May’s viewing has been a real mix. Some brilliant true-story dramas, some questionable relationship television, and one teen romance that had me briefly forgetting I’m a 44-year-old mum of two. We’ve also continued our strong run of family viewing this month, although some series have definitely required more tactical fast-forwarding than others.
Here’s what I’ve been watching.
MAFS Australia (Series) Channel 4
Have you ever done a personality test? Apparently I’m a “Completer/Finisher”, which sounds admirable until you realise it means I physically cannot stop watching a terrible TV series once I’ve started it.
I have spent far too many hours on this show - hours I will never get back.
This series is genuinely toxic, with some awful scenes of bullying throughout. It’s also brought to light wider concerns around the format itself, especially following reports surrounding the UK version. The whole premise now feels deeply uncomfortable - marrying someone you’ve never met, sharing beds immediately, and taking part in things like “Intimacy Week” where sex is actively encouraged.
Not for me anymore. Very glad to hear it’s been axed.
- Rating: 3/10
- Vibe: exhausting + toxic
- Best for: honestly… maybe don’t
- Multitask score: high (mainly rage-watching)
Ginny & Georgia (Series) Netflix
This has become the latest mum/daughter watch.
Although still technically a high-school drama, it tackles much bigger and darker themes than expected. There have definitely been a few awkward moments watching together, but it’s also opened up some really important conversations that aren’t always easy to have naturally.
It balances humour, drama and emotional storylines really well, and Georgia remains one of the most chaotic TV mums ever created.
- Rating: 8/10
- Vibe: funny + surprisingly deep
- Best for: older teen family viewing
Free Guy (Film)
Late-night channel flicking led us to discover Joe Keery (aka Steve from Stranger Things) in another film, prompting screams of excitement from our household superfan.
We made sure to properly watch it the next day and absolutely loved it.
A genuinely fun family film starring Ryan Reynolds, who in my opinion has never made a bad movie and is also very easy on the eye. It’s gaming-based without being overly nerdy and has loads of heart and humour throughout.
- Rating: 9/10
- Vibe: funny + feel-good
- Best for: family movie night
Scottish Home of the Year & Interior Design Masters (Series) BBC iPlayer
These are firm favourites of mine.
I imagine it’s probably like an ex-chef watching MasterChef for a little reminder of their old world. I watch these for a little interiors and design fix.
Particularly love “shop week” on Interior Design Masters because it combines my two favourite things - design and retail. And I love, with all the confidence that comes from sitting comfortably at home, shouting at the TV insisting I could do a much better job.
- Rating: 9/10
- Vibe: creative + comforting
- Best for: inspiration viewing
Should I Marry a Murderer (Series) Netflix
This really pulled me in because it’s based in Scotland and I remember the original news story unfolding at the time.
It’s definitely worth watching because it gives much more context around the girlfriend’s actions and decisions. Some parts sound unbelievable, but at the same time the failures of the Police and lack of support around her left her feeling like she had very little choice in order to protect herself.
One of those series that stays in your head afterwards and makes you want to discuss it with someone else who has watched it.
- Rating: 8/10
- Vibe: unsettling + thought-provoking
- Best for: true crime fans
Legends (Series) Netflix
Absolutely loved this.
Based on a true story and set in the early 90s, it follows the “Legends” undercover team from UK Customs trying to stop huge quantities of cocaine entering the country.
I’ve always said I don’t really like Steve Coogan… but it turns out I just don’t like Alan Partridge (possibly an unpopular opinion). He is fantastic in this.
Brilliant cast, gripping storyline and one of those series where you instantly queue up the next episode.
- Rating: 9/10
- Vibe: gritty + addictive
- Best for: evening binge-watch
Off Campus (Series) Prime Video
This was recommended to me as “the next Summer I Turned Pretty” and whilst it absolutely delivered on the teen romance front… it is definitely not one to watch with your children nearby.
It follows a fake-dating arrangement between quiet student Hannah and university hockey star Garrett Graham, and somehow leaves you momentarily forgetting you are actually a middle-aged woman with responsibilities.
Loved this far more than I should probably admit and was delighted to discover it’s based on a five-book series.
- Rating: 9/10
- Vibe: romantic + addictive
- Best for: guilty pleasure viewing
Overall May Takeaway
May has definitely been the month of extremes - toxic reality TV, brilliant true crime, wholesome family films and slightly inappropriate university romances.
Off Campus was probably my standout series of the month, Free Guy delivered perfect family viewing, and MAFS Australia confirmed that I really do need to learn when to quit a TV series.
Still haven’t learned though.
Roll on June.
Next on My List
As always, recommendations are very welcome.