With COVID-19 quarantine in effect, most people are at home with a lot of time on their hands. And, that means plenty of time to binge all your favorite fantasy shows. Whether you missed the boat on some classic shows or you’re catching up with something current, these are the top seven fantasy shows to binge during quarantine. Do your favorites make the list?
#7 Game of Thrones
Whether you’re one of the few people that lived under a rock while this was on the air, or someone that watched every episode, Game of Thrones should be on everyone’s fantasy list. Despite the controversial ending, it’s worth getting swept up in the saga of the seven kingdoms and the mad dash for the Iron Throne.
Game of Thrones features an all-star cast, large-scale battle sequences, witty banter, a shirtless Jason Momoa, and of course, dragons. GoT was the flagship show on HBO for nearly a decade. And, with over 70 episodes to binge, that’s a lot of hours to pass in Westeros during this COVID-19 pandemic.
All seasons of Game of Thrones are available to stream on HBO.
#6 True Blood
Also on HBO, True Blood was a major hit for the network during its seven-season run. Based on the series of books by Charlaine Harris, the show chronicles the struggle vampires face as they come out of the coffin and live openly among humans. A new drink on the market satisfies a vampire’s thirst for blood. But, many vampires resist this and continue to drink from the source – humans.
In addition, the series also features werewolves, shapeshifters, and all manner of things macabre pulled straight from horror lore. Whether you watched it while it was on the air or want to catch up, this is a must-watch for any fantasy/horror lover. Meanwhile, there’s also a lot of eye candy, including Joe Manganiello, Alexander Skarsgard, Anna Paquin and more.
Watch all episodes of True Blood on HBO.
#5 Buffy the Vampire Slayer
No binge list is complete without this cult classic. Based on the film of the same name and brought to life by Joss Whedon, the series follows Buffy Summers (Sarah Michelle Gellar) and her adventures slaying vampires and other creatures of the night.
In addition, you can’t mention Buffy the Vampire Slayer without mentioning its spinoff, Angel. As a follow-up to Buffy, Angel follows the exploits of tortured title character Angelus (David Boreanaz) on his quest for redemption in a fictional version of Los Angeles.
As a private detective, he helps lost souls find their way. And, this includes battling demons, possessed humans, and his own violent tendencies. Even though Angel is technically a spinoff, it stands on its own. And, depending on who you ask, some say it’s better than the original.
You can binge Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Angel on Hulu.
#4 Lost Girl
In a lot of ways, Lost Girl is the Canadian offspring of Angel and Buffy the Vampire Slayer. And, whenever most people describe the supernatural show, “like Buffy” is something you’ll hear. The series follows Bo Dennis (Anna Silk), a succubus playing by her own rules.
In the literal fight between good and evil on Lost Girl, Bo is a rogue agent refusing to pick a side. She uses her succubus skills for good and evil. And, on her quest to discover more about her origins, she faces off against numerous creatures spanning the world of lore – including minotaur’s, banshees, furies and more.
You can stream all seasons of Lost Girl on Netflix.
#3 The Witcher
A relatively new addition to this list, the Netflix adaptation of The Witcher follows the ever stoic Geralt of Rivia. As one of the last remaining Witchers, he slays monsters for the highest bidder – and maintains his aloof nature while doing it. Based on the series of novels and short stories (and later turned into a successful video game franchise), The Witcher certainly scratches that supernatural/fantasy itch.
As an added bonus, The Witcher features Hollywood hunk Henry Cavill in the title role. He spends a good chunk of the series shirtless and growling. So, that’s an added perk for anyone wanting to get their girlfriend or spouse to watch with them during this quarantine. Though, Geralt may say that’s not how it happened…
#2 Penny Dreadful
Penny Dreadful is a psychological horror/thriller bringing together classic literary characters like Dr Victor Frankenstein, Dracula, and more. The series explores their origin stories. And, in a lot of ways it’s a more adult-themed version of other shows on this list like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Lost Girl.
The series stars Eva Green as title character Vanessa Ives. And, along with her cohorts (including a werewolf Josh Hartnett), she battles demons and other evil entities from the underworld. This take on classic literary villains appeals to any horror fans. And, viewers see some of their favorite characters come to life in this modern re-telling.
Meanwhile, fans looking for their Penny Dreadful fix may find it in the upcoming spinoff series Penny Dreadful: City of Angels. Original show creator John Logan is back at the helm with Natalie Dormer (Game of Thrones, The Tudors) in the title role. Catch the new spinoff on April 26, only on Showtime.
Penny Dreadful is available to stream on Netflix, Hulu, and Showtime.
#1 The Umbrella Academy
Another relatively recent contender, The Umbrella Academy is a comic book adaptation from Netflix. The series follows a family of adopted siblings that also happen to be superheroes. The siblings reunite following their father’s death. And, it’s up to them to solve that mystery – as well as prevent a coming apocalypse.
The Umbrella Academy features an ensemble cast, including Ellen Page and Mary J Blige. This is in addition to some other faces viewers will likely recognize like Tom Hopper (Black Sails, Game of Thrones), and more. The Umbrella Academy is ideal for anyone looking for a superhero fix during COVID-19 lockdown.
Stream the entire first season of The Umbrella Academy, only on Netflix.
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