Welcome to the exciting TV world in 2024, where the small screen is bustling with creativity and innovation! This article highlights the best TV series of the year and features a diverse range of genres and storytelling techniques that have impressed both viewers and reviewers. With shows that thrill and make you think and talk, 2024 has proven to be a great year for television.
Streaming services have changed how we consume content in the entertainment industry, resulting in an increase in high-quality series that push the limits of storytelling. People no longer have to wait a week for the next show; now, binge-watching is common, letting viewers get lost in deep stories and complicated characters. As a result of this shift, a treasure trove of content that represents the diverse experiences of our world has been produced, which has given artists the freedom to take risks and explore novel topics.
This article will go into great detail about each of the best TV series of 2024. We’ll briefly summarize the story, provide important information about the cast and team, and explain why you should watch each show. Grab some popcorn and get ready for a movie-like trip through the best television this year, whether you’re a die-hard fan or just like to watch TV occasionally.
#20 Bad Monkey
On August 14, 2024, Apple TV+ premiered “Bad Monkey,” a brand-new and exciting series set in Key West, Florida. The show follows Andrew Yancy, a former detective who has been put in charge of inspecting restaurants. A tourist finds a severed arm while fishing, which sets off the story. It draws Yancy into a web of corruption and greed that threatens the community and the environment.
The series has a great ensemble, with Vince Vaughn leading the cast as Andrew Yancy. He is joined by well-known players like Michelle Monaghan, Jodie Turner-Smith, and Natalie Martinez, who bring the story a lot of energy. Vaughn’s performance is particularly noteworthy, demonstrating his comedic timing and ability to navigate the absurdities of his character’s circumstances.
The blend of comedy and crime drama in “Bad Monkey” stands out and gives viewers a fresh perspective. Fans of both styles should watch the series because it is full of interesting characters and unexpected twists. In our review at Gazettely, “Bad Monkey” got an excellent 8/10.
#19 The Brothers Sun
The world of family loyalty and crime is thoroughly explored in the gripping new series “The Brothers Sun.” The story is about Charles Sun, a tough gangster from Taipei, who is forced to return to Los Angeles to protect his estranged family after a hit is made on his father, Big Sun, the boss of a powerful crime organization.
Charles must navigate the dangerous underworld while reconnecting with his younger brother Bruce, who has been shielded from their family’s criminal past and is having difficulty finding his place in this crazy world.
Michelle Yeoh as Eileen “Mama” Sun and Justin Chien as Charles, who add depth and nuance to their roles, are two of the strongest performances in the series. The engaging drama explores the themes of family loyalty, identity, and the consequences of a life steeped in crime, making it stand out in the crowded field of television dramas. In our review at Gazettely, we gave “The Brothers Sun” 7/10!
#18 Sugar
The new series “Sugar” is very interesting because it delves into the shadowy side of Hollywood. The story is about John Sugar, a private investigator who is hired to solve the mystery surrounding Olivia Siegel’s disappearance, who is the granddaughter of a powerful film producer. Sugar learns secrets that could shake the movie business to its core as he navigates the flashy but dangerous world of Los Angeles.
Colin Farrell plays John Sugar in the series alongside Amy Ryan, James Cromwell, and Sydney Chandler. The cast is impressive. “Sugar,” created by Mark Protosevich and directed by Fernando Meirelles and Adam Arkin, combines elements of mystery with a thorough exploration of Hollywood’s darker side, making it a standout in the current television landscape.
The show has received praise for its strong performances and engaging narrative, especially Farrell’s as the troubled detective. In our Gazettely review, “Sugar” earned an 8 out of 10.
#17 Landman
“Landman” is a gripping new series that takes place against the backdrop of the West Texas oil industry, delving into themes of ambition and greed. The narrative follows the Norris family’s lives as they navigate the dangerous world of oil drilling, where personal and professional challenges come together. For fans of character-driven dramas, the show draws a vivid picture of the complexities and moral choices faced by those in the industry, making it a compelling watch.
Billy Bob Thornton, Ali Larter, Jon Hamm, and Demi Moore, among other well-known actors, bring depth to their roles in the talented ensemble. Taylor Sheridan, known for his ability to tell gritty, authentic stories that resonate with audiences, created the series.
“Landman” stands out for its unwavering examination of the oil industry, which shows the harsh realities and moral dilemmas of pursuing wealth. The character arcs are compelling, allowing viewers to relate to the struggles and successes of those working in this competitive field.
In our review at Gazettely, “Landman” received a respectable 8/10, reflecting its blend of strengths and minor flaws and recognizing its strong storytelling and strong performances as key reasons it deserves a spot among the best TV series of 2024.
#16 Dark Matter
The complexities of identity and choice are explored in “Dark Matter,” a gripping narrative that draws viewers in. The series follows Jason Dessen, a physicist who is transported to a different world where he must confront the life he could have led. He faces a terrifying version of himself who has taken over his life as he navigates this strange new world, forcing him to deal with serious issues about goals, family, and our paths.
Creator Blake Crouch, who also adapts his best-selling book for the screen, brings this captivating series to life. The cast includes standout performances from Joel Edgerton as Jason Dessen, alongside Jennifer Connelly and Oakes Fegley, who deepen the story’s emotional environment. The unique blend of science fiction and psychological drama that “Dark Matter” offers viewers not only thrills but also a thorough exploration of the human condition is what sets it apart.
“Dark Matter” shines with a well-deserved 7/10 in our review, highlighting its innovative storytelling and strong character development as key reasons it deserves a spot among the best TV series of 2024.
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#15 Bridgerton – Season 3
“Bridgerton – Season 3” continues to reshape the romantic drama genre by showing a rich tapestry of diverse representation and complex characters that resonate with audiences. This season is more about Penelope Featherington and Colin Bridgerton. It examines themes like love that isn’t returned, societal expectations, and the class battles that make up their world. The narrative skillfully interweaves their journeys with the social norms of Regency-era England, highlighting the restrictions placed on women and the pressures of social status.
Key plot points include Penelope’s change as she debuted in Mayfair society, driven by her desire to get married and escape her mother’s controlling influence. Colin, who doesn’t know how Penelope feels, offers to help her find a suitor, leading to problems that challenge their friendship and force them to confront their real feelings for one another. The show also adds Francesca Bridgerton’s storyline, which deepens the main narrative and demonstrates how the Bridgerton family’s lives are intertwined.
“Bridgerton – Season 3” remains a cultural hit despite being criticized for pacing problems and departures from the source material. Its ability to blend humor with thought-provoking social commentary keeps it in viewers’ minds, ensuring its place among the best TV series of the year. The show’s dedication to diversity and exploration of complicated relationships resonate with the series’ new and old fans, making it a standout in a crowded field.
Our review gave “Bridgerton – Season 3” a pretty good 7/10, recognizing its strengths in character development and cultural impact. This season deserves a spot on our list of the best TV series of 2024 for its ongoing innovation in storytelling and ability to engage audiences on multiple levels.
#14 The Gentlemen
The adventures of an American expat who finds himself caught up in the city’s underbelly are followed in “The Gentlemen,” a fresh and funny take on the drug trade in London. The narrative of the 2019 movie with the same name is continued in the series, going deeper into the lives of its characters and introducing new ones. The story revolves around Eddie, an American who suddenly inherits a massive marijuana empire hidden beneath his family estate, leading to a series of crazy and funny events as he navigates the criminal world.
The talented group of Daniel Ings and Kaya Scodelario backs up Theo James’ leading performance as Eddie, making the cast a standout feature. Guy Ritchie, known for his stylish storytelling and sharp dialogue, directed the series, which stays true to the funny, fast-paced tone that fans of the original movie will enjoy. For those who like to watch a blend of comedy and crime drama, the humor is sharp, and the character dynamics are engaging, making it a fun watch.
At Gazettely, we rated “The Gentlemen” a strong 8/10, recognizing its smart writing and entertaining performances as key reasons it deserves a spot among the best TV series of 2024.
#13 Star Wars – Skeleton Crew
An exciting new series called “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew” takes place in the beloved Star Wars world, focusing on young Jedi trying to find their paths through difficult times. The story follows “Return of the Jedi,” about a teenage boy named Wim and his friends who accidentally launch a spaceship and travel across the galaxy. Jod Na Nawood, played by Jude Law, who serves as a guide for the group, is one of the characters they meet on this trip.
Rich storytelling that speaks to both new and old fans of the franchise is made possible by the series’ intricate connection to the larger Star Wars mythology. It features a mix of well-known themes and fresh tales, making it accessible while still rewarding for die-hard fans. The young cast delivers standout performances, bringing relatable struggles and growth to their characters, which resonates with audiences of all ages.
Skeleton Crew’s ability to blend adventure with the coming-of-age stories of its young characters is what makes it so compelling. The show captures the essence of young exploration and the challenges of growing up in a galaxy full of excitement and danger. It stands out in the crowded field of sci-fi television thanks to its original take on the Star Wars saga and its high production standards.
We rated “Star Wars: Skeleton Crew” a 7/10 at Gazettely, recognizing its engaging storytelling and character growth as two main reasons it deserves a place among the best TV series of 2024.
#12 One Day
The moving romantic drama One Day follows Emma Morley and Dexter Mayhew’s friendship over several years. At the start of the series, on their graduation night from the University of Edinburgh, they are instantly attracted to each other. As life goes on, though, they find themselves managing the complexities of love, timing, and friendship. They frequently drift apart, only to reconnect on July 15, the same day every year.
The narrative style is very engaging. It uses a unique episodic format that lets viewers see the characters’ growth and the impact of their choices over time. Ambika Mod as Emma and Leo Woodall as Dexter are featured in the cast, and both give performances that capture the emotional depth and subtleties of their characters’ journeys.
What sets “One Day” apart is its exploration of relatable themes like love, timing, and the ambiguity of relationships. The series resonates with audiences through its sincere storytelling and the veracity of its characters’ experiences.
In our review at Gazettely, we gave “One Day” a thoughtful 8/10, recognizing its emotional depth and strong performances as important factors in why it deserves a place among the best TV series of 2024.
#11 Fool Me Once
A gripping thriller, “Fool Me Once” delves into the complex themes of trust and betrayal in a family setting. The story centers on Maya Stern, a widowed mother who is haunted by the shocking sight of her late husband, Joe, caught on a nanny cam. Maya discovers dark secrets that entwine her family’s past and present as she navigates the aftermath of his murder, leading to a tense and thrilling narrative that keeps viewers guessing until the end.
Michelle Keegan plays Maya Stern, Richard Armitage plays Joe Burkett, and Joanna Lumley plays Judith Burkett in the series, which has a talented cast. The show features a blend of exciting story twists and emotional depth. It is directed by David Moore and adapted from Harlan Coben’s book.
The “Fool Me Once” narrative is filled with tension, and Keegan and Armitage give strong performances. While exploring intricate family dynamics and the impact of betrayal, critics have praised its ability to keep the audience guessing.
We gave “Fool Me Once” an impressive 8/10 at Gazettely, recognizing its engaging storytelling and character growth as key reasons it deserves a spot among the best TV series of 2024.
#10 The Penguin
The thrilling crime drama The Penguin explores the rise of Oswald Cobblepot, better known as The Penguin, in Gotham’s notorious underworld. With fresh viewpoints on a character who has long been a fan favorite, this series adds to the well-known mythology of the Batman world.
Gotham City has a lot of crime, and “The Penguin” shows how Cobblepot goes from being a low-level thief to a powerful figure in the city’s crime system. Colin Farrell, who played the Penguin in “The Batman,” and other well-known actors who bring Gotham’s lively but dangerous world to life are among the show’s stellar cast. The HBO series continues the narrative in Matt Reeves’ “The Batman,” which has been praised for its darker, more realistic take on the famous superhero story.
The Penguin’s ability to delve into the psychological and emotional complexities of its characters is what makes it particularly compelling. The series adds to the history of comic books by focusing on Cobblepot’s goals and the moral ambiguities of his choices while maintaining an exciting narrative full of intrigue and tension. The exploration of themes like power, betrayal, and survival in a city full of corruption will appeal to fans of the genre.
We loved “The Penguin” at Gazettely and gave it a strong 8/10 in our review. It’s definitely worth checking out. We noted its innovative approach to storytelling and character development as the primary reasons it deserves a place among the best TV series of 2024.
#9 Baby Reindeer
The dark comedy “Baby Reindeer” expertly blends humor and heavy emotion. It is based on events that the movie’s author and star, Richard Gadd, went through. The series is about a struggling comic named Donny Dunn, whose act of kindness to a weak woman named Martha turns into an unhealthy obsession. This one-of-a-kind storytelling technique combines danger and comedy, reflecting the complexities of human relationships and the frequently hazy lines between kindness and danger.
Nothing short of outstanding can be said about the performances in “Baby Reindeer.” Richard Gadd is as excellent as Donny. He brings a raw authenticity to his portrayal of a guy dealing with trauma and an unexpected stalker. In her portrayal of Martha, Jessica Gunning delivers a nuanced performance that captures the character’s vulnerability and obsession, making her both believable and disturbing. The supporting cast, which includes Tom Goodman-Hill and Nava Mau, gives the narrative more substance and deepens the exploration of intricate character arcs.
What sets “Baby Reindeer” apart is its ability to tackle serious themes with a comedic lens, enabling viewers to engage with the material on multiple levels. In contrast to the clichés common in stalker tales, Gadd’s writing presents a complex, human view of the stalker and the target. This method not only keeps the audience guessing but also makes them think about empathy and the consequences of our actions.
What did we think of “Baby Reindeer”? Our review at Gazettely gave it an impressive 9/10, but you’ll have to read the whole thing to find out why!
#8 Interview With The Vampire – Season 2
“Interview With The Vampire: Season 2” continues the gothic horror narrative inspired by Anne Rice’s famous books by delving deeper into the lives of its main characters. The drama picks up where Season 1 left off, focusing on how the relationships between Louis, Lestat, and Claudia change over time while introducing new characters that complicate the story.
In this season, Louis de Pointe du Lac, as portrayed by Jacob Anderson, struggles with his identity and moral questions, especially about his relationships with Lestat and Claudia. As he faces the consequences of his choices, his struggle with being human becomes more apparent. Lestat de Lioncourt, played by Sam Reid, remains a charismatic but flawed figure, showing flaws that make his character more interesting. The more tense his relationship with Louis gets, the more it shows how intense and harmful their bond is. Claudia, who Delainey Hayles now portrays, develops into a more complicated character as she deals with the challenges of being a perpetual teenager and pursuing independence in a world where her vampire “parents” are in charge.
Strong character arcs and beautiful visual storytelling set Season 2 apart. The cinematography captures the haunting beauty of the settings, enhancing the emotional impact of the characters’ trips. The series balances scary and touching scenes, making it stand out in horror.
We at Gazettely are happy to say that we rated “Interview With The Vampire—Season 2” an amazing 8/10 in our review. We recognized its ability to deepen character relationships while maintaining the atmospheric tension that fans adore. For its creative storytelling and engrossing performances, this show deserves a spot on our list of the best TV shows of 2024.
#7 The Day of the Jackal
The current version of the classic thriller “The Day of the Jackal” is about a dangerous killer after a famous politician. Based on Frederick Forsyth’s 1971 novel, this exciting series brings a fresh perspective to the story while maintaining the gripping tension and intrigue that fans expect from a story of espionage and murder.
Eddie Redmayne is the title character, Jackal, and Lashana Lynch is Bianca Pullman, a tenacious MI6 agent on his trail, who gives strong performances in the cast. Their interactions show how both characters are tenacious in pursuing their objectives, giving the cat-and-mouse game across Europe more depth. Forsyth’s involvement as a consulting producer helps the production, which Ronan Bennett leads. He ensures that the adaptation remains true to the book while exploring modern themes of trust, complexities, and the moral complexities of their actions.
What makes “The Day of the Jackal” shine is its timely themes, which echo today’s audiences. The series shows the complexities of political landscapes and individual motivations. For both fans of the original character and newcomers, it blends exciting action with character-driven storytelling, making it a compelling watch.
“The Day of the Jackal” earned a well-deserved 9/10 in our review at Gazettely because we were so impressed by it.
#6 Griselda
“Griselda” is an exciting biographical crime drama about the life of Griselda Blanco, one of the most powerful women in drug dealing history. The series, which premiered on Netflix, examines Blanco’s rise from the streets of Colombia to become a powerful drug lord in Miami in the 1980s.
Sofa Vergara leads the cast and delivers a strong performance as Blanco, showing how she changes from a weak woman to a cruel drug lord. Numerous people have praised Vergara’s performance, which was very different from her previous comedic roles and showed how versatile she is as an actress. Alberto Guerra and Vanessa Ferlito are in the supporting cast, and their compelling performances give the narrative more depth.
What sets “Griselda” apart is its strong female lead, which adds a fresh viewpoint to traditional crime narratives, which are frequently dominated by male characters. Making it a standout in the genre, the series delves into themes of power, betrayal, and the human costs of ambition.
After reading a lot of “Griselda,” Gazettely gave it an 7/10 because it has a good mix of humor and drama. You should check it out.
#5 True Detective – Night Country
The highly anticipated return of the critically praised anthology series “True Detective: Night Country” immerses viewers in a gripping mystery against Alaska’s stark, haunting backdrop. The disappearance of eight men from a remote Arctic research station is the focus of this new season’s compelling narrative, leading to a dark probe that involves the characters’ personal and professional demons.
Jodie Foster plays Detective Liz Danvers alongside Detective Evangeline Navarro in the current season. Their performances are crucial because they bring depth to a story that examines themes of trauma, loss, and the moral complexities of their roles as police officers in a scary place. Delving into the psychological and existential battles that have defined the “True Detective” franchise, the series stays true to its thematic continuity with previous seasons.
“Night Country” stands out because it keeps up the high standards set by earlier seasons regarding writing and mood. Critics have praised the series’ ability to blend character-driven narrative with a palpable sense of dread and mystery, reminiscent of the original series’ storytelling style. The setting in Alaska adds a special level of loneliness and tension, enhancing the whole experience.
After reviewing it at Gazettely, we gave “True Detective: Night Country” an 8/10, recognizing its unique blend of crime and comedy.
#4 3 Body Problem
“The Three Body Problem” is a big movie based on Liu Cixin’s famous sci-fi book about the first contact between humans and an alien society. When Earth meets the Trisolaran society from a faraway star system, the series delves into an intricate narrative that combines science, philosophy, and existential questions.
One of the biggest challenges of the adaptation was translating the complicated scientific ideas and cultural details from the original book to a visual medium. The production team tried to keep the novel’s depth while making it more accessible. Effectively communicating the themes of hope, despair, and the moral dilemmas of making contact with extraterrestrial life required careful consideration of the storytelling approach.
The ambitious storytelling in “The Three Body Problem” handles difficult scientific concepts like the “three-body problem” in orbital mechanics and how new technologies affect society. This is what makes the book stand out. The series promises to blend exciting narrative arcs with stunning visuals, creating an immersive experience that will resonate with both sci-fi fans and newcomers alike.
As a reviewer for Gazettely, we gave “The Three Body Problem” an 8/10 because it’s so stylish. Due to its unique approach and thought-provoking content, this show deserves a place among the best TV shows of 2024.
#3 Arcane – Season 2
In the League of Legends world, Arcane—Season 2 continues the gripping narrative where the first season left off. Set in a city torn apart by wealth and poverty, this animated series delves deeper into the lives of well-known characters like Jinx, Vi, and Caitlyn and explores their complicated relationships.
The animation style remains a standout feature, with each frame carefully made to produce a visually stunning experience. The series uses a unique blend of 2D and 3D techniques, which produces stunning visuals that improve the storytelling process. This season’s themes include class struggles, individual identity, and the consequences of choices, all wrapped up in an engaging and thought-provoking narrative.
Its renowned storytelling and beautiful art set “Arcane” apart. Critics and fans alike praised the series for combining complex character arcs with a rich, engaging world, making it a model for animated television.
You should try it if you haven’t seen “Arcane – Season 2” yet! It earned a great 9/10 in our review at Gazettely. Due to its unique approach and captivating execution, this show deserves a place on our list of the best TV shows in 2024.
#2 Slow Horses – Season 4
The fourth season of Slow Horses continues to follow the oddball MI5 agents as they navigate the dangerous waters of espionage while maintaining the series’ signature dark humor. In a world where loyalty and betrayal are frequently muddled, this season delves deeper into the lives of these flawed characters, showing their challenges and growth.
The always-grumpy Jackson Lamb, played by Gary Oldman, is one of the characters who is coming back. His sarcastic wit and unconventional ways of doing things keep the team grounded. River Cartwright (Jack Lowden), Louisa Guy (Rosalind Eleazar), and Shirley Dander (Aime-Ffion Edwards) are with him. They are all dealing with their demons while on dangerous tasks. The relationships between these characters continue to change, enhancing the narrative depth and adding new layers to their relationships.
Its distinctive blend of comedy within a spy thriller framework is what makes “Slow Horses – Season 4” so compelling. The series masterfully strikes a balance between hilarious moments and intense espionage drama, creating a watching experience that is both fun and makes you think. A testament to its clever writing and strong performances, the show’s ability to tackle serious themes while keeping the mood light.
In our review at Gazettely, we gave “Slow Horses—Season 4” a strong 9/10. It’s a good show with a lot of promise.
#1 Shōgun
Adapted from James Clavell’s best-selling book, “Shōgun” is a gripping historical drama set in feudal Japan. The series transports viewers to the turbulent world of 1600, where cultural clashes and political intrigue occur against a backdrop of war and survival. It follows the journey of English pilot John Blackthorne as he makes friends with powerful warlords like Lord Yoshii Toranaga and navigates the complexities of Japanese culture.
With careful attention to detail in set design, costumes, and photography that brings the era to life, “Shōgun” has production quality that is nothing short of amazing. The performances are also excellent, especially those by Cosmo Jarvis as Blackthorne and Hiroyuki Sanada as Toranaga, who give complex portrayals that capture the essence of their characters’ challenges and goals.
The series skillfully weaves together themes of loyalty, honor, and the clash of nations, creating an engaging and thought-provoking narrative. This is what sets “Shōgun” apart. The historical background is skillfully woven into the story, making it a treat for history buffs and drama fans.
After some thought, we at Gazettely gave “Shōgun” a well-deserved 9/10, recognizing its compelling story and standout performances. Thanks to its compelling narrative and stunning visuals, it has a place among the best TV shows of the year.
From Drama to Fantasy: The Rich Landscape of 2024 Television
The best show of 2024 is making waves across the television industry. It features a wide range of genres, such as drama, comedy, thriller, and fantasy. Each show entertains and touches on current social themes, giving viewers a way to look at modern problems. For instance, “Bridgerton—Season 3” delves into themes of love, class conflict, and societal expectations while offering a lively escape into a fantasy world set in the Regency era.
These series resonate with audiences by addressing the complexities of contemporary life, such as identity, relationships, and the pursuit of happiness, while also providing engaging narratives that allow for escape. The diverse storytelling that captivates viewers today is best seen in shows like Bridgerton, which blends humor and serious social commentary, and Star Wars: Skeleton Crew, which is about adventure.
We want fans to discover the wide variety of narratives these series offer as we dive deeper into them. Each show represents the best storytelling and entices audiences to get lost in worlds that challenge, amuse, and inspire. For more entertainment highlights from 2024, explore our selections of the Best Movies of 2024 and Best Video Games of 2024.
