Some shows just feel like October- oversized sweaters, pumpkin spice lattes and spooky decorations. If your watchlist needs a seasonal refresh, these five fall-coded picks belong at the top. Grab your spooky blanket and press play.
- “Gilmore Girls”
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If fall had a theme show, “Gilmore Girls” would 100% be it. Stars Hollow would be autumn in a full-on character, golden leaves falling, coffee and a town festival every few episodes.Lorelai and Rory’s rapid-fire chats and endless coffee runs make it the perfect comfort show with your own pumpkin latte. Rory’s journey from Chilton to Yale also captures that back-to-school feeling and her dream of becoming a journalist, which is extra relatable for anyone in media.
Re-watching is practically required. College students and people who enjoy cozy weekends: this one is for you!
- “Riverdale”
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“Riverdale” is definitely a hot take, but I feel that it’s what you watch when you want a comfort show with a side of chaos.
The show turns the original Archie comics world into a modern small-town mystery, complete with neon-lit diners and burgers and fries. All your favorites, such as Betty, Veronica, Archie and Jughead, each have their own tales and secrets. Then you have your Cheryl Blossom, who adds some fire.
The plot twists come at every angle, which makes it great for a group binge-watch with your gals. This is the show where you keep asking, “Wait, what just happened?”
- “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina”
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This is one of my favorites. If you’re looking for more of a spooky or fall vibe, try “Chilling Adventures of Sabrina.” This Gothic take on the teen witch story follows Sabrina Spellman as she fights to choose her own path instead of surrendering to the Dark Lord.
Greendale gives us an autumn vibe but turns into a nightmare, with fog-covered streets and flickering lanterns, and the witchy costumes double as Halloween inspiration if you’re looking for ideas. There are so many characters who add warmth and humor to the show, and Spellman refuses to accept limits, which gives the series its own personality.
- “Stranger Things”
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Few shows capture the eerie side of autumn quite like “Stranger Things” does. Set in the 1980s around Christmas time in small-town Indiana, it brings together bike rides through foggy streets, flickering Christmas lights, Halloween decorations and costumes and a supernatural mystery from the Upside Down.
Eleven, Mike, Dustin, Lucas and Will set the tone with a bonded friendship that later turns terrifying. My favorite part about the show is the synth soundtrack and retro details that make it feel nostalgic. It’s a perfect show for a dark and rainy night.
- “Gossip Girl”
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Fall in Manhattan has never looked better (except in the ’80s). “Gossip Girl” is surrounded by 2000s fashion, including berets, low-waist jeans, skinny jeans and tailored coats in Central Park and the Upper East Side’s private-school drama.
Serena, Blair, Chuck and Dan are caught in a web of scandals, secrets and an anonymous blog post that keeps everyone guessing. If you love fashion and a guilty-pleasure TV show, this series is perfect for you. Between the rooftop parties and the over-the-top love triangles, it’s an easy binge.
So there you have it: my top five shows to binge this season. Whether you’re in a mood for a cozy night or a spooky binge-worthy adventure, there’s definitely something here for you. Grab a blanket, make your favorite fall drink and snack, and maybe even grab a friend to get comfy because these shows are made for staying in all weekend.
And honestly, if this list gives you an excuse to cancel your plans and binge-watch instead, I’m not judging you. Which one are you starting with?