12 TV Shows Created by Black Writers You Can Binge This Winter
- Joao Nsita
- 6 hours ago
- 12 min read
Winter is the season of the "great indoors." As the temperature drops and the days grow shorter, there is a collective, almost primal urge to retreat into the warmth of our homes, wrap ourselves in our softest blankets, and lose ourselves in stories that transport, challenge, and comfort us. The "winter binge" has become a cultural ritual, a necessary act of self-care during the darkest months of the year. But with the overwhelming ocean of content available at our fingertips, the question isn't just what to watch, but whose stories we are inviting into our living rooms.
In recent years, a renaissance in television has brought the voices of Black creators to the forefront, offering narratives that shatter monolithic stereotypes and explore the full, vibrant spectrum of the Black experience. Platforms like TikTok and Pinterest are currently buzzing with the "Black Girl Magic" aesthetic and "Cozy Black TV" watchlists, highlighting shows that range from surrealist comedy to heart-wrenching drama, and from sci-fi thrillers to warm, workplace sitcoms. Audiences are no longer just looking for entertainment; they are looking for cultural touchstones, for shows that spark conversation, and for characters that feel as complex and messy as real life.
This winter, we invite you to curate your viewing experience with intention. We have compiled a definitive list of 12 incredible TV shows created by Black writers that are perfect for a seasonal binge. These series, ranked in descending order, offer everything from the warmth of community to the chills of psychological horror. They are masterclasses in storytelling that deserve to be seen, savored, and celebrated. So, grab your remote, prepare your favorite snacks, and get ready to discover your next obsession.
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12. Survival of the Thickest (2023)
The Vibe: We begin our countdown with a show that is the television equivalent of a hot cocoa with extra whipped cream. Created by and starring the effervescent Michelle Buteau (based on her book of the same name), Survival of the Thickest is a joyous, vibrant, and deeply funny romantic comedy series set against the backdrop of a diverse and fashion-forward New York City.
Why It's a Winter Binge: When the sky outside is grey, Mavis Beaumont's colourful wardrobe and infectious optimism are the perfect antidote. The show follows Mavis, a plus-size stylist who has to rebuild her life after a messy breakup. It’s a story about resilience, body positivity, and the hustle, but told with a lightness and warmth that makes it incredibly easy to watch. The winter scenes in NYC are stylish and cozy, and the show’s emphasis on friendship and self-love feels like a warm hug. It’s a quick binge (only 8 episodes), making it perfect for a single, snowy weekend.
Snack Pairing: This show is sweet, sassy, and delightful. Pair it with our Easy & Delicious Berry Chantilly Cake for a treat that matches Mavis's vibrant energy.
Creator: Michelle Buteau
Genre: Romantic Comedy
Where to Watch: Netflix
11. Harlem (2021-Present)
The Vibe: Created by Tracy Oliver (who also wrote Girls Trip), Harlem is a sharp, stylish, and witty comedy that follows four best friends in Harlem, NYC, as they navigate their 30s. It’s often compared to Sex and the City or Living Single, but it has a unique voice and a modern sensibility that feels entirely its own.
Why It's a Winter Binge: With Season 3 having just dropped (or on the horizon, depending on your region), now is the perfect time to catch up. Harlem excels at portraying the warmth of female friendship. The chemistry between the leads is palpable, creating a "found family" dynamic that is incredibly comforting to watch. The show balances laugh-out-loud comedic moments with genuine relationship drama and career struggles. The fashion is impeccable, offering endless inspiration for your own winter wardrobe. It’s the kind of show that makes you want to call your girlfriends and plan a brunch immediately.
Snack Pairing: A show about a tight-knit group of friends calls for a shareable feast. Whip up a batch of Easy Loaded Tater Tot Nachos (Totchos) for the ultimate girl's night in snack.
Creator: Tracy Oliver
Genre: Comedy
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
10. The Vince Staples Show (2024)
The Vibe: For those who prefer their comedy with a side of surrealism and dry wit, The Vince Staples Show is a hidden gem. Created by and starring the rapper Vince Staples, this limited series is a satirical, semi-autobiographical look at his life in Long Beach. It defies easy categorization, blending elements of Atlanta (more on that later) with a unique, deadpan humor that is entirely Vince's own.
Why It's a Winter Binge: Sometimes, winter calls for something short, sharp, and unconventional. With only a handful of episodes, this is a low-commitment binge that delivers high rewards. The show is visually stunning and creatively ambitious, often veering into dream logic or social commentary without ever losing its cool. It’s a perfect palate cleanser between heavier dramas. It’s weird, it’s wonderful, and it’s unlike anything else on TV right now.
Snack Pairing: This show is cool and unconventional. Pair it with something savoury and satisfying like our Easy Crispy and Sticky Honey Chipotle Chicken Wings.
Creator: Vince Staples
Genre: Surreal Comedy
Where to Watch: Netflix
9. Swarm (2023)
The Vibe: If your winter tastes lean towards the dark, psychological, and thrilling, Swarm is essential viewing. Co-created by Janine Nabers and Donald Glover, this limited series is a horror-thriller that explores the dark side of stan culture. It follows Dre (an incredible Dominique Fishback), a young woman whose obsession with a pop star (who bears a striking resemblance to Beyoncé) takes a dark and violent turn.
Why It's a Winter Binge: Winter darkness provides the perfect atmosphere for horror. Swarm is a gripping, stylish, and disturbing road trip across America that will keep you on the edge of your seat. It’s a critique of parasocial relationships and a character study of a woman unraveling. The show is visually arresting, with a gritty, neon-soaked aesthetic that pops on the screen. It’s a conversation starter—a show that will leave you debating its themes and ending long after you finish.
Snack Pairing: You'll need something comforting to settle your nerves while watching this thriller. A warm bowl of Deliciously Creamy Broccoli Cheddar Soup is the perfect grounding meal.
Creators: Janine Nabers & Donald Glover
Genre: Psychological Horror / Thriller
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
8. Supacell (2024)
The Vibe: Created by Rapman, Supacell is a gritty, grounded superhero drama set in South London. It tells the story of five ordinary Black Londoners who unexpectedly develop superpowers. But this isn't a Marvel movie; it’s a raw, realistic look at how these powers would actually affect people living real lives, dealing with gangs, poverty, and personal relationships. The characters are connected by a history of sickle cell disease, adding a unique and culturally specific layer to the mythology.
Why It's a Winter Binge: This show was a massive viral hit for a reason. It combines high-stakes action with deep emotional storytelling. The London setting—often grey, urban, and atmospheric—fits the winter mood perfectly. It’s a story about destiny, family, and survival. The pacing is relentless, making it impossible to watch just one episode. If you love sci-fi but are tired of the polished, formulaic superhero content, Supacell brings a fresh, raw energy that is captivating.
Snack Pairing: A hearty, London-appropriate meal is in order. Our The Ultimate Guinness Beef Stew is rich, warming, and perfect for a binge session.
Creator: Rapman
Genre: Sci-Fi / Drama
Where to Watch: Netflix
7. Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story (2023)
The Vibe: While Bridgerton is a phenomenon, its prequel, Queen Charlotte, created by the legendary Shonda Rhimes, stands as perhaps the finest entry in the franchise. It tells the story of young Charlotte's rise to power and her complex, heartbreakingly beautiful marriage to King George. It is a romance, yes, but it is also a tragedy and a story of immense resilience.
Why It's a Winter Binge: This is the ultimate "cozy romance" with depth. The costumes are sumptuous, the settings are grand (perfect for winter escapism), and the love story is profound. Unlike the main series, which is often light and frothy, Queen Charlotte deals with serious themes of mental health and duty. It is a "weepie" in the best possible way. Watching Charlotte fight for her husband and her crown while the snow falls outside your window is a top-tier winter experience. It’s emotional catharsis wrapped in silk and velvet.
Snack Pairing: This regal show deserves a regal treat. Enjoy it with some Deliciously Chewy Butter Pecan Cookies and a cup of fine tea.
Creator: Shonda Rhimes
Genre: Historical Romance / Drama
Where to Watch: Netflix
6. P-Valley (2020-Present)
The Vibe: Created by playwright Katori Hall, P-Valley is a Southern noir drama set deep in the Mississippi Delta. It centers on the lives of the dancers and staff at The Pynk, a strip club struggling to survive. This is not a tawdry show; it is a beautifully shot, poetically written exploration of ambition, survival, gender, and sexuality. It elevates the stories of women who are often marginalized, treating them with dignity and artistic reverence.
Why It's a Winter Binge: When it's freezing outside, P-Valley brings the heat. The show is sweaty, intense, and vibrant. The cinematography is bathed in neon pinks and deep purples, creating a visually stunning world that sucks you in. The characters are incredibly complex—Uncle Clifford, the non-binary owner of the club, is one of the most original and compelling characters on TV. The drama is high-stakes and addictive. It’s a show that warms you up with its intensity and heart.
Snack Pairing: You need something spicy and satisfying to match the heat of the Delta. Try our Easy Spicy Grilled Chicken with Homemade Cheddar Sauce.
Creator: Katori Hall
Genre: Drama / Noir
Where to Watch: Starz (or via Amazon Prime Channels)
5. Bel-Air (2022-Present)
The Vibe: What started as a viral fan trailer by Morgan Cooper became a fully realized, critically acclaimed drama series. Bel-Air reimagines the 90s sitcom The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air as a gritty, hour-long drama. It keeps the core premise—Will moves from West Philly to Bel-Air—but treats the circumstances (a fight, a gun, a flight for safety) with the seriousness of real life.
Why It's a Winter Binge: This show is a masterclass in how to do a reboot right. It respects the original while creating something entirely new. The drama is juicy and compelling, exploring class, race, and family loyalty. The winter is a great time to settle in with a long-form family drama. You get invested in the Banks family all over again. The performances, particularly Adrian Holmes as Uncle Phil and Jabari Banks as Will, are stellar. It’s slick, modern, and incredibly watchable.
Snack Pairing: A modern classic deserves a modern comfort food. Our Easy Pizza Burger Bonanza is a fun, hearty meal to eat while watching Will navigate his new life.
Creator: Morgan Cooper
Genre: Drama
Where to Watch: Peacock
4. Insecure (2016-2021)
The Vibe: Issa Rae’s Insecure defined a generation. It is a comedy-drama that explores the black female experience from the perspective of two best friends, Issa and Molly, as they navigate the tricky professional and personal terrain of Los Angeles. It is awkward, hilarious, real, and beautifully shot.
Why It's a Winter Binge: Now that the series has concluded, it is the perfect time to binge it from start to finish. Insecure is the ultimate comfort show for millennials. The friendship between Issa and Molly is the true love story of the series, and watching them grow, fight, and make up is incredibly cathartic. The show captures the feeling of "figuring it out" better than almost anything else. The music supervision is legendary, introducing viewers to incredible R&B and hip-hop artists. It’s a show that feels like hanging out with your coolest, funniest friends.
Snack Pairing: Issa loves a good treat. Bake some Playful Piñata Cookies for a snack that is as fun and colorful as the show's aesthetic.
Creator: Issa Rae
Genre: Comedy / Drama
Where to Watch: HBO / Max (and recently added to Netflix in some regions)
3. Atlanta (2016-2022)
The Vibe: Donald Glover's Atlanta is widely considered one of the greatest television shows of the 21st century. Ostensibly about two cousins navigating the Atlanta rap scene, the show is actually a surrealist masterpiece that explores race, celebrity, and American culture with a Twin Lynchian-style weirdness. It oscillates between laugh-out-loud comedy and genuine horror, often in the same episode.
Why It's a Winter Binge: Atlanta is "prestige TV" at its finest. The winter months give you the mental space to really engage with a show that challenges you. Every episode feels like a mini-movie. The "Teddy Perkins" episode alone is a horror classic perfect for a dark night. The character of Darius (Lakeith Stanfield) is a philosophy unto himself. It is a show that rewards deep viewing and discussion. It’s atmospheric, often cold and detached, but deeply brilliant.
Snack Pairing: For a show this layered, you need a dish with depth. Our Delicious Thai Red Curry Noodle Soup is complex, spicy, and warms you from the inside out—perfect for the surreal chills of Atlanta.
Creator: Donald Glover
Genre: Surreal Comedy / Drama
Where to Watch: Hulu / Disney+
2. I May Destroy You (2020)
The Vibe: Michaela Coel’s I May Destroy You is a fearless, frank, and provocative limited series that explores the question of sexual consent in contemporary life. Coel stars as Arabella, a Twitter-star-turned-novelist who struggles to recall the events of a night out with friends, eventually realizing she was drugged and assaulted.
Why It's a Winter Binge: This is not an "easy" watch, but it is a necessary one. It is a masterpiece of writing and acting that tackles trauma with a unique blend of humor, devastation, and hope. Coel’s voice is singular. The show is visually stunning and structured in a way that mimics the fragmented nature of memory. It is intense, making it perfect for a binge where you can sit with the emotions it brings up. It is a show about rebuilding oneself after destruction, a powerful theme for the introspection of winter.
Snack Pairing: You will need comfort food. Real, hearty comfort food. The Ultimate 'Marry Me Chicken' Soup is rich, creamy, and soothing for the soul.
Creator: Michaela Coel
Genre: Drama
Where to Watch: HBO / BBC iPlayer
1. Abbott Elementary (2021-Present)
The Vibe: Taking the number one spot is the show that has single-handedly revitalized the network sitcom. Created by Quinta Brunson, Abbott Elementary is a mockumentary set in an underfunded Philadelphia public school. It follows a group of dedicated, passionate teachers (and one tone-deaf principal) who are determined to help their students succeed in life.
Why It's the Ultimate Winter Binge: Abbott Elementary is pure warmth. It is funny, smart, and incredibly kind. In the dead of winter, when the days are short and the world feels cold, this show is a generator of heat and light. The characters feel like family. The slow-burn romance between Janine and Gregory is the best on TV right now. It tackles real issues with optimism and heart. With multiple seasons available, it is the perfect long-haul binge to keep you company through the snow. It is "comfort TV" that is also critically acclaimed and culturally relevant.
Snack Pairing: A wholesome show needs a wholesome, family-favorite meal. Our The Ultimate Pumpkin Pasta Bake with Burnt Butter and Sage is cheesy, carb-heavy, and universally loved—just like Abbott.
Creator: Quinta Brunson
Genre: Mockumentary Sitcom
Where to Watch: ABC / Hulu / Disney+
Conclusion
The landscape of television has been irrevocably enriched by the voices of these Black creators. From the surreal streets of Donald Glover’s Atlanta to the warm, chaotic classrooms of Quinta Brunson’s Abbott Elementary, these shows offer a vast array of experiences and emotions. They prove that there is no single "Black story," but rather a limitless tapestry of narratives waiting to be explored.
This winter, don't just scroll mindlessly. Choose to spend your time with these brilliant creators. Let their stories make you laugh, cry, think, and feel. Whether you are looking for a quick weekend escape or a month-long obsession, this list has you covered.
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Call to Action: Ready to start watching? Stream these incredible shows now on Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, or HBO Max.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Which of these shows are suitable for families? Abbott Elementary is the most family-friendly option on this list. Bel-Air is rated TV-MA but is watched by many teens. Shows like Swarm, P-Valley, and I May Destroy You are strictly for mature audiences.
Are these shows only for Black audiences? Absolutely not. Great storytelling is universal. While these shows are culturally specific, their themes of love, ambition, friendship, and survival resonate with everyone.
Where can I watch Insecure now that it's over? Insecure is available on HBO/Max. In a rare move, HBO also licensed it to Netflix recently, so you can find it there in many regions!
Is The Vince Staples Show a reality show? No, it is a scripted fictional comedy, though it features Vince Staples playing a version of himself.
Do I need to watch Bridgerton to understand Queen Charlotte? No. Queen Charlotte is a prequel. You can actually watch it before Bridgerton and get a great chronological experience, though watching Bridgerton first adds depth to the flash-forward scenes.
Is Survival of the Thickest based on a true story? It is loosely based on Michelle Buteau’s collection of essays of the same name, but the plotlines are fictionalized for the sitcom format.
What makes Atlanta "surreal"? Atlanta often features "magical realism"—events that are impossible or highly unlikely (like an invisible car or a man who lives in the woods like a mythical creature) presented as normal parts of the world.
Are there more seasons of Harlem coming? Yes! Harlem has been renewed and Season 3 is expected to air in early 2025.
Why is I May Destroy You so acclaimed? It was praised for its fearless and nuanced approach to the topic of sexual assault, avoiding clichés and victim-blaming tropes, and for Michaela Coel’s incredible writing and acting.
Can I find the recipes mentioned in this article on your site? Yes! All the recipes mentioned (like the Totchos and the Berry Chantilly Cake) are linked directly in the article and can be found in the Food Recipes section of That Love Podcast.
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