Top 12 Shows to Stream in October 2025: Your Ultimate Boredom-Busting Guide

October is here, and with it comes the perfect excuse to cozy up indoors with some seriously binge-worthy television. Whether you’re looking to escape the autumn chill or just need something to fill those long evenings, we’ve curated the top 12 shows across all major streaming platforms that are guaranteed to keep you glued to your screen. From spine-tingling thrillers to heartwarming comedies, here’s your ultimate guide to October’s must-watch content.
1. Wednesday Season 2 Part 2 (Netflix)

Rating: 9.2/10
The queen of darkness returns! Following the massive success of Season 2 Part 1, Jenna Ortega’s Wednesday Addams continues her supernatural adventures at Nevermore Academy. This continuation promises more mystery, more gothic charm, and definitely more of that iconic dance we can’t get out of our heads.
Why it’s perfect boredom-busting entertainment: The show perfectly balances dark humor with genuine mystery-solving, making each 45-minute episode feel like it flies by. The visual aesthetics alone are Instagram-worthy, and the plot twists will keep you theorizing between episodes.
2. Only Murders in the Building Season 5 (Hulu)

Rating: 9.0/10
Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez return for another murder mystery that’s equal parts hilarious and genuinely suspenseful. Set in their iconic New York apartment building, this season promises new deaths, new suspects, and the same brilliant comedic timing we’ve come to love.
Why it’s perfect boredom-busting entertainment: Each episode is perfectly paced at around 30 minutes, making it ideal for both quick watches and full binge sessions. The chemistry between the three leads is infectious, and trying to solve the mystery alongside them turns passive watching into active engagement.
3. The Last of Us Season 2 (Max)

Rating: 9.5/10
After a two-year hiatus, the post-apocalyptic masterpiece returns with Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey navigating an even more dangerous world. Based on the beloved video game series, this season promises emotional depth alongside its zombie-fueled action.
Why it’s perfect boredom-busting entertainment: The show masterfully combines heart-pounding action with deeply emotional character development. Each episode is a cinematic experience that makes you forget you’re watching TV. The production values are movie-level, giving you premium entertainment from your couch.
4. Severance Season 2 (Apple TV+)

Rating: 9.3/10
The psychological thriller that had everyone talking returns after a long wait. Following employees who undergo a procedure to separate their work and personal memories, this season promises to dive deeper into the mysterious corporation’s sinister agenda.
Why it’s perfect boredom-busting entertainment: This show is a puzzle box that rewards careful viewing. Every detail matters, making it perfect for viewers who love to analyze and theorize. The unique premise and stellar performances create an addictive viewing experience that’s impossible to pause.
5. Alien: Earth (FX/Hulu)

Rating: 8.8/10
The iconic Alien franchise comes to television with this prequel series set 30 years before the original film. Expect the same claustrophobic terror and stunning practical effects that made the movies legendary, now extended into episodic storytelling.
Why it’s perfect boredom-busting entertainment: Perfect for horror fans who want sustained tension rather than quick scares. Each episode builds atmospheric dread while expanding the beloved sci-fi universe. The practical effects and sound design create an immersive experience that’s best enjoyed with the lights off.
6. Peacemaker Season 2 (Max)

Rating: 8.6/10
John Cena returns as the morally complex superhero in James Gunn’s irreverent take on the DC universe. Expect more outrageous action sequences, unexpected heart, and that signature Gunn humor that made the first season a surprise hit.
Why it’s perfect boredom-busting entertainment: The show doesn’t take itself too seriously, making it perfect comfort viewing. The action sequences are genuinely fun, and the character development gives weight to the comedy. It’s the rare superhero show that works as both background viewing and attentive watching.
7. The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 4 (Prime Video)

Rating: 8.4/10
The romantic drama continues to explore the complex love triangle between Belly, Conrad, and Jeremiah. This season promises resolution to long-standing romantic tensions while maintaining the beautiful coastal cinematography that makes every scene look like a vacation.
Why it’s perfect boredom-busting entertainment: Pure escapist romance with gorgeous settings that transport you to an endless summer. The relationship drama is engaging without being overly complex, making it perfect for relaxed viewing. Each episode feels like a mini-vacation from reality.
8. It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia Season 17 (FX/Hulu)

Rating: 8.7/10
The longest-running sitcom continues its streak with the gang getting into more ridiculous schemes. After 16 seasons, the show proves it still has fresh ways to make us laugh at these terrible people doing terrible things.
Why it’s perfect boredom-busting entertainment: Episodes are perfectly bite-sized at 22 minutes, making it ideal for any viewing schedule. The comedy is so outrageous that it’s impossible to take seriously, providing genuine stress relief. You can jump in at any episode without missing crucial plot points.
9. The Bear Season 4 (Hulu/FX)

Rating: 9.4/10
The kitchen chaos continues as Carmen and the crew of The Original Italian Beef work to transform their restaurant. Expect the same anxiety-inducing energy balanced with moments of genuine warmth and community.
Why it’s perfect boredom-busting entertainment: The show’s frenetic energy is oddly soothing once you get into its rhythm. The 30-minute episodes pack in more character development and emotional payoff than many hour-long dramas. It’s stress-inducing in the best way possible.
10. House of the Dragon Season 3 (Max)

Rating: 8.9/10
The Targaryen civil war continues with more dragon battles, political intrigue, and the stunning production values that made Game of Thrones a cultural phenomenon. This season promises to deliver on the epic scale fans expect.
Why it’s perfect boredom-busting entertainment: Each episode feels like a movie with its production budget and scope. The political maneuvering provides intellectual engagement while the dragon sequences offer pure spectacle. Perfect for viewers who want to feel fully transported to another world.
11. Abbott Elementary Season 4 (ABC/Hulu)
Rating: 8.5/10
Quinta Brunson’s mockumentary about an underfunded Philadelphia elementary school continues to find humor and heart in everyday teaching challenges. The show maintains its perfect balance of workplace comedy and social commentary.
Why it’s perfect boredom-busting entertainment: The show is genuinely uplifting without being saccharine, making it perfect comfort viewing. Episodes are self-contained enough for easy viewing while building character relationships over time. The mockumentary style creates natural comedic moments that feel authentic.
12. What We Do in the Shadows Season 6 (FX/Hulu)
Rating: 8.8/10
The vampire roommate comedy concludes its run with one final season of supernatural shenanigans on Staten Island. Expect the same dry humor and brilliant character work that made this show a cult favorite.
Why it’s perfect boredom-busting entertainment: The show’s deadpan humor and absurd situations create a unique viewing experience that’s both relaxing and engaging. Each episode is packed with quotable moments and visual gags that reward multiple viewings. It’s the perfect blend of supernatural elements and mundane comedy.
The Perfect October Viewing Strategy
For Quick Binge Sessions (Under 30 minutes): Start with Abbott Elementary, It’s Always Sunny, or Only Murders in the Building for easily digestible content.
For Weekend Deep Dives: Tackle The Last of Us, House of the Dragon, or Severance when you have time to fully immerse yourself.
For Background Viewing: The Summer I Turned Pretty and What We Do in the Shadows work perfectly as lighter content you can follow while multitasking.
For Active Engagement: Wednesday Season 2 and Alien: Earth reward careful attention to detail and theorizing.
Whether you’re looking to laugh, cry, jump, or just pass the time, October 2025’s streaming lineup has something for every mood and schedule. The beauty of this selection is its variety – you can easily switch between genres based on your energy level and available time. So grab your favorite snacks, get comfortable, and prepare to say goodbye to boredom for the entire month!