Iconic Shows You Must Watch or Rewatch

Photo Illustration: Ana Castillo

TV shows are a comfort we tend to revisit. Read some new recommendations for those nights in.

Ana Castillo, Opinions Editor

All of us have that time of day or week when we turn to a comfort show, rewatch, or, more commonly, a stump in the road where we can’t decide what to watch. There are numerous television series available nowadays, but one thing to note is that society prefers to watch classic 2000s television series.

This is an appreciation to some but not all of the best TV shows during this time that were iconic and still are iconic. It is definitely worth taking a quick read about them and binging them right after. Trust me, people talk about these shows for a reason.

  • Gossip Girl (2007-2012)
    Gossip Girl
    ABC/Getty Images

    Ages TV-14, Watch on HBO Max

Seriously the definition of iconic and they know how to actually do drama. A show full of plot twists, drama, fashion, and scandal, and obviously mystery. The show follows the lives of wealthy teenagers who come from families which have always lived in the Upper East Side of New York City. You’ll be hooked on the continuous juicy plot, witty banter, soundtrack, parties and fashion events. Plus, who doesn’t love a good dose of drama? Be ready to be swept into six seasons of a glamorous unrealistic but realistic world of “Gossip Girl.” XOXO!

  • Modern Family (2009-2020)
    Watch Modern Family TV Show - ABC.com
    ABC Images

    Ages TV-13, Watch on Hulu

All-in-one comfort and comedy. A hilarious sitcom that follows the lives of three interconnected families. The show is known for its heartwarming and relatable moments. When you just want to feel a smidgeon of happiness, this is one of the best places to go for some light-hearted entertainment. This show has received numerous Emmy nominations and has been praised for its diverse representation of various types of families. When you watch these 11 seasons, you feel like you’re in a state of calm and almost at home.

  • The Office (2005-2013)
    Watch The Office Streaming | Peacock
    Peacock Images

    Ages 10+, Watch on Peacock

    A sarcastic, humorous mockumentary-style show with light and serious segments that created a fun atmosphere. For good reason, this is one of the most beloved sitcoms of all time! There is no way you haven’t heard of this show or seen a single memorable clip. The story takes place in a mundane paper company called Dunder Mifflin and features characters who are quirky and lovable in their own way. The show has its cringe-worthy moments, but you quickly get over them due to how quickly you become attached to it.

  • Pretty Little Liars (2010-2017)
What Happens on Pretty Little Liars - Thoughts By a "PLL" Virgin
IMDb

Ages TV-MA, Watch on HBO Max

You might think that this show is “basic,” but in reality, they invented mystery teen drama. Nobody has ever managed to outdo them. The number of people who try to do remakes or similar concepts in comparison to this show are insignificant. A group of adolescent girls who have an anonymous stalker known as “A.” The intense drama and enthralling mystery make you want to watch the entire series in one sitting. Aside from being a little dark and gloomy, this show emphasizes the importance of friendship and empowerment, which is an excellent message to spread.

  • Friends (1994-2004)
Friends (TV Series 1994–2004) - IMDb
IMDb Images

Ages 14+, Watch on HBO Max

Do you live under a rock? You’ve heard of this show no matter what year you were born. This show is so simple to describe, but words cannot express how beautiful it is. A simple group of friends in their mid-20s going through life changes and challenges. All ten seasons are worthwhile. You will identify with at least one of the characters and will find yourself laughing, crying, and loving. This show is simply ideal for any mood swings you may be experiencing in life. You will learn something and carry it with you; shows can also be a wonderful learning experience.

The new profound comfort you can feel for old television will be a feeling you long for. I’d give anything to see some of these shows for the first time again. People return to them for a reason; they feel as if they can go to that happiness and fantasy in their own life rather than deal with the reality.