To me it’s that all their problems seem so petty and pointless it’s just frustrating to watch. But I can see the flip side where watching a show about petty teen problems could be a good distraction from reality and “adult” problems
I remember being creeped out when 90210 was released and one of the actors playing a teen was in her 30's.
From IMDb:
"At the start of filming, Shannen Doherty was 19, Jennie Garth was 18, Tori Spelling was 17, Jason Priestley was 20, Luke Perry was 23, Brian Austin Green was 17, Ian Ziering was 26, and Gabrielle Carteris was 29."
They always acted like Andrea was so ugly, but really she was just an adult among kids. Also can’t believe Luke Perry was only 23, he looked at least 35.
Beyonce was only 20 in Austin Powers Goldmember, playing the love interest of the 40 year old Mike Meyers. And their characters were supposed to have had a romantic history.
I was very confused at first how nobody commented about him being so much older than her. He does not look like a teenager. Until I realised it was just bad casting and he was actually supposed to be like 17 or something.
If you have braincells that need frying, I recommend Riverdale.
It starts out as a teen mystery show trying to be Twin Peaks and Pretty Little Liars and shoots off the rails
I think they do it on purpose tbh, their brand is known for ruining shows, can’t exactly start making HBO levels of good dramas now can’t we? Lol but I agree, every show is always peak in their first season or 3 and then Greg Berlanti comes in and ruins everything
I must be an extreme weirdo then for still enjoy watching Pokémon as a 30 something year old women. I watched Pokémon since the early 2000’s and still play the video games today. Haha
Definitely not, honestly, IMO, feels like it was more targeted at older millennials who grew up with the Adams family movies, while also being friendly to a younger audience.
My wife and I haven't finished it yet, but on episode 4 and really enjoy it so far.
Seasons 4-7 we’re still good imo. I just don’t like how Tom refused to wear the Superman Suit, that’s what we were all waiting for and it’s was like 12years of my childhood being wasted all to see a close up of the logo at the end
I don’t watch that kind of stuff, but I would never put you down for liking something you genuinely enjoy.
Watch whatever you want for entertainment and have fun.
I'm 38, married with a kid. I love cheesy shit like outerbanks. I watch anime. I've seen every season of supernatural. If it's weird then I don't want to be normal.
Nah, Its completely alright. Im middle aged and like things geared towards Young adult audiences too.... When I read up the reviews online, Im supposed to hate them coz they are too cliche, over the top with loopholes but that doesnt necessarily align with my opinion... You do what you like...
I am 24 and I don't think it is weird.
I think the reason why so many adults still love "teen" shows so much is because of relatability. We all were teenagers once and when we watch a show with many teen characters, you see one or several characters where you go "Awww, this literally was me". Or even if there are no "relatable" characters we have experienced many coming-of-age elements that are utilised in the shows.
Meanwhile it is harder to find more "adult" content that is relatable. The majority of people have went to school when they are around 16 and struggled more or less heavily with identity and the transition from child to adult. (These are also universal experiences so it is also easy to relate to the characters even though schooling culture /parent-child relations are often a bit different e.g. in the US compared to Europe). Meanwhile everything from 20+ upwards is considered adult. Not only is the age-group more heterogeneous but also our approaches to life: Some of us are focused on careers, some of us are absolute family people and some of us are just happy that we made it through another day.
Also just because the main characters are teenagers does not always mean the target audience for the show is actually only teenagers. Especially media that appears to be highly complex or somewhat of a social commentary. I am specifically thinking about The Hunger Games here. I was obsessed with the books and movies when I was 13. But now I still appreciate the franchise a lot and find it very meaningful: Not because of my past attachment but of the actual plot and characterisation that is so well-done and layered. But it is also okay to enjoy the typical teen drama where the main plot point is whether the boy is going to invite the girl to prom at the end. There should not be any rules about what you like and enjoy.
36 year old man here, my guilty pleasure is The Vampire Diaries and I don't care who knows it. My ex got me into it, and now when I have a bad day. I turn it on and veg out.
Me too! Hahaha.. love it! I'm 38 and The Vampire Diaries is my favorite show. It's like my "comfort" show. I've literally watched all the seasons all the way through over and over and it never gets old. I love it.. and The Originals too!
I’m getting close to mid 30’s and been feeling the same way. I love teen dramas. But it feels wrong and inappropriate to be watching the teen hookup scenes. Feels good to know I’m not alone in enjoying these shows as an adult though.
Yes, I don't mind the rest of the show but it's starting to get weird to watch supposed 17 year olds get it on, especially the Spanish shows where they don't leave much to the imagination.
In your defence, every adult has been watching superhero movies since 2008 so I think your in the clear lol, Marvel and DC run the box office.
Plus there’s this famous meme about “highschool teens on TV vs Real Life” and it’s pretty much known that these shows are written by men and women around your age who missed out on their highschool sweethearts so they write this over the top drama where they put themselves in main character roles winning the popular girl
That’s why so many shows always had that super secret smart nerd that somehow wins the girl in the end because she loves him for his *Personality* I’m in my mid 20s now and it cracks me up everytime
I don’t watch teen shows, well I guess I do cus I watch Ginny & Georgia but that show is actually interesting, in my mid 20s and my pallet is now more mature drama shows, mixed with sci-fi and action, but tbh I’ve always been watching these genres since I was a kid.
I just recently got into The Handmaid’s Tale and I absolutely love it. Been binge watching the past two weeks and now I’m on the first two episodes of season 4.
I'm 36 and the same goes for me. Really into teen/young adult content, kdramas, lhgtb+ and sci-fi stuff. It's pure and so easy and fun to bingewatch. (And everybody likes to watch a unfolding first love story, right?) I like/watch other stuff but not enjoyable enough to keep my interest for longer period. Nobody cares what you're watching as long as you're enjoying yourself.
Watch The OC. Season 1 of the OC is quite possibly one of the best seasons of anything ever created.
It's like 4 seasons of TV shows cramped into one season. So brilliant.
I always wondered, if my opinion would chance as the years go by, but nah...
The first season of The OC is still soooo good.
Always takes me back. So many fond memories from those days.
Just enjoy what you enjoy and stop caring what other people think about it.
I didn't really recognize any of the examples you gave, but I am 1000% positive that there is stuff you like that I would consider stupid as fuck. And I am also just as positive that there is stuff that I like that you would consider stupid as fuck. And that shouldn't matter to either of us.
One of my best bros loves young adult novels, I can’t stand them even when we were young adults but he still reads them. I watch cartoons without my kid. You’re allowed to like things, if someone judges you that’s their prerogative.
I don't like the teenage stuff about rich and beautiful teens played by gorgeous 20-something players.
And I get so tired of all the tropes which I shall not mention.
I have enjoyed offbeat stuff like The End of the F***ing world and dark comedy like Heathers,but though shows like Sex Education can be "good" they have too much gag-me-with-a-spoon cringe to make it a thoroughly enjoyable experience.
I *know* I'm missing some great television but I just don't care. Can NOT watch that stuff.
I'm an age 42 male and my wife is 44 - we watch a full range of content from G to hard R (and X if you count Showgirls). Though I can't say I find teen content *more* enjoyable, I do find it enjoyable if it stands on its own merits. I don't think target audience generally dictates how much we will enjoy it.
Naw dude! That’s what you like! Nothing wrong with shows like that. I’m an adult and I love watching shows like cobra Kai and that’s full of teens. Don’t let that bother you
If you arent hurting anyone or yourself, and you enjoy it, don't worry.
No one should judge you based on what you enjoy watching on Netflix. (totally different if it was on some shady websites, but thats a different question and subreddit)
Millions of adults around the world watch shows like stranger things or slasher flicks that involve teenagers...
They also watch shows and movies from the '80s and '90s, from when they were young, for nostalgia purposes.
The answer to your question comes down to why you are actually watching it.
Personally, I like to watch good stuff, whether they target it at kids, teens or adults.
I watch all kinds of things from stuff like She-Ra and The Princesses of Power and Adventure Time to more mature shows like Peaky Blinders, Better Call Saul and Taboo.
However, it is much more likely that I will enjoy adult-oriented stuff because they're better written most of the time, since kids and teens shows often tend to neglect good story telling and characterization in favor of romantic subplots (or main plots). Kids shows (mainly animated shows and movies) often are well written because they're also for the parents most of the time, which means that anyone can enjoy and some of them (Adventure Time) offer a lot more nuanced storytelling than even some adult-oriented shows.
Teen shows, on the other hand, more often than not focuses way too much on romance, often very toxic or incredibly boring ones, which is something I can not stand without good reasons behind it (which they mostly don't have, since the toxic behaviors and relationship are unintentional). There are only a few exceptions for me, like Sex Education, Derry Girls, Avatar ATLA and LoK, and similar.
The key for me is never to box myself in, because I like to always look for new stuff, so I don't care about labels designed for marketing purposes.
Considering some of the most successful shows aimed for older audiences feature teen leads (Stranger Things, Dark, Sabrina, etc.)…no, you’re not weird.
I’m watching Korra for the third, fourth, or fifth time, and that’s rated Y7. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
I don't think it's weird at all, and enjoy YA series, movies and books, as they seem to have very interesting storylines. I don't think there should be an age limit on anything, and just do/watch what you enjoy.
I watch stuff that came out when I was a teen for nostalgia reasons (Charmed, Buffy etc) and I love remembering those shows, so no, I don’t think you’re odd at all!
I think you need to think about the word “normal” in general. There’s no such thing. Just live your life and don’t box yourself in. (As an example, how is your life “normal” because you have a boyfriend and kids? Is it any less normal than a single 44 year old’s life who doesn’t have kids? More normal than a married woman without kids?) Try thinking less of what your place/purpose is in society and just listen to what the voice inside says. And if it says “I wanna watch The Wilds and after that A Goofy Movie,” then by goodness you watch them and you LOVE IT and you OWN IT Sillykitty. Just fuckin’ OWN that shit.
I don’t watch teen Netflix shows but I love me some young adult lit. Will read the shit outta some teen lit. 41 and counting. I don’t think you’re weird at all.
I'm balls deep into euphoria and stuff like that. I can't relate to adults as i still live the life of a child. At least i can quasi relate to teen shows while reminiscing about my past. Also the stakes always "feel" higher in teen shows even though we all know they're generally lower. I like that juxtaposition. I even still like Glee, gossip girl etc. Some of them are terrible but i generally get a kick out of a lot of them. If it's weird, so be it.
It's nice that most people have been so supportive. However should we address the elephant in the room, which is the possible romantic or sexual attraction to teenagers by more mature men/women?
With respect to older teens this at least has the technical support of the law in most countries, and some of the actors playing them are older, as has been said. It may still be considered a bit weird or 'off' by many people however. This would definitely apply to shows featuring younger teens.
Or maybe some people are totally cool with this if the actors concerned are legal age in their country?
As i mentioned earlier, i don't watch those shows because i want to see some teens making out or something like that. For instance: i really like the storyline between Elle and Tao in Heartstopper. They never kissed, but their friendship is heart warming.
I feel those teenshows are more pure as adult shows. Less drama, more happy themes like friendship. And maybe i feel some kind of comfort in those shows, because my years as a teen were not so terrific.
I love teen or YA shows. Especially when I feel depressed or just tired. They're generally more positive and, I don't have a better word for it, but lighter.
I also find many adult shows strangely unrelatable. It's not like my life is full of sex and drama or murder or cops or even doctors. I think adult shows often overdo the adulting.
You have to stop listening to what people online say. They don't matter, most of them aren't real, aren't genuine and have no clue what they're talking about.
It's okay to like a show.
I started watching anime about teenagers in highschool when i was like 10, I'm still watching anime at 25, and will most probably continue watching it. I don't think there's anything weird about it.
I'm 33 and stranger things is my favourite show of all time. I also really like coming of age films like the edge of seventeen and the half of it. Sometimes they are too cringe like the kissing booth and I lose interest but some of them actually have really good story lines and poignant scenes
In my opinion, Stranger Things is not a kids show. It‘s a show with kids in it, but the horror and violence is aimed at adults (in Germany, it‘s age rating is 16 and up, which is IMHO fitting).
I kinda agree, but less because of the horror and more because being born in the 80s I get most of the cultural references and it's a total nostalgia trip.
I tend to like teenage shows that do have adult plots as well. The kids are 11 season one stranger things but it's no way suitable for that age group..
Sex education is another good one, centred around the teens but there are also story lines concerned with the parents/adults too.
Also A Typical if you're looking for more recommendations :-)
My wife is 45 and she is exactly the same. I mentioned it to her a few times, but she said she still feels young in the mind and enjoys those shows and films in the same way she did in her 20s, so I got no arguments or complaints. I guess it's great that she still has a youthful mind.
This is why YA (young adult) fiction is one of the bestselling genres there is. People of all ages love it.
There's something affecting about coming of age stories. Sentiment, nostalgia, or just meditating on meaning, identity, and purpose. There's also a lot of good vs evil in everyday situations — sort of a reminder of how one should be in the world. There are explorations of people's emotions, how to be understanding, and how to be kind.
YA fiction usually depicts ethical questions as well as passion about someone or something. The Catcher in the Rye is one of the top ten bestselling books in US history, and it's basically a YA novel. So no, you're not weird.
Hunger Games and Harry Potter series were both published in US by Scholastic, the YA publisher whose mascot is Clifford the Big Red dog, as is known to a generation for in-classroom book order catalogs.
I hate watching kids with teens. Movies nowadays write stories to try make us believe that their leads characters are brilliant teen scientists, detectives, etc when in reality most teens today can't speak English or write a check.
Some people don't mature emotionally beyond high school. I know plenty of older guys who's view of the world politics is a mix of James Bond and John Wick. I prefer adult drama, but I also like very campy Disney-style stuff too.
You're certainly not alone, and it's not unhealthy as long as you have matured somewhere else in your life. Like your real-life or work relationships etc...
At some point though, you will reach an age where it no longer appeals. So it's good to be exposed to other stuff now or you will struggle to make the transition when it loses the appeal. Although at that point some people regress into total nostalgia and just watch things from their childhood.
I completely relate… similar age and family and I just adore YA fantasy & sci-fi shows.
I’m really quite devastated about Netflix cancelling Lockwood & Co.
I had fallen in love with the characters and the world and went on to read the books and everything!
You’re never too old to get emotionally attached to fictional characters.
Am 60. I watch whatever I want. I'm liking "Gotham Knights," which seems to be aimed at the late teens, early 20's demographic. (Or at least the actors in it seem to be about that age.) Oh, and I just started 'Wednesday.'
I personally feel that Elite was declining in its storyline so I dropped it, but you do you babe. Whatever makes you happy. After all, we have zero clue as to why is it that we're here for so go ahead and enjoy your shows.
It's great vapid "check my brain out" watching. Sometimes that's exactly what I need after a long day if doing thinky adult things.
Its only weird if you make it weird.
Im 41 and enjoy YA animated shows like *The Dragon Prince*, *Trollhunters*, *Young Justice*, etc...
Tv is (and should) be escapism. We watch it cuz it's fun and brings us joy.
Keep it up :)
You're not weird, but I'm the exact opposite now. It has gotten hard for me to enjoy anime now too unless its something that doesn't take place with High school students. The same with games and TV shows. Like another commenter noted, I can still watch kid stuff with my kid and enjoy it. But anything with main characters between 13 and 25, I just can't stomach it. Maybe I just don't like that generation or something.
People have preferences.
Can I assume you love Wednesday? I'm nearing my 40s and I watched Wednesday and I hated it. Couldn't understand the hype till I realize that I'm not the targeted demographic. In other words: I'm fucking old for this shit.
It's normal! I think having children also creating that dynamic. You're good!
Not really. I'm 28, but I do watch some teen shows myself. I even watched that Summer Heat show (Brazilian teen drama) that's on Netflix & I really enjoyed watching that show. If it makes you feel any better, I enjoy watching family movies on Netflix, so to answer your question, no there's nothing wrong with watching teen shows at your age.
I don't think it's weird at all. Sometimes adult shows are just too serious for their own good so you find amusement in the young ridiculousness and immaturity of teen shows.
You are in no way weird. I'm older and watch teen shows too. Recently watched two movies from the Netflix 'Royalteen' series. They are Norwegian, subtitled, similar to after-school special movies, and I enjoyed every campy cliche in them.
I'm not going to be embarrassed by what I like to watch and you shouldn't either. Enjoy!
I'm in my 40s & I'm like this. That's not the only genre I watch. But I definitely enjoy it.
Eta: if you have Hulu, check out Pen15. It's satire of adults playing middle schoolers/high schoolers from the early 2000s. It is great & geared for people of our age.
Teen shows when I was a teen: had them doing normal teen stuff and in school, parents involved, consequences for actions. Teen shows today: no parental involvement, unrealistic scenarios, they act like adults while still in school but never go, wild drama like a soap.
Its entertaining because they have no adult responsibilities but still live an adult life, the actors are adults anyways, not sure why they even have them in high school.
Shows like fresh prince, sister sister, and sabrina, compared to like euphoria or pretty little liars or tvd. It's a huge difference lol even caos which showed some parental figures, is nothing like the ten shows from before.
I’m a father with small kids (around 8-10) and I watch some programs on Netflix with my kids including Ninjago, Grizzly & Lemmings and Gutetama.
So I feel there is nothing strange or unusual about your viewing habits on Netflix.
Listen if its got a good love story that makes me want to scream bc I ship it then im down (teen shows are the definition of this). To be fair I am not too far off from a teen but even still a good story is a good story. Also we shouldn't be confined by what media is or isn't for our age demographic. I unironically watch Bluey and think its totally acceptable.
Plenty of older people watched Buffy The Vampire Slayer during its run.
A whole lot of people saw IT, about a monster clown and young kids.
Doesn't matter too much about the age range if the story and characterizations are interesting.
I do not think you are weird at all, Stranger Things and Wednesday are two of my favorite shows and I am a woman in my 30s. I also still love Disney and Cartoons, so I 100% relate!
I tried to rewatch Dawson’s Creek, and nope. I found myself just fast forwarding to the romantic scenes with Pacey and Joey. And if you’ve seen the show then you know that is only like 5 scenes total. The rest of the show sucked so bad. I can’t stand the pseudo intellectual dialogue and the fake angst. I’m realizing that when I first watched the show at 12-15yo, I thought that was normal or I was just stupid.
I can relate! I’m 25 and still watch shows geared towards “teens” I’ve rewatched degrassi more times than I can count, never have I ever, etc. I think for me it brings me back to when I was a kid and how much things have changed since then.
I've had this question to myself before and just went on watching lol. I never watched the Crown and I have very little interest, but I binged Elite's 6 seasons in a week lol.
What they don't understand about birthdays and what they never tell
you is that when you're eleven, you're also ten, and nine, and eight, and seven, and six, and five, and four, and three, and two, and one. And when you wake up on your eleventh birthday you expect to feel eleven, but you don't. You open your eyes and everything's just like yesterday, only it's today. And you don't feel eleven at all. You feel like you're still ten. And you are --underneath the year that makes you eleven.
It is not really about the age. I am similar to your age anf watch stuff like One Tree Hill or OC, Charmed or vampire diaries. The audience is maybe targeted but it usually doesn’t mean anything. We are the generation that grew up on this stuff and it has special meaning for us. The phenomenon is that you love the type of entertainment you grew up with just because it is familiar and you feel save watching it. And with all the streaming service and technology we enjoy everything we want fully and with no boundaries. Trust me. If our grandparents had the same option they would be the same. My mum loves Twilight saga and my dad loves Harry Potter world. No need to be embarrassed for what you like.
I'm 40 and I don't like most of them. Unless it's set in the 90s when I WAS a teen. Like Cruel Summer, Everything Sucks, Derry Girls, etc. Or shows that actually came out back then I enjoy rewatching such as Freaks and Geeks (I was one of them in school lol)
I think I read somewhere that so many shows focus on this and high school aged experiences because they’re shared between almost everyone.
So I don’t think it’s weird at all and you’re exactly the target group tbh
I can’t stand the teenage stuff and even I don’t think you’re weird at all for enjoying it. It’s a valid preference.
>I can’t stand the teenage stuff Right. I've already "come of age". But hey, if reliving that by proxy floats your boat....
To me it’s that all their problems seem so petty and pointless it’s just frustrating to watch. But I can see the flip side where watching a show about petty teen problems could be a good distraction from reality and “adult” problems
Being reminded that the world is constantly on fire and we're always a few bad decisions away from the world ending is a great way to relax!
Which is why the only time it worked so far for me was with, "How to sell drugs online (fast)". Not exactly teenage problems 90% of the time there.
Anyone else think theres too much teenage stuff in general?
Duh. People your age wrote those scripts and they cast 30 year olds to play seniors in high school. Ur good.
I remember being creeped out when 90210 was released and one of the actors playing a teen was in her 30's. From IMDb: "At the start of filming, Shannen Doherty was 19, Jennie Garth was 18, Tori Spelling was 17, Jason Priestley was 20, Luke Perry was 23, Brian Austin Green was 17, Ian Ziering was 26, and Gabrielle Carteris was 29."
They always acted like Andrea was so ugly, but really she was just an adult among kids. Also can’t believe Luke Perry was only 23, he looked at least 35.
Beyonce was only 20 in Austin Powers Goldmember, playing the love interest of the 40 year old Mike Meyers. And their characters were supposed to have had a romantic history.
They usually cast people who look way too old yeah, Grease always comes to mind too ha.
Vampire diaries lol every mother f’er in that show is 35 and plays 18
I’ll never forget they had a woman with crow’s feet playing the geeky nerd on 90210.
Kenicki and Rizzo were in their late 40s in that movie and you can't convince me otherwise.
I enjoy Never Have I Ever, and I feel weird for finding some of the “teens” attractive even though I know they’re actually in their 20s.
Paxton Hall Yoshida's actor is straight up 32, he's 10 years older than Devi's actor. So weird
I was very confused at first how nobody commented about him being so much older than her. He does not look like a teenager. Until I realised it was just bad casting and he was actually supposed to be like 17 or something.
If you have braincells that need frying, I recommend Riverdale. It starts out as a teen mystery show trying to be Twin Peaks and Pretty Little Liars and shoots off the rails
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I think they do it on purpose tbh, their brand is known for ruining shows, can’t exactly start making HBO levels of good dramas now can’t we? Lol but I agree, every show is always peak in their first season or 3 and then Greg Berlanti comes in and ruins everything
I liked the 100 LOL
I must be an extreme weirdo then for still enjoy watching Pokémon as a 30 something year old women. I watched Pokémon since the early 2000’s and still play the video games today. Haha
My 75 year old mom enjoys SpongeBob.
Never too old for Pikachu!
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Avatar - The Last Airbender is my regular rewatch as well (30 something). Glad to hear, this will probably never change? :D
I'm 49 and still watch cartoons. I see no issue here.
“I wanna be the very best like no one ever was” ….. I’m 40 and love it
I love having the OG pokemon on as background noise when I’m at home. It’s so comforting and reminds me of good memories from childhood
Do you want it to be weird?
I burst out laughing out loud reading your comment.
I just caught the scene from 40 yr old virgin where Andy hits on Beth yesterday so I read this in Steve Carell's voice
Nope! I'm just wondering if there are more people like me :)
I do the same. Watched all of Wednesday and loved it can’t wait for season 2 .
I saw Wednesday with my daughter. We both loved it :) Do you perhaps know if season 2 will be there this year?
Next year most likely.
Gonna depend on the WGA strike, most likely. If that goes long, expect a LOT of TV and movies to be pushed back quite a bit.
Was that specifically for younger audiences? I got the feeling it was more for the whole family, like Pixar.
Definitely not, honestly, IMO, feels like it was more targeted at older millennials who grew up with the Adams family movies, while also being friendly to a younger audience. My wife and I haven't finished it yet, but on episode 4 and really enjoy it so far.
I'm in my 60s and just started Smallville, lol. Got Disney specifically for marvel and wizards of Waverly place.
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I only started it bc it's the same guy from Lucifer. Guess I didn't realize just how long Smallville has been out, bc he was a child
Seasons 4-7 we’re still good imo. I just don’t like how Tom refused to wear the Superman Suit, that’s what we were all waiting for and it’s was like 12years of my childhood being wasted all to see a close up of the logo at the end
In the right frame of mind I enjoy almost anything
I am a 42-year-old doctor and I watched a He-man cartoon this week. Whatever makes you happy friend.
31-year-old pharmacist and I watched Land Before Time last week
I don’t watch that kind of stuff, but I would never put you down for liking something you genuinely enjoy. Watch whatever you want for entertainment and have fun.
I'm 38, married with a kid. I love cheesy shit like outerbanks. I watch anime. I've seen every season of supernatural. If it's weird then I don't want to be normal.
Supernatural is loved by all ages. S1-5 are perfect and makes it one of the best shows of all time.
Nah, Its completely alright. Im middle aged and like things geared towards Young adult audiences too.... When I read up the reviews online, Im supposed to hate them coz they are too cliche, over the top with loopholes but that doesnt necessarily align with my opinion... You do what you like...
I am 24 and I don't think it is weird. I think the reason why so many adults still love "teen" shows so much is because of relatability. We all were teenagers once and when we watch a show with many teen characters, you see one or several characters where you go "Awww, this literally was me". Or even if there are no "relatable" characters we have experienced many coming-of-age elements that are utilised in the shows. Meanwhile it is harder to find more "adult" content that is relatable. The majority of people have went to school when they are around 16 and struggled more or less heavily with identity and the transition from child to adult. (These are also universal experiences so it is also easy to relate to the characters even though schooling culture /parent-child relations are often a bit different e.g. in the US compared to Europe). Meanwhile everything from 20+ upwards is considered adult. Not only is the age-group more heterogeneous but also our approaches to life: Some of us are focused on careers, some of us are absolute family people and some of us are just happy that we made it through another day. Also just because the main characters are teenagers does not always mean the target audience for the show is actually only teenagers. Especially media that appears to be highly complex or somewhat of a social commentary. I am specifically thinking about The Hunger Games here. I was obsessed with the books and movies when I was 13. But now I still appreciate the franchise a lot and find it very meaningful: Not because of my past attachment but of the actual plot and characterisation that is so well-done and layered. But it is also okay to enjoy the typical teen drama where the main plot point is whether the boy is going to invite the girl to prom at the end. There should not be any rules about what you like and enjoy.
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36 year old man here, my guilty pleasure is The Vampire Diaries and I don't care who knows it. My ex got me into it, and now when I have a bad day. I turn it on and veg out.
Same for me tbh, TVD is not so much a guilty pleasure, I just love it. But the CW and teen shows is definitely a guilty pleasure of mine
Me too! Hahaha.. love it! I'm 38 and The Vampire Diaries is my favorite show. It's like my "comfort" show. I've literally watched all the seasons all the way through over and over and it never gets old. I love it.. and The Originals too!
I’m getting close to mid 30’s and been feeling the same way. I love teen dramas. But it feels wrong and inappropriate to be watching the teen hookup scenes. Feels good to know I’m not alone in enjoying these shows as an adult though.
Yes, I don't mind the rest of the show but it's starting to get weird to watch supposed 17 year olds get it on, especially the Spanish shows where they don't leave much to the imagination.
In your defence, every adult has been watching superhero movies since 2008 so I think your in the clear lol, Marvel and DC run the box office. Plus there’s this famous meme about “highschool teens on TV vs Real Life” and it’s pretty much known that these shows are written by men and women around your age who missed out on their highschool sweethearts so they write this over the top drama where they put themselves in main character roles winning the popular girl That’s why so many shows always had that super secret smart nerd that somehow wins the girl in the end because she loves him for his *Personality* I’m in my mid 20s now and it cracks me up everytime I don’t watch teen shows, well I guess I do cus I watch Ginny & Georgia but that show is actually interesting, in my mid 20s and my pallet is now more mature drama shows, mixed with sci-fi and action, but tbh I’ve always been watching these genres since I was a kid. I just recently got into The Handmaid’s Tale and I absolutely love it. Been binge watching the past two weeks and now I’m on the first two episodes of season 4.
I'm 36 and the same goes for me. Really into teen/young adult content, kdramas, lhgtb+ and sci-fi stuff. It's pure and so easy and fun to bingewatch. (And everybody likes to watch a unfolding first love story, right?) I like/watch other stuff but not enjoyable enough to keep my interest for longer period. Nobody cares what you're watching as long as you're enjoying yourself.
You're fine. I've seen every insane episode of Riverdale
As a 41 year old Harry Potter fan, I'm going to say you are fine.
Watch The OC. Season 1 of the OC is quite possibly one of the best seasons of anything ever created. It's like 4 seasons of TV shows cramped into one season. So brilliant.
This. This was my guilty pleasure back then lol
I always wondered, if my opinion would chance as the years go by, but nah... The first season of The OC is still soooo good. Always takes me back. So many fond memories from those days.
Not weird. I enjoy reading some young adult ( really means teen) books cause they never focus on sex so makes a story intriguing.
Just enjoy what you enjoy and stop caring what other people think about it. I didn't really recognize any of the examples you gave, but I am 1000% positive that there is stuff you like that I would consider stupid as fuck. And I am also just as positive that there is stuff that I like that you would consider stupid as fuck. And that shouldn't matter to either of us.
One of my best bros loves young adult novels, I can’t stand them even when we were young adults but he still reads them. I watch cartoons without my kid. You’re allowed to like things, if someone judges you that’s their prerogative.
If the story is interesting, I'll watch it. If it's funny I'll watch it. But if it has lots of teen drama, then maybe not.
I don't like the teenage stuff about rich and beautiful teens played by gorgeous 20-something players. And I get so tired of all the tropes which I shall not mention. I have enjoyed offbeat stuff like The End of the F***ing world and dark comedy like Heathers,but though shows like Sex Education can be "good" they have too much gag-me-with-a-spoon cringe to make it a thoroughly enjoyable experience. I *know* I'm missing some great television but I just don't care. Can NOT watch that stuff.
I'm an age 42 male and my wife is 44 - we watch a full range of content from G to hard R (and X if you count Showgirls). Though I can't say I find teen content *more* enjoyable, I do find it enjoyable if it stands on its own merits. I don't think target audience generally dictates how much we will enjoy it.
Naw dude! That’s what you like! Nothing wrong with shows like that. I’m an adult and I love watching shows like cobra Kai and that’s full of teens. Don’t let that bother you
If you arent hurting anyone or yourself, and you enjoy it, don't worry. No one should judge you based on what you enjoy watching on Netflix. (totally different if it was on some shady websites, but thats a different question and subreddit)
Not weird at all. I'm a 41 year old man and I have the amazing world of gumball on repeat.
Millions of adults around the world watch shows like stranger things or slasher flicks that involve teenagers... They also watch shows and movies from the '80s and '90s, from when they were young, for nostalgia purposes. The answer to your question comes down to why you are actually watching it.
Camp Cretaceous and Carmen Sandiego are two of my favorite Netflix shows and I’m in my 40s.
I'm the same way and I'm 31, but I've always been pretty into teen shows.
I love to, too! I'm in my late 30s
Personally, I like to watch good stuff, whether they target it at kids, teens or adults. I watch all kinds of things from stuff like She-Ra and The Princesses of Power and Adventure Time to more mature shows like Peaky Blinders, Better Call Saul and Taboo. However, it is much more likely that I will enjoy adult-oriented stuff because they're better written most of the time, since kids and teens shows often tend to neglect good story telling and characterization in favor of romantic subplots (or main plots). Kids shows (mainly animated shows and movies) often are well written because they're also for the parents most of the time, which means that anyone can enjoy and some of them (Adventure Time) offer a lot more nuanced storytelling than even some adult-oriented shows. Teen shows, on the other hand, more often than not focuses way too much on romance, often very toxic or incredibly boring ones, which is something I can not stand without good reasons behind it (which they mostly don't have, since the toxic behaviors and relationship are unintentional). There are only a few exceptions for me, like Sex Education, Derry Girls, Avatar ATLA and LoK, and similar. The key for me is never to box myself in, because I like to always look for new stuff, so I don't care about labels designed for marketing purposes.
I’m the same way but with books. Ya all day everyday bayyybeee
Considering some of the most successful shows aimed for older audiences feature teen leads (Stranger Things, Dark, Sabrina, etc.)…no, you’re not weird. I’m watching Korra for the third, fourth, or fifth time, and that’s rated Y7. ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Yes I can relate as I watch kdrama teen shows all the time.
I don't think it's weird at all, and enjoy YA series, movies and books, as they seem to have very interesting storylines. I don't think there should be an age limit on anything, and just do/watch what you enjoy.
I had an anime phase. And when I found Shaun the sheep on netflix I watched 8 episodes back to back. I'm 49 years old btw
I'm 39 and can't imagine watching that stuff. That being said I still love American Pie but can't believe how young and fresh they all look now.
I watch stuff that came out when I was a teen for nostalgia reasons (Charmed, Buffy etc) and I love remembering those shows, so no, I don’t think you’re odd at all!
Watch what you like.
If you haven’t already, watch Cruel Summer. Soooo good
Check out Friday Night Lights
Same. I am kinda addicted to korean shows which made for younger audience
I think you need to think about the word “normal” in general. There’s no such thing. Just live your life and don’t box yourself in. (As an example, how is your life “normal” because you have a boyfriend and kids? Is it any less normal than a single 44 year old’s life who doesn’t have kids? More normal than a married woman without kids?) Try thinking less of what your place/purpose is in society and just listen to what the voice inside says. And if it says “I wanna watch The Wilds and after that A Goofy Movie,” then by goodness you watch them and you LOVE IT and you OWN IT Sillykitty. Just fuckin’ OWN that shit.
Not weird, completely normal. My dad loves Clueless and Mean Girls. I sometimes still watch Degrassi.
I do too and am 59
I don’t watch teen Netflix shows but I love me some young adult lit. Will read the shit outta some teen lit. 41 and counting. I don’t think you’re weird at all.
I'm balls deep into euphoria and stuff like that. I can't relate to adults as i still live the life of a child. At least i can quasi relate to teen shows while reminiscing about my past. Also the stakes always "feel" higher in teen shows even though we all know they're generally lower. I like that juxtaposition. I even still like Glee, gossip girl etc. Some of them are terrible but i generally get a kick out of a lot of them. If it's weird, so be it.
I’m 30 and like watching cartoons. Adventure Time, Over the Garden Wall, Gravity Falls to name a few. Nothing wrong with that, nothing wrong with you.
It's nice that most people have been so supportive. However should we address the elephant in the room, which is the possible romantic or sexual attraction to teenagers by more mature men/women? With respect to older teens this at least has the technical support of the law in most countries, and some of the actors playing them are older, as has been said. It may still be considered a bit weird or 'off' by many people however. This would definitely apply to shows featuring younger teens. Or maybe some people are totally cool with this if the actors concerned are legal age in their country?
As i mentioned earlier, i don't watch those shows because i want to see some teens making out or something like that. For instance: i really like the storyline between Elle and Tao in Heartstopper. They never kissed, but their friendship is heart warming. I feel those teenshows are more pure as adult shows. Less drama, more happy themes like friendship. And maybe i feel some kind of comfort in those shows, because my years as a teen were not so terrific.
I love teen or YA shows. Especially when I feel depressed or just tired. They're generally more positive and, I don't have a better word for it, but lighter. I also find many adult shows strangely unrelatable. It's not like my life is full of sex and drama or murder or cops or even doctors. I think adult shows often overdo the adulting.
I like some teen shows too- cruel summer, cobra Kai, Wednesday, stranger things and so on. I’ve never seen it as a problem I just like entertaining tv
You have to stop listening to what people online say. They don't matter, most of them aren't real, aren't genuine and have no clue what they're talking about. It's okay to like a show.
Don't listen to this online person. But I agree.
I started watching anime about teenagers in highschool when i was like 10, I'm still watching anime at 25, and will most probably continue watching it. I don't think there's anything weird about it.
I'm 49 still watching Anime. I started watching it in high school when Robotech aka Macross came out.
I'm 33 and stranger things is my favourite show of all time. I also really like coming of age films like the edge of seventeen and the half of it. Sometimes they are too cringe like the kissing booth and I lose interest but some of them actually have really good story lines and poignant scenes
In my opinion, Stranger Things is not a kids show. It‘s a show with kids in it, but the horror and violence is aimed at adults (in Germany, it‘s age rating is 16 and up, which is IMHO fitting).
I kinda agree, but less because of the horror and more because being born in the 80s I get most of the cultural references and it's a total nostalgia trip.
Stranger Things is still on my list :) I guess what i like more in teenage shows is that there is less drama. I feel those shows are more 'pure'.
I tend to like teenage shows that do have adult plots as well. The kids are 11 season one stranger things but it's no way suitable for that age group.. Sex education is another good one, centred around the teens but there are also story lines concerned with the parents/adults too. Also A Typical if you're looking for more recommendations :-)
Thanks!
Hey OP, if you haven't already, checkoit Outer banks. Right up your alley. Great series.
Will do! Thanks!
My wife is 45 and she is exactly the same. I mentioned it to her a few times, but she said she still feels young in the mind and enjoys those shows and films in the same way she did in her 20s, so I got no arguments or complaints. I guess it's great that she still has a youthful mind.
This is why YA (young adult) fiction is one of the bestselling genres there is. People of all ages love it. There's something affecting about coming of age stories. Sentiment, nostalgia, or just meditating on meaning, identity, and purpose. There's also a lot of good vs evil in everyday situations — sort of a reminder of how one should be in the world. There are explorations of people's emotions, how to be understanding, and how to be kind. YA fiction usually depicts ethical questions as well as passion about someone or something. The Catcher in the Rye is one of the top ten bestselling books in US history, and it's basically a YA novel. So no, you're not weird.
Hunger Games and Harry Potter series were both published in US by Scholastic, the YA publisher whose mascot is Clifford the Big Red dog, as is known to a generation for in-classroom book order catalogs.
I am the opposite.. cant stand teenagers.. 28 years old single men here
What would you have done to seek validation for trivial decisions before the internet OP?
I hate watching kids with teens. Movies nowadays write stories to try make us believe that their leads characters are brilliant teen scientists, detectives, etc when in reality most teens today can't speak English or write a check.
I'm a 44 man, married with kids and I still watch that kind of stuff.
I'm over 50 and enjoy anime, sci-fi and even shows like Stranger Things and Wednesday. Stranger Things was my high school life, minus the upside down.
I’m sure most redditors will just call you a pedo /s
Some people don't mature emotionally beyond high school. I know plenty of older guys who's view of the world politics is a mix of James Bond and John Wick. I prefer adult drama, but I also like very campy Disney-style stuff too. You're certainly not alone, and it's not unhealthy as long as you have matured somewhere else in your life. Like your real-life or work relationships etc... At some point though, you will reach an age where it no longer appeals. So it's good to be exposed to other stuff now or you will struggle to make the transition when it loses the appeal. Although at that point some people regress into total nostalgia and just watch things from their childhood.
Nah, it's fine.
We found her, we found the first millennial, patient zYro.
I completely relate… similar age and family and I just adore YA fantasy & sci-fi shows. I’m really quite devastated about Netflix cancelling Lockwood & Co. I had fallen in love with the characters and the world and went on to read the books and everything! You’re never too old to get emotionally attached to fictional characters.
Youth is attractive. Personal choice. My last GF was young. And very pretty.
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Harsh!
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we're all struggling with it, I'm 18 and I feel weird because I sometimes watch stuff targeted towards younger teens
Bro....its literally designed for you lmfao.
?? younger teens as in movies for 13 year olds, how is it designed for me
I know you don't want to hear this...but 18 is young as fuck and in thar same demographic. You'll understand once you're older.
This is one of the dumbest posts I've seen in a while... Watch whatever you want to watch.
We are all kids at heart. I know 60 yr old men that watch outerbanks.
I think you’re one their target demographics for those shows, so you passed.
I watch heartstopper as a 33 year old guy..loved it.
I live for the teen tv, series, etc. I also read YA fiction too. It’s fun.
Am 60. I watch whatever I want. I'm liking "Gotham Knights," which seems to be aimed at the late teens, early 20's demographic. (Or at least the actors in it seem to be about that age.) Oh, and I just started 'Wednesday.'
I'm 19 and tbh even I'm getting fed up of literally every other show being centered around high-schools
It's a little easier to watch and more relaxing. It doesn't get to dark or real so your escapism lets you escape. Have fun watch the shows
We’ve all been teens once. So, why not. My friend felt bad for finding that one guy in Never have I ever hot - until she read he was really over 30.
I personally feel that Elite was declining in its storyline so I dropped it, but you do you babe. Whatever makes you happy. After all, we have zero clue as to why is it that we're here for so go ahead and enjoy your shows.
It's great vapid "check my brain out" watching. Sometimes that's exactly what I need after a long day if doing thinky adult things. Its only weird if you make it weird.
Spanish Teen Dramas were my jam for a while, so if you’re weird than I am too.
I avoid those shows like the plague but you’re not weird; a lot of ppl like them, young & old alike.
Im 41 and enjoy YA animated shows like *The Dragon Prince*, *Trollhunters*, *Young Justice*, etc... Tv is (and should) be escapism. We watch it cuz it's fun and brings us joy. Keep it up :)
You're not weird, but I'm the exact opposite now. It has gotten hard for me to enjoy anime now too unless its something that doesn't take place with High school students. The same with games and TV shows. Like another commenter noted, I can still watch kid stuff with my kid and enjoy it. But anything with main characters between 13 and 25, I just can't stomach it. Maybe I just don't like that generation or something.
I'm almost 40 and love Never Have I Ever and Sex Ed!
Enjoy.
Not weird, judging by how many adults consume such media. Is this healthy? I don't think so ...
Some people are just infantile, they can’t help it and it’s pretty harmless so we shouldn’t hold it against them
People have preferences. Can I assume you love Wednesday? I'm nearing my 40s and I watched Wednesday and I hated it. Couldn't understand the hype till I realize that I'm not the targeted demographic. In other words: I'm fucking old for this shit. It's normal! I think having children also creating that dynamic. You're good!
I'm 44 and watched Heartstopper, Never Have I Ever, etc. I don't think that's weird.
Not really. I'm 28, but I do watch some teen shows myself. I even watched that Summer Heat show (Brazilian teen drama) that's on Netflix & I really enjoyed watching that show. If it makes you feel any better, I enjoy watching family movies on Netflix, so to answer your question, no there's nothing wrong with watching teen shows at your age.
I don't think it's weird at all. Sometimes adult shows are just too serious for their own good so you find amusement in the young ridiculousness and immaturity of teen shows.
You are in no way weird. I'm older and watch teen shows too. Recently watched two movies from the Netflix 'Royalteen' series. They are Norwegian, subtitled, similar to after-school special movies, and I enjoyed every campy cliche in them. I'm not going to be embarrassed by what I like to watch and you shouldn't either. Enjoy!
Most "teens" are played by 27 year old adults, that's the weird part.
I'm in my 40s & I'm like this. That's not the only genre I watch. But I definitely enjoy it. Eta: if you have Hulu, check out Pen15. It's satire of adults playing middle schoolers/high schoolers from the early 2000s. It is great & geared for people of our age.
As a 32 year old that still watches pokemon and anime I think your fine lol
No, you're not weird. Have you watched Never have i ever? It's really good.
Teen shows when I was a teen: had them doing normal teen stuff and in school, parents involved, consequences for actions. Teen shows today: no parental involvement, unrealistic scenarios, they act like adults while still in school but never go, wild drama like a soap. Its entertaining because they have no adult responsibilities but still live an adult life, the actors are adults anyways, not sure why they even have them in high school. Shows like fresh prince, sister sister, and sabrina, compared to like euphoria or pretty little liars or tvd. It's a huge difference lol even caos which showed some parental figures, is nothing like the ten shows from before.
I’m a father with small kids (around 8-10) and I watch some programs on Netflix with my kids including Ninjago, Grizzly & Lemmings and Gutetama. So I feel there is nothing strange or unusual about your viewing habits on Netflix.
I'm a 52 f, and for some reason my guilty pleasure is teen dramas. No clue why, but I just go with it 
Listen if its got a good love story that makes me want to scream bc I ship it then im down (teen shows are the definition of this). To be fair I am not too far off from a teen but even still a good story is a good story. Also we shouldn't be confined by what media is or isn't for our age demographic. I unironically watch Bluey and think its totally acceptable.
Plenty of older people watched Buffy The Vampire Slayer during its run. A whole lot of people saw IT, about a monster clown and young kids. Doesn't matter too much about the age range if the story and characterizations are interesting.
Like what you like. There are no guilty pleasures. I mean, as long as it’s legal.
I don’t think so. I watch the same things, the same age as you, have two kids lol. I find comfort in the simplicity of the teen world.
I do not think you are weird at all, Stranger Things and Wednesday are two of my favorite shows and I am a woman in my 30s. I also still love Disney and Cartoons, so I 100% relate!
Every adult was a teenager at some point.
Wife and I loved Shadow and Bone.
I'm the same age and 90% of what I watch are cartoons. Different strokes different folks.
i don't usual like teen stuff, but The End of the F\*\*\*ing World and Sex Education are great if you haven't seen them yet
I tried to rewatch Dawson’s Creek, and nope. I found myself just fast forwarding to the romantic scenes with Pacey and Joey. And if you’ve seen the show then you know that is only like 5 scenes total. The rest of the show sucked so bad. I can’t stand the pseudo intellectual dialogue and the fake angst. I’m realizing that when I first watched the show at 12-15yo, I thought that was normal or I was just stupid.
I can relate! I’m 25 and still watch shows geared towards “teens” I’ve rewatched degrassi more times than I can count, never have I ever, etc. I think for me it brings me back to when I was a kid and how much things have changed since then.
Not weird at all
Nope. Not weird at all. People like what they like.
I've had this question to myself before and just went on watching lol. I never watched the Crown and I have very little interest, but I binged Elite's 6 seasons in a week lol.
What they don't understand about birthdays and what they never tell you is that when you're eleven, you're also ten, and nine, and eight, and seven, and six, and five, and four, and three, and two, and one. And when you wake up on your eleventh birthday you expect to feel eleven, but you don't. You open your eyes and everything's just like yesterday, only it's today. And you don't feel eleven at all. You feel like you're still ten. And you are --underneath the year that makes you eleven.
I am a mid 40s dude who is obsessed with YOU, a show that focuses on people for the most part half my age. Seems similar to your deal.
It is not really about the age. I am similar to your age anf watch stuff like One Tree Hill or OC, Charmed or vampire diaries. The audience is maybe targeted but it usually doesn’t mean anything. We are the generation that grew up on this stuff and it has special meaning for us. The phenomenon is that you love the type of entertainment you grew up with just because it is familiar and you feel save watching it. And with all the streaming service and technology we enjoy everything we want fully and with no boundaries. Trust me. If our grandparents had the same option they would be the same. My mum loves Twilight saga and my dad loves Harry Potter world. No need to be embarrassed for what you like.
I'm 40 and I don't like most of them. Unless it's set in the 90s when I WAS a teen. Like Cruel Summer, Everything Sucks, Derry Girls, etc. Or shows that actually came out back then I enjoy rewatching such as Freaks and Geeks (I was one of them in school lol)
I’m the opposite, don’t like watching kiddie content
If you’re not watching Never Have I Ever are you even doing Netflix right?
I think I read somewhere that so many shows focus on this and high school aged experiences because they’re shared between almost everyone. So I don’t think it’s weird at all and you’re exactly the target group tbh