popcorn and tv

Image by yousafbhutta from Pixabay

I’ll admit it—I have a comfort TV habit, and I’m not even a little ashamed. My toxic trait? Well, one of my toxic traits… I rewatch the same shows over and over instead of trying new ones. I know there’s a world full of fresh, exciting series just waiting to be discovered. But why start something new when I already know what I love? A huge part of my OCD is I hate change, always have.

Let me paint the picture: I still watch the shows I grew up on. Little House on the Prairie, The Golden Girls, Murder, She Wrote, and Unsolved Mysteries are basically part of my DNA at this point. If you turn on my TV right now, chances are one of those is playing—or at least queued up. I watch every single one several times per week.

True Crime Is My Background Music

During the day while I work, I’ve usually got some true crime drama playing in the background. 48 Hours, Dateline, and Snapped are my go-to companions. Some people work to playlists or nature sounds—I work best with murder mysteries unfolding in front of me. There’s something weirdly soothing about it, even if I’ve seen the episode three times already.

Comfort Shows for Every Mood

When I’m not solving fictional crimes, I turn to my feel-good favorites. Hart of Dixie is basically my personal therapy. I’ve rewatched it so many times, I could probably jump in as an extra. The Good Witch is another cozy favorite that just makes everything feel a little more magical.

And yes… Jersey Shore has a spot in the rotation too. I know it’s wild and messy, but honestly? It’s hilarious. Plus, watching other people make chaotic decisions makes me feel better about mine.

Bedtime Is for Cartoons… Don’t Judge Me

Now here’s where things get funny. I sleep with Dora the Explorer or Sofia the First playing. Don’t ask me why—but it works. I used to struggle with nighttime panic attacks, and somehow, these soft, cheerful little shows ease my anxiety. The repetition, the gentle voices, the predictability—it’s like a bedtime security blanket for my brain.

Movies? Only the Ones I Already Know

I’m not big on movies unless they’re on Hallmark or Lifetime. Especially the Christmas ones—those are my jam. I have watched The Highwaymen more times than I care to admit. No regrets though. It’s familiar, and familiar is comfortable.

Why Try Something New When You Have Favorites?

You’d think with all the new shows constantly popping up, I’d try something fresh every now and then. But honestly? There’s something comforting about sticking with what you already love. No surprises, no emotional rollercoasters—just the same cozy characters and predictable plots.

Comfort Viewing Is a Form of Self-Care

Sure, maybe it’s a little quirky. But who cares? Life is stressful enough without feeling guilty for rewatching the same shows. If something brings you peace, laughter, or helps you fall asleep without panic attacks, I say go for it.

So if you’re like me and your “Watch Again” list looks more like a permanent playlist, you’re not alone. This is a safe space for all of us comfort show junkies.

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.

Lake waco Murder victims

It was 1982, and I was just six years old. That summer, Waco was consumed by fear and fascination. The Lake Waco Murders had shaken our small Texas town to its core.

Three teenagers—Jill Montgomery, Raylene Rice, and Kenneth Franks—were found brutally murdered near Speegleville Park. Their deaths stunned everyone. Parents kept their children close. Strangers eyed each other with suspicion.

A Babysitter With a Dark Fascination

At the time, I had a babysitter who was endlessly intrigued by death and crime. She talked about the murders constantly. Her idea of fun? Driving us through cemeteries while telling ghost stories.

Her obsession may have been a little odd, but it planted a seed. I was a wide-eyed kid soaking in every detail, even if I didn’t fully understand it.

Twists, Turns, and Endless Questions

Eventually, David Wayne Spence was convicted for the murders. But controversy still surrounds the case. Some believe he was innocent. Others think he got what he deserved.

Regardless of which side you’re on, the story is full of twists, mystery, and courtroom drama. It was a lot for a six-year-old mind to handle—but I never forgot it.

A Chilling Coincidence

A couple of years later, things got even stranger. My babysitter’s next-door neighbor was murdered. It became another headline-grabbing case.

Serial confessor Henry Lee Lucas claimed responsibility—but that was quickly debunked. The confession was tossed out by none other than Vic Feazell, the same DA who handled the Lake Waco case.

Talk about eerie connections.

Where My True Crime Journey Began

Looking back, I know those two cases changed me. They ignited my curiosity and love for true crime. I’ve been hooked ever since.

Now, I share my passion through storytelling—and if you love Southern crime stories as much as I do, you’ll want to check out my other blog, Southern Bred Crime Junkie. It’s packed with down-South twists, small-town mysteries, and stories that stay with you.

Related: My Favorite True Crime YouTubers to Watch on Repeat

Lisa Crow contributed to this article. She is a true crime junkie and lifestyle blogger based in Waco, Texas. Lisa is the Head of Content at Gigi’s Ramblings and Southern Bred True Crime Junkie. She spends her free time traveling when she can and making memories with her large family which consists of six children and fifteen grandchildren.