Series to watch with teens: 10 ideas for the whole family

Finding a show that works for both parents and teens is the great family-night challenge. Too childish and they tune out. Too violent and it gets awkward. Here are 10 series that get the whole family on board, with recommended ages.

Adventure and fantasy (12+)

1. Wednesday (Netflix): dark humour, mysteries and a strange boarding school. The ultimate family hit.
2. Percy Jackson and the Olympians (Disney+): demigods and Greek mythology, faithful to the books.
3. Avatar: The Last Airbender (Netflix, live action): a rich world with strong values.
4. One Piece (Netflix, live action): season 2 came out in March 2026. Pirates, friendship, humour.

For 14 and up

1. Stranger Things (Netflix): now finished, perfect to rewatch together. A few scary scenes. Similar shows.
2. Heartstopper (Netflix): a gentle teen love story.
3. Derry Girls: Irish teens in the '90s. Hilarious for parents too.

While you wait for Christmas and Harry Potter

1. The Harry Potter films (HBO Max): rewatch them before the series slated for December 25. Our guide.
2. Ms. Marvel (Disney+): a teen superhero, funny and colourful.
3. Only Murders in the Building (Disney+): mystery and humour, for 13+.

Rules for a great series night

• Let your teen pick every other time: they'll be more invested.
• Go for 30–45 minute episodes on school nights.
• Watch the trailer together: if someone winces, move on.

That's exactly what Ta Dose is for: a feed of trailers with runtimes shown. Everyone swipes, you vote, you press play.

For age-appropriate chills, see level 1 of our Halloween horror series.

FAQ

What should a family watch with a 12-year-old? Wednesday, Percy Jackson or Avatar.

Is Stranger Things OK for teens? Better from 13–14, some scenes are scary.

A funny show for the whole family? Derry Girls or Only Murders in the Building.