With the world in lockdown, it’s only natural for people to use the time catching up on some box sets that have long been on their watchlist. However, if you’re looking for something new to indulge in, here are some TV shows that are so addictive you’ll fly through them.

Peaky Blinders

Let’s start with the single most compelling show in the world, Peaky Blinders. In 5 series we have seen the Shelby family rise to the top of society, and face some serious adversity along the way. Led by Cillian Murphy’s Tommy Shelby, the Peaky Blinders are a force to be reckoned with. This is a world that is dominated by gang wars, illegal activities, and a lot of violence, but the real reason this show has amassed such a loyal following is due to its intellect. The Peaky Blinders is driven by the careful and calculated manipulation of rivalries and politics. It’s all about strategy, and Tommy Shelby always has an ace up his sleeve.

“Everybody around here, they want you to win this battle. You’re bad men, but you’re our bad men.”

There’s a lot that can be said about this show, and the heart of Peaky Blinders lies in the Shelby family, a family haunted by their past which translates through their actions. The cast delivers a powerful performance that delves deep into the psychology of their characters treating viewers to a sophisticated, intelligent, and compelling show.

Supernatural

With 15 seasons to catch up on, Supernatural will keep you more than occupied. While the story of two demon-hunting brothers may not sound like your cup of tea, the depth of the bond between these brothers is more than worth your time. While the show does have its faults, Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki deliver a phenomenal performance that will frustrate you and move you. The dedication of the cast and crew to the show is a testament to its longevity, as each season explores the ever-expanding world of monster hunting while adding another layer to the dynamic between Sam, Dean, their closest allies, and most formidable foes. 

9-1-1 Lone Star

A more lighthearted show, but one that still packs plenty of punches. A spin-off of 9-1-1, Lone Star puts the spotlight on Austin’s first responders that undergo an uphaul following a devastating tragedy. Led by Rob Lowe, we are introduced to a diverse cast of characters who are thrown into the heart of a series of entertaining, bizarre, and slightly terrifying ordeals. The true strength of this show lies in its cast of characters, each dealing with their own insecurities and struggles, but also provides brilliant moments of levity and normality making these characters feel instantly relatable.

The Walking Dead

With how this year’s shaping up, it wouldn’t surprise me if we did have a zombie apocalypse outbreak. The Walking Dead might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but with 10 seasons to catch up on, this show will keep you at the very edge of your seats. It’s a show about the lengths you’d go to survive. It explores the limits of the human spirit and the choice between losing your humanity to ensure your own survival.

Vikings

With six seasons to its name, Vikings has everything you could possibly want in a historical drama. Focusing on the rise and subsequent fall of Ragnar Lothbrok and his sons, Vikings is a world that has oodles of complex character dynamics, visually striking battles, and an intellectual test of wills. While it’s clear that Travis Fimmel’s Ragnar Lothbrok carried the heart of the show, the supporting characters are equally as compelling, and if the final season has taught us anything it’s that Ragnar’s son can be leaders in their own right.

Friends

A timeless classic and one of the most enjoyable shows you can watch time and time again. There hasn’t been a show that has topped the popularity of Friends and this comedy is the perfect companion on those lazy weekends. There is nothing more comforting than a familiar show and in the 25 years since the first episode aired, Friends remains to be a comedy classic that will lift hearts around the world.

Honourable Mentions: The Witcher | Arrow | The Last Kingdom |
Breaking Bad (Confession – Still not watched it) | Grimm | One Tree Hill

What are your binge-worthy box sets?
Any recommendations?