While we can cite certain television series for being educational and informative, others fall into the category of guilty pleasures we’d rather keep to ourselves. As hard as it is to admit, there’s nothing better than kicking back with a glass of wine or beer, and enjoying a few episodes of the following series.
Whether you enjoy an angst-ridden teen drama, a cheesy musical or even a feel-good reality series, the following shows will appeal to a wide variety of tastes. All of our featured series can be found in TELUS Optik TV™’s On Demand library, which contains the most extensive movie and TV collection around. With more power to be picky, you can enjoy your favourite guilty pleasures, as you please.
Sex and the City
This HBO classic has spawned two movies to date, and has become a bonafide pop culture phenomenon. Sex and the City is undoubtedly on the guilty pleasure lists of women everywhere, regardless of whether the on-screen antics of the series’ protagonists are more relatable or aspirational for viewers.
Degrassi: The Next Generation
This long-running Canadian drama series chronicles the lives of a group of teenagers from Toronto, Ontario. Spanning 14 seasons, there are more than enough episodes for lovers of the hit series to indulge in over and over again.
Property Brothers
Starring identical twin brothers Jonathan and Drew Scott, Property Brothers is a Canadian reality series that will appeal to fans of shows like Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and Love It or List It. Watching the show will provide an endless stream of inspiration for current or prospective homeowners who are looking to transform their properties into the home of their dreams.
Glee
Featuring the perfect blend of comedy, music and drama, Glee centres on the “glee” club of the fictional William McKinley High School. While musical fans will appreciate the series’ actual song and dance numbers, those who simply enjoy a good teen drama will not be disappointed either.
Entourage
If Sex and the City is a guilty pleasure series for women everywhere, then Entourage is the male equivalent. Following the lives of actor Vincent Chase and his childhood friends as they navigate Los Angeles’ entertainment industry, Entourage echoes the real life experiences of its producer, Mark Wahlberg.
The O.C.
This popular teen drama chronicles the trials and tribulations of a group of teenagers who reside in the affluent neighbourhood of Newport Beach, California. Starring Benjamin McKenzie as the troubled Ryan Atwood, The O.C. covers various issues often encountered by teens, such as drug abuse, depression and sexuality.
The Bold and the Beautiful
The Bold and the Beautiful has earned the title of the most watched soap opera in the world since its original debut in 1987. The series features an ensemble cast, following the Forrester family and their fashion business. Its plot contains everything from love affairs to scandals and various betrayals—all the makings of the perfect guilty pleasure.
