Campus Life | Shows to watch this fall

Fall is the time of year where you bundle up, get cozy and start a new show. If you are like me, then it is the perfect time to rewatch old shows as well. I’ll be sharing some of my favorite shows to watch during the fall and winter seasons, as well as new shows my friends recommended to me. 

The first one is a fall classic, and that is “Gilmore Girls.” This is an American comedy drama mainly about how Lorelai and Rory Gilmore navigate their life as a mother-daughter duo. They have big dreams, such as opening their own inn and attending Harvard. Throughout the show, they encounter many heartbreaks and setbacks all while dealing with a chaotic family dynamic. I am currently rewatching this show after watching it for the first time three years ago. It takes place in Connecticut around the fall time, which is perfect. The show’s witty and fast-paced dialogue, along with its memorable small town characters, creates a warm and nostalgic atmosphere, making it a timeless favorite for a lot of people.

Another amazing show to watch is “Suits.” Multiple people have recommended this show to me, but I have yet to watch it. “Suits” is an American legal drama that follows Mike Ross, an ex-drug dealer who uses his photographic memory to make his way into a big law firm. I have watched the first episode before with some of my friends and it is very intriguing. Harvey Specter deals with many obstacles while working at this law firm with his colleagues, including love triangles and dealing with big legal cases. “Suits” is known for its sharp wit, intricate legal maneuvering and the dynamic between Harvey and Mike, which adds a spin to the traditional legal drama. If you enjoy legal dramas with a dose of humor and charisma, it is definitely a series worth binge-watching. 

A very popular show this fall has been “The O.C.” It follows Ryan and his brother Seth as they embark on a new journey after they were adopted into a wealthy family. This show reminds me a lot of “Gilmore Girls” and “One Tree Hill,” simply because it came out around the same time as those shows. The show’s blend of drama and humor, along with its iconic soundtrack, makes it a must-watch for those who enjoy coming-of-age stories. Additionally, “The O.C.” became a cultural phenomenon in the early 2000s, not only for its portrayal of family dynamics and teen angst but also for its exploration of class divide.

Another great show that everyone has probably heard of is “Stranger Things,” which is available to stream on Netflix. It’s a science fiction horror series set in the 1980s that follows a group of kids who become entangled in supernatural mysteries when a young boy disappears and a girl with psychokinetic abilities appears in their town. This show is known for its nostalgic references to ‘80s pop culture and its suspenseful storyline. The show’s binge-worthy nature kept me entertained and got me through quarantine back in 2020. “Stranger Things” came out in 2016 and has been a big hit ever since. “Stranger Things” has also gained acclaim for its stellar ensemble cast and character development, as it masterfully combines supernatural elements with the challenges and growth of its young protagonists, creating a captivating blend of horrifying and heartwarming moments.

A classic show that I can’t forget is “Gossip Girl.” I just finished rewatching this show for the third time last month and it was just as interesting as when I watched it the first time. It is a captivating teen drama that delves into the lives of privileged Manhattan high school students, exploring wealth, friendship and identity. It is definitely a must-watch for those who enjoy stylish storytelling filled with scandal and intrigue. With its iconic characters, Serena and Blair, and the infamous blogger, “Gossip Girl” shows a glimpse of life on the Upper East Side. 

Most of these shows are classics that a lot of people have already watched, but it is always fun to rewatch them, especially on a cold autumn evening while doing some homework or studying. You can watch most of these shows on Netflix, Amazon Prime or HBO Max with a subscription. I love to have a show playing in the background as I do my own thing, so check out some of these shows yourself if you have yet to watch them!

Shriya writes primarily about her everyday experiences on Pitt’s campus. Talk to them at shy76@pitt.edu.