What’s great about streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime is that along with a vast selection of movies, you can also access a plethora of amazing and captivating TV series. Whether you’re looking for a brief distraction, a series to binge watch while on vacation, or just something to help you unwind after a long day, there’s sure to be a show that suits your needs.
However, while there are many fantastic series out there, some television shows just don’t live up to the hype – and can quickly go from being hyped as the next big thing to being labeled as “cringe-worthy” in the public eye.
Binge-Worthy TV Series
Whether you’re a fan of drama, comedy, science fiction, reality, or horror, finding a binge-worthy show can be a bit tricky. But if you are looking for some quality fare that is sure to hold your attention for hours on end, you should definitely check out some of the most highly acclaimed TV series available today.
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Game of Thrones:
This fantasy epic from HBO had been a resounding success since its debut in 2011 and has quickly become one of the most popular shows ever. With a star-studded cast, breathtaking locations, and some brilliant storytelling, it’s no wonder why millions of viewers have been drawn to the show and kept them coming back season after season. -
Stranger Things:
This science fiction-horror hybrid took the world by storm in 2016 with its compelling mix of horror, mystery and drama. Of course, the standout performance of Millie Bobby Brown can’t be overlooked either. All three seasons have been incredibly well received, and it looks like the fourth installment is coming soon. -
Breaking Bad:
This meth-drama series created by Vince Gilligan has been hailed as one of the greatest television series of all time. With Bryan Cranston in the role of Walter White, the show follows his transformation from a meek science teacher to a meth manufacturer and drug kingpin. Thanks to its brilliant writing and darkly comical moments, it’s easy to understand why Breaking Bad is so highly acclaimed. -
The Office:
This American version of the BBC series of the same name was a huge success on NBC. With Steve Carell as the show’s lead, it follows the daily lives and hijinks of the employees of a paper company in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Featuring amusing characters, endearingly awkward situations, and Michael Scott’s antics, it’s no wonder why this show has been so well loved. -
The Crown:
This biographical drama series follows the life and reign of Queen Elizabeth II. Featuring a top-notch cast including Claire Foy, John Lithgow, and Matt Smith, this series chronicles the major events and milestones of her life, from her coronation in the late 50s, to her relationship with Prime Minister Winston Churchill.
Cringe-Worthy TV Series
Unfortunately, streaming services also come with their fair share of cringe-worthy TV shows. While some of them may have a few memorable moments, these shows range from just plain bad to downright stupid. So, if you want to avoid any potential embarrassment due to watching an ill-conceived show, here are some you won’t want to miss.
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Joey: This 2004 spinoff from the wildly successful comedy series Friends quickly fizzled out and left fans disappointed. Following the misadventures of Joey Tribbiani, a lower-tier actor attempting to make it big in Hollywood, this show was mostly written off as the black sheep of the Friends franchise.
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Two and a Half Men:
This American sitcom that aired on CBS featured Charlie Sheen and Jon Cryer as co-leads and enjoyed a successful run for 12 consecutive seasons. Unfortunately, due to Sheen’s offscreen controversy and Cryer’s lack of chemistry with replacements, the show began to feel like it was spinning its wheels and eventually just became downright painful to watch. -
The Big Bang Theory:
This long-running sitcom saw its fair share of success during its 12-year run and it’s undeniable that this show had its moments. However, over time the humor felt increasingly contrived and forced, with so-called “nerd” tropes being increasingly relied upon for laughs. -
Fuller House:
This sequel series to the 90’s show Full House was released in 2016 on Netflix and, unfortunately, had little to offer in the way of a fresh perspective. While some of the original actors returned for guest appearances, the focus shifted to younger and newer characters and the overall show seemed to detract from the beloved original.
At the end of the day, it’s important to remember that everyone’s tastes are different and that what may be perceived as cringe-worthy may also be seen as a guilty pleasure for others. However, if you’re looking for a quality show to binge, be sure to check out some of the more highly acclaimed series instead of taking a gamble with the shows listed here. With any luck, you’ll find something that will keep you hooked for hours.
