18 Most Bingeworthy TV Shows Of All Time

Many people find great pleasure in immersing themselves in a captivating television series over an extended period, often watching multiple or even all episodes of a single show in quick succession. This activity, known as binge-watching, is so popular that it has its own definition in the Merriam Webster dictionary – “the act of watching many or all episodes of a TV series in rapid succession.” In 2013, Netflix commissioned Harris Interactive to study this trend, and their findings showed that most participants considered binge-watching as viewing two to six consecutive episodes of a single show.

Many folks find the concept appealing, but it all starts with choosing a single show to tune into. With so many choices out there, it might seem like a piece of cake, but in reality, it can be quite challenging. To make things easier for you, we’ve compiled a list of 18 TV shows that are impossible to resist binge-watching. We’ve sifted through the options on streaming services and picked out timeless series that people just can’t seem to get enough of, one episode leading straight to another.

Severance

Translating the concept: Keep work separate from personal life – this idea serves as the foundation for the successful Apple TV+ series “Severance,” directed and co-produced by Ben Stiller. In it, Adam Scott portrays Mark Scout, an employee of a company that enables its workers to forget their personal lives upon entering the office. On the other hand, when they clock out, their personal memories resurface, and their workday fades away.

In February 2022, Season 1 was unveiled, comprising nine episodes which weave a storyline about one of Mark’s colleagues recalling his work life beyond the office. The long-awaited Season 2 debuted on January 17, 2025, with Looper’s critique indicating that it meets expectations. The narrative in this season kicks off as Mark and three other team members discover they are the poster boys for Severance reform, a title that leaves them pondering the implications for their futures.

Ted Lasso

Embrace the strength of conviction is one way of saying it. This sentiment is among the many inspiring messages conveyed by the consistently optimistic Apple TV+ show “Ted Lasso.” Debuting in August 2020, when people were seeking hope and positivity during the COVID-19 pandemic, this series—which originated from an unexpected concept derived from a commercial—portrays the journey of the title American college football coach (Jason Sudeikis) and his friend Coach Beard (Brendan Hurt) as they relocate to England to manage the struggling AFC Richmond football team.

In the storyline, Rebecca Wilton (portrayed by Hannah Waddingham) assumes ownership of the team following her divorce settlement. Her intention is to ruin the team as a means of exacting revenge on her ex-husband. However, Ted stands firm as the team’s leader, aiming to bring them triumph and success despite the challenges. This optimistic atmosphere forms the backbone for a richly developed narrative filled with unexpected twists and turns that keep viewers eagerly anticipating the next episode.

Stranger Things

The supernatural series set in the 1980s, “Stranger Things”, shows us that there’s always something hidden beneath what we see. Since its first season debuted on Netflix on July 15, 2016, it has been a massive hit. As viewers watched all episodes at once, they found themselves drawn into the mystery surrounding Will Byers’ (Noah Schnapp) disappearance, and meeting Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), an enigmatic girl who possesses psychic abilities.

The series “Stranger Things” has sustained its popularity through intricate storylines delving deeper into the Upside Down world and its characters, crafting season finales with suspenseful cliffhangers. Each season evokes the sense of nostalgia for the 1980s era that viewers grew up in. Based on current information, it’s anticipated that “Stranger Things” will conclude with Season 5, set to air in 2025.

The Bear

The restaurant industry can be tough and unforgiving, and “The Bear” does an excellent job of portraying this high-speed environment. This FX drama focuses on Jeremy Allen White’s character, Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto, who inherits his late brother’s Italian sandwich shop in Chicago. To revamp the existing setup, he brings Sydney Adamu (played by Ayo Edebiri) aboard as his sous chef, and by the end of Season 2, the family-owned establishment transforms into a fine dining experience.

As a gamer diving into this show, I found myself captivated by the intricate balance between the challenges of managing a bustling restaurant and the intimate personal stories unfolding among the characters. One unforgettable moment was during Season 2, Episode 6, “Fishes,” where we got a glimpse into Carmy’s family dynamics during a heartwarming Christmas dinner. It’s the human tales and ongoing character development that keep me hooked, as I root for Carmy and his team to overcome obstacles and make the restaurant succeed.

Squid Game

Squid Game,” a gripping South Korean drama, might just change your perspective on the classic game of ‘red light, green light.’ The show invites viewers into a world where individuals burdened by debt are lured to participate in a sequence of games, with the promise of a substantial financial reward. However, the real stakes are their very lives, making for some graphic scenes that may be difficult to watch. Despite this, it’s the intricate storyline that keeps audiences hooked.

The show initially debuted on Netflix in 2021, where all episodes from the much-awaited second season were made available in December 2024. This allowed viewers to enjoy a marathon watch of every tense matchup. With more than 150 million views and still growing, Season 2 ranks as Netflix’s third most-viewed TV season.

Dexter

Since 2006, the intriguing dual existence portrayed by Michael C. Hall has left viewers spellbound, earning him significant acclaim. The series “Dexter” chronicles Dexter Morgan (Hall), who dons two hats – a blood splatter analyst during work hours and a vigilante serial killer in his leisure time, targeting criminals beyond the reach of justice. With a total of 96 episodes, this Showtime production offers an engaging binge-watch experience that can be comfortably completed within a few weeks for those desiring such an immersive viewing experience.

Fans can look forward to no longer feeling separation anxiety as they revisit their favorite character in upcoming series. Dexter made his comeback in 2021 with “Dexter: New Blood,” living a low-key life in Upstate New York following his staged death. His backstory was explored in “Dexter: Original Sin,” and further intrigue awaits in “Dexter: Resurrection” scheduled for summer 2025, as announced on the show’s YouTube channel. With spin-offs promising to uncover some Easter eggs, it may be a good idea to catch up on the original series first.

Peaky Blinders

This engrossing crime drama set in post-World War I England is a must-see for enthusiasts of organized crime series and British television. “Peaky Blinders” chronicles the power struggles within the Shelby family, who are trying to exert control over Birmingham during this time period. The show’s protagonist, Tommy Shelby (portrayed by Cillian Murphy), heads the Shelby Company Limited and the Peaky Blinders, a gang known for concealing razors in their caps. His brothers, particularly Arthur (Paul Anderson), also play significant roles in the family business, causing tension as they navigate threats both from within and outside their clan.

The show originally aired in 2013 and has since aired six seasons filled with intricate plotlines and captivating characters who develop as we delve into the 1920s and 1930s. If you haven’t seen it yet, now’s your chance to join the excitement or revisit the ascension of the Peaky Blinders since a movie is coming out, and filming has recently concluded, as reported by Netflix.

Suits

A television series titled “Suits,” which debuted in 2011, is an American legal drama. The plot revolves around Mike Ross (portrayed by Patrick J. Adams), who manages to secure a job at a prestigious law firm despite lacking a law degree. The story unfolds as Mike, his mentor Harvey Specter (Gabriel Macht), and Harvey’s assistant Donna Paulsen (Sarah Rafferty) work together to maintain the secret that could lead to their dismissal. Meanwhile, complications arise when Mike develops feelings for paralegal Rachel Zane, portrayed by Meghan Markle, who later became known as the Duchess of Sussex.

The TV series concluded in the year 2019 following nine seasons, however, it has experienced significant popularity on streaming platforms since then. As per a Variety report based on Nielsen ratings, “Suits” became the most-watched show in 2023, with viewers spending a total of 57.7 million minutes immersed in the characters’ corporate maneuvers. In 2019, the brief spin-off series “Pearson” debuted, focusing on Jessica Pearson (played by Gina Torres) as she relocates to Chicago. The recent surge in viewership for “Suits” has resulted in a new installment titled “Suits LA,” which is set to premiere on February 23, 2025, as announced by NBC.

Game of Thrones

For years, I’ve found myself engrossed in the epic saga of “Game of Thrones,” a captivating fantasy show adapted from George R.R. Martin’s book series. Even though the last two seasons didn’t quite live up to the expectations for many viewers like me, the first eight seasons on HBO kept me hooked with their intricate plotlines and ruthless power struggles among various noble families vying for control over Westeros and the coveted Iron Throne.

The show quickly gained popularity on HBO, significantly enhancing the careers of actors like Peter Dinklage, Kit Harington, Emilia Clarke, and Sophie Turner. Spanning across 73 episodes, it provided an extensive fantasy binge for viewers. It’s recommended to pause after watching Season 3, Episode 9, “The Rains of Castamere,” due to its graphic content. Once the struggle for the Iron Throne concludes, fans can delve deeper into House Targaryen through the prequel series, “House of the Dragon.

Abbott Elementary

In simple terms, “Abbott Elementary” is a sitcom that salutes the dedicated teachers who strive to mold the future generation. The story revolves around Janine Teagues, an energetic teacher portrayed by Quinta Brunson, and her colleagues as they deal with daily hurdles and the eccentricities of Principal Ava Coleman (Janelle James). To boost their students’ success, they go through all this while being filmed by a documentary team, resulting in a mockumentary style that enhances the humor.

Since its debut on ABC in 2021, “Abbott Elementary” has been consistently making audiences laugh with its well-written dialogues and endearing characters. This comedic series has garnered significant recognition, winning four Primetime Emmy Awards and three Golden Globes. These awards are a testament to the show’s clever writing and relatable storylines that resonate with viewers. Although the budding romance between Janine and teacher Gregory Eddie (Tyler James Williams) added an exciting twist, it’s the smart humor and realistic plots that keep people eagerly tuning in for more episodes.

Only Murders in the Building

The show “Only Murders in the Building” is a humorous whodunit series that engages viewers by subtly revealing who murdered someone within the Arconia apartment complex. The trio of Charles-Haden Savage (portrayed by Steve Martin), Oliver Putnam (Martin Short), and Mabel Mora (Selena Gomez) are consistently sleuthing, utilizing their fascination with true crime podcasts to aid in the investigation and even starting their own podcast.

The show on Hulu was incredibly popular when it first aired in 2021. Since then, it’s received seven Primetime Emmy Awards and numerous Golden Globe nominations. Each season introduces new surprises, yet the series adheres to its distinctive structure. Over time, the show has even poked fun at this pattern. For viewers seeking a predictable binge-watch, this consistent structure might be just what they need, making it a comforting TV choice.

Yellowstone

The TV series “Yellowstone,” which debuted on Paramount Network in 2018, has sparked new enthusiasm for western-themed stories. In this show, Kevin Costner portrays John Dutton, the head of the Dutton family and owner of the Yellowstone Dutton Ranch in Montana. Despite the peaceful image that ranching evokes, it’s actually a challenging endeavor marked by strife as the Duttons strive to defend their land from those who seek to seize it for their own purposes.

The blend of personal family turmoil, clever business maneuvers, and the relentless determination displayed by Beth Dutton (played by Kelly Reilly) has transformed this show into an addictive viewing experience. The postponement of Season 5 Part 2 only served to heighten the excitement surrounding the series, which came to a close in December 2024, leaving some unresolved plotlines. Despite these lingering questions, “Yellowstone” remains a compelling drama encompassing 53 gripping installments. For those eager to explore the origins of the Dutton family’s empire, spin-off series “1883” and “1923” offer fans a glimpse into their past.

The Big Bang Theory

As a gaming enthusiast, I can confidently say that if you’re seeking a hearty dose of laughter and tales woven around the strong bonds of friendship, then “The Big Bang Theory” is your go-to binge-worthy show. This long-running multi-camera sitcom follows the lives of two roommates, Sheldon Cooper (played by Jim Parsons) and Leonard Hofstadter (Johnny Galecki), who work at the California Institute of Technology alongside their pals Howard Wolowitz (Simon Helberg) and Raj Koothrappali (Kunal Nayyar). The arrival of the charming Penny (Kaley Cuoco), who moves into Leonard and Sheldon’s building, shakes up their world. Over time, she becomes an essential part of this crew as they support each other through life’s highs and lows.

The popular television show known as “The Big Bang Theory” first aired in the year 2007 on CBS, where it ran for an impressive 12 seasons. This sitcom garnered 10 Primetime Emmy Awards and became deeply ingrained in pop culture, largely due to Sheldon’s memorable door knock. Additionally, it gave birth to two spin-off series, “Young Sheldon” and “Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage.

The Office (US Version)

The Office,” like the BBC show with the same name, is a comedy series that follows the daily work life at Dunder Mifflin Paper Company in Scranton, Pennsylvania. This mockumentary-style show gives us a glimpse into the office environment, showing us Michael Scott’s (Steve Carrell) questionable management strategies, the meetings of the party planning committee, the Office Olympics, and Jim Halpert’s (John Krasinski) playful tricks, among other events that unfold.

In 2005, “The Office” debuted on NBC, transforming many of its actors into well-known figures in households across America. Throughout its run, it garnered five Primetime Emmy Awards. After airing an impressive 188 episodes, the show concluded in 2013 and remains a popular choice for binge-watching sessions. While the comical office situations keep viewers coming back to the fictional paper company, the evolving romance between Pam (portrayed by Jenna Fischer) and Jim provides both humor and emotion in a setting that many can easily relate to, making it a timeless classic.

New Girl

In a fresh turn of events, the character “Jess Day,” portrayed by Zooey Deschanel, discovers her boyfriend Spencer (Ian Wolterstorff) being unfaithful. Consequently, Jess decides to share living quarters with a bunch of male roommates. As they all adapt to Jess’s unique influences and alterations in their shared environment, they grapple with their professional challenges and the intricacies of love and dating simultaneously.

This TV show ran for seven seasons, providing intricate storylines that highlight each character’s unique traits, driving the narrative forward. The character-focused plot structure makes it an ideal choice for marathon viewing, as the enigmatic relationship between Jess and Nick Miller (played by Jake Johnson) keeps viewers hooked. Moreover, notable guest stars like Jamie Lee Curtis and the late Prince grace the series, with Prince’s episode leaving a lasting impression on fans.

Daredevil

In 2015, the guardian of Hell’s Kitchen made a grand entrance, debuting with the popular Marvel series on Netflix that spanned over three seasons. Known as “Daredevil”, this show revolves around Matt Murdock (portrayed by Charlie Cox), a lawyer who is blind, and his friend Foggy Nelson (Elden Henson). Based in Manhattan, they open a law office with the intention of using their legal skills to aid others. However, Matt’s heightened senses lead him to confront criminals not just within his professional sphere but also outside of it.

In one of Marvel’s initial departures from the cheerful tales dominating the silver screen at that moment, the series delved into a more somber narrative. Yet, this brooding atmosphere was refreshingly appreciated by fans longing for complex storylines and a compelling protagonist. Daredevil quickly rose in popularity, and his tale is set to return in “Daredevil: Born Again,” debuting on Disney+ on March 4, 2025, as announced in the Marvel Entertainment trailer.

Friends

This show is always there when we’re craving a heartwarming marathon session. “Friends” follows the lives of six friends navigating adulthood in New York City, dealing with job changes, family issues, and romantic entanglements. The beloved NBC sitcom debuted in 1994 and quickly became a cultural icon, known for its hilarious antics and catchphrases that have seeped into everyday language. It even sparked a trend for the fashionable hairdo sported by style maven Rachel Green (played by Jennifer Aniston).

The television series “Friends” concluded in 2004 as the cast bid farewell to Monica’s apartment. Even before the concept of binge-watching was popularized, people continued to watch reruns of this show extensively. In 2015, Netflix made it available on its streaming platform, a choice that pleased many fans. It remained there until the end of 2019, taking a break from streaming until HBO Max premiered in May 2020. Now, a new generation can discover and enjoy “Friends” on this platform.

Gilmore Girls

Many people make it a fall custom to binge-watch “Gilmore Girls,” and there are several reasons why this show has managed to stay popular for so long. The successful WB series tells the story of mother-daughter pair Lorelei (played by Heather Graham) and Rory Gilmore (Alexis Bledel), as they maneuver through the allure and intricacies of small-town life. Lorelei, in particular, grapples with parents who lead a vastly different lifestyle, including debutante balls.

The series debuted in the year 2000, running for a total of seven seasons. After its initial run, it gained a fresh following when it was added to Netflix, where it became a heartwarming viewing choice due to its exploration of friendship and family. This transition to the streaming platform led to the creation of a miniseries in 2016 titled “Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life,” offering fans new material to consume and insights into the lives of Lorelei and Rory during that period.

2025-02-10 23:31