Remember when television actually had something to offer women over 40? Well, 2024 has delivered some genuinely mature, nuanced programming that doesn’t assume we’re all watching teen dramas. Here are my top 10 picks so far:
1. Bad Sisters
(Apple TV+)
Dark humor meets family loyalty
Dark, wickedly funny, and utterly compelling. Sharon Horgan leads an exceptional cast in this Irish drama about sisters who’d do anything to protect their own. The first season was a masterclass in mixing humor with tension as we watched the sisters plot against their awful brother-in-law. Season 2 proves that family bonds — and family secrets — only get more complicated with time.
2. Becoming Karl Lagerfeld
(Disney+)
Fashion history with substance
Daniel Brühl’s performance captures Lagerfeld’s complexity without resorting to caricature. A fascinating glimpse into the fashion world’s transformation during the 1970s and ’80s that goes far beyond the usual fashion biopic.
3. Bridgerton
(Netflix)
Period drama with modern sensibilities
The show has evolved beyond its initial frothy romance roots. This season offers sharper social commentary and more complex character development, while still delivering the escapist period drama we’ve come to love.
4. The Diplomat
(Netflix)
Power, marriage, and impossible choices
Keri Russell portrays a woman at the height of her career facing impossible choices. The political intrigue is gripping, but it’s the exploration of power, marriage, and identity that makes this show exceptional.
5. Emily in Paris
(Netflix)
Your perfect Parisian escape
Yes, it’s lighter fare, but sometimes you need a beautiful escape. Season 4 has matured along with its audience, tackling more substantial storylines while keeping its gorgeous Parisian backdrop and irresistible charm.
6. Feud: Capote vs The Swans
(Amazon Prime)
When high society meets betrayal
Naomi Watts leads a powerhouse cast in this true story of betrayal among New York’s elite social circle. It’s about friendship, loyalty, and what happens when women refuse to be mere decorative objects in someone else’s story.
7. Masters of the Air
(AppleTV+)
More than just another war story
This masterful production goes beyond the typical war narrative, exploring themes of duty, friendship, and sacrifice with a depth that resonates regardless of gender. The production values are stunning, and the emotional impact stays with you.
8. Nobody Wants This
(Netflix)
Romance with brains and heart
Kristen Bell and Adam Brody bring unexpected depth and charm to this surprisingly sophisticated romantic comedy. What could have been just another dating show becomes a thoughtful exploration of faith and connection. The writing is sharp and the chemistry is genuine.
9. The Perfect Couple
(Netflix)
Mystery meets sophisticated romance
This hybrid proves that love stories don’t need teenage protagonists to be compelling. Nicole Kidman leads a stellar cast in this Nantucket-set mystery that perfectly balances suspense with emotional depth.
10. Ripley
(Netflix)
A masterclass in psychological suspense
Andrew Scott brings a subtle, sophisticated menace to the role that’s worlds away from the usual crime drama fare. The black and white cinematography isn’t just artistic pretension — it creates an atmosphere that draws you into 1950s Italy in a way that color never could.
Still on My Watch List:
Reviews for Shōgun (Disney+) have me seriously intrigued. This sweeping historical drama promises to be the kind of television that demands your full attention — exactly what I’m looking for right now. Complex characters, rich storytelling, and production values that rival feature films. I can’t wait to dive in.
The joy of being a woman of a certain age is knowing exactly what you like and not apologizing for it. These shows respect that wisdom, offering stories that acknowledge the complexity of life while still entertaining us.
Susanne Rieker is the founder of Midlife etc. Based in the beautiful Mediterranean island of Majorca, Spain, she’s also a business coach helping heart-led entrepreneurs build impactful online businesses. Follow her on Instagram @susannerieker.
