Let’s face it, the weather can’t make its mind up at the moment and making plans to do anything outside is problematic. We have had four seasons in the past three hours alone, from thunder so loud it shook the house to it now being so sunny that I am tempted to go and sit in the garden for half an hour. And I would if the cushions on the patio chairs weren’t soaking wet.
Certainly! Let’s swap out The Witcher for a great option from BBC1.
Slow Horses
Available on: Apple TV+
I’ve been hooked on *Slow Horses* from the very first episode. This show takes the classic British spy drama and flips it on its head. It’s gritty, unpredictable, and full of sharp dialogue. Plus, with Gary Oldman leading the cast, the performances are top-tier.
This gripping series follows a team of British intelligence agents relegated to MI5’s Slough House, a dumping ground for those who’ve messed up in the field. Led by the curmudgeonly yet brilliant Jackson Lamb (played by Gary Oldman), these “slow horses” stumble into a complex conspiracy that has global implications. The mix of wit, tension, and character-driven drama makes it an absolute must-watch for anyone who loves a good spy thriller.
Ted Lasso
Available on: Apple TV+
” wasn’t expecting to fall in love with *Ted Lasso* as much as I did, but it’s one of the most heartwarming and uplifting shows I’ve seen in years. It’s got comedy, emotion, and a whole lot of heart – plus, it’s a refreshing take on sports culture.
For those who haven’t yet hopped on the Ted Lasso train, now’s the perfect time. This comedy-drama tells the story of an American football coach who’s hired to manage a struggling British football team, despite having no experience in the sport. While the premise sounds like it could go wrong, the result is a feel-good show with lovable characters, clever humour, and surprisingly deep moments about mental health, teamwork, and redemption. Whether you’re a football fan or not, Ted Lasso is bound to win you over.
The Bear
Available on: Disney+
I wasn’t prepared for how intense *The Bear* would be, but it’s addictive. The show captures the chaotic energy of a high-pressure kitchen and mixes it with complex, deeply human stories. It’s gritty, fast-paced, and impossible to stop watching.
The Bear follows Carmen “Carmy” Berzatto, a fine-dining chef who returns home to run his family’s sandwich shop in Chicago after a personal tragedy. While this series might seem like it’s just about food, it delves deep into themes of grief, family dysfunction, and the pursuit of excellence in a demanding industry. The tight episodes, sharp dialogue, and frenetic pace make it a gripping and satisfying binge.
The Capture
Available on: BBC iPlayer (BBC One)
I love a good thriller, and *The Capture* is one of the best British dramas I’ve seen in a while. It’s clever, intense, and keeps you second-guessing every step of the way. If you enjoy edge-of-your-seat suspense, this is the one to watch.
The Capture is a high-tech thriller that explores the world of government surveillance, deepfake technology, and the manipulation of truth in the digital age. The series follows detective Rachel Carey, played by Holliday Grainger, as she uncovers a conspiracy that questions the very fabric of justice and truth. With twists and turns at every corner, this is a binge-worthy show that keeps you hooked until the very last episode.
Only Murders in the Building
Available on: Disney+
“As a fan of true crime podcasts, *Only Murders in the Building* hits all the right notes. It’s funny, suspenseful, and has a great mystery at its core. Plus, the chemistry between Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez is just spot on.”
This comedy-drama follows three residents of a swanky New York apartment building who bond over their love of true crime podcasts – and then find themselves investigating a murder in their building. The show is a perfect mix of suspense, humour, and heart, with plenty of twists to keep you guessing until the very end. If you’re looking for a lighter, yet still compelling binge, this is a great pick.
The Boys
Available on: Amazon Prime Video
Superheroes but make them dark and gritty – *The Boys* takes the genre to a whole new level. It’s violent, shocking, and completely addictive. You think you know where it’s going, and then it throws you a curveball. Not for the faint-hearted, but so worth it.
In a world where superheroes are corporate-sponsored and often corrupt, The Boys follows a ragtag group of vigilantes who take it upon themselves to expose the truth. With its mix of biting social commentary, extreme violence, and black humour, the show offers a unique and twisted take on the superhero genre. The latest season cranks up the stakes and tension, making it the perfect binge if you’re in the mood for something dark and action-packed.
Honourable Mentions:
- The Perfect Couple (Netflix) – Whodunnit with a backdrop of wealth, people you like initially and then can’t stand, stunning scenery and a great cast. You an easily binge this in a weekend and then you can go online and ask all the questions.
- The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (Amazon Prime Video) – A dazzling mix of comedy, drama, and vibrant 1950s New York, perfect for fans of character-driven stories.
- Secret Lives of Mormon Wives (Disney+) – Just wow. You will watch this with your mouth open and then start writing your questions as you realise how simple your life is compared to the women in this programme.