the surreal darkness lying beneath the surface, haunting our collective subconscious forever.

Eccentric Special Agent Dale Cooper (Kyle MacLachlan) states at one point in the series, "I have no idea where this will lead us, but I have a definite feeling it will be a place both wonderful and strange." And as you binge *Twin Peaks*, you'll find yourself agreeing. —*K.J.***

Where to watch *Twin Peaks*: Paramount+

**Cast:** Kyle MacLachlan, Michael Ontkean, Mädchen Amick, Dana Ashbrook, Richard Beymer, Lara Flynn Boyle, Sherilyn Fenn, Warren Frost, Peggy Lipton, Joan Chen, Everett McGill, Kimmy Robertson, Ray Wise, Piper Laurie

The White Lotus (2021–present)

Jennifer Coolidge as Tanya McQuoid-Hunt on 'The White Lotus'. Fabio Lovino/HBO

Writer-director Mike White has become one of our great satirists with this brilliant comedy-drama anthology. Each season centers on a mostly new group of characters staying at a high-end White Lotus resort. But, despite their best intentions, many of these vacationers find that their problems have followed them — from relationship issues to personal anxieties — and staying in paradise won't solve anything. If you love sharp, observational humor and character studies, you'll certainly enjoy your stay at *The White Lotus*. —*K.J.***

Where to watch *The White Lotus*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** B+ (read the review)

**Cast:** Jennifer Coolidge, Natasha Rothwell, Murray Bartlett, Connie Britton, Alexandra Daddario, Jake Lacy, Sydney Sweeney

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