As the coronavirus pandemic prompted global lockdowns earlier this year, many individuals found themselves seeking ways to fill their newfound free time. Some decided to explore new skills, like picking up a language or mastering a musical instrument, while others focused on home improvement projects and tackling overdue chores.
However, a popular activity shared by many has been diving into an array of new television shows and films. With such a vast selection available, finding something truly engaging can be a challenge. Countless hours have been spent scrolling through platforms like Netflix and Amazon Prime. To simplify your search, here are several recommendations to get you started.
Brooklyn 9-9
Brooklyn 9-9 chronicles the hilarious escapades of the witty detective Jake Peralta and his equally comical, diverse, and endearing colleagues at the New York Police Department’s 99th precinct. From the outset, the team navigates uproarious circumstances, utilizing their unexpectedly sharp detective skills to solve various cases.
The ensemble cast delivers standout performances, each with their distinct charm. With six seasons at your disposal, there’s ample opportunity to indulge in a binge-watch session to your heart’s content.
The renewal process for the latest season was not straightforward; after five seasons, Fox decided to drop the series due to declining viewership. Fortunately, the beloved show was picked up by NBC within just 31 hours of cancellation.
Many shows find themselves facing similar predicaments, sparking conversations about whether a favorite program will continue. Luckily, numerous resources can help you track the status of your beloved shows on this website, ensuring you stay informed.
Few things are more frustrating than becoming fully invested in a series only to discover there’s no resolution after a season-ending cliffhanger.
After Life
Recently confirmed for its third season, After Life is captivating audiences worldwide. This series centers on Tony, whose life spirals into chaos following the death of his wife from breast cancer.
Understandably struggling to cope, Tony chooses to navigate his grief by embracing a candid approach with everyone he encounters, leading to a blend of humor and heartache. Ricky Gervais, who serves as actor, writer, and producer, showcases his incredible talent throughout, delivering moments that evoke both laughter and tears.
The supporting cast is equally thoughtfully selected, featuring familiar faces from Gervais’s previous works. After Life is truly a series you won’t want to miss.
Killing Eve
A brilliant addition to British television, Killing Eve combines elements of comedy, drama, and spy thriller. The story follows Eve Polastri, an intelligence investigator tasked with the daunting challenge of apprehending the psychopathic killer, Villanelle. This ongoing game of cat and mouse is not only thrilling but also infused with humor, thanks to the exceptional writing from the creator.
As fans eagerly anticipate the second season, they won’t have to wait long for more of Killing Eve’s exhilarating escapades.
Big Mouth
Created by Nick Kroll, Andrew Goldberg, Mark Levin, and Jennifer Flackett, Big Mouth is an animated series inspired by Kroll and Goldberg’s early experiences growing up in New York.
This laugh-out-loud portrayal of preteens navigating the tumultuous waters of puberty amidst the chaos of school life features the hilarious addition of hormone monsters, providing comic relief throughout.
This Country
This British mockumentary sitcom captures the lives of two young individuals residing in a quaint town in the Cotswolds. The series humorously explores themes of social awkwardness, human behavior, and the quirky aspects of living in rural England.
Due to its immense popularity, This Country quickly garnered a second series and debuted its third earlier this year. Even for an American audience, the show’s charm and humor will resonate, even if some British nuances might be lost in translation.
BlackAF
Premiering on April 17 of this year, BlackAF is one of the newer sitcoms making waves on this list. Written and created by Kenya Barris, the show features Barris himself in a fictionalized role, navigating the chaotic and unvarnished reality of life as he grapples with parenting and personal authenticity.
Just two months post-launch, BlackAF secured a second season, a clear indication of its comedic prowess.
Friday Night Lights
Although not a recent creation and falling outside the sitcom genre, Friday Night Lights is a definitive must-watch. Set in the small town of Dillon, Texas, it chronicles the challenges and triumphs of the high school football team, the Dillon Panthers.
With an array of compelling storylines, the series takes viewers through the ups and downs of the team led by head coach Eric Taylor, exploring relationships, teamwork, and the realities of adolescent life in rural America. This award-winning series deserves a spot on your watchlist without delay.
With a plethora of options available on streaming services, seeking online recommendations can be beneficial. Each of these shows has received rave reviews and promises to leave you craving more. So, head to the kitchen, grab some popcorn and a cold drink, and settle in for a marathon of these fantastic series.
