As autumn settles in and the leaves begin to fall, there’s nothing quite like curling up with a cup of tea and watching a favorite show for a second time… or fifth, sixth, or even twentieth time—who’s really keeping count? This season, let’s dive into the best cozy shows to rewatch in autumn or enjoy for the first time, a collection of series that never fails to warm our hearts and spark joy, even on the chilliest days.
1) Glee
Glee is a show that’s often called a cult classic, and for good reason. At its core, it’s the story of a high school glee club struggling to stay relevant, fighting for the same attention the cheerleading squad and football team command. But under the surface, Glee is all about embracing who you are and learning to love yourself. The cast is remarkably diverse, and the storylines consistently push boundaries, exploring real-life issues that felt radical for its 2009 debut. However, it’s impossible to ignore that some of Glee’s humor and portrayals now come off as insensitive, with stereotypes that wouldn’t hold up to today’s standards. Even so, Glee broke ground by tackling heavy topics like bullying, identity, sexuality, and mental health—issues rarely seen on mainstream TV at the time.
That being said, Glee wasn’t just groundbreaking; it was also a lot of fun. The musical performances? Absolutely iconic. Whether covering classic rock or modern pop, every episode breathed new life into familiar songs. Just thinking of “Don’t Stop Believin’,” “Somebody to Love,” or Mercedes’ powerful rendition of “Bust Your Windows” in the school parking lot is enough to give any fan chills. Moments like these capture Glee at its best: bold, unapologetic, and deeply entertaining.
The show’s comedy and charm owe a lot to creator Ryan Murphy, the mastermind also behind American Horror Story. Between heartfelt moments, laugh-out-loud comedy, and sometimes over-the-top drama, Glee is one of the ultimate comfort shows. Rewatching it offers something new each time as episodes shift between nostalgia and surprise. While certain storylines are intriguing, others might make you cringe with how they handle sensitive topics, reflecting a time when boundaries on TV were still being tested. Ultimately, Glee is a fun, spirited series full of heart and definitely worth revisiting if you’re ready to belt out a few songs along the way.
IMDb: 6.8 | Rotten Tomatoes: 70%
Where to Watch: Disney | Apple TV
2) The Office
The Office is one of those shows that might take a few episodes to truly appreciate. Initially, it can be hard to see what all the hype is about. But after rewatching it countless times, it’s easy to understand why this mockumentary-style sitcom has become a classic. The genius of The Office lies in its unique, fly-on-the-wall approach, which draws you right into the daily chaos of Dunder Mifflin. It captures the small, often mundane moments of office life, transforming them into comedy gold through subtle, awkward humor.
Characters like Michael Scott, Dwight Schrute, Jim Halpert, and Pam Beesly have become iconic for a reason. They’re relatable, ridiculous, and endearing all at once. Michael’s inappropriate yet earnest attempts to be liked, Dwight’s obsessive dedication to his job, and Jim’s mix of deadpan humor and sweet romance with Pam create a perfectly balanced dynamic. Each character brings something uniquely memorable to the table, crafting an ensemble that’s both awkward and lovable.
Perhaps the best part of The Office is that it only gets funnier with each rewatch. There’s always a joke, a glance, or a subtle detail that you missed the first time around. It’s a cozy show that keeps giving, encouraging viewers to find humor in the simple, often absurd moments of everyday life.
IMDb: 9.0 | Rotten Tomatoes: 81%
Where to Watch: Netflix | Apple TV
3) Gilmore Girls
As soon as autumn leaves start to fall, one show immediately comes to mind: Gilmore Girls. This feel-good classic is practically synonymous with autumn vibes, drawing viewers into the quaint, warm world of Stars Hollow. With its witty banter, small-town charm, and heartwarming bond between Lorelai and Rory, Gilmore Girls is an ideal choice for chilly days. Set in the cozy, close-knit town of Stars Hollow, where everyone knows everyone, the show feels like a comforting escape. From the chatty Miss Patty to the grumpy but lovable Luke, the unforgettable characters add to the town’s inviting warmth.
What truly sets Gilmore Girls apart is its fast-paced, clever dialogue filled with endless pop culture references, keeping fans engaged. It’s like sharing an inside joke with the writers, adding layers of humor and relatability. But at its core, the show is all about the bond between Lorelai and Rory. Their relationship is more than a typical parent-child dynamic; it’s rooted in friendship, love, and navigating life’s ups and downs together. Watching them feels like spending time with family in the best way possible.
If you’re drawn to character-driven stories that explore themes of ambition, love, and family, Gilmore Girls offers the ultimate feel-good escape. And really, is there any better way to welcome autumn than to rewatch a cozy show like Gilmore Girls with a blanket and a warm cup of coffee?
IMDb: 8.2 | Rotten Tomatoes: 88%
Where to Watch: Netflix | Apple TV | Prime Video
4) New Girl
When New Girl first aired in 2011, it quickly captured audiences with its quirky humor and lovable characters. Following Jess Day, a cheerful and slightly awkward schoolteacher finds herself moving into a loft with three single guys: Nick, Schmidt, and Winston. The oddball chemistry between these roommates leads to endless comedic moments, growing from strangers to an inseparable, makeshift family. The dynamic between Jess and the guys brings warmth and laughter, making New Girl more than just a typical sitcom.
One reason New Girl shines is its blend of laugh-out-loud moments and heartfelt warmth. Jess’s quirky personality meshes perfectly with her roommates’ sarcastic humor, creating a charming balance that defines the show. Plus, the slow-burn, will-they-won’t-they romance between Jess and Nick keeps viewers hooked through every twist and turn.
With its clever wordplay, light-hearted humor, and warm camaraderie, New Girl is a perfect cozy show to rewatch in autumn.
IMDb: 7.5 | Rotten Tomatoes: 95%
Where to Watch: Hulu | Peacock | Prime Video
5) Gossip Girl
Few shows capture the glamorous and scandalous world of high-society teens quite like Gossip Girl. With the dazzling backdrop of New York’s Upper East Side, the series follows a group of privileged high school students. Each character’s every move is tracked by the mysterious and ever-present blogger Gossip Girl. From its iconic fashion to jaw-dropping plot twists, Gossip Girl created a world of intrigue and excess that kept viewers eagerly tuning in. With its luxurious settings, captivating storylines, and unforgettable characters, Gossip Girl is a show that’s hard to resist revisiting.
What makes Gossip Girl such a perfect rewatch is its ability to deliver high-stakes drama through deeply flawed characters. The complex friendship and rivalry between Blair Waldorf and Serena van der Woodsen drive much of the show’s tension. Though the series often veered into exaggerated, soap opera-like territory, this heightened drama was part of its charm. Gossip Girl embraced its over-the-top tone, creating a guilty pleasure filled with luxury, scandal, and unforgettable confrontations.
The show’s soundtrack also plays a huge role in its enduring appeal. Featuring different genres of hits, the music captures the mood of each episode perfectly, making scenes more memorable. Gossip Girl is an escape into a world of wealth, secrets, and high-stakes drama, with its iconic soundtrack, complex characters, and endless twists. This cozy show is as thrilling on the first watch as it is on the tenth.
IMDb: 7.5 | Rotten Tomatoes: 84%
Where to Watch: Disney | Apple TV
Final Thoughts
Glee, The Office, Gilmore Girls, New Girl, and Gossip Girl all offer something distinct that keeps them timeless. Whether it’s the heartwarming relationships, laugh-out-loud comedy, social commentary, or pure escapism, there’s something about these series that ensures they remain evergreen. They continue to connect with audiences, offering comfort, humor, and sometimes, a little drama—making them the perfect cozy shows to watch and rewatch in autumn.
