Whether it was the result of stress, boredom or sheer, unabridged interest, most of us have fallen victim to the art of binge-watching. In the event you’ve run out of shows to watch for multiple consecutive hours at a time, never fear. Take a pick from one of these seven excellent and widely-appreciated time-wasters.
Parks and Rec
Live life right alongside the characters in this lighthearted, silly series. Finished all your homework and in the mood for some easy laughs? Watching a few episodes of Parks and Recreation will act as an almost guaranteed stress-reliever. Forget the day’s troubles and just spend a couple of hours watching Chris Pratt being, well, Chris Pratt.
Scandal
This dramatic political-thriller series will keep you on the edge of your seat as you begin to question not only our government and the people around you, but also life itself. The show definitely lives up to its title and the ample amount of plot twists keep it interesting. If a more emotionally-captivating television series exists, someone let me know.
The Office
Not only do you feel a personal connection to each of these characters, (I think we can all identify with Creed at some point), but this dysfunctional yet close-knit work environment seems downright cute sometimes. Fall in love with dorky Jim and laugh at Dwight’s ridiculous antics while you watch a full season at three in the morning, because it really is just that good.
Arrested Development
This show is the epitome of satirical humor. Most of us with families who behave kooky on occasion can relate to the Bluth family. Follow them through the eyes of the more rational member, Michael Bluth, as they go through their various (and hilarious) ups and downs.
Criminal Minds
Crime? Check. Camaraderie? Check. Gripping plots that will leave your world feeling rocked? Absolutely. This show has it all, and the best part is barely anybody will judge you for watching seven straight hours worth of these modern day crime-fighting superheroes.
Friends
Just because it was filmed in the ‘90s doesn’t mean it has to stay there, as this show serves as a timeless classic still enjoyed today by many. Keep up with the everyday lives of six friends living together in the busyness of Manhattan while they get into enough sticky situations to keep you interested.
Grey’s Anatomy
This falls under the category of one of those shows you will simultaneously love and hate. You should observe these young doctors do their thing by watching multiple episodes at a time, as the emotional roller coaster it’ll take you on will be relentless (and you won’t be able to put down the remote anyway). Expect to laugh, then cry, then maybe laugh again. Just make sure to have extra tissues and remember, “It’s a great day to save lives.”