7 Must-See Netflix Shows: Your Weekly Watchlist (May 18-24)

4 min read Post on May 23, 2025

7 Must-See Netflix Shows: Your Weekly Watchlist (May 18-24)

Thrilling New Releases: The Diplomat & Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story

This week boasts two exciting new Netflix original series guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat. First up is The Diplomat, a political thriller that plunges you into the high-stakes world of international diplomacy. This new Netflix release follows Kate Wyler, a seasoned diplomat who must navigate complex political landscapes and perilous situations. It's a must-watch Netflix show for fans of intense political drama and unpredictable plot twists.

Key Actors/Director: Keri Russell, Rufus Sewell, directed by various acclaimed directors.
Awards/Acclaim: Early reviews praise the show's sharp writing and intense performances.
Why it's a must-see: Perfect for suspense lovers, The Diplomat offers a gripping storyline you won't want to miss.

Next, we have Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, a prequel series expanding the Bridgerton universe. This new Netflix release delves into the origins of Queen Charlotte's rise to power, offering a captivating glimpse into her life and love story. It's a must-watch for fans of period dramas, romance, and the Bridgerton world.

Key Actors/Director: India Amarteifio, Corey Mylchreest, Shonda Rhimes.
Awards/Acclaim: Building on the success of Bridgerton, early buzz indicates a promising continuation of the franchise.
Why it's a must-see: A perfect blend of romance, drama, and historical intrigue, this new Netflix show is a must-watch for fans of the original series.

Returning Favorites: Never Have I Ever - A New Season!

Get ready for the highly anticipated return of Never Have I Ever! This beloved coming-of-age comedy-drama returns with a brand-new season, bringing back all the characters you know and love, alongside some exciting new developments. This returning Netflix series promises more laughs, heartfelt moments, and complex relationships.

Recap of Previous Seasons: The previous seasons followed Devi Vishwakumar's journey through high school, exploring themes of family, friendship, and self-discovery.
Key Plot Points of New Season: Season 4 delves into Devi's senior year, focusing on college applications, romantic entanglements, and the complexities of growing up.
Significant Changes: The cast remains largely the same, but expect some exciting shifts in relationships and storylines. This Netflix season premiere is not to be missed!

Critically Acclaimed Series: The Crown

For those seeking an award-winning Netflix series, look no further than The Crown. This historical drama has garnered widespread critical acclaim for its meticulous attention to detail, exceptional acting, and compelling storytelling. It's considered one of the best Netflix shows of all time.

Awards/Nominations: Numerous Emmy Awards and Golden Globe nominations.
Prominent Publications: Praised by publications like The New York Times, The Guardian, and Variety.
Reasons for Acclaim: The show’s exceptional writing, powerful performances, and stunning production values have set a new standard for historical dramas.

Underrated Gems: Heartstopper & Russian Doll

Looking for hidden gems? Two underrated Netflix series deserve more attention: Heartstopper and Russian Doll.

Heartstopper: This heartwarming LGBTQ+ romance series offers a refreshing take on young adult relationships, tackling themes of identity, self-acceptance, and first love. It's a must-watch for anyone seeking feel-good entertainment.
Russian Doll: This dark comedy series features Natasha Lyonne in a mind-bending, time-loop narrative, exploring themes of mortality and self-destruction. It's a unique and thought-provoking watch, perfect for fans of intelligent, twisty narratives.

Family-Friendly Fun: Our Planet II

This week, treat your family to the breathtaking visuals and captivating stories of Our Planet II. This family-friendly Netflix show is suitable for all ages, showcasing the beauty and diversity of our planet's wildlife.

Target Age Group: Suitable for all ages, with particular appeal to children aged 8+.
Themes and Tone: Educational, inspiring, and visually stunning, with a focus on nature conservation.
Suitable for Family Viewing: Inspiring and educational, Our Planet II provides a valuable opportunity for families to learn about our planet and its inhabitants together.

Conclusion

From the thrilling new releases of The Diplomat and Queen Charlotte to the returning favorite Never Have I Ever and critically acclaimed The Crown, this week's selection of Netflix shows offers something for everyone. We've also highlighted some underrated gems like Heartstopper and Russian Doll, along with family-friendly fun with Our Planet II. These are truly the must-see Netflix shows for the week of May 18-24.

Start your weekend right! Grab your popcorn and dive into these fantastic Netflix shows. What are you waiting for? Explore this curated list of the best Netflix shows to watch this week and let us know which one you chose in the comments! Happy streaming!