As a TV enthusiast who has spent countless hours binge-watching shows from different genres and eras, I must say that this year’s list of top TV shows is truly impressive! Each one offers something unique and captivating, but if I had to pick my favorites, it would be hard to look past “Baby Reindeer” and “Shogun.
As we approach the end of the year, it’s been a fantastic 11-month journey through television. But now the question arises: What are the top TV series of 2024?
Indeed, it’s quite a challenge to pick just one favorite world to revisit! The intrigue at The Traitors Table this year left us spellbound, not to mention the mysteries unfolding in Gotham with Oz Cobb. To top it off, there are so many engaging new series on platforms like Netflix, Prime Video, and others – Shogun, Baby Reindeer, and Fallout, just to name a few. Each one offers its own unique blend of excitement and adventure!
Hey there fellow gaming enthusiast! As someone who loves immersing myself in different worlds through gaming, I can tell you that I’ve got my fingers on the pulse of the small screen too. My team of dedicated TV fanatics has been busy compiling a list of the top shows this year. It was no walk in the park; we had over 70 contenders to consider, but after some intense discussions, a couple of legal battles (just kidding!), and plenty of editing, we’ve managed to bring it down to an impressive 25.
Regrettably, some beloved shows didn’t make it onto the final list (apologies to all Agatha All Along enthusiasts), but I firmly believe that the selected series will undeniably create an epic television marathon experience.
Keep in mind that although the year 2024 might be drawing to a close, there’s still lots of exciting TV shows on the horizon – such as Skeleton Crew, Dexter: Original Sin, and Squid Game Season 2. Make sure to save this list, as we’ll continue to update it with new series as they become available!
25. The Acolyte
Release date: 4 June 2024
Rotten Tomatoes: 78%
Cast: Amandla Stenberg, Lee Jung-jae, Manny Jacinto, Dafne Keen
The Storyline: The murder of a revered Jedi Master leads the council to assign Master Sol for investigation. However, his probe soon reveals a more profound plot and an ancient, sinister force re-emerging, which has been dormant for a thousand years.
Star Wars has been stuck in a sentimental rut for some time, with attempts to appeal to nostalgia backfiring. The Acolyte, however, offered a fresh setting, intriguing characters, and an innovative storyline, which made it seem like a successful revival. Regrettably, it didn’t quite deliver on that promise.
Viewers found the series unappealing, and a persistent negative campaign from people with an excess of leisure time weakened any positive feelings that might have otherwise developed. Regardless, The Acolyte was an exceptionally well-crafted series that had the audacity to delve into concepts that some Star Wars traditionalists might consider blasphemous, and features some of the most thrilling lightsaber battles since The Phantom Menace. If you were deterred by the criticism, disregard it. This is the Star Wars show you’ve been searching for.
Words by Tom Percival
24. The Gentlemen
Launch Date: 7th March, 2024
Main Topic: Eddie Horniman unwittingly acquires his deceased father’s estate, title as a duke, and business dealings with Bobby Glass, who heads Britain’s largest marijuana empire. Despite his desire to get out, he finds himself entangled in a dangerous and turbulent sequence of criminal exploits. In the process, Eddie unexpectedly demonstrates a talent for criminal activities.
Why we like it: This is the ultra Guy Ritchie experience; a brilliant, binge-able sojourn into a world of drugs, blood, and struggling runts. It has the filmmaker’s signature sweary wit, grim edge (but not too nasty), and penchant for loveable pr*cks, packaged into a gripping expansion of one of his most underrated movies. I need Season 2 immediately – to borrow Fletcher’s words, it’s beautiful, beautiful… TV.
Read our full Gentlemen review here.
Words by Cameron Frew
23. One Day
Here’s the scoop: The movie I can’t wait to see is set to drop on my calendar on February 8, 2024. According to Rotten Tomatoes, it’s a whopping 91% fresh, so I have high hopes! The star-studded cast includes Ambika Mod, Leo Woodall, Eleanor Tomlinson, Jonny Weldon, and Essie Davis. It promises to be an unforgettable experience!
As a gamer, I’d rephrase it like this: “On the eve of our graduation, Emma and I cross paths for the first time, only to go our separate ways the next day. Unbeknownst to us, this fleeting encounter sets in motion a series of events that will completely transform our lives.”>
Why we appreciate it: Over a year since its debut on Netflix, One Day remains the most heart-wrenching scene of 2024. If you made it through Episode 13, you can rightfully add it to your LinkedIn profile as a testament to your resilience. Despite not wanting to rewatch it, consider yourself fortunate if you caught the series buzz while it was airing.
Words by Jasmine Valentine
22. Nobody Wants This
Launch Date: 26th of September, 2024
What it’s about: Joanne makes her living complaining about her disastrous dating life on a podcast with her sister. Her life is changed forever, however, when she falls head over heels for Noah, an attractive rabbi, the pair must then navigate the complex world of blending two families from very different backgrounds.
Why we like it: Cozy is an ugly word. It often implies easy answers and a refuge in comfort. Yet Nobody Wants This is a cozy show full of lovable characters, great gags, and a core romance you’re desperate to see succeed. Yet that doesn’t mean it’s not challenging, and it’s in those challenges where I think Nobody Wants This is at its best.
How does a relationship change when two people are fundamentally different? That’s a tough question, and the show Nobody Wants This doesn’t provide simple solutions. If you enjoyed Gavin and Stacey, I think you’ll appreciate this series; it has a similar vibe but with its own unique twist.
Words by Tom Percival
21. Yellowstone Season 5 Part 2
Release date: 10 November 2024
Rotten Tomatoes: 82%
Cast: Kelly Reilly, Cole Hauser, Luke Grimes
The storyline of Yellowstone unfolds as the final chapter commences with the passing of matriarch John Dutton, sparking discord among his offspring over the future ownership of the renowned Dutton ranch.
Question: How might we rephrase the given sentence in a more natural and easy-to-read manner?
Consistent with its pattern, Season 5 Part 2 offers a thrilling, daytime-drama-esque narrative about a family lacking intelligence. It’s filled with action, gunfire, and suspenseful plot twists. Yet, all characters remain as unappealing as ever. However, it’s the excitement, unpredictability, and electrifying conclusion that keeps viewers yearning for tranquility in the wilderness, dreaming of a peaceful ranch life.
Words by Jessica Cullen
20. Rivals
As a thrilled fan, I’m excitedly counting down the days until October 18, 2024, when the highly anticipated movie starring David Tennant, Alex Hassell, Danny Dyer, Katherine Parkinson, and Aiden Turner hits the silver screen! According to Rotten Tomatoes, it boasts an impressive 92% rating, promising a truly captivating viewing experience. Can’t wait!
I’m diving into the world of ‘Rivals’, a captivating tale inspired by Jilly Cooper’s original novel. In this story, I find myself cheering for Rupert Campbell-Black, the womanizing former jockey, as he squares off against media mogul Tony Baddingham. Caught in the middle of this chaos is Declan O’Hara, a journalist whose life becomes an intriguing mix of madness and excitement.
Why we like it: Rivals is hands-down the most fun you’ll have with a TV show this year. Bringing the bonkbuster back from the clutches of last century, anything goes with Jilly Cooper, and we’re all the better for it. After much debate in the office, we can confirm there’s only one prosthetic willy in the bunch… and it’s not that one.
Words by Jasmine Valentine
19. True Detective: Night Country
Release date: 14 January 2024
Rotten Tomatoes: 92%
Cast: Jodie Foster, Kali Reis
Topic Overview: In the town of Ennis, Alaska, an unusual duo consisting of Chief Danvers and Trooper Navarro are assigned to probe the puzzling vanishing act of no less than eight Tsalal Arctic research team members.
The reason we enjoy it: Surpassing the excellence of Nic Pizzolatto’s initial season for True Detective is no small task, but Issa López accomplishes it with Night Country. Instead of attempting to replicate its predecessor, Night Country offers a refreshing take on the True Detective formula, combining a captivating police procedural with chilling supernatural horror elements. Positioning women as the central figures in the mystery is a brilliant move, as is the choice of setting in Alaska, where dark folklore, harsh landscapes, and local tensions weave together to create a mesmerizing, suspenseful viewing experience that underscores the enduring vitality of this franchise.
Words by Daisy Phillipson
18. Terminator Zero
Launch Date: 29th of August, 2024
Overview: Just before Judgment Day, Malcolm Lee – a scientist developing an AI comparable to Skynet – is assaulted by Terminators from the future. With his family, he’s compelled to escape, and his last hope lies in a time traveler dispatched to shield him from the robot killers.
Why we like it: Terminator Zero manages to honor the established Terminator formula while also putting a unique spin on things. The idea of Skynet fearing a rival AI is a novel one and serves as an intriguing hook for the series, while Malcolm’s story (which we won’t spoil here) might just be the most interesting human in Terminator since Sarah Connor. We’d be remiss as well, not to mention Zero’s animation (done by Production I.G. – who previously worked on Haikyu!! and Kaiju No 8), which is beautifully dynamic, and makes the action scenes as fluid as the T-1000.
Words by Tom Percival
17. Disclaimer
Launch Date: October 11, 2024
Title Synopsis: Acclaimed journalist Catherine Ravenscroft is sent an enigmatic book through post, containing revelations from her past that significantly alter her present and future course of life.
Here’s one way to rephrase it: Catherine is happy that you enjoyed the series. If the type of voiceover wasn’t your cup of tea, I can understand why. Nevertheless, Blanchett’s depiction of a fearful woman surpasses our high standards for her acting ability. The plot keeps you guessing right up until the end, which is quite an accomplishment in today’s world where we often watch both big-screen and small-screen productions simultaneously (I bet you do it too).
Words by Jasmine Valentine
16. Dragon Ball Daima
Release Date: The movie will be launched on 11th October 2024
It’s as exciting as Z, as funny as the original Dragon Ball, and expands the lore in a similar way to Super. It also (sort of) acknowledges, in a sideways sort of way, GT as the pair share a certain amount of DNA. Basically, if you’re a Dragon Ball fan, Daima will have something for you.
Words by Tom Percival
15. Young Sheldon Season 7
Debut Date: February 15, 2024
As a gamer, here’s my take on paraphrasing that sentence:
Why we like it: I’ve written this about a million times on TopMob, but one more won’t hurt – George’s death absolutely shattered me. His funeral in Episode 13 is one of the best-made episodes of TV this year, even if Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage isn’t nailing the aftermath. I don’t care for Sheldon, though (read that in Lucille Bluth’s voice).
Words by Jasmine Valentine
14. The Traitors UK Season 2
Release date: 3 January 2024
Rotten Tomatoes: 92%
Cast: Harry, Paul, Diane.
In this show, participants find themselves in a Scottish castle setting, divided into two groups: ‘Traitors’ and ‘Loyals.’ Over several challenges and expulsions, the Traitors aim to get rid of the Loyals, while the Loyals need to identify the Traitors before they are ‘eliminated.’ The last contestant remaining takes home a substantial monetary reward.
Why we like it: Reality TV doesn’t usually make it onto this list, but The Traitors had TopMob’s writers glued to their TV sets in January, so it couldn’t be ignored. The format is fantastic, but the success of Season 2 was largely down to casting, with mother-and-son team Diane and Ross a scream, Paul being evil personified in hilarious fashion, and Jaz becoming his generation’s answer to Sherlock Holmes. The ending was equally unforgettable, as seemingly sweet and innocent Harry did the dirty on the actually sweet and innocent Mollie. He broke her heart and ours, but also gave us the TV event of the year.
Words by Chris Tilly
13. From Season 3
Launch Date: September 22, 2024
The plot resumes from Season 3, following the events of Season 2. As Tabitha ventures into the outside world, the inhabitants of Fromville remain busy, attempting to solve the numerous enigmas that shroud their confined town.
As a dedicated gamer, I can’t help but appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each season of this show. Although some secrets might linger too long, Season 3 demonstrates its enduring charm. John Griffin and Jeff Pinkner continue to weave intricate narratives filled with unexpected twists and turns, keeping us hooked. The characters are engaging, and the cast, led by the remarkable Perrineau, keeps me invested. In a world where horror TV often falls flat, From manages to deliver chills that still resonate.
Words by Daisy Phillipson
12. The Boys Season 4
Event Date: 13th of June, 2024
Title Explanation: In “The Boys” Season 4, Homelander and Butcher find themselves at odds again, with the conflicts escalating significantly. Victoria Neuman’s attempts to infiltrate the White House intensify, while Vought aims for global control.
Why we like it: In a world of endless phases and superhero fatigue, The Boys has repeatedly shown up to give us a fresh, satirical take on the genre. Season 4 leaned into its political commentary more than ever before (maybe even a little too hard), but it’s still entertaining and funny as hell, culminating in a finale that left us gagging to find out how this story will end. Oh, and Homelander is still the most diabolical villain on TV.
Read our full Boys Season 4 review here.
Words by Daisy Phillipson
11. Masters of the Air
Release date: 26 January 2024
Rotten Tomatoes: 85%
Cast: Austin Butler, Callum Turner, Anthony Boyle.
Topic Overview: Similar to Band of Brothers and The Pacific, Masters of the Air delves into the war experiences of the 100th Bomb Group, also known as the “Bloody Hundredth.” During the final stages of World War II, they carried out perilous bombing missions over Nazi Germany.
Reasons for its appeal: Masters of the Air offered a harrowing viewing experience, introducing us to the Bloody Hundredth and subjecting both viewers and ourselves to the grueling realities of World War II. State-of-the-art special effects vividly portrayed aerial combat, creating an exhilarating spectacle. However, at its core, this was a deeply human tale about a band of men striving for righteousness. Some sustain injuries or meet their end, while others are shot down or captured. The series skillfully blended pulse-pounding action and emotionally wrenching sorrow as the Hundredth strive to return home.
Read our full Masters of the Air review here.
Words by Chris Tilly
10. Rings of Power Season 2
Launch Date: August 29, 2024
Topic overview: Following the deception of crafting the Three Rings of Power from Earth itself, Sauron devises a plan to manufacture additional malevolent jewelry, aiming to enslave Middle-earth’s inhabitants using these artifacts. However, as darkness spreads, forces of good emerge throughout the land in their valiant efforts to thwart the Dark Lord.
Why we enjoy it: The initial season of Rings of Power was somewhat like delving into a Tolkien novel and reaching a long poem. It’s clear that you need to read it to grasp the storyline, but boy, it can be quite a struggle. However, in contrast, Rings of Power Season 2 offers a captivating chapter rich in intriguing history, exhilarating action, and multifaceted characters.
Without a doubt, among the season’s standout attributes were:
Read our full Rings of Power Season 2 review here
Words by Tom Percival
9. Ripley
Release date: 4 April 2024
Rotten Tomatoes: 86%
Cast: Andrew Scott, Dakota Fanning, Johnny Flynn
What it’s about: When Tom Ripley is mistakenly made an offer by the wealthy father of an old schoolmate to bring him back to America, he assumes a multitude of identities and lies his way into getting closer to the charismatic Dickie Greenleaf.
Here’s one way we could rephrase it: Many people might think that Ripley has been overdone, but this Netflix adaptation of the timeless tale of deception and falsehood is among the most remarkable yet. The monochrome cinematography showcases some of Netflix’s finest photography to date, positioning it as one of the top-quality shows to debut on the platform not just this year, but for the entire decade.
Andrew Scott embodies Tom Ripley’s character so convincingly that it seems as if he was destined for this role. He manages to make you feel uneasy, yet you can’t help but root for him, following the intricate and unforeseeable plot twists…all in anticipation of what he will do next.
Read our full Ripley review here.
Words by Jessica Cullen
8. X-Men ’97
Release date: I’m looking forward to diving into this game on 20th March 2024!
Beyond doubt, the series stands out as exceptionally well-crafted, with an emotionally gripping episode that has been touted as one of the saddest in television this year. The devastation unleashed by the robot in Genosha vividly portrays the disarray and turmoil inherent in a catastrophic event. Many recall Gambit’s valiant stand against the lethal mutant, but for me, the most poignant scene was Magneto – a man who had typically resorted to violence – choosing to spend his last moments not as an aggressor but shielding a terrified child instead. It was a profoundly moving scene that left me convinced of Magneto’s justification. Here’s hoping X-Men ’97 Season 2 will match the excellence of its predecessor.
Words by Tom Percival
7. The Penguin
Launch Date: September 19, 2024
In essence: One week following Gotham’s flooding at the hands of the Riddler, Oz Cobb tries to ascend the criminal underworld ladder with his fresh partner, but encounters fierce resistance from the latest mafia leader, Sofia Falcone.
“As a fan, here’s my take on why The Penguin captured our hearts: After being disappointed by several mediocre superhero spinoffs, The Penguin stormed onto our screens, showcasing that evil can indeed be captivating. Colin Farrell delivers an entrancing performance as Oz Cobblepot, delving into the darkest corners of the villain’s psyche, yet managing to evoke empathy from viewers. However, he shatters our feelings with his unforgivable actions, leaving us heartbroken.
As a gamer immersed in the gritty streets of Gotham, I’ve witnessed firsthand how its sordid underworld has evolved, offering a captivating twist on the Batman universe. Characters like Sofia and Victor have left me torn between who to cheer for, as allegiances shifted constantly. The Penguin, once an enigma, has proven to be more influential than anyone could have imagined – a revelation I’ll never forget.
Words by Jessica Cullen
6. House of the Dragon Season 2
Launch Date: 16th of June, 2024
Main Topic: The Dance of Dragons intensifies as the Greens and Blacks seek allies to triumph in the war. However, while they struggle for power, the Targaryens unknowingly sow the seeds of their destruction. By the way, Daemon finds himself in a state of constant intoxication at Harrenhal throughout the season.
Reason for our enjoyment: The second season of House of the Dragon didn’t receive as much praise as the first one, but comparing it to Game of Thrones Season 8 is unwarranted at best and absurd at worst. Although there were some noticeable flaws (The Harrenhal story was more like a long email… or perhaps a raven message?), it still delivered all the elements we’ve grown fond of in Game of Thrones, such as political machinations, cunning deceit, and exhilarating dragon sequences. Furthermore, we got to witness Vhagar in battle, a moment I’ve been anticipating since I first read Fire and Blood.
Read our full House of the Dragon Season 2 review here.
Words by Tom Percival
5. Arcane Season 2
Launch Date: November 9, 2024
The concluding chapter of Arcane finds events unfolding following Jinx’s attack on the Council. Tensions between Piltover and Zaun escalate towards potential conflict, while the bond between sisters Jinx and Vi strains heavily.
What makes it appealing: Despite not being the typical viewer for Arcane, I found myself utterly captivated from the first episode. The animation, narrative, and character development are superbly done by Riot Games and Fortiche, drawing us in with their exceptional series that skillfully blends the extensive League of Legends universe with a unique storyline of its own. Just like its predecessor, Season 2 lives up to expectations, demonstrating that indeed lightning can strike twice.
Read our full Arcane Season 2 review here.
Words by Daisy Phillipson
4. Fallout
Release date: 10 April 2024
Rotten Tomatoes: 94%
Cast: Ella Purnell, Kyle MacLachlan, Aaron Moten, Walton Goggins, Sarita Choudhury
Main Topic: Over two centuries post-nuclear catastrophe transforming North America into a desolate wasteland, the paths of three individuals intersect: Lucy, a resident of Vault 33 stepping out into the open world for the first time; Maximus, an eager squire of the Brotherhood of Steel pursuing his own power armor; and the Ghoul (Walton Goggins), a mutated gunslinger and bounty hunter, who is also a ghoul.
What I admire about it: Initially, I considered The Last of Us as the best video game adaptation ever made… that was until Fallout came along, a daring TV show that stands out on its own merits. It skillfully incorporates the visual elements and warm, vintage-softened melodies from Bethesda’s cherished series, effectively conveying the experience of playing it. However, what truly sets it apart is its freshness. Here’s hoping this genre will be shaped by its innovative approach in the future.
Read our full Fallout review here.
Words by Cameron Frew
3. The Bear Season 3
Date of Launch: 26th June, 2024
In Season 3 of The Bear, Carmy and the team aim to achieve success with the namesake eatery by focusing on exceptional cuisine and implementing firm standards.>
Why we like it: Season 3 of The Bear didn’t quite reach the dizzy heights of Seasons 1 and 2, but it remains one of the best written, directed, and acted shows on television. The highlight was undoubtedly the ‘Napkins’ episode, in which Liza Colón-Zayas delivered a powerhouse performance as we learned Tina’s backstory. And while the ending of this season didn’t take us very far from the beginning, the journey there was still both touching and thrilling.
Read our full Bear Season 3 review here.
Words by Chris Tilly
2. Shogun
Release date: 27 February 2024
Rotten Tomatoes: 99%
Cast: Hiroyuki Sanada, Cosmo Jarvis, Anna Sawai
Title Explanation: A British sailor’s unexpected shipwreck in Japan plunges him into a tumultuous political conflict, ultimately reshaping his understanding of the world as he embraces a novel and enriching cultural experience.
The reason we love it: Shogun has been a standout favorite this year, deservingly so. It’s one of the most artistically compelling series FX has produced in recent times. The extraordinary action sequences, the powerful examinations of loyalty, and the captivating narrative about two clashing cultures left us all spellbound.
Among the numerous IP-centric shows this year, Shogun truly distinguished itself, offering not just an enjoyable experience but also instilling in us the expectation that streaming platforms might venture to produce more daring and unconventional narratives in the future.
Words by Jessica Cullen
1. Baby Reindeer
Release date: 11 April 2024Rotten Tomatoes: 99%
Cast: Richard Gadd, Jessica Gunning, Nava Mau
My Experience: Stepping into a bar on my own, tears streaming down my face and pockets empty as a bird’s nest, I felt the weight of the world on my shoulders. The bartender, noticing my distress, inquired about my woes. Upon revealing my dire financial situation, unable to even buy a simple cup of tea, he surprisingly offered it to me without charge. It seemed like the setup for a joke, but little did I know, this act of kindness was about to become the start of Richard Gadd’s harrowing reality.
As a gamer, here’s my take: Despite Baby Reindeer’s baby reindeer sidekick stealing the spotlight, it doesn’t diminish its greatness. This Netflix production deserves recognition as one of their masterpieces – an intense, heavy, and captivating tale about a man’s sorrow and trauma that delves into uncomfortable yet vital questions about complicity and guilt. Even in its bleakest scenes, it resonates with something greater than just good – it’s essential viewing.
– Sent from my iPhone
Words by Cameron Frew
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2024-11-27 21:47