The very best Normal People-vibe TV shows to fill the Marianne and Connell-shaped hole in our lives
Normal People is the show that has got everyone talking. When we're not dissecting the intricacies of Marianne and Connell’s relationship in our WhatsApp groups, we're lusting after #ConnellsChain – the iconic piece of jewellery worn by Connell Waldron (Paul Mescal) – and wondering where to buy our own.
But it is sadly true that all good things must come to an end, and if you're anything like us, you've totally marathoned the BBC adaption of Sally Rooney's novel and are now left completely bereft of romantic, sexy TV dramas to watch. Well fear not, because we've scoured all the streaming services to find the very best Normal People-style alternative series to watch right now.
It's looking good.
There's the Golden Globe-winning U.S hit comedy drama This Is Us following three siblings, Kevin (Justin Hartley), Kate (Chrissy Metz) and Randall (Sterling K. Brown), as well as their parents (Milo Ventimiglia, Mandy Moore) in a different time frame, as they each try to overcome personal grief and find true happiness. Just like Normal People, you are immediately drawn in to each character's world, the inner workings and complexities of their relationships, and the very real bonds that draw them all together.
If it's a more fantastical love story you're after, look no further than Noughts + Crosses, the BBC adaption of the Malorie Blackman series. In a dystopian London, Callum and Sephy fall in love despite the segregated society in which they live. Callum belongs to the white, 'colourless' underclass (the 'Noughts'), while Sephy belongs to the black elite (the 'Crosses'). Against a background of inequality, violence and prejudice, can their love breach such a dangerous divide? Trust us, you'll want to find out.
So, no matter what kind of love story you're looking for post-Normal People, these hit shows are sure to be your next binge-watching obsession...
1. Modern Love
Modern Love stars Anne Hathaway, Dev Patel, Tina Fey and Julia Garner, based on The New York Times column. This series shows a range of different relationships and shows that love comes in many shapes and forms. One not to miss.
2. Easy
Netflix's Easy is a modern romance series that explores diverse Chicago characters, including a married couple hoping to reignite their sex life, a couple looking to spice things up with another woman, and middle-aged dating...what more could you ask for? The impressive cast even includes Dave Franco, Emily Ratajkowski and Orlando Bloom. This one should be very high up on your list.
3. Noughts + Crosses
The BBC adaptation of the the book Noughts + Crosses by Malorie Blackman, tells the tale of a Romeo and Juliet esq love story, in segregated society where the black elite and white underclass live very different lives. Callum (a Nought) and Sephy (a Cross) may just defy the odds. Get ready for a tear jerker.
4. This Is Us
This Is Us is an American family comedy drama. Three siblings, Kevin, Kate and Randall each experience a unique personal struggle at a different time in life, as they strive for happiness and try to heal from a tragedy in their past. If you’re not sold yet, the show was was directed and created by the same team that made Crazy, Stupid Love, so you know it’s got to be good.
6. Lovesick
Lovesick is about a group of friends living in Glasgow, navigating their love lives. Lead character Dylan, has been intimate with a long list of women during his quest for true love. When he discovers that he has a sexually transmitted disease, Dylan has to go back and contact each woman he has slept with. Both funny and moving.
7. After Life
The British series is created by and stars Ricky Gervais as Tony. Tony’s wife tragically passed away, leaving the formerly nice guy changed. After contemplating taking his life, Tony decides he would rather live long enough to punish the world by saying and doing whatever he likes. This dark comedy is the perfect remedy right now.
8. Friends From College
Similar to Friends and How I Met Your Mother, the American series follows the lives of a group of friends from college that are reunited some years later. Similar to how Normal People follows Connell and Marianne as they move through school and university years. A fantastic portrayal of friendship and character growth. Perfect for a laugh.
