In this golden age of television, 2023 has proved particularly impressive. Shows have taken storytelling to new heights, transfixing viewers with masterful plots and dynamic characters bound to become younger and more diverse, creating a more vibrant and engaging viewing experience.
As we navigate through the plethora of shows launched this year, we have curated a list of the top must-watch TV shows that have created a buzz amongst viewers – a list not just subjectively impressive but justifiably the most captivating shows seen on the small screen in 2023. Read on to see if your favorite made the list or, better yet, discover a new show you'll soon love.
The Last of Us is a post-apocalyptic drama television series hailing from HBO, created by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann.
This critically acclaimed American series is based on the popular video game franchise produced by Naughty Dog and takes its audience 20 years into a future devastated by a virulent fungal infection that induces zombie-like behavior in its victims, effectively collapsing modern society.
The drama chiefly follows the lives of Joel (Pedro Pascal), a cynical smuggler, and Ellie (Bella Ramsey), an immune teenager, navigating this post-apocalyptic world together.
Premiering in January 2023, the series redefined video game adaptations and garnered immense viewership, setting a highly anticipated backdrop for its planned second season in 2025.
Succession is a critically acclaimed, satirical comedy-drama television series that aired on HBO from June 3, 2018, to May 28, 2023.
Creator Jesse Armstrong guides viewers into the power dynamics and inner workings of the Roy family, owners of the media and entertainment titan Waystar RoyCo. The series intricately weaves narratives on power, family, and corporate politics as family members grapple for control of the conglomerate amidst the deteriorating health of the family's patriarch, Logan Roy.
Distinguished by its razor-sharp writing, seasoned cast, incisive humor, and compelling examination of its themes, Succession has been widely lauded with multiple award wins, including Golden Globe for Best Television Series – Drama and Primetime Emmy for Outstanding Drama Series.
The Bear is a highly acclaimed American comedy-drama television series that expertly blends humor and heartfelt storytelling.
Created by Christopher Storer and premiered on Hulu on June 23, 2022, the show follows the journey of an award-winning chef, portrayed by Jeremy Allen White, who returns to his hometown of Chicago to manage the hectic kitchen of his late brother's sandwich shop.
With its authentic setting rooted in an iconic Chicago eatery and a strong supporting cast, The Bear offers an engaging exploration of familial ties, the food industry, and personal redemption.
Lauded for its exceptional writing, directing, acting, and production, the series has earned multiple Emmy nominations, including Outstanding Comedy Series, solidifying its standing as a must-watch TV show.
Poker Face is an intriguing American crime comedy-drama television series created by Rian Johnson for the streaming platform, Peacock.
The series, brimming with mystery and humor, revolves around the adventurous escapades of Charlie Cale, portrayed by Natasha Lyonne, a casino worker inadvertently embroiled in a series of strange fatalities.
Launched in January 2023, this "case-of-the-week" styled series enjoys high praise from critics for its unique narrative style and engaging performances, particularly Lyonne's, whose portrayal of Cale earned her a nomination for Outstanding Lead Actress in a Comedy Series at the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards.
Peacock has delighted fans by confirming a second season due to its resounding success.
Beef is an enthralling 2023 American comedy-drama limited series exclusive to Netflix, distinctively crafted by Korean director Lee Sung Jin.
The show presents a captivating depiction of an escalating feud arising from a simple road rage incident between two strangers, played by Steven Yeun and Ali Wong.
Launched in April 2023, the ten-episode series is packed with captivating performances, notably by Yeun and Wong, alongside an engaging supporting cast.
Recognised for its exceptional writing, direction, and acting, Beef racked up an impressive tally of 13 nominations at the 75th Primetime Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Limited or Anthology Series along with acting nominations for five of its cast members. It further garnered recognition with three Golden Globe Award nominations, solidifying its standing as a compelling viewing experience.
A Murder at the End of the World is a riveting American psychological thriller drama miniseries presented by FX. The creation of Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij, it explores an intricate murder mystery set within a remote retreat, investigated by an amateur detective portrayed by Emma Corrin.
With a talented supporting cast, including Marling, Clive Owen, and Harris Dickinson, the series builds on the suspense and storytelling prowess perfected by the creators in their prior project, The OA.
After initial delays, the series premiered on Hulu on November 14, 2023, with weekly releases extending until December 19, 2023, captivating viewers with its compelling narrative and thrilling suspense.
Immersed in satirical flair and distinct comedic twists, The Curse is an American black comedy-thriller television series masterfully created and penned by Nathan Fielder and Benny Safdie.
Starring eminent talent like Emma Stone, Fielder, and Safdie, the series narrates an unconventional and intriguing story. Filmed between June and October 2022, The Curse made its grand premiere on Showtime and Paramount+ for subscribed viewers on November 10, 2023, before making its television debut on Showtime on November 12, 2023.
The first three episodes of this uniquely engaging series were even privileged with a screening at the prestigious New York Film Festival on October 12, 2023.
Lessons in Chemistry is a compelling 2023 American period drama television miniseries, adapted from Bonnie Garmus's novel of the same name and creatively developed by Lee Eisenberg.
Set against the vibrant backdrop of 1960s America, the series features Brie Larson in the iconic role of Elizabeth Zott, a chemist who transitions into hosting her own feminist cooking show.
Made available on Apple TV+ on October 13, 2023, this miniseries has garnered positive reviews from critics and bagged nominations for two Golden Globe Awards, accentuating Larson's powerful performance and the series' engaging narrative.
Party Down is a critically acclaimed American sitcom that resonates with Hollywood's hopefuls.
Created by a stellar team, including John Enbom, Rob Thomas, Dan Etheridge, and Paul Rudd, the series graced the Starz network from March 20, 2009.
Centered around a team of Los Angeles caterers with dreams of making it big in Hollywood, this show cleverly mixes aspirations with the reality of day-to-day grind. Despite its cancellation in 2010 due to low Nielsen ratings and the commitments of its lead actors to other shows, Party Down remained a favorite amongst critics.
Testament to its durability and enduring appeal is its revival in November 2021, with the much-anticipated third season premiering on February 24, 2023.
Loki is a captivating American television series based on the popular Marvel Comics character of the same name. Created by Michael Waldron for the Disney+ streaming service, the show is a significant part of the Marvel Cinematic Universe (MCU) and shares continuity with the franchise's blockbuster films.
The narrative follows an alternate Loki, portrayed by Tom Hiddleston, adventuring in a new timeline birthed after the events of the film Avengers: Endgame (2019).
The series has been praised for its brilliant performances, notably Hiddleston's, its engaging writing, and its unforgettable musical score. After two positively reviewed seasons in 2021 and 2023, Marvel fans worldwide eagerly anticipate further exploration of Loki's thrilling arc.
Yellowjackets is a gripping American thriller drama television series brought to life by creators Ashley Lyle and Bart Nickerson.
Premiered on Showtime on November 14, 2021, this critically acclaimed series portrays a chilling story of survival and its lasting consequences, revolving around a group of teenagers who survive a plane crash.
The show skillfully transitions between the events of the crash in 1996 and their repercussions in 2021, with a stellar cast, including notable industry talents like Melanie Lynskey, Tawny Cypress, Juliette Lewis, Christina Ricci, and many others.
Showcasing applauded performances and an engaging storyline, Yellowjackets has amassed several Primetime Emmy Award nominations, including Outstanding Drama Series. Following its success, the series was renewed for both a second and third season, proving its prowess as a high-stakes survival drama.
Gen V is a dynamic American superhero television series that expands the captivating universe of The Boys. Developed by the creative trio of Craig Rosenberg, Evan Goldberg, and Eric Kripke, this series serves as an exciting spin-off, drawing its inspiration from The Boys' comic book story arc "We Gotta Go Now".
Featuring a talented ensemble cast, with stars like Jaz Sinclair, Chance Perdomo, Lizze Broadway, and more, Gen V skillfully parallels its narrative with the fourth season of The Boys.
Premiering on Amazon Prime Video on September 29, 2023, the series has garnered positive reviews, particularly applauding the stellar performances of its diverse cast. It quickly secured a renewal for a second season within a month of its premiere, due to its successful reception and compelling continuation of The Boys franchise.
From post-apocalyptic drama to high-stakes corporate politics, from edge-of-the-seat thrillers to intriguing mysteries, the television landscape of 2023 enthralled us with diverse narratives and heart-gripping performances. Each of the 12 shows mentioned embodies a perfect blend of brilliant storytelling, exceptional acting, and captivating subject matter.
'The Last of Us' took survival drama to unprecedented heights, while 'Succession' gave us an unflinching glimpse into the cutthroat world of the rich and powerful. And that, of course, is just the tip of the iceberg. These shows, including 'The Bear', 'Poker Face', 'Beef', 'A Murder at the End of the World', 'The Curse', 'Lessons in Chemistry', 'Party Down', 'Loki', 'Yellowjackets', and 'Gen V', have pushed the boundaries of television in all aspects, creating a remarkable year for avid TV watchers.
In conclusion, these 12 shows not only entertained but also challenged us, made us wonder, brought us to tears, and offered heartfelt laughs. They stood out amidst the crowd, making 2023 a year worth remembering in television history. As we bid farewell to this year, we can only anticipate what the next year holds for us.
For now, let's revisit these stellar shows – or discover new ones – to appreciate the phenomenal talent and dedication breathed into each episode. So, grab your popcorn, get comfortable on your couch, and let these shows transport you into the vibrant world of compelling characters and riveting narratives.
