1. Check the TV Guide or Streaming Service:
* TV Guide: Look up the show in your local TV guide (printed or online) or use a website like TV Guide or Zap2it. They usually indicate whether the show is new or a rerun.
* Streaming Service: If you're watching on a streaming service, like Netflix, Hulu, or Amazon Prime Video, they typically mark new episodes as "new" or "premieres" and reruns as "previously aired."
2. Look for Episode Titles and Descriptions:
* TV Guide: Pay attention to the episode titles and descriptions. If they seem familiar or if the description mentions a previous plotline, it's likely a rerun.
* Streaming Service: Check the episode title and description for clues. Many streaming services offer episode summaries that might mention whether it's a repeat.
3. Check Social Media:
* Official Show Accounts: Check the official social media accounts for the show. They might announce when a rerun is airing.
* Fan Forums: Check online forums or communities dedicated to the show. Fans often discuss new episodes and might mention whether it's a rerun.
4. Pay Attention to the Show's Format:
* Intro Sequence: Sometimes the intro sequence for a rerun might be slightly different or shorter than the intro for a new episode.
* Commercial Breaks: The commercial breaks during a rerun might be different than the breaks during a new episode.
5. Consult Your Local TV Listings:
* Online Listings: Many websites and apps provide detailed TV listings, including information about whether a show is new or a rerun.
* Cable Box or DVR: Check the program guide on your cable box or DVR. They often indicate whether a show is a rerun.
Keep in mind that not all shows are explicitly labeled as reruns. However, by using the methods above, you can often determine if a TV show is a repeat.