October 2025 brings the perfect excuse to take an early year end breather with some truly binge-worthy TV shows. For the modern South African woman who delights in immersive storytelling—whether it’s thrilling mysteries, heartfelt comedies, or spine-tingling horror—this month delivers a sensational lineup that will keep the remote firmly in hand. From high-stakes political thrillers to heartwarming comedies and globally celebrated dramas, here’s a curated guide to shows that deserve a prime spot on your watchlist.
Spine-Chilling and Suspenseful Thrillers.
October is synonymous with eerie, suspense-filled tales, and this year’s offerings do not disappoint.
Monster: The Ed Gein Story (Netflix, 3 October)
Dive into a chilling true crime saga from the 1950s that inspired classic horror films like The Silence of the Lambs and Psycho. This Ryan Murphy-produced anthology explores the dark mind of Ed Gein, a notorious killer in rural Wisconsin—a must-watch for fans of psychological horror and true crime drama that is both gripping and haunting.
The Diplomat Season 2 (Netflix, 16 October)
Political intrigue returns with a new season where power games reach new heights. This political thriller follows Kate Wyler navigating intense challenges in Washington, D.C., after a presidential assassination shakes the nation. The story teeters between suspense and drama, making it perfect for those who love their thrills with a heavy dose of politics and personal stakes.
Welcome to Derry (HBO Max, 26 October)
For horror lovers, HBO Max presents a new chapter in the Stephen King universe, delving into the origins of Pennywise the Dancing Clown. This series promises bone-chilling scares, with a strong narrative arc that adds depth to one of horror’s most iconic villains.
Heartfelt Comedies and Relatable Dramas
Not all binge-worthy shows are about scares—October also brings laughter and inspiration with some fresh comedic narratives and family dramas.
Loot Season 3 (Apple TV+, 15 October)
Maya Rudolph leads this beloved comedy about Molly Wells, a billionaire navigating life after an $87 billion divorce. The latest season promises more heartfelt moments, hilarious escapades, and a keen look at wealth, identity, and generosity. It’s a perfect mix of comedy and emotional exploration, making for a light yet meaningful watch.
Nobody Wants This Season 2 (Netflix, 23 October)
This romantic comedy series follows an interfaith couple as they struggle to blend their lives and families while confronting cultural and personal differences. The show’s warm humour and family dynamics make it a feel-good choice that resonates deeply with the realities of love and compromise.
Abbott Elementary Season 5 (ABC/Hulu, 1 October)
Returning with its signature mockumentary style, this show celebrates the everyday heroes of public education with humour and heart. Quinta Brunson’s comedic brilliance shines as the staff of a struggling Philadelphia elementary school tackles their professional and personal lives with resilience and laughter.
Riveting New and Returning Series
October audiences can enjoy both new stories and fresh seasons of fan-favourites that bring complexity and charm.
Last Frontier (Apple TV+, October 10)
This new thriller centres on a U.S. Marshal contending with a prison plane crash that unleashes chaos on a remote frontier town. What begins as a survival drama rapidly unfolds into a tense mystery with secrets and conspiracies, ideal for those who love intense, edge-of-your-seat storytelling.
Matlock Season 2 (CBS/Paramount+, 12 October)
An imaginative reboot with Kathy Bates as a retired lawyer returning to solve gripping cases. The blend of episodic mysteries with an overarching story makes it a compelling watch for fans of legal dramas and strong female leads.
Mayor of Kingstown Season 4 (Paramount+)
Set in a gritty world of rivalry and power struggles, this series returns with new enemies and intensified conflict. The show’s powerful storytelling and complex characters offer an immersive experience that highlights social issues and raw human drama.
African and Local Flavour
While many of these shows stream globally, October 2025 also features exciting African content worth noting for its rich storytelling and cultural resonance, ideal for South African viewers seeking authenticity and representation. Though specific October releases were not detailed here, the growing presence of African series and documentaries on major platforms continues to enrich the viewing landscape.
Tips for Your October Binge Marathon
- Mix genres: Alternate between thrillers, comedies, and dramas to keep evenings engaging.
- Schedule watch parties: Invite friends or family to join virtual or in-person binge sessions for shows like Nobody Wants This or Abbott Elementary.
- Set mood nights: Reserve horror thrillers like Monster or Welcome to Derry for a spooky, atmospheric night in.
- Support local content: Keep an eye on regional streaming options for compelling African narratives tied to the October lineup.
October 2025 offers a spectacular array of binge-worthy shows that will entertain, provoke thought, and inspire. Whether rooted in the eerie shadows of horror, the heartfelt warmth of comedy, or the tension of political drama, these series are ready to make your autumn evenings unforgettable.
Enjoy the binge!
LotsOfLove, SL
