My husband and I stay up late—we’re rarely asleep before 11pm. We’re also super binge-watchers, and we go through shows fast. The good news is there’s so much to watch, but sometimes it’s hard to know what’s worth your post-kid-bedtime hours and what’s not. I’ve just scratched the surface with these 5 binge-worthy shows for parents who stay up late.
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, Amazon Prime
Marvelous, indeed. This is such a magical show, we couldn’t help but watch “just one more.” Set in New York City in the late 1950s, it follows an accidental comic who is, well, marvelous. There’s comedy (obviously), drama and the costume design is perfection. Great for couples, guys and gals, city lovers, stand-up comedy enthusiasts.
Red Oaks, Amazon Prime
Remember Jennifer Gray? She has a supporting role in this charming comedy-drama, but she plays a college kid’s mom. And it’s perfect because this show has nods to Dirty Dancing. It takes place at a country club in Jersey and tells the intertwined stories of a bunch of college kids: how they deal with summer jobs, love, heartbreak, bad decisions and tiny triumphs. Oh, and it’s 80s to the max. The accessories alone will make you long for your blue eye shadow and leg warmers. Great for couples, guys and gals, children of the 80s, people who agree that Baby should never be put in a corner.
Mindhunter, Netflix
I get really, really freaked out by serial killer-type shows and movies. Like, I can’t sleep. But this show was different. An FBI agent in the 1970s sets out to understand the inner workings of a serial killer’s mind. Yes, there are some disturbing parts so if you can’t stomach that type of thing, this isn’t for you. But the actors are amazing and the story line is thrilling. Great for: couples, guys and gals, thrill seekers, cop show aficionados.
The Crown, Netflix
After watching some of the more heart thumping shows, The Crown can feel kind of slllooow. But this is history (even if they take some liberties). Claire Foy, who plays Queen Elizabeth, is stellar in her role, and she keeps it moving through the second season. We also just started Victoria on PBS—good if you want to get in some more British royalty. Great for couples, guys and gals, Brit buffs, people obsessed with the royal family.
Godless, Netflix
In my opinion, this was one of the best shows of the year. I’m usually not a fan of Westerns, but I could not stop watching this show. The kick butt lady contingent is strong, the backstory is fascinating and the acting superb. Jeff Daniels plays the perfect villain and Michelle Dockery (from Downton Abbey) Is. Just. Awesome. This is a mini-series, so don’t get hyped about season two, but don’t worry—they don’t leave you hanging. And just a warning: there are some violent scenes, because it is the 1800s. Great for couples, guys and gals, Western watchers, lady power lovers.
