Binge-worthy American TV Shows and Movies Every Expat Should Watch

Do you ever binge-watch shows or have movie nights on your TV weekly in your living room? Television has long been a cornerstone of American culture, with a variety of shows reflecting the nation’s diverse interests, humor, and values. For expats, immersing yourself in American TV can be an enjoyable way to gain insight into the country’s way of life and its people. In this article, we’ll explore 20 iconic American TV shows, including classic sitcoms, popular dramas, and kid-friendly series, to give you a well-rounded introduction to the vast landscape of American television. 

1. Friends (1994-2004) – A beloved sitcom that follows the lives of six friends living in Manhattan, navigating love, work, and friendship.
2. The Simpsons (1989-present) – An animated sitcom that humorously explores the lives of the Simpson family and their quirky town of Springfield.
3. Breaking Bad (2008-2013) – A drama series about a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine producer, exploring themes of morality and ambition.
4. Ant-Man and the Wasp: Quantumania (2023) -A movie focusing on the importance of family as Ant-Man embarks on a journey through Quantumania.
5. Game of Thrones (2011-2019) – A popular fantasy series based on George R.R. Martin’s novels, featuring complex characters, intricate plots, and stunning visuals.
6. The Office (US version, 2005-2013) – A mockumentary-style sitcom set in a mundane office environment, known for its awkward humor and memorable characters.
7. Stranger Things (2016-present) – A sci-fi horror series set in the 1980s, following a group of kids as they uncover a terrifying secret in their small town.
8. WandaVision (2021) – A TV series about the life of Wanda Maximoff in a bubble of her imagination and how she gets through it.
9. The Big Bang Theory (2007-2019) – A sitcom centered on a group of socially awkward scientists and their interactions with each other and the people around them.
10. Modern Family (2009-2020) – A mockumentary-style sitcom that explores the lives of an extended family, celebrating the humor and challenges of modern family life.

For some kid-friendly options, consider these popular shows:

1. Sesame Street (1969-present) – An educational children’s program featuring beloved characters like Big Bird, Elmo, and Cookie Monster.
2. SpongeBob SquarePants (1999-present) – A quirky animated series about the underwater adventures of a cheerful sea sponge and his friends.
3. Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005-2008) – An animated fantasy series that follows a young avatar as he seeks to restore balance to a world divided by elemental nations.
4. Gravity Falls (2012-2016) – A mystery-filled animated series about two siblings who spend the summer with their eccentric great-uncle in the mysterious town of Gravity Falls.
5. Steven Universe (2013-2019) – A coming-of-age animated series that tells the story of a young boy who teams up with magical alien guardians to protect Earth.

Finally, here are a few more contemporary picks:

1. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2017-present) – A comedy-drama about a 1950s housewife who discovers her talent for stand-up comedy.
2. The Crown (2016-present) – A historical drama that chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II and the events that shaped the second half of the 20th century.
3. The Mandalorian (2019-present) – A live-action Star Wars series that follows a lone bounty hunter in the outer reaches of the galaxy.
4. The Good Place (2016-2020) – A philosophical comedy about a group of people navigating the afterlife and discovering what it means to be a good person.
5. Wednesday (2022-present) – A Netflix series centered on the character of Wednesday Addams from the iconic Addams Family, exploring her time as a student.

These shows represent a diverse range of American television, offering insight into various aspects of American culture and entertainment. By watching these programs, expats can gain a better understanding of the humor, values, and storytelling techniques that have resonated with American audiences over the years. Whether you’re looking for lighthearted sitcoms, thought-provoking dramas, or imaginative children’s shows, this list provides a comprehensive starting point to explore the wide variety of American TV shows available to enjoy. Happy watching!

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