Summertime, and the living’s easy … right? Sure, except that there’s almost nothing on TV. Although the “Scandal” and “Game Of Thrones”-free nights ahead may seem endless, we have the perfect solution to your summer TV blues: Catching up on those shows you missed, possibly because you weren’t born yet/were in diapers/didn’t realize what you were missing. Even better, we’ve calculated the approximate amount of time it will take you to watch each of these shows, so you can plan your summer accordingly. Excited yet?
Here are seven oldies but goodies to binge-watch on Netflix.
“Cheers” (1982-1992)
Why you should watch it: Because Ted Danson’s hair was still brown, Woody Harrelson was in his 20s and there’s nothing quite as comforting as hanging out in a Boston bar where everybody knows your name. Plus, once it’s over you can always watch “Frasier.”
Time it’ll take: About 4.5 days.
“Upstairs, Downstairs” (1971-1975)
Why you should watch it: You’re going to have to wait over six months for the return of “Downton Abbey,” so why not dive into some “Upstairs/Downstairs” drama from the ’70s?
Time it’ll take: About 2.5 days.
“The West Wing” (1999-2005)
Why you should watch it: Before there was “Scandal” and “The Newsroom,” there was “The West Wing.” Head back to the late ’90s and early 2000s and spend a few seasons with Martin Sheen and Rob Lowe as they navigate White House affairs. We promise you won’t regret it.
Time it’ll take: Almost 5 days.
“Freaks And Geeks” (1999)
Why you should watch it: It’s only one season long, but “Freaks And Geeks” never gets old. Not only did it launch the careers of Linda Cardellini, Seth Rogen, James Franco, Jason Segel and more, but this 1980-set comedy is one of the funniest (and most accurate) depictions of high school ever.
Time it’ll take: A little over 13 hours.
“That ‘70s Show” (1998-2005)
Why you should watch it: It’s hilarious. Plus, Mila Kunis is pregnant with Ashton Kutcher’s baby now, and you get to see a pre-Alex Vause Laura Prepon in action.
Time it’ll take: 3 days.
“Murder, She Wrote” (1984-1995)
Why you should watch it: Who doesn’t love a good mystery and some quality time with Angela Lansbury?
Time it’ll take: About 8.5 days.
“Twin Peaks” (1990)
Why you should watch it: “Twin Peaks” is a classic, and you know you’ve always felt a little embarrassed that you can’t chime in when everyone starts talking about Special Agent Dale Cooper. Hop on the bandwagon!