Brighten up your TV with these 2025 bangers

If you’re not procrastinating with a “just one more episode” right now, you’re stronger than most. Here’s a line-up of this year’s standout shows, each matched with a classic uni student stereotype. No judgment, you’ll probably spot yourself (and your flatmates) in here somewhere.

1. Adolescence – Netflix

For: The seminar warrior who loves a “big issues” debate

This UK drama dives into teen life, social media and masculinity in a way that’s intense, messy and properly discussion-worthy. If you’re the one in the group chat dropping long voice notes about politics, ethics and “what this really says about society,” this is your show. Watch it with mates, then overanalyse it in the kitchen at midnight.

2. LOL: Last One Laughing UK – Prime Video

For: The flat clown who will do anything for a laugh

Ten comedians locked in a room, all trying to make each other crack while keeping a straight face themselves. It’s pure chaos. Perfect for pres, hangovers or background giggles while you “definitely are” working on that essay. If you’re the chaotic one always doing impressions in the kitchen, you’ll feel spiritually seen.

3. Parenthood – BBC iPlayer

For: The future plant/pet parent

David Attenborough narrating animals trying to keep their tiny chaos gremlins alive? Peak cosy Sunday viewing. If your camera roll is 80% cats, campus ducks and your monstera, you’ll love this. It’s wholesome, emotional and a nice reminder that if penguins can co-parent in a snowstorm, you can survive group work.

4. The Rehearsal (latest season) – NOW / Sky

For: The overthinker who rehearses every conversation in their head

Nathan Fielder helps people “practise” big life moments by building ridiculously detailed simulations of their lives. It’s awkward, hilarious and slightly unhinged in the best way. If you ever replay conversations in the shower, script texts in Notes, or imagine every possible outcome before sending an email, this will feel uncomfortably relatable.

6. Pluribus – Apple TV+

For: The existential crisis pro, who secretly loves bleak sci-fi

From the creator of Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, Pluribus is set in a world where an alien “happiness” virus has turned almost everyone into a disturbingly cheerful hive mind. If you’re the student who side-eyes toxic positivity, overthinks everything and loves a bit of dark, brainy sci-fi, this will be right up your street. It’s weird, clever and a bit too relatable if you’ve ever felt out of sync with everyone around you.

7. Slow Horses (latest season) – Apple TV+

For: The politics nerd who has opinions on everything

This MI5 spy thriller about a bunch of “failed” agents dumped in a dead-end department is sharp, funny and surprisingly emotional. Expect grimy London settings, office chaos and Gary Oldman as the most feral boss imaginable. Ideal for anyone who lives on political TikTok and occasionally insists they “could totally be a spy.”

BONUS - Your comfort rewatch

For: The emotionally exhausted final-year

Not actually a show, this one’s a reminder that your top TV of the year might just be your comfort rewatch: Derry Girls, Sex Education, Taskmaster, whatever feels like a hug after a long day. If your brain is fried from deadlines, there’s zero shame in sticking on something familiar while you eat pesto pasta for the third night in a row.

Whether you’re a reality TV fiend, crime drama goblin or multiverse philosopher, there’s something that fits your uni alter ego. So… which show are you streaming tonight?