In all the talk about peak streaming, it often gets lost that a lot of these shows are extremely adult-oriented. When it’s family night and you’re looking for something everyone can comfortably enjoy, the choices can get limited. And let’s be honest: not all kids’ shows are fun for adults to watch. So we’re tackling the problem with a helpful list of TV series the whole family can binge together.
Family Night: Black TV Series the Whole Family Can Binge Together
From classics like ‘Sesame Street,’ to new favorites like ‘Marvel's Moon Girl & Devil Dinosaur,’ these are our picks for shows the entire family can enjoy.
Sesame Street - Max
We’re starting with the OG. It doesn’t matter how old you are, it’s impossible not to be charmed by “Sesame Street.” Not only do you get to hang out with Big Bird, Cookie Monster and all the other muppet friends, you also get guest appearances from your favorite stars.
Choir - Disney+
If you saw the Detroit Youth Choir on “America’s Got Talent,” then you already know how talented these young people are. “Choir” provides a look at the inner workings of the choir, the lives of the performers and the staff as they prepare for the group’s biggest performance.
Iwájú - Disney+
At some point we will get the “Ironheart” series we were promised and also one centered around Wakanda. Until then, we have “Iwájú,” which follows a young girl as she goes on an adventure through a futuristic Nigeria.
Young Love - Max
This sequel to the Oscar-winning animated short “Hair Love” lets us see where the family is after Angela gets out of the hospital. Stephen is trying to get his career back on track while Zuri finds a hilarious string of shenanigans to cause.
Craig of the Creek - Hulu
Follow Craig and his friends on their wild imaginary adventures, while also being entertained by his little sister Jesica, who’s the real star of the show.
The Great British Baking Show - Netflix
For those families that love watching cooking competitions together, there are endless choices on Max, which has all the Food Network shows. But don’t sleep on “The Great British Baking Show.” It’s the most well-mannered competition on television and introduces viewers to new techniques and baked goods they may not know about. Full disclosure: There’s usually only one — but possibly two — bakers of color each season.
High on the Hog: How African American Cuisine Transformed America - Netflix
This one is for older kids who are curious about Black history. The fascinating series offers the stories behind certain foods and cooking techniques, explaining why they’re so essential to our culture. I can’t recommend this enough.
Tab Time - YouTube
For the little ones, Tabitha Brown stars in this adorable series featuring valuable lessons about being a good leader, saying goodbye and good manners. Seriously, Brown couldn’t be more charming and it’s a cute show to watch with the kids.
What If…? - Disney+
If your kids love the Marvel Cinematic Universe, “What If...? is a cool entry into the multiverse. They get to see all their favorite characters in new and unusual situations. Since each episode is around 25-40 minutes, it makes for a very easy binge.
The Wonder Years - Hulu
This reboot of the classic ABC series never got a fair chance. Dean Williams and his family deal with the turbulent 1960s in Montgomery, Ala. while also navigating their kids’ ever-changing teen years.
Never Say Never with Jeff Jenkins - Disney+/Hulu
Travel writer Jeff Jenkins introduces viewers to his crazy adventures, in the process proving that the entire world is open for us to explore.
Young Justice - Max
An inclusive group of young superheroes saves the day when their older, more famous counterparts aren’t available. These teenagers are wise beyond their years, often handling crises better than the Justice League would.
Marvel’s Moon Girl & Devil Dinosaur - Disney+
Lunella Lafayette is a 13-year-old genius who uses her big brain to solve problems in her neighborhood. When she opens a portal and a dinosaur shows up, she has a sidekick to help her fight crime as Moon Girl. It’s such an adorable, charming series. But is also impactful, as Black kids get to see a superhero who looks like them whose superpower is their smarts.
Spellbound - Hulu
Paris scenery, elite ballet academy drama and a family history of witchcraft are combined into a unique young adult series that will definitely scratch a sci-fi/fantasy itch.
Saturdays - Disney+
For parents who want to show their kids what it was like to dominate the roller skating rink back in the day, “Saturdays” is the perfect family choice. Everything in 14-year-old Paris’ life is about the “We-B-Girlz” skate team she and her friends are in and showing out at the rink on Saturdays. If you choose one show from this list, go with this one.