Happy Tuesday, friends!
Today I’m excited to refresh this post with a GIANT list of shows to add to your streaming queue. This post was originally a “Real Women Approved” post created a few years ago, but I asked you all for your latest favorites a couple weeks back so we can all source some new-to-us shows for #quarantinelife. I think it’s safe to say that with more than 75 shows to choose from, there’s bound to be some hidden gems in here for everyone!
It’s easy to watch the same thing over and over again and default to your classic reruns, but there is no better feeling than discovering a new show that just hooks you! Bonus points if you have multiple seasons of it to binge, too! ????
So whether you’re binging on a relaxing Sunday night, planning a romantic night in, or just hanging with your friends virtually, this list will serve you well! (Fun fact: Netflix has a “Netflix Party” chrome extension that will allow you to watch any of their shows/movies with your friends!)
First thing’s first, here are a few of MY personal reccos that you’ll love right now on Netflix, Amazon, and beyond!
My favorite Netflix and Amazon shows to binge right now:
The Good Place:
Ted Danson and Kristin Bell star in the philosophical comedy about becoming a better person. It’s both hilarious and is also thought-provoking on the topic of ethics and morality! (Slightly ironic, given the timing.) I would put this in the category of The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (below)––it’s really silly humor but somehow you get hooked. It’s the perfect lighthearted thing to watch!! Your husband will likely hate it, so you should watch it when he’s not around. ????
Modern Love:
I loved, loved this Amazon series based on the popular New York Times column “Modern Love.” Each episode is different, featuring a different cast (with many big names like Anne Hathaway, Tina Fey, Dev Patel, and more) and based loosely on a personal essay about love. The first episode may be my favorite! I think I need to re-watch this with Neal!
Love is Blind:
If you haven’t jumped on the Love is Blind bandwagon yet, it might be worth a try! Equal parts cringey and addicting, it’s a trainwreck you can’t look away from. I typically hate shows like this (I.E. The Bachelor) but I liked this one because for the most part, the characters are all kind, civil, and supportive of one another––there isn’t catty, backstabbing drama! (Plenty of relationship drama, but not the catty kind, ha!)
Tiger King:
Yes, the show that the WORLD is talking about right now, but one that DESERVES to be hyped up as much as it is. It’s got big cats, crazy people, polygamy, even murder––your jaw will drop, you will laugh, you will shout at the TV––this is the one thing that will truly take your mind off the state of the world right now. We’ve never looked forward to watching episodes of a show like we have this one. Do yourself a favor and ration–don’t binge it!
Ozark:
We LOVE Ozark, and so excited a new season just dropped––we can’t wait to start it! Jason Bateman stars in this drama that follows his family as they relocate from Chicago to a summer resort community in the Ozarks — they’re on the move after a money-laundering scheme goes wrong and things only seem to get worse when they arrive.
Catastrophe:
Neal and I both absolutely love Catastrophe on Amazon! It’s funny and heartfelt, realistic, and at times, raw and tragic–Rob Delaney and Sharon Horgan write and star in this R-rated comedy about a one-week stand between a Boston ad exec and a London schoolteacher that leads to an accidental pregnancy. When Rob moves to the UK to help figure things out, cultures clash and hormones flare as these two realize they don’t know the first thing about each other.
Queer Eye:
You’ve probably already watched every episode by now, because it’s the most joyful heartwarming show on TV, but if you haven’t, here’s your reminder that re-watching from the beginning is an option when you need a pick-me-up. ❤️Thankfully there are multiple seasons!
The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt:
I honestly do NOT know what draws me to this Netflix show, because on one hand it is SO CHEESY and stupid, and on the other it is so funny, joyful, and charming. It follows the main character, Kimmy, who was kidnapped as a teenager and forced to live among a doomsday cult in an underground bunker. She is finally rescued more than a decade later, and the show follows her trying to rebuild her life in New York–absolutely clueless about the world around her.
This is one of my go-to’s when I want to watch something lighthearted without Neal around. (He thinks it’s the dumbest show he’s ever seen). It was co-created by Tina Fey though, so you know that deep down, under that cheesy facade, it’s actually comedic genius.
Grace and Frankie:
This is probably one of my favorite shows of all time. Another I thought everyone knew about, but when I asked you guys on Instagram stories, 60% of you had never watched it! My mother in law actually turned me onto it, and it stars Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin. It’s. So. Funny. For as long as they can recall, Grace and Frankie have been rivals. Their one-upmanship comes crashing to a halt, however, when they learn that their husbands have fallen in love with each other and want to get married. As everything around the ladies is coming apart, the only thing they can really rely on is each other. This is a show that women of all ages will fall in love with. This is another show that I am SO THANKFUL has multiple seasons!!
The Sopranos:
We started the mobster masterpiece that is the Sopranos from the very beginning months ago and have been slowly working our way through each season. It is SO good. If you haven’t gotten into it before, now is a great time! (Something you and your guy can agree on!)
Ugly Delicious:
Part food, part travel––Celebrity Chef behind Momofuku Noodle Bar, David Chang, goes on food fueled adventures all over the globe. A super interesting show not just celebrating food, but exploring how food is deeply intertwined with culture. If you want something light, but interesting at the same time, you’ll love this!
Bingeworthy GG Reader Favorites to Watch Next:
I took to Instagram stories to ask you guys what YOUR favorite shows are, and this is what I found out! There are so many good ones (many of which I’ve never even heard of!) that I can’t wait to add to our list. Seriously, you guys have changed our Sunday nights for a LONG time. Grab your pinot and your popcorn because you’ve got a LOT of binging to do.
The OA:
A Sci-Fi thriller similar (think Stranger Things) but with a very different storyline. Meg simply describes it as, “SOOO good. They’re filming a second season now!”
Champions:
Mindy Kaling’s show! According to Dorothy, “it’s about two brothers who own a gym and one finds out he has a teenage son who just got into a drama/art school nearby. It’s a good lighthearted show to mix in with Handmaids Tale, GOT, ETC!”
Mozart in the Jungle:
Such an interesting perspective on the lifestyles and challenges of professional musicians–Grace
Damages:
Same director as Bloodline–dark/mysterious but not very gruesome. Rose Byrne and Glen Close star in it, and it has a crazy good plot! – Karley
Taste of the Country:
Tegan describes this Netflix show as “weirdly addictive and soothing.” From the Netflix description, it kind of sounds like Pinterest turned into a Netflix series, ha! Special-event planner Danielle French hosts memorable moments at her idyllic farm, where guests enjoy fresh local ingredients and handcrafted decor.
Nurse Jackie:
Every day is a high wire act of juggling patients, doctors, fellow nurses, and Jackie’s own indiscretions as a hospital nurse. “I was addicted to the show and it’s funny. Not as super serious, as the Netflix bio makes it seem!” says Madison.
Seven Seconds:
“I highly recommend it! It’s a thriller and confronts a lot of current issues and challenges you to think! It’s really good!”–Amanda
Doctor Foster:
“An excellent English drama. The wife is a doctor who thinks she is in a healthy marriage but lots of clues unravel it. It’s only 6 episodes in each of the 2 seasons, season 1 is the best, but both are great!” – Molly
3%
“A Brazilian dystopian thriller on Netflix–based on the mainland of Brazil, which essentially a giant slum–there is an island offshore that has resources and is well off, and when the characters in the show turned 20, they go through what is essentially the hunger games–only 3% of kids make it to live on the island.” – Sara
Psych:
“It’s weirdly so funny and always one of my go-to’s when I need a pick me up,” says Kelly. A novice sleuth is hired by the police after he cons them into thinking he has psychic powers that help solve crimes. With the assistance of his reluctant best friend, the duo takes on a series of complicated cases.
Velvet:
“It’s in Spanish (with subtitles of course) but really great! It’s about a fashion company. There’s an epic love story that isn’t possible because the company is going under and the guy can save it but it requires leaving the love of his life for someone else. It’s like upbeat and fun but also slightly heartbreaking. I’m trying to be very vague so I don’t give it away” ?–Cice
Timeless:
“About these “good guys” chasing the “bad guys” around to different points in time because the bad guys want to alter history. It’s SO good, especially if you’re a history nerd!” –Sarah
Charite:
“About a Berlin Charity Hospital in 1888. Sounds depressing, but it’s excellent if you don’t mind subtitles.” –Molly
La Casa De Papel:
“A money Heist in the US. It’s seriously so addictive I finished it in one weekend. It’s like breaking bad and narcos but even better!” – Gloria
The Five:
“A suspenseful mystery–I loved the main characters! (Plus, it’s based in the UK so I loved the accents ?)”–Libby
Versailles:
“A bit more dramatic and suspenseful than The Crown. It’s about Louis XIV “the Sun King” in France. My husband and I both really liked it!” –Priya
The Cable Girls:
(Several of you recommended this one!) “A Spanish show set in the 1920’s. A group of women get jobs for the national telephone company, and it’s about their loves, loves and friendships! I love that they touch on women’s rights and different topics, like sexuality. So good!” –Veronica
Easy:
“Each episode is kind of it’s own isolated story, but there are characters that overlap between each. It’s about a bunch of different people in Chicago and just offers a glimpse into a lot of different types of lives. It also reminds me a lot of Master of None.” –Erin
A-Typical:
“About a boy with autism and his family. It’s so real. Funny, sad, and awkward. Really makes you feel the feels. Highly recommended!” –E
White Collar:
“About a really genius forager/art thief who gets caught by the FBI and then is allowed to spend his prison sentence helping them solve crimes. Matt Bomer plays the criminal, so, swoon, and it’s a really clever show!” –Amelia
The Let Down:
Many of you recommended this Australian show that follows a new mom who is struggling to keep up with the baby and her life around her. “Its a comedy but really sweet and heartfelt at the same time.”
The John Mulaney Kid Gorgeous Special on Netflix:
Too many of you messaged me that “IT’S HILARIOUS” but failed to mention a description. I don’t even know who John Mulaney is but apparently, we all need to watch it because it’s the funniest thing anyone has heard in a really long time. ?
BroadChurch:
Another SUPER popular suggestion! “An English crime drama about a little boy who turns up dead. It definitely feels more like a good old school detective novel rather than a thriller. I especially loved the character development in the show,” Amy describes. Emily adds, “it’s UNREAL!”
The Fall:
If you like psychological thrillers, this is amazing! It’s set in Belfast and all the actors are great,” says Sarah. Jessica adds, “It’s a bit scary but also really well made with a strong female lead!”
Shooter:
Sarah says this is the show she got into right after Peaky Blinders! “It stars Ryan Phillipe (YES!) who is an ex Marine spiner wrongly framed for a crime he did not commit. The show is about him trying to clear his name. It was a movie first, in the 90’s with Mark Wahlberg, but the stories are a bit different!”
Schitt’s Creek:
Okay this is the #1 most recommended show that EVERYONE and their mother is demanding I watch. I will admit, I’ve watched the first three episodes and I really don’t get it, but maybe I don’t have the right sense of humor? It’s a very dry comedy about a suddenly broke, the formerly filthy-rich family that is is reduced to living in a ramshackle motel in a town they once bought as a joke: Schitt’s Creek.
Call the Midwife:
“So funny and heartwarming but good history too. Sort of Downton Abby but not stuffy.” – Sarah
The Good Doctor:
Recommended by ANOTHER Sarah (there are so many Sarah’s ?) this show is about this brilliant young autistic surgeon with a troubled childhood who takes a job at a prestigious hospital but struggles to connect with those around him.
American Vandal:
“It’s basically a spoof on a true-crime series (like Making a Murderer) about this high school journalist making a documentary trying to find out who vandalized teachers’ cars by spray painting penises on them. It sounds pretty stupid, and it might not be everyone’s type of humor, but I thought it was hilarious and it really seemed like a real documentary the way everyone acts in it. Give it a shot!” –Kristen
Man in the High Castle:
“Takes place in the 1960’s in the US as if Germany and Japan won WWII. It’s addicting.” –Sarah
Wentworth:
“Set in a women’s prison in Australia. You might be thinking Orange Is the New Black, but it’s nothing like that. It’s dark, but the storylines are brilliant. You follow the characters through five seasons and the storylines weave throughout. It’s not like most shows where each season has a different story. I’ve recommended this to my best friend, aunt, and a coworker, and everyone raves about it!” –Erica
Hatfield’s and McCoys:
“About a family rivalry that took place on the West Virginia/Kentucky border after the civil war. It’s SOO good. It’s like a real-life Romeo and Juliet. And it’s a drama though, not a documentary.” –Amelia
The Sinner:
“If you’re into crime/mystery/thrillers, The Sinner is for you! Each season is completely different, but both incredibly creepy!” -Kendall
Big Little Lies:
If you haven’t gotten into BLL yet––This is the PERFECT time to get into it. It’s worth a binge for the music and Big Sur views alone! Plus, the acting and storyline is amazing–Neal and I both love it!
Sharp Objects:
An especially creepy thriller, Amy Adams brings this Gillian Flynn (author of Gone Girl) novel to life! Another one that was “Neal” approved.
The Americans
Several of you raved about this Amazon Prime show! The Americans is a period drama about the complex marriage of two KGB spies posing as Americans in suburban Washington D.C. during the Reagan administration. We started the first few episodes and then forgot about it, we have to get back into it!!
The Chef:
If you love cooking shows, check out The Chef! It’s a spinoff of the 2014 film Chef, and stars Jon Favreau and Roy Choi. The friends travel around the world and celebrate different flavors, cultures and people.
Girls:
If you never jumped on the Girls bandwagon, now’s your chance to catch up! There are 6 seasons of four NYC girlfriends navigating life waiting for you! Think Sex and the City but way more realistic!
Portlandia:
If you’ve never seen this comedy series starring SNL’s Fred Armisen, now is a great time! Set in the Pacific North West, Portlandia not so gently pokes fun at the city of Portland and the many eccentric characters that call it home.
Succession:
Many of you raved about this newish HBO satire series! Succession tracks the lives of the Roy family as they contemplate their future once their aging father begins to step back from the media and entertainment conglomerate they control.
Sex Education:
Why are British comedies always so funny?! This one is no exception — Sex Education follows a socially awkward teenager and his sex therapist mother in this comedic drama.
Jane the Virgin:
So many GG readers submitted Jane the Virgin! Starring Gina Rodriguez, it’s a romantic dramedy and satirical telenovela about a 23-year-old virgin who becomes pregnant after an accidental artificial insemination by her gynecologist. ????
The Imposters:
This dark comedy is such a quick watch! It follows a con artist who marries men only to take all of their money and leave them with nothing — until one man decides to track her down. If you’ve seen the movie Heartbreakers, it’s like a modern show version!
Breaking Bad:
If you haven’t seen Breaking Bad, I know you’ve heard of it! It was critically acclaimed and won lots of awards! It’s about a high school chemistry teacher diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer who turns to manufacturing and selling methamphetamine to secure his family’s future.
Sons of Anarchy:
A lot of GG readers are Sons of Anarchy fans! The show is a crime tragedy that follows the lives of a close-knit outlaw motorcycle club operating in Charming, a fictional town in California’s Central Valley.
Selling Sunset:
If you’re a reality TV fan, check out Selling Sunset! It’s about elite real estate brokers in Los Angeles who sell the luxurious life to affluent buyers and fight over clients and properties. Real Housewives meets Love it or List it ????
Gilmore Girls:
“Always and forever” – Katie
Outlander:
A lot of you suggested this historical drama! It follows a married former World War II nurse who in 1946 finds herself transported back to Scotland in 1743. There she encounters a dashing Highland warrior and becomes embroiled in the Jacobite risings.
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel:
“If you haven’t seen Mrs. Maisel yet, just go watch it! You’ll be hooked!” -Erika (I concur, it’s one of my all-time favorite shows. I just wish there were more episodes!!)
This is Us:
Another super popular submission––and one all my friends never stop talking about. if you’re a fan of heartwrenching dramas, This is Us won’t disappoint! It time jumps through a family’s life as they deal with tragedy, relationships and love.
Derry Girls:
“I just started watching this during #quarantinelife and it’s such a great comedy to lift spirits! I laugh out loud every episode and you will definitely start talking in an Irish accent afterward! Pro tip: turn on subtitles if their accents are too strong!” -Kendall
Bloodline:
Set in the Florida Keys, Bloodline is a dramatic thriller that explores the demons lurking beneath the surface of a contemporary American family. MANY of you recommended Bloodline!
Fleabag:
A British tragicomedy, Fleabag is the name for a dry-witted woman who has no filter as she navigates life and love in London while trying to cope with tragedy.
Blacklist:
I used to love this show years ago––I clearly have a lot to catch up on! This was a popular submission––if you love action, check out Blacklist’s 7 seasons! It’s about ex-government agent Raymond “Red” Reddington who has been one of the globe’s most wanted fugitives, but he agrees to work with the FBI to catch his “blacklist” of mobsters, spies and international terrorists on the condition that he must work with a profiler.
Anne with an e:
This drama comes highly recommended by GG readers! Based on the classic book and film, it’s a coming-of-age story about a young orphan who has endured an abusive childhood and is seeking love, acceptance and her place in the world.
Narcos and Narcos Mexico:
One of Neal’s favorites––both of these Narcos shows are amazing and so intense! They chronicle the gripping real-life stories of drug kingpins and detail the actions taken by law enforcement as they battle in the war on drugs, targeting notorious and powerful figures that include drug lord Pablo Escobar.
Love Island UK:
I’ve heard great things about Love Island! If you’re a reality TV fan, Love Island UK is like Bachelor Pad but more ridiculous- plus you have 5 seasons of goodness ahead of you!
You:
This Thriller has gotten a lot of attention! It stars Penn Badgley as a stalker who convinces himself his actions are all done through love. It’s really creepy and interesting!
Younger:
Younger is a fun romantic comedy set in NYC starring Hillary Duff! It follows a 40-year-old who tries to make it as a 26-year-old after experiencing ageism in the publishing industry. This is another one with Sex and the City vibes with a modern twist!
Parenthood:
I would liken this drama to the OG This Is Us! It follows the four grown Braverman siblings as they share the joys, heartaches and headaches of Parenthood in their Northern California hometown. It stars Lauren Graham and Dax Shephard and has six seasons that are all sure to make you cry! ????
The Crown:
If you haven’t seen The Crown yet––what are you waiting for?! It follows Queen Elizabeth II’s reign and even changes up actors through the seasons. I will have to admit, my favorite seasons are the earliest ones! It’s worth watching for the gorgeous set and costume designs alone!
Peaky Blinders:
Okay, I almost didn’t include this Netflix hit because I thought EVERYONE knew what it was already, but apparently not! (You told me so on Instagram stories!) It would be a CRIME to miss out on Peaky Blinders!
I think this is honestly our favorite collective show to watch together. It follows an English gang in Birmingham England, run by Tommy Shelby and his brothers in 1919. The show follows the twists and turns that come along with their rise to power to control the streets of England. The character development and storyline are absolutely brilliant–you really fall in love with the main characters. You’ll laugh, cry, and be on the edge of your seat–it’s one of the few shows that your guy will like as much as you will.
Shrill:
SNL’s Aidy Bryant stars and produces this comedy about a struggling journalist in Portland who deals with body image, her career and a variety of relationships. While still a comedy, it addresses some very real issues.
The Affair:
Aptly named, the Affair is a 5-season drama that explores the emotional/psychological effects of two affairs.
Brooklyn 99:
If you’re looking for a long-running comedy to binge, check out Brooklyn 99! It stars Andy Sandberg and follows detectives from Brooklyn 99’s police precinct as they solve crimes.
The Morning Show:
“As if Reese Witherspoon and Jennifer Aniston weren’t enough to make you want to watch this show, the plot, the rest of the cast and cinematography is incredible! You will fly through this first season!” -Kendall
Happy Binging!! Looking for more #QuarantineLife content? Right this way!
