21 Amazing Shows for Couples to Watch Together

Are you and your partner in search of the next series to add to your shared watchlist? Watching television together is not just a way to relax after a long day; it can also be a bonding experience that brings you closer through shared emotions and experiences.

According to Kristen Failla, LMFT, a behavioral health coach, “There are many psychological benefits of couples watching TV shows together, including the formation of a shared reality (especially for couples who do not share many interests), easier communication (discussing real-life topics through fictional characters and scenarios), and low-stakes decompression at the end of a long day possibly spent apart.”

Whether you laugh over a sitcom or get hooked on a thriller, the shows for couples to watch together can turn an ordinary evening into a memorable night. But with so many options available, how do you choose the right one? 

Our curated list of couples binge-watch shows provides a variety of genres that promise to keep both of you entertained and connected. 

From timeless classics to modern masterpieces, each show has been selected for its ability to engage and delight couples, making every episode worth the time spent side by side on the couch.

5 best Netflix shows for couples

Finding the perfect shows for couples to watch together can turn an ordinary evening into a cozy and intimate night. Whether you’re in the mood for romance, drama, or a mix of both, Netflix has a great selection of series that cater to various tastes.

Research Highlight: A research paper published in 2021 states that couples who spend more daily time talking together report higher relationship satisfaction, greater closeness, and more positive feelings, while more time arguing is linked to lower satisfaction and more negative outcomes. 

So, what should I watch on Netflix as a couple? Here’s a list of the best Netflix shows for couples to binge-watch. These shows offer compelling storytelling and the chance to enjoy quality time together.

Kristen Failla highlights, “This list of television shows can also be very helpful because it consists of different genres. Many couples choose which television shows to watch based on their mood, interests, and life experiences. For instance, light-hearted comedies are perfect for bringing humor to a couple who are experiencing tension or heaviness in their life, where a couple who feel they have the emotional capacity for entertaining seriousness may choose a drama or docuseries.”

1. Living with Yourself

Rating: 8.3/10

Director: Michael Showalter, Jesse Peretz

Cast: Paul Rudd, Aisling Bea

Release Year: 2019

“Living with Yourself” is a clever and engaging series, perfect as one of the couple’s binge-watch shows. It stars Paul Rudd in a unique dual role where he faces off against a newer, better version of himself after a bizarre spa treatment.

The show blends humor with existential dilemmas, offering both laughs and deep conversations for couples. Its exploration of self-improvement and relationship dynamics makes it a compelling watch.

Watch the trailer here:

2. The Ranch

Rating: 7.8/10

Director: Various

Cast: Ashton Kutcher, Sam Elliott, Debra Winger

Release Year: 2016

“The Ranch” is one of the best shows on Netflix to watch as a couple that mixes comedy with a bit of drama. Set against the backdrop of a Colorado ranch, this show blends family relationships, romance, and personal challenges with witty humor.

Ashton Kutcher leads an impressive cast, delivering laughter and heartfelt moments that are relatable to many life experiences. It’s great for couples looking for a show that combines humor with deeper, emotional storytelling.

Watch the trailer here:

3. Ozark

Rating: 9.5/10

Director: Various

Cast: Jason Bateman, Laura Linney

Release Year: 2017

“Ozark” is a gripping thriller that’s perfect for couples who enjoy high-stakes drama and complex narratives. This series follows a financial planner turned money launderer and his family as they manage life within a dangerous drug cartel. 

With outstanding performances and a dark, captivating plot, “Ozark” offers a thrilling binge-watching experience for couples who appreciate intense drama and moral complexities.

Watch the trailer here:

4. Better Call Saul

Rating: 8.7/10

Director: Vince Gilligan, Peter Gould

Cast: Bob Odenkirk, Rhea Seehorn

Release Year: 2015

“Better Call Saul” is an engaging prequel to the acclaimed “Breaking Bad” that stands on its own as a top choice for couples to binge-watch shows. This series goes into the evolution of the charming yet troubled Jimmy McGill into the slick lawyer Saul Goodman. 

With a slower pace and deep character development, it offers a compelling look at themes of ambition, love, and betrayal, all woven together with brilliant writing and performances.

Watch the trailer here:

5. Orange Is the New Black

Rating: 8.6/10

Director: Lauren Morelli

Cast: Laura Prepon, Taylor Schilling

Release Year: 2013

“Orange Is the New Black” provides a powerful and entertaining viewing experience for couples. This groundbreaking series combines humor with poignant social commentary, exploring the lives of women in prison with depth and empathy.

The diverse cast and engaging backstories make it one of the best shows for couples to binge-watch, offering a blend of drama, comedy, and romance that challenges and entertains in equal measure.

Watch the trailer here:

5 best comedy shows for couples to have a laugh

Looking for a way to brighten up your evenings together? Comedy is the perfect genre for couples to enjoy, as it offers laughter and levity that can make any night more enjoyable. 

From quirky character-driven series to smart, laugh-out-loud sitcoms, here are 5 top binge-worthy shows for couples to watch that are sure to keep both of you entertained. These selections are not only hilarious but also offer moments of warmth and romance, making them ideal romantic shows for couples to binge-watch.

6. Parks and Recreation

Rating: 8.6/10  

Director: Greg Daniels, Michael Schur  

Cast: Amy Poehler, Nick Offerman, Chris Pratt  

Release Year: 2009

“Parks and Recreation” is a superb choice for couples wondering, “What show should my partner and I watch?” Set in the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana, this mockumentary-style sitcom follows the relentlessly optimistic Leslie Knope as she strives to improve her beloved town through her role in the Parks Department.

With its charming ensemble cast and heartwarming humor, it’s the perfect mix of comedy and feel-good moments, making it one of the top binge-worthy shows for couples.

Watch the trailer here:

7. Brooklyn Nine-Nine

Rating: 8.4/10  

Director: Michael Schur, Dan Goor  

Cast: Andy Samberg, Terry Crews, Stephanie Beatriz  

Release Year: 2013

“Brooklyn Nine-Nine” combines clever writing with a lovable cast, making it another great pick for couples looking for laughter. 

Centered around a team of detectives in the NYPD’s 99th precinct, the show delivers consistent comedy with its witty banter and hilarious antics. The light-hearted and often touching relationships between characters add a layer of depth that enriches every episode.

Watch the trailer here:

8. The Good Place

Rating: 8.2/10  

Director: Michael Schur  

Cast: Kristen Bell, Ted Danson, William Jackson Harper  

Release Year: 2016

For those who enjoy a blend of philosophical questions and humor, “The Good Place” is one of the best shows to watch as a couple

The series explores what happens when a clerical error sends Eleanor Shellstrop, an ordinary woman, to the afterlife’s Good Place instead of the Bad Place, where she belongs. This show is not only funny but also offers thoughtful explorations of morality, making it an enriching experience for couples to share.

Watch the trailer here:

9. Schitt’s Creek

Rating: 8.5/10  

Director: Dan Levy, Eugene Levy  

Cast: Eugene Levy, Catherine O’Hara, Dan Levy  

Release Year: 2015

“Schitt’s Creek” is a heartwarming series about a wealthy family that loses their fortune and has to live in a small town they once purchased as a joke. 

The show is celebrated for its sharp wit and the loving dynamic among the family members as they adjust to their new life. It’s a story of growth and acceptance, packed with both humor and heart, making it ideal for couples.

Watch the trailer here:

10. New Girl

Rating: 7.7/10  

Director: Elizabeth Meriwether  

Cast: Zooey Deschanel, Jake Johnson, Max Greenfield  

Release Year: 2011

“New Girl” centers on Jess Day, a quirky teacher who moves into a loft with three men after a rough breakup. This sitcom stands out with its blend of quirky humor and touching moments. 

The chemistry between the cast and the series’s ability to balance comedy with emotional depth make it a top pick for couples looking for both laughs and heartfelt stories.

Watch the trailer here:

5 best binge-worthy shows for couples

Choosing the right show to binge-watch can be a bonding experience for couples, providing hours of entertainment and discussion. Whether you prefer drama, comedy, or a mix of genres, there are plenty of series that are perfectly suited for couples looking for quality time together. 

Here are some binge-worthy shows for couples to watch that are highly recommended for couples. They offer a variety of themes and styles to suit any mood.

11. Stranger Things

Rating: 8.7/10  

Director: The Duffer Brothers  

Cast: Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Millie Bobby Brown  

Release Year: 2016

“Stranger Things” is a thrilling blend of adventure, nostalgia, and supernatural mysteries, making it one of the top couples binge-watch shows. Set in the 1980s, the series revolves around a group of kids in small-town Indiana as they encounter mysterious forces and secret government exploits. 

With its compelling storyline and engaging characters, it’s a fantastic choice for couples looking for suspenseful binge-watching ideas.

Watch the trailer here:

12. The Crown

Rating: 8.7/10  

Director: Peter Morgan  

Cast: Claire Foy, Matt Smith, Olivia Colman  

Release Year: 2016

“The Crown” offers a lush, dramatic exploration of the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, making it a prime pick for couples to binge-watch shows. The series provides a fascinating glimpse into the personal and political challenges faced by the monarchy over the decades. 

With stunning performances and exquisite attention to historical detail, it’s perfect for couples who enjoy deep dives into rich narratives.

Watch the trailer here:

13. This Is Us

Rating: 8.7/10  

Director: Dan Fogelman  

Cast: Milo Ventimiglia, Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown  

Release Year: 2016

“This Is Us” is a heartwarming and often tear-jerking series that explores family dynamics and personal growth across several generations. 

Known for its emotional depth and complex characters, this show is an excellent choice for couples seeking a deeply moving binge-watching experience. It tackles themes of love, loss, and life’s unexpected turns, making it a thoughtful and engaging series for couples.

Watch the trailer here:

14. Master of None

Rating: 8.3/10  

Director: Aziz Ansari, Alan Yang  

Cast: Aziz Ansari, Noël Wells, Lena Waithe  

Release Year: 2015

“Master of None” cleverly addresses topics of personal and professional life, cultural identity, and romantic relationships, all with a humorous yet thoughtful touch.

Aziz Ansari’s semi-autobiographical series is full of wit and charm, making it a great choice for couples looking for lighter binge-watching ideas with substance. It’s especially fitting for those who appreciate smart comedy mixed with candid reflections on everyday dilemmas.

Watch the trailer here:

15. Sherlock

Rating: 9.1/10  

Director: Steven Moffat, Mark Gatiss  

Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman  

Release Year: 2010

“Sherlock” reimagines the classic detective tales of Sherlock Holmes in modern-day London, delivering a smart, fast-paced series filled with intrigue and suspense. 

Benedict Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Sherlock offers a fresh take on the iconic character, with Martin Freeman as his loyal friend, Dr. John Watson. This series is ideal for couples binge-watching recommendations who love engaging, intellectually stimulating shows that keep you guessing at every turn.

Watch the trailer here:

6 best documentary shows to watch as a couple 

Documentaries can offer a deeply engaging viewing experience, sparking conversations and broadening horizons as you explore new topics together. From uncovering historical events to going into nature’s mysteries, there’s a wealth of knowledge to be discovered side by side. 

For couples looking to mix a bit of learning with their entertainment, here are some of the best documentary shows for couples to watch that are both enlightening and enjoyable to watch together.

16. Planet Earth II

Rating: 9.5/10  

Director: Various  

Cast: David Attenborough (narrator)  

Release Year: 2016

“Planet Earth II” is an awe-inspiring journey through the natural world, featuring stunning visuals and captivating wildlife stories. Narrated by Sir David Attenborough, this series takes you on a breathtaking tour of diverse ecosystems and the animals that inhabit them. 

It’s a mesmerizing choice to binge-watch shows for couples to watch, perfect for those who appreciate the beauty and complexity of nature.

Watch the trailer here:

17. Making a Murderer

Rating: 8.6/10  

Director: Laura Ricciardi, Moira Demos  

Cast: Steven Avery, Brendan Dassey  

Release Year: 2015

“Making a Murderer” is a gripping true-crime series that goes into the controversial case of Steven Avery, a man wrongfully convicted of a crime, only to be accused of another under dubious circumstances. 

The documentary is intense and thought-provoking, making it ideal for couples who enjoy discussing and debating theories. It’s one of the couple’s binge-watch shows that will keep you engaged and talking long after the episodes end.

Watch the trailer here:

18. The Blue Planet

Rating: 8.9/10  

Director: Alastair Fothergill  

Cast: David Attenborough (narrator)  

Release Year: 2001

“The Blue Planet” is another magnificent series narrated by David Attenborough that explores the vast and mysterious depths of the world’s oceans. 

With its incredible footage and insightful commentary, this documentary reveals the hidden beauty of marine life and the environmental challenges it faces. It’s a fantastic series for couples to watch together, offering a mix of education and visual splendor.

Watch the trailer here:

19. Chef’s Table

Rating: 8.6/10  

Director: David Gelb  

Cast: Various renowned chefs  

Release Year: 2015

“Chef’s Table” provides a unique look into the lives and kitchens of some of the world’s most talented chefs. Each episode features a different culinary artist sharing their personal stories and philosophies on food. 

The series is not just about cooking; it’s about the art and passion behind gastronomy, making it one of the best shows for couples to watch together who appreciate creativity and inspiration in any form.

Watch the trailer here:

20. Abstract: The Art of Design

Rating: 8.4/10  

Director: Various  

Cast: Various designers  

Release Year: 2017

“Abstract: The Art of Design” explores the world of design, from architecture and graphics to photography and automobile design. Each episode profiles a different designer, offering insights into their creative processes and the impact their work has on our everyday lives. 

The series is especially suited for creative couples looking for inspiration or simply an appreciation of the arts, making it one of the top shows for couples to watch together. 

Watch the trailer here:

21. Our Planet

Rating: 9.3/10
Director: Alastair Fothergill
Cast: David Attenborough (narrator)
Release Year: 2019

“Our Planet” is a visually stunning nature documentary that showcases Earth’s breathtaking landscapes while highlighting the immediate impact of climate change on wildlife. Narrated by David Attenborough, the series blends beauty with awareness, making it both emotional and educational.

It’s a meaningful choice for couples who enjoy thoughtful content and shared reflection, earning its place among impactful shows for couples to watch together.
Watch the trailer here:

FAQ

Whether you’re looking for a new series to dive into or wondering about the benefits of shared screen time, here are answers to some common questions about watching TV as a couple.

• What genres work best for couples watching together?

Romance, comedy, drama, and light thrillers work best because they balance emotion, entertainment, and shared conversation without being too intense.

• How do couples choose a show both will enjoy?

Pick shows with strong storytelling and relatable characters, and alternate choices so both partners feel equally involved.

• Can watching TV together improve a relationship?

Yes. Watching shows together creates shared experiences, sparks conversations, and offers quality time that strengthens emotional bonding.

Stronger together

Watching TV together is more than just entertainment—it’s a simple way for couples to relax, connect, and enjoy shared moments. The right series can spark laughter, meaningful conversations, and even deeper understanding between partners. 

Whether you prefer romance, drama, comedy, or thrillers, choosing from well-curated shows for couples to watch helps create intentional quality time. Make it a habit to sit together, unplug from distractions, and enjoy stories that bring you closer. Sometimes, the best bonding moments happen right on the couch.