It’s only halfway through 2024, but we’ve already been treated to a wealth of outstanding stories on television. Given the number of streaming options available, one could argue there’s never beenmoreTV to watch — which often makes narrowing down the best of the best a little difficult! That said, some shows have already stood out among the rest of the pack so far. They immerse us in worlds ranging from the spectacular and fantastical (looking at you,House of the Dragon) to ones that feel a little closer to home. They’re anchored by talent both in front of and behind the camera. They’re new shows, returning shows, sleeper hits, word-of-mouth phenomenons, and the list goes on… literally! For now, we’ve managed to settle on our picks for the top 25 TV shows of 2024 (so far); who knows what the rest of the year will bring?
Abbott Elementary
‘Abbott Elementary’ Season 3 Review: Still at the Top of Its Class
The fan favorite “mockumentary” brings interesting new challenges for its beloved characters.
When I saidQuinta Brunson’sEmmy-winning seriesAbbott Elementarywasfunnier than ever back in 2022, there was part of me that thought in the back of my mind that this couldn’t surely last forever. Little did I know that the show would continue to outdo itself,remaining at the very top of its classas it continued to find plenty of uproarious humor in both the classroom and outside it. Each member of the cast remains outstanding, hitting all the right comedic notes perfectly as they continue to carrythe most spectacular sitcom on television right nowto greater heights. Sure, there wasthe big moment in the finalethat everyone had been waiting for, but everything around it was just as great as it continued to find new comedic ground. Wherever it goes from here, it’s worth following with Brunson and co at the wheel. —Chase Hutchinson
A workplace comedy centered around a group of dedicated teachers - and an oblivious principal - in a Philadelphia public school where, despite the odds stacked against them, they are determined to help their students succeed in life.
Watch on Hulu
Baby Reindeer
When you hear a name likeBaby Reindeer,you might assume the show in question is about Christmas or something cute and animated — or, at the very least, some sort of nature documentary following an adorable baby deer. What you might not think is that it’s abouta man battling trauma, depression, and stalking. But that’s exactly whatRichard Gadd’s self-written, directed, and starring series is about. Gadd plays Donny, a struggling comedian who becomes the target of an aggressive stalker named Martha (Jessica Gunning), but the series is so much more than just a story about the terrors of being stalked. We venture deep into Donny’s past, andthe series isn’t afraid to dive into some heavy and dark material. Gadd’s storytelling is compelling, and the way he writes not only Donny but also Martha offers a complicated view of these two nuanced characters inone of the year’s biggest sleeper hits. —Therese Lacson
In a dark and gripping narrative, a young man’s life spirals into chaos when an innocent encounter at his bar job leads to an obsessive stalking by an older woman. The film skillfully explores themes of privacy, obsession, and the boundaries of social interaction.
Watch on Netflix
‘The Boys’ Season 4 Episode 1 Recap: Off to a Diabolical Start
The Season 4 premiere doubles down on the politics and relies a little less on the shock value.
Prime Video seriesThe Boysisnever one to shy away from any manner of mayhem, uncomfortable emotions, or events that too closely mirror real life. Season 4 sees Homelander (Antony Starr) confronted with the fact that his super-powered teenage son Ryan (Cameron Crovetti) could very well steal the spotlight from him, which is not good for someone with his level of deep-seated insecurities. On the other hand, Hughie (Jack Quaid) had very different father issues, faced with being the one to put a stop to the destruction Hugh Sr. (Simon Pegg) was causing due to his V-induced powers.
Victoria Neuman(Claudia Doumit) is getting closer than ever to the Oval Office, Billy Butcher (Karl Urban) only has months to live, and The Boys can’t seem to be able to stay on the same page, all of which is even more dangerous when you throw in a virus that can kill supes. With the knowledge that, in order for that virus to be powerful enough to take out Homelander, they’d have to take out all supes, it’s only a matter of time before Butcher’s hand will be forced and he’ll have to decide just how far he’s willing to go. And withSeason 5 officially the last installmentof the blood-soaked series,it’s all clearly leading to a showdownbetween Homelander and Butcher. —Christina Radish
The Boys is a drama series that explores the darker aspects of superhero culture, portraying a world where superheroes abuse their powers rather than use them for good. Centered around a vigilante group aiming to control these corrupt heroes, the series delves into themes of power, corruption, and accountability. The show features a complex narrative with multifaceted characters, offering an unfiltered look at the consequences of unchecked power.
Watch on Prime Video
Bridgerton
‘Bridgerton’ Season 3 Review: Nicola Coughlan Dazzles in a Delightful Friends-to-Lovers Romance
The first half of ‘Bridgerton’ Season 3 premieres May 16 on Netflix, with Part 2 releasing on June 13.
After three seasons, it’s safe to say that theBridgertoncraze is not a fluke. Season 3 focuses on the story of Colin Bridgerton (Luke Newton) and Penelope Featherington (Nicola Coughlan), a pairing lovingly dubbed “Polin” — and it would not be an exaggeration to say that people have been looking forward to the ship for quite some time. After building Pen and Colin’s character for two seasons, especially since Penelope is the mysterious gossip columnist Lady Whistledown,the season did not disappoint, giving us some ofthe steamiest episodes of the entire seriesbetween two electrifying leads.
While Season 3 was not without some flaws (a chief complaint is thatthere just wasn’t enough of Polin), it also took the show to places that it hasn’t gone before, making itsfirst major divergencefrom the book series it’s based on. With the seriescontinuing to top Netflix charts and break records,it’s never been a better time to be aBridgertonfan. Now, if we could onlyget a couple more shows like this! —Therese Lacson
Set in the glamorous world of Regency London, the Bridgerton family maneuvers through the opulent and treacherous landscape of high society. Daphne Bridgerton, the family’s eldest daughter, enters the marriage market, sparking a whirlwind romance with the enigmatic Duke of Hastings.
Criminal Record
‘Criminal Record’ Review: Peter Capaldi & Cush Jumbo Are an Electric Pair
Paul Rutman’s series about one woman’s fight against a flawed justice system is a must-watch for the new year.
Police procedurals are a dime a dozen these days, especially coming out of the UK, so it takes something really special to make any of them stand out from the crowd. It’s hard to know what that something special is, but Apple TV+ seems to have the formula for a perfect series locked down, and they’ve brought that to the procedural in 2024 withCriminal Record. There’s probablyno better duo on TV this yearthanPeter CapaldiandCush Jumbo, playing two detectives at odds with each other when their morals clash over a missing persons case. Each star is electric on their own, with Capaldi bringing years of experience to a grizzled but not entirely unemotional DCI, but together they’re a force of nature, knocking almost every other show on the streamer out of the park. It’s fresh and innovative while still hitting all the classic marks of procedurals that audiences love so much, taking them up a notch to make you question your own ideas of right and wrong, and whether anything can truly have a happy ending in the midst of a corrupt system. —Maggie Boccella
Follows two brilliant detectives in a tug of war over a historic murder conviction, dealing with issues of race, institutional failure, and the quest to find common ground in a polarized Britain.
Watch on Apple TV+
‘Dead Boy Detectives’ Showrunners Break Down the Shocks and Romance of the Season
Steve Yockey also talks about THAT declaration of love and why the response was so important.
The eight-episode Netflix comic book seriesDead Boy Detectivesfollows Edwin Payne (George Rexstrew) and Charles Rowland (Jayden Revri), ghosts who became best friends in death and have teamed up to solve mysteries that will help those in limbo be on their way. Edwin was sacrificed by a group of bullies in 1916, which left him having to escape Hell, and Charles was killed by bullies in 1990 at the same school that Edwin attended, leading them to form the Dead Boy Detective Agency as a way to help wayward souls resolve things and move on to the afterlife.
In order to continue avoiding Hell and Death, Edwin and Charles team up with a clairvoyant named Crystal Palace (Kassius Nelson) and her friend Niko (Yuyu Kitamura), who can see ghosts after a near-death experience. Crystal and Niko rent a room from Jenny (Briana Cuoco), the owner of the Tongue & Tail butcher shop, who comes with some very helpful advice and support, as the foursome find themselves up against an immortal witch seeking revenge, a demon stalking his ex, a Cat King, Dandelion Sprites, and the head of the Afterlife’s Lost and Found Department. Butthe strongest aspect of it all is the bond formed between this team, through friendship, unrequited love, and new romance. Now, all that’s left is for Netflix to greenlight a second season. —Christina Radish
Dead Boy Detectives
A duo of phantom sleuths roam the boundary between the living and the dead, investigating eerie mysteries that elude the grasp of conventional detectives. Alongside a living accomplice with psychic abilities, they navigate a series of spooky adventures, learning about life and each other.
Doctor Who
‘Doctor Who’ Season 1 Review: A Madcap Adventure for Fans Both New and Old
The Doctor and Ruby Sunday return for new adventures with a healthy dose of humor and heart.
Following a delightful 60th anniversary celebration last fall,Doctor Whoreturned in full force this year with a soft reboot and a new Doctor. Despite fighting an uphill battle against a lower episode count than most of the show’s previous seasons,Russell T. Daviesdeliveredan exciting season that has revitalized our love for the long-running series.Ncuti Gatwabounded onto the scene as the 15th Doctor with more charisma than all of his previous regenerations combined and instantly solidified himself as one of the best Doctors of all time. Mixed with that charm is a deep well of emotion, a big big heart filled with love for all creatures, and a haunted past that keeps him running from one planet to the next. Meanwhile, we also met new companionRuby Sunday, played by the brightMillie Gibson, and though it seems like her story is wrapped up with a happily ever after, we can’t wait to see her again in Season 2.
Disney+ gave the series a dazzling new coat of paint, allowing for some truly stunning visual and practical effects, though the heart of what we’ve loved aboutDoctor Whofor decades still shines through. From aqueer Regency romanceand sharppolitical commentarytothe return ofSteven Moffatand the introduction ofone of the best villains in years, the new season is filled withtop-notch episodes that will have you riding an emotional rollercoasteryou won’t want to get off of. The new season runs a range of genres from scary and poignant to silly and campy, makingDoctor Whofeel limitless. It’s definitely worth your time, whether you’re completely new to the franchise or you’ve been here since 1963. —Samantha Coley
The show follows the adventures of a Time Lord, “The Doctor,” who is able to regenerate, and the Doctor’s human friends. The Doctor and his companions journey through time and space in the TARDIS – a time-traveling ship shaped like a police box – saving the universe with a combination of wit, bravery, and kindness.
Watch on Disney+
‘Fallout’ Review: A Rollicking Good Time for Video Game Lovers
The Wasteland might be more daunting for those stepping into this universe for the first time.
In the wake of HBO’s groundbreakingThe Last of Usshattering the mold for video game adaptationsand setting the bar for sharp, nuanced storytelling, Prime Video’sFallouthas proven itself as a solid contender for the best of 2024. Thanks to the vision ofJonathan Nolan(Westworld) alongside creatorsGraham WagnerandGeneva Robertson-Dworet, the essence of the iconic game is still intact with the eight-episode series, which only amplifies its charm. It also makes for some very comedic situations that findFalloutmuch more humorous than a hardened drama likeThe Last of Us.
While it draws on typical Western archetypes to harness its likability,Fallout’s authenticity is found in its brilliant, multi-dimensional characters, like Lucy (played by series leadElla Purnell). On a quest to save her kidnapped father (Kyle MacLachlan) after a breach in the Vaults where they live, Lucy’s journey into a devastated Los Angeles explores something of a coming-of-age story for her as she digs into the truth. However, there are bumps along the dusty road when she crossesWalton Goggins’ cynicalyet charismatic Ghoul, a typical rogue and radiation-damaged gunslinger, andAaron Moten’s Maximus, a Knight of the Brotherhood of Steel (with a giant asterisk). For a post-apocalyptic gaming franchise that powers up visually stunning graphics,Falloutis every bit of fun as you would imagine. Balancing high production value with immersive storytelling and a fresh narrative that resonates with both fans of the game and new viewers, it’s a series that perfectly capturesthe dark irony and twisted humor of a post-nuclear America. Couple that with a gripping plot and very likable characters (I see you, sexy Ghoul) and you’ve got one of the best standouts of the year. —Tania Hussain
In a future, post-apocalyptic Los Angeles brought about by nuclear decimation, citizens must live in underground bunkers to protect themselves from radiation, mutants and bandits.
The Gentlemen
‘The Gentlemen’ Review: Guy Ritchie’s Netflix Series Is Even Better Than the Movie
The spin-off series to Ritchie’s movie might not feature many direct connections to the original, but it’s all the better for it.
Guy Ritchieis one of those filmmakers where I’ll go out of my way to seek out whatever new project he cooks up. Sure, he’s had some stumbles, but he’s one of the most consistent directors when it comes to delivering an entertaining action flick.The Gentlemen,a spin-off to his highly underrated 2020 movie of the same name, is some of his best work in years. I’d argue it even surpassed the movie. You wouldn’t think that watchingTheo James’ Eddie Halstead evolve (or devolve) from an English aristocrat to a criminal kingpin would be as fun as it is. Pair that with a dynamite performance fromKaya Scodelarioand a shockingly Emmy-worthy turn fromVinnie Jones, and you have what is easilyone of the best shows of 2024. Each of the eight one-hour episodes flows at such a breakneck pace that I was losing track of time watching this eccentric batch of characters navigate the British criminal underworld. Where is the Season 2 renewal, Netflix? —Nate Richard
Eddie Horniman, Duke of Halstead, inherits large estate from father, unaware it fronts Pearson’s drug empire. With no crime experience, he must take over the operation or lose the estate.
‘Hacks’ Season 3 Review: Smarter, Funnier, and More Moving Than Ever
Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder shine as their characters face interesting evolutions without losing what made us love them in the first place.
In 2021, co-creatorsPaul W. Downs,Lucia Aniello, andJen Statskygifted usHacks, a comedy series about famed Las Vegas stand-up comedian Deborah Vance (Jean Smart) who is paired up with Ava Daniels (Hannah Einbinder), an unfiltered and somewhat disgraced 25-year-old comedy writer, in the hopes of expanding her career beyond Vegas and appealing to a larger audience. Typically, when a series has an exceptional first season, the seasons that follow can never live up to the hype or quality.Hacks, however, simply keeps getting better.
Aside from beingas sharp and quick-witted as ever, Season 3 of the Emmy-winning series continues to peel back the layers of the premise we fell for in the first place, further complicating Ava and Deborah’s very loving — and very toxic — relationship. What makes their dynamic so unique is that both Deborah and Ava have bold personalities, which often leads to butted heads and raised voices. In an effort to avoid spoilers, we’ll skirt past specifics, but Einbinder packs an epic emotional gut punch in the finale that surely secures her spot at the Emmys, and Smart’s steely, restrained reaction does the same. It’s also nice to see standout supporting character Kayla (played by the hysterical, impeccably timedMegan Stalter) continue to grow beyond her one-liners. Season 3 ofHacksis charming, thought-provoking TV at its best. —Emily Bernard
Explores a dark mentorship that forms between Deborah Vance, a legendary Las Vegas comedian, and an entitled, outcast 25-year-old.
Watch on Max
House of the Dragon
‘House of the Dragon’ Season 2 Review: A Bigger, Bloodier Return That Could Overshadow ‘Game of Thrones’
‘House of the Dragon’ Season 2 premieres June 16 on HBO and Max.
Though it may have gotten off to abit of a rocky start in establishing the pieces on the board,this bigger and bloodier second seasonofHouse of the Dragonhas proven to be one of the most enthralling and disquieting depictions of power consuming all that fantasy of this scale has seen in some time. For all the ways this story may be sprawling in scope and the number of growing characters, it’s actually growing more intimate as we see the fault lines tearing open all the well-acted characters. Plus, we can actuallyseethem,unlike some of the low points of the last season, as everything is far better shot and lit this time around. If you found yourself tuning out after the first episode, trust me when I say that you’re going to want to saddle back up and take flight, asthe dragons of this world have plenty of fire left. —Chase Hutchinson
The reign of House Targaryen begins with this prequel to the popular HBO seriesGame of Thrones.Based on George R.R. Martin’sFire & Blood,House of the Dragonis set nearly 200 years beforeGame of Thrones, telling the story of the Targaryen civil war with King Viserys.
Interview with the Vampire
‘Anne Rice’s Interview with the Vampire’ Season 2 Review: A Gloriously Tangled and Compelling Part Two
Season 2 premieres May 12 on AMC and AMC+.
With its second season, AMC’s adaptation ofInterview with the Vampirearguablyhad an even higher bar to clearthan the first. Although Season 1 didn’t necessarily earn the same kind of awards buzz that other, non-genre shows did at the time of its release, it providedJacob Andersonwith even more of a playground to showcase the true extent of his talents on the heels of his all-too-brief time onGame of Thrones. Meanwhile, if there was anyone who could inhabit the unpredictable, mercurial Lestat de Lioncourt opposite his Louis de Pointe du Lac, it wasSam Reid, who arguably plays the best version of the character to date and made up one-half of the reason why we fell in love with this complicated vampire duo in the first season.
Once Season 2 rolled around, the story didn’t let up in terms ofshocking pivots, heartbreaking reveals, andincrediblymessy relationship dynamics. Now having revealed himself, the vampire Armand (a hypnotizingAssad Zaman) joins the interview with Daniel Molloy (a wonderfully dryEric Bogosian) in present-day Dubai, providing his own perspective on what transpired once Louis and Claudia (an equally sage and fieryDelainey Hayles) reached Paris — and met a wholly new vampire coven. Newcomers to the series, likeBen Danielsas the manipulative vampire thespian Santiago, andRoxane Duranas Claudia’s unexpected human companion Madeleine, only helped to build out and enrich the world ofInterviewthat much more. Season 2 also, ultimately, leans even further into the notion of the unreliable narrator, reminding us that one person might remember a certain memory in a wholly different way than someone else, and that new details always emerge upon deeper reflection. The lateAnne Rice, on whose books the series is based, was once quoted as saying that television is where her vampires were always meant to be — and now that the show has been confirmed for a Season 3, it’s clear these vampires are stilljust as enduring and captivating on the small screenas they were when she first committed them to the page. —Carly Lane
Based on Anne Rice’s iconic novel, follow Louis de Pointe’s epic story of love, blood and the perils of immortality, as told to the journalist Daniel Molloy.
Watch on AMC+
‘Manhunt’ Review: Gripping Conspiracy Drama Is Another Win for Apple TV+
Tobias Menzies, Anthony Boyle, and Hamish Linklater lead the miniseries about the hunt for Lincoln’s killer.
When it comes to quality content, Apple TV+ is by far the most consistent streamer, withManhuntjust further proving this point. Based onJames L. Swanson’sManhunt: The 12-Day Chase for Lincoln’s Killer, the historical limited series follows U.S. Secretary of War Edwin Stanton (Tobias Menzies) as he wrestles with the assassination of his right-hand man and the president, Abraham Lincoln (skillfully played byHamish Linklater), by mediocre actor John Wilkes Booth (Anthony Boyle).
Manhuntmight take place during one of the most well-documented periods of American history, but it digs impressively deep into details of the era that history books easily gloss over. As the title suggests, the relentless search is on for Booth, a wormy, cowardly, narcissist that Boyle inhabits so well from start to finish. Menzies gives an unwavering performance of a man who is both riddled with grief and determined to avenge the death of his closest companion — all while the country watches. It also features notable dramatic turns fromMatt WalshandPatton Oswalt, two performers most often associated with the comedy genre.Manhuntisa gripping, unexpected lookinto one of the most shocking moments in American history. —Emily Bernard
The aftermath of the first American presidential assassination and the fight to preserve and protect the ideals that were the foundation of Lincoln’s Reconstruction plans.
Mary & George
‘Mary & George’ Review: ‘The Favourite’ With Boys (and Julianne Moore)
Co-starring Nicholas Galitzine, this irreverent historical drama is whip-smart and endlessly entertaining.
Mary & Georgeis what happens when every single department is operating at its highest level. Each frame looks like an oil painting, and the score sounds like it was put together by a classical composer, immersing you into the luxurious world of early 17th-century royalty. But make no mistake —this isn’t another dry, by-the-book period piece.Mary & Georgeisoverflowing with personality. It’s witty enough to make your stomach hurt from laughter, sexy enough to leave you blushing, and moving enough that you might even shed a tear or two when you least expect it.
I’ve said it once, and I’ll say it a thousand more times if I have to:Julianne Mooredeserves to secure another Emmy for this. Her role as the cunning, calculating social climber Mary Villiers is an extremely challenging one, yet she manages to make every delightfully wicked second look easy, giving her surprising depth and vulnerability underneath the clever quips, sneaky schemes, and lavish costumes.Nicholas GalitzineandTony Curranare similarly impressive, with their complex dynamic acting as the beating heart of the show and revealing more and more layers as each perfectly paced episode progresses. It’s rare thatthe smartest show on television is also the most fun, butMary & Georgemanages that feat. Long live King James I and his horny, hilarious, irresistible court. —Taylor Gates
Watch on Starz
Masters of the Air
‘Masters of the Air’ Review: Austin Butler Is Magnetic in Apple TV+ War Series
‘Masters of the Air’ is the first absolute must-watch of 2024.
If you haven’t realized that Apple TV+ has been quietly killing it in the period drama sphere for the last couple of years, you haven’t been paying attention. Shows likeMasters of the Airare proof that there’s an appetite for big-budget, cinematic fare you can stream in the comfort of your living room, too. Executive produced byGary Goetzmann,Tom Hanks, andSteven Spielberg, and based on the book of the same name byDonald L. Miller, the series isa powerful, gripping examination of the human condition during wartimeand a tribute tothe Air Force pilots and crewmenwho were placed in some of the deadliest situations during World War II — all while thousands of feet up in the air.
With a cast of big-name talent as well as up-and-comers,Masters of the Airboasts an impressive number of performances.Austin ButlerandCallum Turnerplay real-life pilots and lifelong best friends Major Gale “Buck” Cleven" and Major John “Bucky” Egan, whose dedication to each other helps them overcome some of the toughest missions they face. As chief navigator Lt. Harry Crosby and the literal voice of the series (and a far cry from his other role on this list inManhunt),Anthony Boyleis our window into this world, with his narration carrying us through some of the biggest times of uncertainty and loss.Barry Keoghan,Nate Mann,Josiah Cross,Branden Cook,Ncuti Gatwa,Raff Law,Kai Alexander,Bel Powley, and so many more come together to breathe life into important pieces of history, and the show’s immersive VFX sequences (with real B-17 cockpits recreated for the battles) make the dangers feel that much morevivid, engaging, and harrowing. —Carly Lane
During WWII, five miles above the ground and behind enemy lines, ten men inside a bomber known as a “Flying Fortress” battle unrelenting flocks of German fighters.
Mr. & Mrs. Smith
‘Mr. & Mrs. Smith’ Review: Donald Glover and Maya Erskine Are a Match Made in Spy Heaven
The Prime Video series also boasts impressive guest stars in Paul Dano, Sharon Horgan, Michaela Coel, and Sarah Paulson.
In many ways, it’s a miracle Prime Video’sMr. & Mrs. Smith, an adaptation of the 2005 movie of the same name starringBrad PittandAngelina Jolie, got made. The series, which was initially developed by and set to starDonald GloverandPhoebe Waller-Bridge, was announced back in 2021 and endured casting changes, delays, and strikes. Not only did the spy series make it to the finish line, butit exceeded expectations— largely due to the impeccable chemistry between Donald Glover andMaya Erskine.
The duo is overflowing with immense charm, vulnerability, and playfulness in a genre that can often feel repetitive and too reliant on action rather than its characters. Erskine and Glover adeptly bringFrancesca Sloaneand the rest of the writers' sharp dialogue to life, and instantly make us root for the titular John and Jane Smith, whose journey is as heartwarming as it is intense. (Shout out toSarah Paulsonfor giving a hilarious standout performance among a sea of strong guest stars.) Erskine and Glovereffortlessly weave comedy and drama together, and their emotional arc will likely lead you to examine your own relationships a little bit closer. —Emily Bernard
Two strangers land jobs with a spy agency that offers them a life of espionage, wealth, and travel. The catch: new identities in an arranged marriage.
If you’re aching for a romance that looks past the clichés and digs into the complexities of human relationships, Netflix’sOne Dayis the answer. It’s not only one of the best series of 2024, but it will emotionally wreck you for days — trust us. StarringAmbika ModandLeo Woodall, the distinctly unique mini-series consisting of 14 episodes is infinitelybetter than its 2011 movie versionbased on the 2009 novel of the same name byDavid Nicholls. It’s also the exact model for what every epic love story needs to include. It’sraw, emotional, and layeredwithout ever feeling too sappy.
With Nicholls’ beloved novel previously marred by a lackluster film adaptation, the Netflix series finds its true essence witha magnetic pairingthat brings another point of emotion to the dynamic.One Daychronicles the annual reunion of Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew, former university mates whose complex relationship evolves every July 15th. Creator and lead writerNicole Taylorhas crafted a narrative that unfolds over episodes, allowing for a deeper and more organic exploration of Emma and Dexter’s characters. Not to mention, Mod and Woodall deliver some of the best performances of their young careers so far.
One Dayisn’t just a romance, though. Of course, it’s emotional and has characters confronting their feelings, but it’s also incredibly authentic in terms of its relationships and the complexities in the understanding of friends to lovers. In so many ways, the show is a poignant exploration of our greatest triumphs and heartaches, set against a happy/sad coming-of-age story. It’s also incredibly pointed with its balance between moments of levity and emotional depth, further drawing viewers into a journey that — as fans of the book know — ends in inevitable heartbreak. Asa compelling tale of loss and love, the show promises an unforgettable experience that lingers with you long after it’s over. —Tania Hussain
Based on the novel by David Nicholls, One Day is a 2024 romantic drama series created by Nicole Taylor. Despite their lives drifting apart after high school, Dex and Emma reunite one day every year as their lives run parallel. Love, heartbreak, and the experience of growing apart together lie at the center of this decade-spanning love story.
Palm Royale
‘Palm Royale’ Review: Kristen Wiig’s Comedy Series Is a Delicious Escape Into Drama
The Apple TV+ series is another winner for the streamer.
As Apple TV+ continues to dominate the period programming landscape, one of its best from 2024 is without a doubt,the charming, decadent, and campyPalm Royale. Loosely based onJuliet McDaniel’s novelMr. and Mrs. American Pie, theAbe Sylvia-created series executive produced byLaura DernandJayme Lemons, takes the crown for being a visual feast into the glamorous portrayal of high society. Starring the incomparableKristen Wiigas Maxine Simmons, a determined socialite-wannabe,Palm Royaleshowcases the lengths one will go to belong.
From the series’ bold and vibrant outfits to the lavish interiors that add an authentic feel, the show immerses viewers in the era. Wiig’s portrayal of Maxine is a tour de force, infusing her character with so much heart and humor. But it’s her chemistry with the cast,particularly the charismaticRicky Martinand the ever-enigmaticAllison Janney, who propels the show to greatness. It’s all juicy and fun and features some of the most hilarious scenes from Wiig, a comedy genius who holds her own, with an icon like co-starCarol Burnett. By pairing dark humor with deep shades of drama,Palm Royaleis both devilishly stylish and fun. It stands out as one of the year’s best new shows thanks toits smart blend of style, substance, and star power. —Tania Hussain
Amidst the opulence of 1960s high society, a select group of women compete fiercely for a prestigious place in an exclusive social circle. The series delves into their lives, highlighting the personal sacrifices and moral compromises they make in pursuit of status and recognition. As tensions rise and secrets unfold, the characters find themselves entangled in a web of ambition, rivalry, and intrigue. The story captures the essence of an era defined by its luxurious facade and the complex, often turbulent lives of those striving to climb the social hierarchy.
‘Ripley’ Review: Andrew Scott Dazzles in Netflix’s Gorgeous Noir Thriller
The series based on Patricia Highsmith’s Tom Ripley novels also stars Dakota Fanning and Johnny Flynn.
If you’ve watchedall the lackluster television sludgethat ends up onNetflix, you’ll know thatRipleyis one of the most magnificent series on the streamer in quite some time. Not only does it feature a fantastic leading performance from the greatAndrew Scott, but it was shot by the talented cinematographerRobert Elswitwho previously did work on some of the best movies ever made, likeThere WIll Be Blood,Boogie Nights, andMagnolia. You can tell asevery frame of this black-and-white wonder is gorgeous to behold. Though there was once a time when I would have said the story couldn’t be done again, this series proves that it absolutely can, carving out a thematic and visual identity all its own. —Chase Hutchinson
A grifter named Ripley living in New York during the 1960s is hired by a wealthy man to begin a complex life of deceit, fraud and murder.
‘Shōgun’ Review: FX’s Sweeping Samurai Epic Cuts Deep When It Counts
This new series is building to a historic battle that is best when seen through the eyes of the iconic Hiroyuki Sanada.
FX’sShōgunwas surrounded by anticipation before it was even released, billed as one of the network’s most ambitious shows ever, both in terms of scope and budget. Yet the series took its time drawing in an audience — and as positive word of mouth only spread, it just meant that more and more viewers were able to tune in each week and let the series sweep them away to the world of feudal Japan. WhileShōgun’s looming war and various power struggles earned early comparisons toGame of Thrones, theRachel KondoandJustin Marks-created series (adapted from the bestselling novel byJames Clavell)paved its own way forward on the strength of characterslike Lord Yoshii Toranaga, played by star and executive producerHiroyuki Sanada, whose control is threatened by his own political rivals; Lady Toda Mariko, played byAnna Sawai, whose Catholic faith wars with her commitment to her liege lord Toranaga; and John Blackthorne, played byCosmo Jarvis, a wayward Protestant pilot who literally washes up on the shores of a foreign land and experiences a serious culture clash in the process.
AlthoughShōgunis an American series, the contributions of its Japanese cast and crew can’t be overstated enough. From powerhouses like Sanada overseeing every aspect of production, ensuring authenticity and accuracy, to presences likeTadanobu Asanoas the scheming yet hilarious Yabushige andMoeka Hoshias the seemingly meek Fuji, every aspect ofShōgunset the show up for success from the very beginning — and then the audience responded, with things like memes and online chatter each week taking everyone back to the watercooler discussion days of yore. Even if the show hadn’t beenrenewed for a second (or third!) season,Shōgunhas already succeeded at not only becoming one of the best shows of 2024, butone of the best shows that’s ever existed. —Carly Lane
Shogun (2024)
When a mysterious European ship is found marooned in a nearby fishing village, Lord Yoshii Toranaga discovers secrets that could tip the scales of power and devastate his enemies.
The Sympathizer
‘The Sympathizer’ Review: Robert Downey Jr. and Park Chan-wook’s HBO Series Is TV at Its Best
Downey Jr. and Hoa Xuande lead a stellar adaptation of the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel.
Park Chan-wookandDon McKellar’s adaptation ofThe Sympathizerhas one of the best pilots I’ve seen in years. It accurately recaptures both the satire and the intensity ofViet Than Nguyen’s incredible novel, and at times it even elevates the material to new levels. It shouldn’t be a shock that a director like Park can make a series like this something thatyou wish you could be watching on the big screen, instead of at home on your television.
While the rest of the series may not exactly top that first episode, it’s still a fantastic limited series.Hoa Xuandegives a star-making performance as the morally conflicted Captain, exuding so much charisma, even as an unreliable narrator. Coming off of his Oscar-winning performance inOppenheimer,Robert Downey Jr.is going full-character actor mode, playing multiple roles. While this could have easily come off as distracting, Downey’s commitment to the role makes it work, and his performances pair perfectly withthe series' complex meld of dark comedy and tragedy. —Nate Richard
Near the end of the Vietnam War, a plant who was embedded in the South Vietnam army flees to the United States and takes up residence in a refugee community, where he continues to secretly spy and report back to the Viet Cong.
‘Sugar’ Review: Colin Farrell’s Film Noir Send-Up Is More Than Meets the Eye
Farrell excels as the titular character in Apple TV+’s bold new mystery series.
A TV show about a Los Angeles private detective doesn’t necessarily scream “original idea.” Then, there’sSugar, the Apple TV+ series led byColin Farrellthat takes everything you thought you knew about the noir genre and chucks it out the side of a 1966 Chevrolet Stingray Corvette. Created byMark Protosevich, this crime mystery series follows Farrell’s John Sugar, an unassuming, keeps-to-himself detective who’s been recruited by legendary movie producer Jonathan Siegel (James Cromwell) to get answers to his many questions involving his granddaughter Olivia’s (Sydney Chandler) kidnapping.
Sugarpays homage to noir of the 1940s and ‘50sin several clever ways, the most prominent being the effective, slick use of narration throughout each episode that makes us feel like it’s us and Sugar against the world. Farrell fits the mold of what you’d expect from the protagonist of a modern noir, thoughhis character is refreshingly more nuancedthan the detectives that have come before him. He might look like a womanizer, but he’s actually the one to ward off any advances. He might look like a guy you don’t want to cross (and he certainly will put you in your place if he has to), but Sugar’s a total sweetie pie who will go out of his way to help a stranger.Amy RyanandEric Langealso give stand-out performances, the latter of whom plays what might be one of the most terrifying villains on TV right now. And how about that bonkers twist!? (If you know, you know.) —Emily Bernard
Private investigator John Sugar examines the mysterious disappearance of Olivia Siegel, the granddaughter of a legendary Hollywood producer.
True Detective: Night Country
‘True Detective: Night Country’ Review: Season 4 Is a Perfectly Chilling Return to Form
Jodie Foster and Kali Reis command the upcoming fourth season from director and showrunner Issa López.
Ah, HBO Sundays — how I missed you so. There’s no better way to beat the Sunday scaries than by live-tweeting the newest episode ofBig Little Lies,Mare of Easttown,Succession, or — this past winter —True Detective: Night Country. The anthology’s fourth season features a compelling setting, immersing viewers in small-town Alaska, where darkness overtakes the community — both figuratively and literally. CreatorIssa Lópezweavesanintriguing mysterythat begins with the disappearance of a group of men at a remote research station and spirals out to something much bigger,smartly integrating supernatural and horror elements into the procedural genreto make something that feels fresh and original. Through her story, López calls attention to underreported topics like the shockingly high rate of murdered Indigenous women and environmentalism, but the show never feels preachy or anything less than wholly entertaining.
I’d be remiss not to mention what makes the show work: the central relationship betweendetective Liz Danvers (Jodie Foster)and Evangeline Navarro (Kali Reis). Both of their roles require immense range, and they expertly let moments of vulnerability flicker through their tough facades. Their rich enemies-to-reluctant-partners dynamic is a rare treat, withFoster turning in a captivating performancethat reminds us whyshe’s considered a living legendand Reis’ equally nuanced work proving that she’s a rising star to watch. –Taylor Gates
True Detective
Anthology series in which police investigations unearth the personal and professional secrets of those involved, both within and outside the law.
Under the Bridge
‘Under the Bridge’ Review: Lily Gladstone Is Spectacular in Hulu True Crime Series
The new series proves yet again that Gladstone is an unparalleled screen presence.
Anything that has thegreatLily Gladstonein it isan automatic must-see, butUnder the Bridgealso proved to have plenty of sharp writing as well as strong performances from its ensemble that made it stand apart from the many lesser true crime series out there. It not only managed to sidestep many of the tropes and trappings that we’ve come to expect from this often regressive genre, but it managed to challenge them byasking deeper questions about the nature of justicein a world that doesn’t value those who are often most vulnerable. It’s a tough balance to strike, but strike it this series did in haunting fashion. In the center, Gladstone once again brought the grace and presence only she can to make it all that much more profound. —Chase Hutchinson
Reena Virk, a fourteen-year-old girl went to join friends at a party and never returned home. Seven teenage girls and a boy were accused of the savage murder.
‘X-Men ’97’ Review: Marvel Returns to the ’90s With X-traordinary New Series
Marvel’s first X-Men project since regaining the rights to the character might just be their best animated series yet.
There is no question thatX-Men ‘97is one of the best series of 2024. With its premiere in March, it quickly garnered critical acclaim from critics as well as the fans who were tuning in to relive the glory days ofX-Men: The Animated Series. Marvel returned to its roots with this nostalgia-filled blast from the past, and it paid off.X-Men ‘97picks up right where fans were left in 1997 when the series came to an unceremonious end. It smartly builds upon the plots and character arcs that were left without closure, all while pulling from the comics to create unforgettable storylines that not only update and modernize the story but are still being talked about.
One of the most surprising aspects of the series was the unexpected love triangle between Rogue (Lenore Zann), her Cajun not-quite-boyfriend Remy Lebeau (A. J. LoCascio), and her former flame Erik Lehnsherr (Matthew Waterson), paying off a beloved dynamic from the comics that has never made it to the big (or small) screen before. But it wasn’t justthislove triangle that set tongues waggin’.X-Men ‘97fully embraced the soap opera quality of the franchise and committed to the Scott/Jean/Logan love triangle that everyone has loved to play with. In an era wherethe MCU has been devoid of major romantic arcsand failed to follow through with undeniable chemistry,X-Men ‘97delivered in ways that fans simply weren’t expecting, and it can only go up from here. For that alone,X-Men ‘97isone of the absolute best series to grace our small screensin 2024. —Maggie Lovitt
A band of mutants use their uncanny gifts to protect a world that hates and fears them; they’re challenged like never before, forced to face a dangerous and unexpected new future.
