Bluey has often been referred to as a kids' show that parents can watch too, along with other similar takes. This writer is here to tell you that kids are far from mandatory to benefit from a straight-up Bluey binge, as many episodes not only speak to the kid in us but help the grown-up side see things with a fresh set of eyes.
Not all of the 154 episodes are as simple and cutesy as they appear, as many of them take a sharp turn into some deep subjects (along with some adult humor as well). Take a look at this small sampling and see if it doesn't turn you into a bonafide Bluey buff!
"Sleepytime" (Season 2, Episode 26)
Firstly, we need to address the heavy hitter. If there's one episode that seems to be the absolute definitive Bluey experience, it's "Sleepytime." Don't let the cutesy title or premise fool you, this is one episode that all ages and all viewers can use as their springboard into the series.
Not since Fantasia (1940) has Disney given us something that incorporates delightful animation with classical music so brilliantly. Although many adult viewers might not have kids to relate to the actual narrative, there's truly something to be said about the episode's emotional powerhouse. Chilli's "I'll always be there for you" just hits the nail on the head.
"Bob Bilby" (Season 1, Episode 12)
When Bingo brings Bob Bilby home for a class project, it becomes evident just how much both pups are fixated on their tablets. While establishing screen time boundaries is a great lesson for kids to learn, the adults in the room could deal with a gentle reminder as well.
"Bob Bilby" is one of the first episodes that holds a mirror up to the parents as well as the kids. In our technological age, who among us hasn't fallen victim to the trap of doom scrolling or binge-watching on their devices? Maybe it's time to take some advice from a cartoon dog.
"Fairytale" (Season 3, Episode 26)
All together now, "It was the '80s!" The backstory to how Bandit and Chilli met is a perfect example of Bluey creator Joe Brumm and his team at Ludo knowing exactly who's watching. Considering many kids of the '80s and '90s have pups of their own at this point, it makes sense the writers would want to utilize the setting for more relatability.
Along with a healthy dose of nostalgia, the episode serves as a reminder to many viewers (especially those with siblings) of what it was like to be a kid. With references to classic toys and familiar activities, many older viewers undoubtedly felt a stirring in their heartstrings.
"Space" (Season 3, Episode 34)
Bluey has proven time and time again that it has the uncanny ability to take mature and complex concepts and make them understandable for a young audience. However, the subject of internalized trauma was certainly not something many first-time viewers expected.
This episode will undoubtedly resonate with many, especially as the stigma around mental health has changed. Like Mackenzie on his journey through outer and inner space, many adults in the audience are looking into themselves and learning how to process things in a healthier (and sometimes playful) way.
"The Sign" (Season 3, Episode 49)
Granted, this episode should primarily be watched if you are A) at least moderately familiar with the whole series and B) ready to get emotionally wrecked. As Bluey and Bingo cope with both the wedding drama and the stresses of moving to a new house, they also learn how to tackle the subject of change.
Change is inevitable, as any adult will know. However, the way the show presents it to both age groups is nothing short of genius. Calypso's mantra of "Everything will work out the way it's supposed to" is as touching as Bluey's morals come, and it will be hard for the next season to compete with.
All Bluey episodes are currently available on Disney+ and ABC iView.