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Ryan Murphy Shows You Should Watch to Get Through Lockdown

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at Leeds chapter.

I would say that Ryan Murphy is a national treasure, but unfortunately, we do not share a country, so instead, Ryan Murphy is an international treasure. If you do not know who Ryan Murphy is, then you need to pay more attention to who is writing, directing and creating your favourite shows. If you have ever sat down to binge American Horror Story, or Glee (he is no one-trick pony), then you have a lot to thank Mr Murphy for. 

Here are my top 5 picks for the best Ryan Murphy shows for you to watch during lockdown, in no particular order.

American Horror Story: Freakshow

Freakshow is by far my favourite American Horror Story season; the twisted and dark tale of a 1950’s ‘freak show’ will keep you pressing ‘next episode’ until the dogs come home. The entirety of the AHS seasons are on Netflix, so what are you waiting for?

Freakshow was created by Ryan Murphy, as well as Brad Falchuk who worked alongside of Murphy as a co-writer, in the ‘holy trinity’ of Glee writers. 

Hollywood

Hollywood is not out until 1st May. But if you finish the rest of the series on this list and need something to fill that hole in your heart, I already know this will.

Why am I so confident you’ll enjoy it? Two names: Ryan Murphy and Darren Criss. There is also a less known Glee veteran involved in this show – Ian Brennan who was the last third of the glee ‘holy trinity’ writers, so I already know that this show will be a hit. 

Here’s all we know so far thanks to IMDMB:

‘A group of aspiring actors and filmmakers in post-World War II Hollywood try to make it big – no matter the cost’

American Crime Story: The Assassination of Gianni Versace

I love everything about this show. Versace. 90s fashion. Darren Criss (again). Need I say more? 

This series was written by Tom Rob Smith has the right amount of horror and dark humour. It was directed by some big names including Matt Bomer and of course Ryan Murphy, who was also the producer of the show.

Feud

I am currently watching Feud which follows the long rivalry between two Hollywood actress’ Joan Crawford and Bette Davis. Since I was born over 10 years after both of these infamous ladies died, I understandably knew nothing about this feud. I think this is the perfect time for some culture. Of course, the show that is full of Hollywood glitz and glamour is very entertaining. 

Ryan Murphy partially produced and partially directed this masterpiece. 

Glee

You knew it was coming. If you have never seen Glee, I envy you since you get to enjoy it for the first time. I wish I was a Glee virgin, it would make lockdown much more exciting. And if you have seen Glee before, then watch it again. You are fooling no one by playing it cool!

Although it’s a difficult time, these tv shows are a great way to distract yourself! You can turn on an episode and spend sometime away from your worries.

Philosophy student from the University of Leeds who watches way too much 'teen TV'. HC Leeds president 2020/21 <3  Read more on my blog: https://alicecolton.wixsite.com/website