Permission to Binge

Summer’s here, which means homework-less days, friend-filled nights, and guilt-free TV bingeing to fill in everything in between. Whoever you are, whatever you’re into, there exists a series that will fill the void that school left behind. Here are a few favorites to get you started on your path to professional bingewatching.

1. For the Romantics: How I Met Your Mother

And so it begins

If you haven’t already watched this 10 season marathon of a show, do so immediately. The show follows the story of Ted, late twenty-something, and his journey to meeting the love (arguably loves) of his life. It’s narrated by older Ted, telling his children the story of how he met their mother. It’s sweet and sentimental and features a band of characters that exemplify #squadgoals. Watch it all except for the finale. The series finale is death.

Short episodes, about 20 minutes long. 10 seasons, 24 episodes per season.

2. Short, sweet, and a little off beat: New Girl

Relatable.

Jessica Day moves into a loft of 3 guys and a douchebag jar. Fun ensues. The humor is wacky, but a combination of lovable characters and vibrant dialogue make the show an endearing way to spend 20 minutes of your life.

20 minute episodes, 5 seasons thus far, 22 episodes a season.

3. So you can finally understand the references: Game of Thrones

Even the title slides are intense

Game of Thrones is hardcore, man. Everything has the intensity turned up, from the violence to the nudity to the plot intricacies. It’s not for everyone, but if you’re into royal feuds, okay with graphic scenes, and are a sucked for intricate braids, GoT is for you.

Suuuper long episodes at 60 minutes but shorter 10 episode seasons. You've got 6 seasons to keep you busy so far.

4. Perpetual TBT: Gilmore Girls

Yes they use pagers, wear flare jeans, and make Happy Days references like it’s no big deal, but Amy Sherman-Palladino’s witty script and perfect execution on the parts of Lauren Graham and Alexis Bledel make for a heartwarming and timeless story.

Average episode length is 40 minutes, 22-ish episodes per season, and there are 7 seasons overall. Special extra bonus treat: A mini series of 4 episodes is coming soon on Netflix.

5. The Adorbz: The Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt

Girl gets kidnapped and held by a crazy cult pastor guy in a bunker for several years then gets released and adjusts to life in New York City. If you’re not sold yet, this happens:

20 minute episodes with 2 seasons out so far. This one’s a Netflix original, but it’s written by Tina Fey, so worth it?

Congratulations on a well earned summer, bears. Let the bingewatching begin!