A rerun for your money: Why only few shows pass the rewatch test

Some old shows feel like a hug. Some just seem cringey. What makes for a rewatch and which gems are hiding on streaming networks?

For a while now, the best new thing has really been the old thing. All across the big screen are endless sequels, prequels, spin-offs and extended franchises no one wanted. (Bye bye, Star Wars: Acolyte!) On streaming, it’s playing out in a different way: New titles are added to networks every day. And yet, the most watched shows seem to be older ones we’ve watched already.

HBO’s super-sharp comedy Veep has become popular again in the run-up to the US elections. (HBO)

Most fans of The Office have caught it on streaming and enjoy the little side gags.

Most viewers have watched Suits only as a rerun on Netflix, because Meghan Markle is in it.

Modern Family was ahead of its time. It’s why it’s top of the reruns charts.