Don’t get me wrong — I love New Girl just as much as the next person. But after rewatching it for the fourth (maybe fifth?) time, I desperately needed something else so that when I eventually did revisit New Girl, it would feel new all over again.
Although I wouldn’t typically group these shows together as specific “New Girl alternatives,” here are five shows you can try if you need something refreshing!
- THE WILDS
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The Wilds is a show that just completely blew my mind when I watched it the first time. Although the mostly all-female cast is comprised of people we haven’t heard of or seen before, I found the acting to be phenomenal. The story focuses on the journey of eight different girls when they find themselves stranded on an island after a “self-help retreat” goes wrong. The Wilds focuses on so many different topics: love, LGBTQ+ identity, grief, jealousy, sexual assault, and eating disorders; really, the list is endless. Although a “heavier” show some might say, I found lightheartedness in the humor of the girls and the banding together of female power.
Watch options: Amazon Prime
- GRAND ARMY
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Trigger warning: this show contains depictions of sexual assault and suicide.
I think this show is so underrated! Whenever I ask people if they’ve seen or heard of Grand Army, no one knows what I’m talking about. What’s even more surprising is that it’s on the most popular streaming service, Netflix! Grand Army is perfect for Euphoria lovers — it follows a group of high schoolers in New York City, all coping with their own struggles whether it’s home life, boys, academics, theatre, etc. The performances of the actors in Grand Army are also impressive. Although a limited series, Grand Army is a great show for those of us waiting for Euphoria season three!
Watch options: Netflix
- The handmaid’s tale
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Trigger warning: this show contains depictions of sexual assault and suicide.
This show is definitely more popular than the last two mentioned, however, after finding this show just last spring, I’m convinced not enough people watch it. Unlike most people, I hadn’t read the novel version by Margaret Atwood in high school or college. Going into watching the show, I had no clue what was in store. What I found after quickly moving through the first four seasons was such a rich story full of female empowerment, love, and resilience. Although set in a dystopian future, this show definitely presents itself as a reflection of some conventions in society today. This show is perfect for those who like something a little horrifying but not filled with the supernatural.
Watch options: Hulu
- BIG LITTLE LIES
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Trigger warning: this show contains depictions of sexual assault.
This show came out a while ago and was very popular among Gen Z, so I wouldn’t be surprised if most of you have already seen it. However, if you haven’t, then RUN to Hulu right now. Before I started this show, I expected it to be boring and only appeal to an older age demographic; however, I find myself constantly wishing I could go back and rewatch this show for the first time. The story follows the lives of a few mothers all committed to giving their children the “best” — whether it comes to education or birthday parties, these mothers stop at nothing to get what they want. Starring Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Laura Dern, Shailene Woodley, Zoe Kravitz, and many more, this show will blow you away not only with its incredible performances but with its dramatic twists.
Watch options: Hulu
- peaky blinders
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Although I have yet to finish this show, I’d totally recommend Peaky Blinders to anyone looking for a show that has multiple seasons and is guaranteed to keep them entertained for at least a few weeks. This show is drama-packed and will have you clicking the “Next Episode” button until you realize you’ve finished another season! It is also widely recognized for its genius writing and incredible performances and it does not disappoint. However, the one downfall I found with this show was its lack of female characters. Although the men are nice to look at (IMO), I would have appreciated a more female-centric narrative. Regardless, it’s definitely worth the watch if you’re in the mood for something new and exciting.
Watch options: Netflix
Of course, I’d never tell you guys not to watch New Girl for the fifth time. But if you’re looking for something new and a little bit different, I hope these shows satisfy your need for new entertainment!
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