Tag Archives: tv

Couch Potato Files Vol. 27

Happy April! Did you get fooled?! I love all the pranks, especially with brands that can really pull it off and do something simple but truly fun and clever. I saw a few but it seems many just took the day off from trying. I mean, can you blame them?! There’s A LOT going on in the world so tough to be really glib and creative right now. 

My job search continues to be very good with final interviews wrapping up. I’m still very lucky to have good options and next up will be the difficult decision of choosing one. It continues to be really nice NOT working too – I could totally get used to it. BUT it would also mean I’d have to do more than watch a lot of TV. I have a serious clutter problem and always have so before I go back to work, I need to try to clean up some or at least make a dent in my hot mess or my hubby may finally go out for cigarettes and not come back.

Easter is also this weekend! I love it since for our family it’s just about eating together (a great boozy brunch and then a ham dinner, along with some homemade deviled eggs) and watching silly fun Easter movies and specials like Hop and It’s the Easter Beagle, Charlie Brown! 

With that, here are some binge-worthy shows and flicks that you should check out. Still chipping away at my BIG list so expect yet another post soon(ish).

Mike & Nick & Nick & Alice – Disney+/Hulu

Fun and silly time machine movie with Vince Vaughn, who’s always a treat to laugh with, and James Marsden. It’s great to see James get so much work again. He seemed to be out of the limelight after rocking X-Men’s Cyclops so many years ago. I like to think being the President in Paradise helped put him back in the spotlight. Speaking of Paradise, Season 2 just wrapped and O.M.G.!!! Soooo great! Can NOT wait for the final Season 3! 

Deadloch – Prime – Season 1 – 2

I read about this show and as you know or are just now learning, I love a shiny new object to distract me from finishing MANY other shows. It’s an Aussie production and the first season came out in 2023, the second season just recently. Really fun with lots of mystery, intrigue and comedy. I devoured both seasons in a few days! Really hoping it’s popular enough for a Season 3 too!

For All Mankind – AppleTV – Season 1 – 5

Perfect timing for this show to come back for Season 5 as Artemis II took off the other day – did you see it?! Always the coolest! I love this show and its alternate space program timeline and history in general. It’s glued-to-your-TV great! Season 6 will be the final season too. Bummed to see it coming to a close soon(ish) but what a ride! 

Something Very Bad Is Going To Happen – Netflix – Limited Series

Based on all that I read, this show was a big anticipated series that the likes of Stephen King has been watching. It was coo-coo horror great! You know when Jennifer Jason Leigh and Ted “Put the lotion in the basket!” Levine is starring that it’s going to be creeptastic! Man, was it EVER. What is it about taxidermy too that makes your skin crawl…but better yet, of your own pets?! EEKS! I don’t want to give too much away but just give it a shot. It’s nuts!

Bait – Prime – Season 1

I’ve watched an episode and dig it. I’ll get back to it shortly for more. Really fun comedy with a dash of sincere drama. 

Pretty Lethal – Prime

A wannabe John Wick Ballerina flick BUT they got UMA to star!! I mean, C’MON! Big fan so had to watch it and it was crazy fun! 

Shelter – Prime for rent

There’s not a Jason Statham movie that comes out that I haven’t seen. LOVE HIM and his badassery which is likely not really a word but using it in his honor! He’s prescribed himself the same type of action flick year after year but unlike some actors who want to diversify, he’s laughing all the way to the bank and just churning them out and killing it. He’s his own franchise! Sure, there’s A LOT of ridiculousness in every flick but who cares – it’s a riot and so fun to watch! 

American Classic – MGM+ – Season 1

I discovered this show with my MGM+ subscription and have been loving it. Kevin Kline is so great and so is Laura Linney! A really cute feel-good comedy that’s similar to Ted Lasso or Shrinking. If you’re fans of either actor, I also recommend Kevin’s classic flick A Fish Called Wanda with Jamie Lee (I watched it one million times growing up – so fun!) and Laura’s show Ozark with Jason Bateman. Man, that was a show I wish went on FOREVER. Awesome awesome! If I didn’t watch so much TV, I would re-watch it. Very Breaking Bad too!

The Housemaid – streamers for rent, on Starz & still in the theater

Holy shit was this great! I knew when I saw that Paul Feig was directing that it would be – he makes only great and twisty movies that you can’t believe what you’ve just witnessed on screen. Plus, the books are revered, not that I’ve found the time to read any of them but would like to. I know Sydney Sweeney has some mixed reviews but I like her. I think she’s really chosen some interesting roles and is becoming a real force, aside from any of her brand ambassador decisions. This movie is intense and so good! I’ve always been a big fan of Amanda Seyfried too. What a trainwreck of a woman she plays – she’s the best! It was so popular at the theater that they’ve already greenlit a sequel for 2027…and because the author wrote a few books, there’s plenty of material! And, can we just take a moment to talk about Brandon Sklenar’s eyes?? Wowza – every time I see him in anything, he’s truly mesmerizing! Where did they grow him and are there more?! Turns out he’s from Jersey so go figure! Not sure there will be others like him so he may truly be a diamond in the rough!

Marshals – CBS & Paramount+

Alright – so I’m a big Taylor Sheridan fan as I’ve mentioned many times before and watch most all his shows…but this one has been disappointing. Maybe because it’s a network show and I’m just not a fan of their style of shows that are watered down since they’re heavily regulated. If he could have led with it being on Paramount+ first vs CBS, then I think it would have aligned better with Yellowstone. But, here we are. It’s not terrible but it’s not great. And, being that it’s the first Yellowstone spin-off since it was a wrap, I’m really looking forward to others that are coming soon, in particular Dutton Ranch. Beth and Rip are my favorite characters from that universe and that trailer looks like the shitshow I’ve been waiting for! Otherwise, I’ll keep watching Marshals but I’ll also keep judging it! It was already greenlit for Season 2 so others do really like it or are hate-watching it like me because they can’t not!

That’s all she wrote for this post! Thanks for reading and hope you have a hop-tastic holiday. Eat all the chocolate and all the deviled eggs and have the Tums ready!

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Couch Potato Files Vol. 26

Whew – still a hot one here in AZ! Spring never even really sprung but the forecast looks like it’s going to cool off some at the beginning of April. Otherwise, we’re in for a long hot summer! I think I say that every year (for thirty years – yes, 3-0!) but this feels extreme. 

Casa Rushia is officially Easter-fied! Got some new decorations to add to the mix this year. My Easter haul is nothing like Halloween or Christmas though, it’s pretty minimal for me…and for my close friends and family reading this, you understand that statement. Christmas and Halloween are beyond normal at our house, seriously. I don’t even think the Griswolds top our holiday hot mess! 

I’ve been busy couch-potatoing, since there are sooo many new shows and movies out. I guess that’s the one good thing about it being hot outside. I can enjoy my AC and watch with my favorite sidekick, Alvin. He only opens up an eye from his couch-lounging when he happens to hear animals on the screen. He’s certain they’re invading and has to bark and leap up to check the perimeter. He’ll be 11 on April 4th and still zooms around like a puppy. He also wakes up from a deep sleep when he hears the fridge open and close and any crinkle of snack paper. He never misses out on a possible treat. I’ve been walking him much more since I have a lot of great time on my hands and he’s loving it…and doing better about not being so beat on the journey back home so I know the exercise is helping. The vet said he should lose a few pounds so trying to help him with that.

Anywho, here are some more recommendations from my growing list. Still chipping away at it so more to come in early April too!

The Comeback – HBOMax – Season 1-3

Lisa Kudrow’s quirky documentary-style comedy is back after Season 2 wrapped in 2014! Her cherished (IYKYK) character is unlike any other and the fans of this show must just be so tickled it’s back. I know I am and I’ve seen some of my favorite pop culture Insta accounts raving about it too. It’s tough to be another beloved character like Phoebe but she really is in this. And, much of the original cast came back too. Watch an episode a week through May 10 for eight total episodes.   

Zootopia 2 – Disney+

Ever since my sweets got too cool for school and stopped wanting to go see animated movies at the theater (or even watch them with us at home), my hubby and I have been missing out. So we decided to start watching them ourselves. The Zootopia sequel was great! I love when animated movies started including jokes for adults – not even sure when that started happening but when it did, I loved seeing them even more. I also think it would be fun if any of the Disney Parks incorporated some portion of Zootopia and maybe that’s already in the works. It’s such an awesome world to be a part of it, even for a bit. Super fun and cute!

Sunny Nights – Disney+/Hulu – Season 1

This show was originally released in Australia and the two main characters, who play siblings trying to conquer the tanning industry, are played by awesome comedic actors. I’m working my way through the eight episodes and it’s a ton of fun. Lots of laughs but also lots of action too. 

Jury Duty Presents: Company Retreat – Prime – Season 1 (technically second)

I loved Jury Duty and when I saw the creators were coming out with a second season but this time as a company retreat, I was giddy! The premise is everyone is an actor EXCEPT one poor soul and so far this season is every bit as awesome as the original. The cast is full of unknowns too that likely will become more known after more people discover the show. It’s just like Punked on steroids with a splash of The Office. Eight episodes total that are all out now. Hilarious! 

Project Hail Mary – in theaters!

I achieved my goal of finishing the book before seeing the move but just barely! Both were excellent and lived up to the hype. It’s making bank at the theater and Ryan Gosling is just, well, Ryan Gosling. I think all studios know they can just print money now if he’s cast in anything. Next up for him is the starring role in a Star Wars movie (that Shawn Levy directed) so I rest my case. Go see this movie on the biggest screen you can – it’s actually at IMAX at AZ Mills and worth braving that crazy mall. We saw it on a Cine screen at the Chandler Mall and although it’s nice to pause a movie to run to the bathroom at home, there’s still nothing like seeing a movie at a packed theater on a Friday night and laughing, crying, cheering and clapping all together. 

Imperfect Women – AppleTV – Season 1

My favorite girls Kerry Washington and Elisabeth Moss are back in a new mystery thriller. It’s really great and I knew it would be. There are actors that you know will always be excellent in anything they’re in. My hubby gives me a hard time about that. He only watches shows if he’s interested in the show premise, not for the cast. Opposites attract AND more times than not, after he begrudgingly takes my advice and recommendation and watches the show, he loves it. I watch waaaayyy more than he does and he’s always OCD about having too many shows at one time but once in a while he’ll surprise me and tell me he finally watched something I recommended to him. We do watch some shows together but not many.

Steel Magnolias – Paramount+

When I’m missing my parents, I flip on our DirectTV movie channels and I always find an old favorite. This one I can never not watch. The movie celebrates its 37th anniversary this November. My ma and I watched it over and over and over again. I knew in 2025 when we watched it for the last time that she really wasn’t well or all the improvements that seemed to be helping were mostly false. It was right before I moved her into her new assisted living apartment and she was barely acknowledging all the funny lines from our favorite cast. It was a strange moment in time, like many moments I have from that 5-month experience, but at least we got to watch it together one more time. I’ve said this before but I’ll say it again – when I look at the movie guide and I see an old favorite of ours, I know she’s here with me or my pop is or both. Same with music in my car. It’s silly but I believe it. This movie is also technically kind of an Easter flick since the holiday occurs twice in the storyline so there you go – watch it this Spring and laugh and cry like I do every time!

Cross – Prime – Season 1-2

I’ve had a helluva time getting through this show but it’s good. My attention span is just limited sometimes for shows that are kinda slow. I love the main character though so I need to finally finish Season 1 so I can move on to Season 2 that came out recently. It’s based on James Patterson’s beloved character in many of his books. Morgan Freeman of course played him in a couple movies and even Tyler Perry – both excellent with the character too. I guess because it’s sort of a procedural cop drama that it’s tougher to get into…and my phone distracts me. But, I’m sticking with it. Sixteen total episodes and it’s been greenlit for Season 3.

RJ Decker – ABC/Disney+/Hulu – Season 1

So I rarely and I mean RARELY watch ANY network television shows. There are just too many great shows on streamers that don’t have their strict guidelines (i.e. they can say and do (mostly) whatever the fuck they want!). BUT, when I saw that Ben from Felicity was going to be starring in this show, based on Carl Hiaasen’s awesome book, welp, I had to give it a watch. It’s Florida fun and Scott Speedman is great, in all his Aloha-shirt-wearing hotness. It’s Spring Break Lauderdale for crime 24/7 for this PI and full of Florida man (and woman) crazies. Comes out weekly on Tuesdays, next day on Hulu, for a total of nine episodes through April 28. Looks like it’s doing pretty well in the ratings too so maybe it will see the light of day for a Season 2.

Young Sherlock – Prime – Season 1

I’m a Sherlock sucker. I watch anything and everything from whatever era of his life they create. Love him! This show is pretty fun and Guy Ritchie is the creator so it’s full of lots of fun action and slow-mo camera work. It’s a solid origin story. Eight episodes out now and not officially greenlit for Season 2 but industry rumors and my Magic 8 Ball say it’s likely going to get another season. So buckle up and enjoy!

Stay cool (if you’re in AZ) and anyone else that’s reading this elsewhere that’s actually getting a true Spring, good for you! Take lots of flower pics for the Gram!

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Couch Potato Files Vol. 24

On Friday, February 13 I slammed my laptop shut for a TBD amount of time and quit my 7+ year job. It felt great – like winning the mental health lottery! It was long overdue and while I’ve never quit a job without having another job waiting in the wings, I’m not worried about finding a new one at all. Taking a break has been really nice, especially after the dumpster fire that 2025 was. And, all the support and encouragement I’ve received from my friends and family has kept me smiling from ear to ear about my decision. Everyone has congratulated me on putting myself first and getting a much-deserved vacation from the chaos. I’m certain my ma is proud, too. She was my biggest cheerleader, always.

Speaking of my ma, February 15 was nine months since she passed away. I continue to have a love/hate relationship with the calendar and my Timehop app. The Universe (LinkedIn – no joke!) helped connect me with the cousin of her long-time best friend that I had lost touch with so that was a really nice surprise. 

Alright – how about some TV and movie recommendations? I’ve been collecting a few…and the beauty of not having a job means I can really catch up on A LOT since I tend to leave a few unfinished to move on to the next shiny object. It’s a bad habit BUT I’ve gotten better, even if my hubby continues to pick on me about it! He’s OCD when it comes to his TV shows (and most things in life) so can’t leave anything unfinished. I prefer to be a bit sloppy sometimes! 

Pretty in Pink – Paramount+ (and at some theaters too!)

Today, February 28, is the 40th anniversary of my favorite John Hughes movie! I’ve seen it a thousand times and listened to the soundtrack even more – I even fired it up on my TV as I write this post. It was a favorite of my ma and pop’s too. I once saw Jon “Duckie” Cryer in the Portland airport and to this day, I’m convinced no one else recognized him. The TSA agents were more interested in talking me out of my pink box of Voodoo Donuts. I just kept looking around the line with my mouth open, trying to catch anyone else’s eyes and everyone was like a group of zombies, stumbling through to get to their gates. He smiled, knowing I saw him and I didn’t want to be an asshole and chase after him for a photo and autograph. Seeing him was enough. I also read Andrew McCarthy’s Brat: An 80’s Story and wished he would have written even more. He actually has, just not about that era of his life.  This book has so many great stories and behind the scenes nuggets about this movie and others – highly recommend it if you’re a fan! Anyway, throw on some Otis Redding and watch this movie, STAT!

Scream 7 – at theaters now!

Yes, I know it’s the 7th installment of this horror franchise but IT’S THE 7TH INSTALLMENT OF THIS HORROR FRANCHISE! It’s been around for 30 years – 3-0! It’s by far my favorite horror series AND this latest movie is truly a love letter to fans, right down to scene selections, O.G. characters, music, the works. I loved it! When you’re in a crowded theater on a Friday night and you’re clapping, laughing, jumping in your seats and gasping all together, you know you’re in the right place. There’s nothing like it! I’m a big fan of watching anything and everything at home but I still LOVE going to the theater, too – it’s by far my favorite pastime. If you’re a fan like me, don’t wait to watch this at home. Fork over some cash for the theater! It’s sooo worth it!

Bridgerton – Netflix, Season 4 Part 2, four episodes, out now

So worth the couple weeks’ wait and a great wrap to one of my favorite seasons – I mean BENEDICT, C’MON. I love this show like the masses do but it’s also the only show that my sweets and I watch together, making it extra special. I made some tasty Betty Crocker scones too! Walmart has them AND for lazy bakers like me, super easy to make.

Vanished – MGM+, Mini Series, four episodes

Kaley Cuoco found her niche, after years of comedy, in international thriller or rather pure thriller type shows. This one is fun and keeps you on the edge of your seat…and only four episodes so it’s a very quick watch, too! If you’re like me, sometimes you want to feel like you’ve checked off your list and shorter series are the best for that. You can get MGM+ through some other streamers, like Prime, since they’re sister studios.  I love her, no matter what she’s in. But she really does play dramatic characters well!

56 Days – Prime, 8 episodes, likely one and done? But unsure

Another wild young adult show, based on a book. Lots of twists and turns clear to the end. Dug it and its steamy craziness! 

Monarch: Legacy of Monsters – AppleTV, Season 2, Episode 1 (& weekly for 10 episodes total)

For me, this show is about seeing Kurt Russell and Godzilla in the same universe. It’s so much more than that though AND it ties into some of the movies. It’s really well-done and movie-level for a TV show. It’s Apple though and like Jurassic Park, they spare no expense! 

Paradise – Disney+/Hulu, Season 2, Episode 1 – 3 (& weekly for 8 episodes total)

Probably the most anticipated show to come back a quick year later and it’s every bit as great as Season 1 – I mean, the shock factor isn’t there any more as it was in the initial season BUT it’s excellent. Some great new characters/celebs joined the cast too!

The Night Agent – Netflix, Season 3, 10 episodes

Every season is as twisty and full of political espionage as the last – love it! The poor lead dude is always in the thick of it and running for his life, saving others along the way. It’s green lit for a fourth season too. It’s a really fun and wild ride every season!

The Last Thing He Told Me – AppleTV, Season 2, Episodes 1 – 2 (& weekly for 8 episodes total)

Jennifer Garner, being a badass – that should be all you need to know to watch it, especially if you are an Alias fan like me! I mean I named my sweets after her character in that show – no joke! It’s based on books and produced by Reese Witherspoon’s Hello Sunshine company. It’s mysterious, thrilling, the works. Dig it! 

Love Story – Disney+/Hulu, Limited Series, Episodes 1 – 5 (& weekly for 9 episodes total)

Growing up I was obsessed with JFK Jr and Carolyn Bessette’s love story and equally crushed when their plane went down – I was glued to my TV for days, like I was with O.J. and his white Bronco. Ryan Murphy has captured the 90s era of their love story perfectly, right down to the soundtrack of every episode. It’s beautiful and I cherish every minute of it – so nostalgic and wonderful. I read that the Kennedy family didn’t want it made, similar to most of the other families that never want Ryan to make shows about them. It’s history but I can understand since their family has been riddled with soul-crushing tragedy forever. I still love it though and am glad he made it! What can I say, I’m a Hollywood whore!

Enjoy all your couch-potatoing and hope you find something here that you love too!  

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Couch Potato Files Vol. 23

It was so nice of Bad Bunny to let the Seahawks and the Patriots open and close his concert Sunday night! What a performance – I’m still thinking about it. The surprise guests of Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin?! AND, some special cameos hanging out vibing too including Pedro Pascal. Definitely not on my Bingo card. I loved it!

The Olympics have been really great so far too. Poor Lindsey Vonn – she really went for it, even though she was very injured. When the Olympics are your life and only come around once every four years, I can imagine you have to make really tough choices. The good news is she’s won many times previously and hopefully didn’t do some serious long-term damage. 

Even though the Olympics will keep me from watching my regular shows, I’ll gladly get behind to keep up on all the action – it’s a ton of fun!

However, if you are in need of some more to watch, in between curling and snowboarding, here are my latest recommendations.

Finding Her Edge – Netflix, Season 1, eight episodes, Season 2 greenlit

This show is very Hallmark-like and you know how I love some Hallmark. Perfect timing with the Winter Olympics happening now too. There’s really no one I can think of that’s well-known, pretty sure they’re all newbies but could be wrong. It’s no Cutting Edge BUT it’s still fun. And apparently enough people watched it because Season 2 was greenlit.

Man on the Inside – Netflix, Season 1-2, 16 episodes, Season 3 greenlit

Ted Danson is just so fun and charming in this feel-good show. If you’re a fan of Ted Lasso or Shrinking, this is very similar. I watched a lot of Cheers growing up with my parents so I’ve been a lifelong Ted fan. You’ll see a lot of other familiar faces in the show too. It would have been a show I would have watched with my ma – she would have loved it and maybe she’s hanging out while I do now anyway. You never know.

Your Friends & Neighbors – AppleTV, Season 1, nine episodes, Season 2, another 11 episodes, out April 3, Season 3 already greenlit

Jon Hamm. Do you need more of a reason to watch?! Ok, how about he’s super rich, loses his job, family and much of his status and wealth so he starts robbing his “friends” and neighbors?! Fun, right?! It’s a wild ride. Catch up now on Season 1!

Wonder Man – Disney+, Season 1, eight episodes

Surprisingly, it was really fun! It’s a very un-Marvel show but really great and set in Hollywood, which I’m a big fan of. Ben Kingsley is back too. It’s been a minute since his character appeared in Iron Man 3. 

The Lincoln Lawyer  – Netflix, Seasons 1 – 4, 40 episodes, Season 5 greenlit for another ten episodes

Mickey Hallar is back for another one of author Michael Connolly’s courtroom crazy adventures in Season 4. I was skeptical of this show when it first came out since I loved the movie with McConahaugh and worried the show wouldn’t be able to match the movie hype. It’s actually really fun and I love the cast. Prior to Season 4 dropping, Netflix already greenlit Season 5 and Season 4 ended with a great cliffhanger, just like all the other seasons. Enjoy some courtroom drama with a comedic twist!

Ugliest House in America – HGTV or HBO Max, Season 1 – 7, 48 episodes 

Retta, from Parks & Rec fame, is the hostess with the mostess in one of the few reality shows I watch. My hubby and I enjoy it and he likes to comment on all the houses that aren’t really ugly but more unique…and that he’d live in them. During the most recent season that just wrapped, they visited their 100th house. It’s a lot of fun and the big house make-over in the last episode with this crazy chick from a few other HGTV shows is always worth the wait. When she and Retta get together it’s coo-coo for Cocoa Puffs. They also did one season of the Scariest House in America this past October. Worth a watch too! 

The Muppet Show – Disney+, one episode that hopefully will turn into more!

Of everything that’s come out recently, this was the show I was most excited about. Growing up, I never missed The Muppet Show and over the years there have been a few attempts to resurrect this gem. Well, I think Seth Rogan finally did it. It’s fantastic! There’s even a laugh track. It’s soooo nostalgic. They only released one episode but the ratings and interest was so high that I’m hoping we’re lucky enough to get more. Everyone could use a little Kermit and crew. 

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Couch Potato Files Vol. 21

It’s January, which by scrolling through social media it seems to be the most hated month of the year and basically a giant Monday. Not for me – it’s my birth month! And, just five days before my special day is one of my besties’ birthdays too! We’re fellow Aquarians for life. The Year of the Horse also happens to be my animal so I feel like good things are coming all around – fingers crossed! This year honestly couldn’t top the 2025 struggle bus I was on so hopefully I didn’t just jinx myself into some horrific future. Time will only tell. 

I’ve also really gotten into junk journaling. It’s a fun creative outlet that I’m hoping I don’t lose interest in (or get lazy about)…and is easy for me to do while I watch TV. It’s also a great excuse to use a lot of stickers, which could be one of my favorite things ever and fun paper products like washi tape. The more the merrier. I write as part of the journaling too but most just use all the fun stuff and that’s the journal. I suppose it’s up to you and however you want to approach the hobby. I highly recommend it! My ma would have loved it – right up her alley. She was one of the most creative people I’ve known. I think about all these fun things that we could be doing together if she was still here. January 15th was eight months since she passed away. It feels like a really long time, because it actually kind of is, but it also still feels like it just happened.I guess that’s grief for ya. I also oddly look at my hands and I think of her because they look just like hers, only a little bigger. I started noticing it a while ago. I guess that’s genes for ya.   

Anywho, enough about all that and on to some TV and movie recos. It’s been too long and it’s a super-sized edition! Enjoy, all three of you!

Heated Rivalry – HBO Max – Season 1, six episodes

Holy hockey hotness. The hype is real – follow the masses and watch this, STAT! Season 2 will be around the corner soon enough and the two stars are getting ALL the flowers and then some. Do yourself a favor and check out ALL the social media for this too…and the massive amounts of product. I’m minutes from buying something that says “Cottagecore”. 

Ponies – Peacock – Season 1, eight episodes

Season 1 dropped recently and the nostalgia of a 70s CIA/Russian spy dramedy wasn’t on my BINGO card but I binged the whole thing over the long holiday weekend. You’ll recognize the two main stars and the wardrobe department deserves a gold star. It’s a lot of fun and the ending sets things up nicely for a Season 2…that hopefully will happen so add to those watcher-numbers already! 

Steal – Prime – Season 1, six episodes

Hot off the presses and brand brand new, Sophie Turner stars. It’s got a real Inside Man vibe about it with lots of twists and turns. Digging what I’ve seen so far and will keep on trucking to the end. 

The Rip – Netflix – a movie!

Ben and Matt are back! The movie is a lot of fun. Pretty wild ride and great cast. The press tour was equally as fun to watch across social media. They really are bestie goals – just love them!

Hijack – AppleTV – Season 1, seven episodes; Season 2, eventually eight episodes

Two words: Idris Elba. That honestly should be enough for you to check it out. Like I told one of my good friends early today, I think I’d watch Idris read the phone book. There isn’t anything he’s in that’s bad.  

Song Sung Blue – at a theater near you or rent/pirate at home

Hugh Jackman and Kate Hudson bring to life this beautiful true story of the most famous Neil Diamond cover band. I’m big fans of them both and so happy for Kate and all the award nominations she’s been receiving. She’s excellent and has been for years!

Tell Me Lies – Hulu/Disney+ – Season 1- 2, 18 episodes; Season 3, eventually eight episodes

My hubby laughs at me all the time that I watch so much college garbage and miss out on some other big shows. I’ve got news for him – this shit is dark as fuck and fantastic! Makes me glad I didn’t have the kind of crazy fucked-up college experience this cast is experiencing. It also blows my mind that the two main characters who are at odds most of the series are together in real life. Jackson White plays the most miserable asshole character. The type of character that I bet he gets approached in real life and has people tell him how much they love to hate him. He’s so turrible!! And his counterpart I want to roll up and slap in real life and ask her why she keeps going back for more. I’m telling you, this show is a ton of fucked-up fun! AND I’m jealous for anyone who decides to watch it and you can binge SO MANY EPISODES NOW!

Landman – Paramount+ – Season 1 – 2, 20 episodes; Season 3 greenlit

Billy Bob Thornton – I honestly wasn’t a huge fan for many years.But giddy-up – this is his vehicle! And Ali Larter is having the time of her life and given the very BEST lines of the whole show. It’s a ton of fun and I really love it. If you want to see more great shows starring Billy, this show is great too, on Prime, and didn’t last long enough, IMHO.

Mayor of Kingstown – Paramount+ – Season 1 – 4, 40 episodes; Season 5 (and final), eight episodes

My hubby and I debate often about Taylor Sheridan’s shows and which is our favorite. I think this is mine. I love Jeremy Renner and this super dark fucked-up prison show. I think it’s so great because it feels very real, maybe the most real of all his shows, which is scary in itself. So much murder and mayhem. But man, he came back from a near-death snowplow accident to continue to be the Mayor so I’ll continue to watch. Season 4 aired recently and they announced there’s just one more season. Makes sense because once you watch it, you can’t possibly think there can be more wars to fight but I’m sure they’ve saved the very best for last.

Industry – HBO Max – Season 1 – 3; Season 4

I like to refer to this as Succession for the finance industry…and none of them are family but they all fuck each other over and many episodes have big WTF-just-happened moments like my beloved Succession. It’s fantastic and pretty dark. 

The Night Manager – Prime – Season 1; Season 2

It took them 10 years, yes 10 YEARS, to produce a second season. Tom Hiddleston is great and if you’re a fan of John Le Carré’s novels, it’s based on one. So much intrigue and spy shit – it’s awesome! And season 2 is shaping up to be just as great as the first.

Regretting You – Paramount+ – a movie!

Another Colleen Hoover book turned movie but with less IRL Blake Lively legal trouble. Hoover sure is popular. Her content feels a bit like more modern day Nicolas Sparks and maybe that’s what she’s going for. I enjoy the movies though (have yet to read any of her books) and tear-jerker storylines.

One Battle After Another – HBO Max – a movie!

Once upon a time I used to try to watch all the award show nominated movies…that lasted a couple of years. I honestly have a hard time watching many of them – maybe they’re typically a little too Indie/art house for me? I was intrigued by this one and knew it had a lot of hype and of course Leo. It’s really great – a super-wild ride from start to finish. Fun fact: the director, Paul Thomas Anderson, is married to Maya Rudolph. What a cool couple!

The Pitt – HBO Max – Season 1, 15 episodes; Season 2, eventually another 15 episodes; Season 3 greenlit

For the record – I’m not a medical drama fan. I quit Grey’s Anatomy after many seasons because I was so tired of Meredith. The episode she nearly drowned in the bay I hoped they were writing her out of the show. I also only watched ER sometimes. I wasn’t a loyalist. So when a really good friend told me about this show I was like hmmm, I don’t know. Well, it’s fantastic and I’m so glad I took her recommendation. Noah Wyle is wonderful and it’s great that he’s back in scrubs after all these years – like 30 some years, I think, AND winning awards left and right, as has the show. So many great other cast members too – it’s glorious hospital chaos…and since I was a HUGE fan of 24, I love the type of series that are all wrapped up in one day’s time. So yeah, The Pitt is very very good! Get on it, STAT.

His & Hers – Netflix – Mini Series, six episodes

Wowza – a great show that was a best-selling book. It’s dark and wonderful. So many twists and turns, as a small town murder scenario typically serves up. It’s awesome.

Roofman – Paramount+ – a movie!

Three cheers for Channing Tatum and his new(ish) movie, based on a true story. That’s the craziest part. I read that they interviewed his character from jail in order to write it all – many, many hours of conversations. 

Sean Combs The Reckoning – Netflix – Mini Series, four episodes

I saved this one to watch until after the holidays. My schedule was packed with holiday movies so just no time otherwise. I’d seen all the hype and the deluge of 50 Cent memes and am here for it all. The level of petty revenge he reached in order to produce that show is next level. I had forgotten how big of an asshole Sean Combs is AND how much dramarama he was part of aside from what he finally got put away for. Insane. All of it. I, like many have posted, hope other people that really deserve it, like maybe in politics, piss 50 off enough so that he does a number on them too. Fingers crossed!

Lazarus – Prime – Mini Series, six episodes

Pretty crazy mindfuck sort of show from the world of Harlan Coben. He must be laughing all the way to the bank. Between all his books that then turn into movies or TV shows, he’s so successful!

Goodbye June – Netflix – a movie!

Boy – what a directorial debut for Ms. Kate Winslet. A really, really wonderful movie but requires MANY tissue boxes, especially if you have any PTSD about losing a parent. Whew. It’s really well done and I enjoyed it through all my tears and snot.

Being Eddie – Netflix – a movie!

Eddie Murphy is arguably one of the funniest actors of all time and growing up and to date, I never miss a chance to rewatch any of his library of classics. His laugh alone is enough to make me run for the living room when I hear it and as a kid that’s exactly what I did. This documentary is fantastic and so many people spoke about their relationships with him and how he is so admired – truly a legend. I want to put this out in the universe, since before the pandemic I think it was in the works, but he really needs to do another comedy tour. His stand-ups are quite possibly the funniest comedy he’s EVER done – the specials were unreal. I can’t even imagine how much fun it would be to see him now and I think I’d pay A LOT to make it happen. Like drop a paycheck a lot. Let’s fucking go, Eddie!

Run Away – Netflix – Mini Series, eight episodes

Another Harlan Coben book-turned-series and what seems to be tradition now New Year’s Day show. His shows and movies are jam-packed with twists and turns. Someday I’ll finally read some of his books! My stack continues to grow since I watch too much damn TV and movies instead! Oh well!

The Copenhagen Test – Peacock – Season 1, eight episodes

Whew, this one is great too AND was set up for another season at the end, fingers crossed. I loved Simu Liu – he plays a proper badass. Very Borne Identity-like, if you’re a fan, which I am.

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Couch Potato Files Vol. 20

My vacation was awesome. Maybe it was more awesome than it really was, since I have had the shittest year, BUT I do believe it likely was one for the record books. My hubby and I had a great time in the Whale’s Vagina (a.k.a. San Diego) and we packed in as much fun as we could for a full week. The weather was glorious – even with their humidity, I could live with 70s temps for the rest of my life. When I win the lottery, we’re headed to buy whatever is available on Coronado.

Speaking of, I took my ma and pop to Coronado to swim with the fishes, not mob style. I found an old film container of my pop’s ashes recently in our kitchen junk drawer. He’s been “moving” with us across three houses. So it was only fitting that I discovered him so he could be with my ma. I honestly don’t remember if there’s more of his ashes at my ma’s house BUT will find out soon in September when we head out there. Not looking forward to it BUT making good progress on finding quick sale buyers to just be done with it. Anywho, you didn’t come here to read more about these woes – that’s what my therapist is for.

Here’s some interesting tidbits of shows and movies I’ve been digging since my last post.

And Just Like That… – HBO Max

I am really bummed that the masses, other than me and some really vocal influencers, basically shit on this show so bad that they didn’t want to make more than three seasons. Keeping the momentum of the OG SATC series was near impossible – plus, it was a different show all together. It’s funny how people can’t just separate them entirely and like them for different reasons. They came with pitchforks to destroy this one. I really enjoyed it and was just so happy that some piece of that world was back, all these years later. So, as we close in on the last episode ever dropping tonight, I thank Carrie and team for pulling off a Round 2 and doing it for us grateful fans.

The Naked Gun – at a theater near you

There’s a movement of hate for reboots and sequels of past favorites that’s also gaining momentum. I do think Hollywood has gotten a bit lazy, just remaking old things like new again, BUT there’s a time and place for some of the nostalgia to come back full circle. This movie is exactly that and as funny as ever. Liam and Pamela were fantastic AND that they’re dating in real life is the cutest Hollywood story since anything and everything Pedro Pascal. Pamela is having a moment, after getting drug for years as being nothing more than a slut. It’s nice to see that she’s actually really talented and showing all the haters that they can eat shit. She’s also laughing all the way to the bank. So I say good for her. Keep having your moment and ride it out! 

Wednesday – Netflix

The hype for this show coming back for Season 2 has been off the charts. Did you read about the stupid woman who sat in the Wendy’s drive-thru for FOUR hours to get the special chicken nuggies with the Wednesday purple sauce and skipped taking her kids to Universal Studios?! Influencers sure know how to influence – feels a bit excessive. I leave a drive-thru if there’s more than a car or two. No patience for that. Anyway, the new season is great – only four episodes in Part 1 with Part 2 dropping September 3.

Platonic – AppleTV

Back for Season 2, Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne as besties is what the show is all about. Seth’s wardrobe is if Adam Sandler gave a few more fucks and cared a little more about brands (and logos) BUT still dresses however he wants. Check it out – you’ll understand what I mean. It’s fun and hearing Seth laugh is always a treat. It’s like Eddie Murphy laughing – you want to laugh too since it’s contagious. Rose is just a comedic genius too – so, so funny. And, the two of them together really, really work. Her husband is an awesome actor too, big Hallmark hunk but has had other parts since rising to that fame. 

Smoke – AppleTV

Episode 9 is out now and wraps the series…and I haven’t watched it just yet but if it’s anything like the other eight previous episodes I’m gonna hold on to my butt. Taron Edgerton really is a special actor – his resume proves that. I think my favorite character though is played by John Leguizamo. Just a likeable fuck-up that’s crucial to the plot and that the writers gifted with a lot of great dialogue. He’s pretty great in most everything he’s ever been in.

Fill in the Blank Reality TV – streamers, cable, etc

I tend to turn the TV on when I’m on vacation and find some truly terrible shows just to have on in the background in my room. I did that again on our recent trip and watched some Botched, Real Housewives of Orange County and Storage Wars. I’ve either watched them some over the years, like Storage Wars, or know of them of course because of their popularity. Always highly entertaining but I still don’t think I can really commit to much with all the other TV I watch, however tempting it always is. Cheers to all of you that do religiously watch any of it. 

Alright, that’s a wrap for this installment of watch what I watch and give a shit about what I give a shit about. Hope you find something of interest and if not, thanks for reading anyway. 

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Couch Potato Files Vol. 16

It’s nearly July 4th and we’ve entered the half-way point of 2025. I really wish I was on our annual summer vacation right now but I’m happy I’ll be home to watch the Hot Dog Eating contest, Jaws, fireworks (on TV because it’s hot AF) and the new Jurassic movie – Summer Blockbuster Season is officially here! 

We pushed our annual Summer trip to early August. With everything with my ma, I’ve just wanted to hide out and run away from all of it so really looking forward to blowing this popstand soon(ish). I’m also really hoping for less tears, less deep sighs and less anxiety and more laughs, more fun and more calm for the second half of 2025. I’d also like to get off the Struggle Bus any time now. I’ve been a passenger for awhile, driving in circles with no real destination. So here’s to better – not the best but just better and trying to enjoy the journey as much I can. 

I’ve slowly but surely been turtling my way through the huge pile of shows and movies that have been waiting in the wings for me to care about again. I’m still really, REALLY bad about not finishing some shows, similar to my reading habits, as I’ve gotten older, but we’ll see if  I can cross a bunch off my list over the next few months. The NBA playoffs and season are over too, freeing up some more of my viewing time. BIG congrats to OKC. What a great group of dudes! Ok, all that being said, here’s some shows and movies that I have finished or are in the process of watching.

The Bear – Season 4- Hulu

I’ve attempted to get my hubby to watch this show with me since Season 1 Episode 1. He watched that debut episode and it was so chaotic, full of anger and anxiety that he couldn’t stick with it. Maybe that’s why I like it so much. It’s crazy. The filming and choices the creators have made are always fantastic, not to mention the cast and special guests that pop-up often. I don’t think I ever really cared about that sort of thing until seeing a show that pulls it off so well. It’s just a beautiful hurricane. I watched the last episode of Season 4 on Sunday. There are rumors this may be the final season and I’d be ok with that. It had a natural wrap to it, like they planned it to possibly be exactly that, but it could go on for more too. Still kills me, and I’m sure all its competition, they entered all the awards shows as a comedy. It’s way more drama than comedy and I don’t think they can even really claim it being a dramedy but good for them. Whatever works and gets you those very deserved trophies. 

Fun Fact: I see Jeremy Allen White posts on the Gram walking with big bundles of flowers all the time. Just this morning I reposted a set that had some context to them. He has a flower market near his home and he likes to get new flowers weekly so that he can arrange them around his home with his daughters. I mean, the Top Dad Award goes to Yes Chef!

The Gilded Age – Season 3 – HBO Max

In its third season and doling out the episodes weekly like old school days, this show is Bridgerton-like but not as many laughs and not as much smut. Awesome period piece show with society dramarama and trying to fit in, along with some historical elements peppered in that make it feel very legit. The consultants on set clearly made sure they made it as real as they could. There’s some really top-tier cast members too, including Carrie Coon, Cynthia Nixon and Christine Baranski. Talk about star-power with that trifecta. I’ve been following Carrie for a long time. One of my favorite short-lived shows was The Leftovers, another HBO Max show. It only lasted three seasons, based on a popular book, or maybe that was enough – I don’t know. I remember wanting more but that they did get to tie things up pretty well, knowing it may only last three seasons. I loved the cast so much and the show premise, as sad and fucked up as it was. Check it out if you haven’t already. I also think Carrie has a deep connection (and long-lasting contract) with HBO since she’s also in the latest season of White Lotus. I’ll write about that another time (since I need to really dig in on all the Mike White awesomeness and not feeling like diving deep today), while wearing my DIFF White Lotus colab sunnies.  I waited for MONTHS for them to arrive and they finally did! As my daughter jokes, I’m super extra, like guac. 

Smoke – Apple TV

Smoke is a brand new show starring Taron Egerton along with Jurnee Smollett that just dropped on AppleTV. If you’re familiar with Backdraft, one of Kurt Russell’s very best, this show has a similar premise but man, there’s two episodes so far and a MAJOR plot twist has already been introduced! There will be nine total episodes through August 15, dripping them out weekly, again, old school style. That’s what AppleTV does for all their shows. Unpopular opinion – I’m old and still kind of like that. With as much as I watch (and the rest of my social butterfly calendar that keeps me away from being a 24/7 couch potato) I appreciate a weekly show AND if I decide to let it ride and pile up some, I can binge a few episodes too. So best of both worlds. Can we also talk about how awesome Taron is for a sec? I’m always, ALWAYS impressed by actors who can change their accent for a role. I know it’s kind of part of the gig but it’s crazy to me, especially when some of them have very thick accents. How do they do that?!  It’s so cool. If you’re a Taron fan like me, check out his other AppleTV show Black Bird with the awesome and soooo talented Paul Walter Hauser. Do yourself another favor and follow Paul on the Gram. He’s a hoot and I love his posts. 

Stick – Apple TV

This new Owen Wilson feel-good comedy is a lot of Ted Lasso and a dash or two of Tin Cup. I watch it and cry mostly because I know it’s something my pop and ma would both have loved to see and Owen is just such a charming and genuine goofball. I watched him on Hot Ones and I’m convinced his character in all his roles is really his persona in real life or something pretty close. The show is excellent and so much fun to watch, in between my tears. 

F1 – at a theater near you

F1 is a movie to see on the big screen – it was made for it! And if you can, see it at IMAX! I tried and was a fucking idiot and bought the wrong tickets BUT I still saw it on a Harkins Ciné screen which is bigger. 

I’m pop culture obsessed, as is very apparent here and on all my social channels, and I read that Apple and the producers considered Tom Cruise for Brad Pitt’s role but decided to not cast him because it would have been too risky. Tom is always pushing the envelope of potential death (see Mission Impossible, Top Gun, etc) and the studio was like, nah, maybe not. Then, I watched/listened to Brad on Dax Shepard’s podcast and he said that it was the first racing movie where they allowed the stars to be insured and really drive the F1 cars…that on average race at 180 MPH. He said he told them that if they weren’t able to get behind the wheel of the real deal then he was out.  Brad also has an over-priced line of clothing. Aside from how pretentious that site looks and the prices are, he does seem like a cool and chill dude. I’m sure Angelina and his kids would say otherwise but George Clooney probably would still testify for him and that’s all that matters. 

Sinners – still at theaters but coming to streamers this week!

Sinners will be on streamers soon and we finally saw it over the weekend. Wow – crazy and bravo to Ryan Coogler and also Michael B. Jordan for playing twins! Again, I saw a post and article that they put him in some new camera gear to pull off the filming of that. Long way from side by side merged screens that looked super janky but we loved it anyway because move magic, duh. 

I think if Ryan was trying to channel some Jordan Peele and join him in the horror ranks of Hollywood, he achieved that, along with having some legit real-world messaging too, also another technique that Jordan has perfected. I always feel like Jordan gives me a “The More You Know” vibe with all his flicks but waaaayyyy deeper. So check, Ryan, I think you did it and all the love and support you’ve gotten from the world and box office about the movie is a testament to that too.  

Good Hang with Amy Poehler

So not a show or movie but a podcast that I like to watch and listen on YouTube. I’m trying to introduce more podcasts to my routine since there are so many good ones, like Good Hang with Amy Poehler. She’s got a great line-up of interviews and is so funny and genuine. It’s a good time and always great conversations. I watch/listen while working. It’s been a nice change and I highly recommend it! 

I recently got to see Amy with Tina Fey on their tour and it was a major bucket list moment. It had been a really rough day, the day I had to get everything set up with hospice for my ma and one of my best friends was with me and we managed to still make it to the show that night. I think I laughed harder than maybe their jokes and stories really were that funny, overcompensating for all that I’d been experiencing for months or maybe slightly unhindged, like Tom Hanks in The Money Pit. There’s a scene where he laughs so hard, physically and loudly, when a bathtub falls through the floor, like to the degree of choking himself – it’s just one of the funniest things I’ve ever seen and I still laugh ’til I cry to this day when I rewatch it. I think I was close to that level of outward crazy laughing without irritating the fuck out of all our seatmates. Laughter truly is the best medicine or like Dolly Parton’s character Truvy in Steel Magnolias said “Laughter through tears is my favorite emotion.” Enjoy your 4th celebration and GO JOEY CHESTNUT!

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Couch Potato Files Vol. 4

Fuck me – what a week. If you’re like me, you’ve had enough with reading about why the election turned out like it did and all the speculation and theories. Through all the doom scrolling, I remember seeing some posts about how artists need to lean into their craft during tougher times, providing not only an escape but also hope. Hope for better and brighter. Hope to not let the darkness consume you. 

So I’m no “artist” but I do like to write and provide my Cruise Director and pop culture recommendations and don’t do it nearly enough. That will be my artistic contribution. If nothing else, if you’re reading this and I’m writing this, it keeps us both from doom scrolling, even if for a bit.

Favorite TV Shows 

Teacup – Peacock launched this spooky series in October but if you’re like me and dig horror shows year round, give it a go. It’s got some familiar faces and only 8 episodes, making it very bing-worthy. Not yet greenlit for Season 2.

Hysteria! – As you can imagine, my watch-list is long so I haven’t actually finished this Peacock series yet but what I’ve seen so far is fantastic. Campy 80s horror and humor with Bruce Campbell leading the cast. Another 8 episodes that I’ll soon wrap up. Not yet greenlit for Season 2.

Yellowstone – The VERY long awaited second half of Season 5 is finally back today on Paramount. Six glorious episodes left and Kevin Costner’s last stand…and the show’s too. There are plenty of stories about more spinoffs and shows happening soon so the Yellowstone universe will continue but man, the original show will always be my favorite. 

The Penguin – The limited series finale is tonight and if you’re a fan of DC Comics, this show is made for you. It still blows my mind every time I watch that it’s Colin Farrell. I really need to do some research about how Matt Reeves and the creators decided he would be the best to put on that fat suit. The transformation is uncanny. As of now, it’s a limited series so sadly the 8 episodes may be it…and there’s rumors that Farrell is tired of playing the villain too. Fingers crossed maybe he changes his mind and they decide to create more.

Favorite Movies

Brothers – When I saw the trailer, I couldn’t wait to see this movie on Prime. All-star cast and a hilarious ride. And yes, that’s really Glenn Close.

Caddo Lake – A spooky and mysterious movie on Max that requires you to pay attention so you don’t lose track of what’s really going on. It’s great. Really dug it.

Favorite Shopping 

Ivy and Sage – ‘Tis the holiday season and my very-favorite store to check out all year long but especially for the holidays is Ivy and Sage. They outdo themselves with the decor and it’s an experience unlike any others. Shop local and check them out. It’ll 100% lift your spirits.

Highland Yard Vintage –  Another favorite that has special monthly markets and they too go all out with the decor and merriment. It’s a ton of fun. A great opportunity to support local and enjoy!

Favorite Follows

@mrprofessor318 – My bestie and I are big yacht rock fans and this fantastic fellow uses AI to make some of your very favorite rock tunes sound like yacht rock, among other music fun. His videos are so entertaining and he even put out a full album on Spotify and other music platforms. Ton of fun!

@effinbirds – These birds get me on a regular basis. The artist is so clever and hilarious.

That’s all she wrote, folks. Follow me on the Gram for more – I post A LOT in my stories. Some doom scrolling tidbits but mostly recos for tv, movies, events, bars, restaurants, shopping and more. Keep your chin up and enjoy the season and if you’re in AZ our awesome weather! 

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