As 2024 winds down, we’re celebrating a year of incredible storytelling with our curated list of our favorite 20 new TV shows and limited series that made their debut this year. From groundbreaking dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, these standout series captured our hearts, challenged perspectives, and kept us glued to our screens. Whether you’re catching up or rewatching favorites, these picks showcase the best of what 2024 had to offer in television.
Emperor of Ocean Park
It’s a gripping legal mystery that delves into race, legacy, and family. When Judge Oliver Garland, a Black Supreme Court candidate, dies under suspicious circumstances, his son, Talcott, an Ivy League law professor, unravels a web of secrets tied to his father’s life and Black elitism. Faithful to Stephen Carter’s novel, the film blends legal drama with cultural history, offering rich performances and resonant themes. A must-watch for those drawn to the intersection of power, race, and intrigue.
Stream on MGM Plus
Presumed Innocent
It’s a gripping legal thriller following prosecutor Rusty Sabich as he becomes a suspect in a colleague’s murder. Packed with twists, stellar performances, and themes of trust and betrayal, it’s a compelling drama that keeps viewers guessing until the end. A must-watch for fans of suspenseful storytelling.
Stream on Apple TV+
The Day of the Jackal
The Day of the Jackal (2024) is a gripping thriller that pits a master assassin against a brilliant British intelligence officer in a tense, high-stakes chase across Europe. With exceptional performances, sharp pacing, and cinematic production, the series keeps viewers on edge as personal and professional lives collide amid layers of conspiracy.
Stream on Peacock
Cross
Alex Cross brings James Patterson’s iconic detective to life with Aldis Hodge delivering a standout performance. The series blends suspense, mystery, and social commentary, crafting an engaging story as Cross faces a sadistic killer and ghosts from his past. Fans and newcomers alike will find this adaptation thrilling, making it a must-watch for crime drama lovers.
Stream on Prime Video
Diarra From Detroit
The freshman series is a vibrant, culturally rich series blending humor, mystery, and authentic storytelling. Following a schoolteacher’s search for her missing Tinder date, the show dives into Detroit’s underworld with engaging performances by Kilpatrick, Morris Chestnut, and Phylicia Rashad. Viewers praise its relatable characters, sharp writing, and thrilling twists. Fresh and fun, it’s a standout series leaving audiences eager for more.
Stream on BET Plus
The Penguin
HBO’s The Penguin is a standout, with Colin Farrell delivering a career-defining performance as Oswald Cobblepot. The series masterfully explores Gotham’s criminal underworld, thriving without Batman’s presence. Stunning visuals, a haunting score, and a gripping storyline make it unforgettable. A must-watch for crime drama fans and Gotham enthusiasts alike.
Stream on Max
High Potential
High Potential delivers a refreshing mix of humor, heart, and clever storytelling. Kaitlin Olson shines as Morgan, a cleaning lady turned amateur sleuth whose brilliance and charm make her unforgettable. With sharp writing and a stellar cast, the show balances comedy and emotional depth perfectly. A must-watch for fans of smart, feel-good comedies.
Stream on ABC
Matlock
Kathy Bates shines as Madeline “Matty” Matlock, a seasoned attorney returning to work at a high-powered law firm, using her wit to win cases and expose corruption. Her dynamic with Skye Marshall’s Olympia, a fierce senior attorney fighting for justice, is a standout, blending wisdom and modernity. With sharp storytelling and a strong ensemble, Matlock is a refreshing, must-watch legal drama.
Stream on Paramount+
Three Women
Three Women follows writer Gia and the transformative journeys of Sloane, Lina, and Maggie. This powerful, nuanced series features phenomenal performances and relatable characters, offering raw, honest storytelling that deeply resonates. A must-watch for those seeking emotionally rich drama.
Stream on Starz
Supacell
Supacell redefines the superhero genre, following ordinary South Londoners who gain extraordinary powers. With a diverse cast, sharp writing, and stunning visuals, it blends action, emotion, and social commentary into a thrilling and thought-provoking series. A must-watch for sci-fi fans.
Stream on Netflix
Rivals
Disney’s Rivals adapts Jilly Cooper’s iconic novel with wit, charm, and a stellar cast. Set in the 1980s, it blends class warfare, romance, and satire with a vibrant soundtrack and lavish production. Frothy yet thoughtful, it’s addictive and brilliantly entertaining.
Stream on Hulu/Disney+
Fight Night: The Million Dollar Heist
Set during Muhammad Ali’s 1970s era, Fight Night is a gripping heist drama with stellar performances from Kevin Hart, Taraji P. Henson, and Samuel L. Jackson. With sharp writing, historical depth, and heart-pounding action, this Peacock original is a standout hit.
Stream on Peacock
How to Die Alone
Natasha Rothwell shines in How to Die Alone, a heartfelt comedy about rediscovering life after a near-death experience. Blending humor, relatability, and emotional depth, this inspiring series is a fresh, must-watch exploration of self-discovery.
Stream on Hulu
Agatha All Along
Agatha All Along brings Kathryn Hahn’s Agatha Harkness to center stage in a magical, witty, and visually stunning Marvel series. With strong performances, engaging storytelling, and a touch of campy flair, it’s a wickedly entertaining dive into Marvel’s mystical side.
Stream on Disney+
A Man on the Inside
Ted Danson shines as Charles, a widower who takes an undercover job in a retirement home for a detective investigating a jewel heist. With sharp dialogue, heartfelt relationships, and an outstanding ensemble cast, A Man on the Inside is a charming, funny, and moving series about aging gracefully and finding purpose.
Stream on Netflix
Boarders
Five Black teens from inner-city London earn scholarships to a prestigious boarding school, navigating privilege, social expectations, and the pressure to adapt. With excellent scripts and acting, Boarders explores themes of identity, diversity, and resilience, highlighting how friendships transcend backgrounds. Both funny and thought-provoking, it’s a bingeworthy series that leaves you eager for more.
Stream on Tubi
Criminal Record
This gripping detective drama explores addiction, family dynamics, and morality through the eyes of Cush Jumbo’s relatable detective and Peter Capaldi’s layered character. Criminal Record tackles hard-hitting themes with emotional depth and strong performances, making it a must-watch show.
Stream on Apple TV+
Elsbeth
Carrie Preston’s quirky Elsbeth Tascioni investigates police corruption with sharp wit and an unconventional style. With a likable cast, clever writing, and a balance of humor and intrigue, Elsbeth stands out as a unique and entertaining procedural drama.
Stream on CBS
Baby Reindeer
Baby Reindeer is an emotional, raw series about a man confronting a stalker and his buried trauma. Based on a true story, it captures themes of vulnerability, self-discovery, and resilience. Poignant and deeply relatable, it’s a gripping portrayal of how human flaws and perseverance shape us.
Stream on Netflix
Nobody Wants This
This Netflix rom-com follows an agnostic podcaster and a newly single rabbi navigating love despite meddling families and wildly different lives. With witty writing, heartfelt performances, and a perfect balance of humor and sincerity, Nobody Wants This is a refreshing take on modern romance.
Stream on Netflix