From the thrilling drama of “Presumed Innocent” to the comforting humor of “Nobody Wants This” and the smart, stylish flair of “Mr. & Mrs. Smith”, 2024 delivered a variety of new TV series that captivated global audiences. Here, in no particular order, are 10 must-watch shows from the year to enjoy before the new year arrives:
Shōgun
FX’s Shōgun set in feudal Japan, became a standout hit, winning 18 Emmy Awards, including Best Drama Series. With Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai delivering exceptional performances, the lavish production drew comparisons to Game of Thrones and streams on Hulu.
Presumed Innocent
Apple TV+ brought Jake Gyllenhaal to the small screen in Presumed Innocent, a gripping legal drama based on Scott Turow’s novel. Gyllenhaal stars as Rusty Sabich, a prosecutor accused of murder, with Peter Sarsgaard as his determined adversary. The series, Apple’s most-watched drama, has already been renewed for a second season.
The Penguin
Spinning off from The Batman (2022), Max’s The Penguin spotlights Colin Farrell as crime kingpin Oz Cobb in Gotham City. With Batman mostly in the background, this gangster drama dives into the gritty underworld, earning Cristin Milioti a Golden Globe nomination for her portrayal of Sofia Falcone.
Ripley
Andrew Scott shines in Netflix’s neo-noir adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s The Talented Mr. Ripley. The series follows Tom Ripley as he travels to Italy to convince a wealthy heir to return home, only to become dangerously entangled in his lavish lifestyle.
Matlock
CBS’s Matlock reboot stars Kathy Bates as Madeline Kingston, a wealthy lawyer who comes out of retirement under the alias Mattie Matlock. Seeking both money and revenge, she uses her age and experience to outsmart opponents in court. Streaming on Paramount+, the show deftly explores themes of ageism while securing Bates a Golden Globe nomination.
Nobody Wants This
Netflix’s Nobody Wants This marked a resurgence for Adam Brody, reminding viewers of his The O.C. charm. In this rom-com created by Erin Foster, Brody plays Noah, a rabbi navigating a romantic relationship with Joanne (Kristen Bell), a non-Jewish woman. Their journey through cultural differences, family pressures, and personal goals is heartwarming and relatable, complemented by a delightful supporting cast.
The Valley
Bravo’s The Valley, a Vanderpump Rules spinoff, follows Jax Taylor, Brittany Cartwright, and Kristen Doute as they navigate new friendships and personal challenges. With drama-fueled dynamics and fresh cast members, the series streams on Peacock, delivering the perfect mix of chaos and vulnerability.
Mr. & Mrs. Smith
Prime Video’s adaptation of Mr. & Mrs. Smith stars Donald Glover and Maya Erskine as spies posing as a married couple. With each episode featuring a new mission and guest stars like Alexander Skarsgård and Michaela Coel, the series garnered 16 Emmy nominations and three Golden Globes.
Supacell
Supacell, a British Netflix series created by Rapman, added a fresh twist to the superhero genre. It follows a group of Black, working-class Londoners discovering they have superpowers linked to a family history of sickle cell disease. Tackling themes like medical exploitation, poverty, and racial disparity, the show has already been renewed for a second season.
English Teacher
Brian Jordan Alvarez stars in FX’s English Teacher, a sharp comedy about a high school teacher juggling societal changes and absurd challenges. With humorous yet poignant storylines, it explores evolving norms in education. The series streams on Hulu and boasts a standout soundtrack.
