2024 has been a phenomenal year for television, offering a diverse array of captivating stories, stunning visuals, and unforgettable characters. From historical epics to spy thrillers, heartwarming comedies to post-apocalyptic dramas, there’s been something for everyone. Here’s our pick for the top 10 TV shows that defined the year:

1. Shogun

FX’s ambitious adaptation of James Clavell’s sprawling novel was a triumph. Transporting viewers to feudal Japan in the 1600s, Shogun meticulously recreated a world of samurai, shoguns, and political intrigue. The series followed the journey of John Blackthorne, an English navigator who finds himself shipwrecked in Japan and becomes embroiled in the power struggles of warring lords. Hiroyuki Sanada delivered a tour-de-force performance as Lord Toranaga, a cunning and ambitious warlord vying for control. With breathtaking cinematography capturing the beauty of Japan, intricate storylines that kept viewers guessing, and powerful performances from the entire cast, Shogun was a truly immersive and unforgettable experience. The series masterfully balanced historical accuracy with compelling drama, making it a must-watch for fans of historical fiction and epic storytelling.

2. The Day of the Jackal

Sky’s reimagining of the classic political thriller proved that some stories are timeless. Based on Frederick Forsyth’s novel and the subsequent 1973 film, this updated Day of the Jackal delivered suspense, intrigue, and a heart-pounding cat-and-mouse chase that kept viewers on the edge of their seats. Eddie Redmayne delivered a chilling and nuanced portrayal of the Jackal, a mysterious assassin hired to kill Charles de Gaulle, the President of France. The series expertly built tension as the Jackal meticulously planned his attack, while the authorities desperately tried to uncover his identity and prevent the assassination. With its gripping plot, stylish direction, and stellar performances, The Day of the Jackal was a thrilling ride from start to finish.

3. Yellowstone

The Dutton family saga finally came to a close in its sixth and final season, and it did not disappoint.  Yellowstonecontinued to deliver the western drama, family conflicts, and stunning Montana scenery that fans have come to expect. This season saw the Duttons facing new threats to their ranch and their way of life, forcing them to confront their past and fight for their future. Kevin Costner gave another powerful performance as John Dutton, the patriarch struggling to maintain control. The final season provided closure to the Dutton’s story, while also leaving room for the franchise to continue with its various spin-offs.

4. Slow Horses

This spy thriller, based on the Mick Herron novels, returned for a second season of witty dialogue, morally gray characters, and surprising twists. Gary Oldman continued to shine as Jackson Lamb, the irascible leader of Slough House, a dumping ground for MI5 agents who have made career-ending mistakes. This season saw the “slow horses” tackling a new case involving Cold War secrets, Russian sleeper agents, and a possible mole within MI5. The series expertly balanced its dark humor with moments of genuine tension and suspense, making it a unique and compelling entry in the spy genre.

5. The Penguin

Colin Farrell waddled back onto our screens in this highly anticipated Batman spin-off, exploring the rise of Oswald Cobblepot in the Gotham underworld. Picking up after the events of The Batman, The Penguin delved deeper into the character’s psyche and his ruthless ambition to become a kingpin. The series was a gritty, violent, and darkly humorous crime drama that expanded the Batman universe in exciting ways. Farrell’s transformative performance as the Penguin was captivating, showcasing the character’s vulnerability and cunning in equal measure. With its atmospheric cinematography, compelling storylines, and morally ambiguous characters, The Penguin was a worthy addition to the Batman mythos.

6. The Bear

The heat was turned up in the kitchen as The Bear returned for a second season of intense culinary drama. This season followed Carmy and his team as they faced the daunting challenges of opening a new restaurant while dealing with their own personal demons. The show continued to explore themes of grief, family, and the pursuit of perfection, all within the high-pressure environment of a professional kitchen. The performances were once again outstanding, with Jeremy Allen White delivering a raw and vulnerable portrayal of Carmy.  The Bear masterfully captured the chaos and adrenaline of the culinary world, while also offering moments of humor and heartwarming connection.

7. Disclaimer

This psychological thriller, based on the novel by Renee Knight, featured a stellar cast led by Cate Blanchett and Sacha Baron Cohen. Blanchett gave a mesmerizing performance as Catherine Ravenscroft, a successful television journalist whose life is turned upside down when a mysterious manuscript appears on her bedside table. The manuscript, written by a widower played by Cohen, accuses Catherine of a dark secret from her past.  Disclaimer weaves a chilling tale of hidden secrets, manipulation, and revenge, exploring the dark side of truth and memory. With its atmospheric direction, haunting score, and powerful performances, Disclaimer was a gripping thriller that kept viewers guessing until the very end.

8. Only Murders in the Building

The true crime-obsessed trio returned to solve another murder in their Upper West Side apartment building, and this time, the stakes were higher than ever. Season three of Only Murders delivered the perfect blend of humor, mystery, and heartwarming friendships, with Meryl Streep joining the cast as a quirky and suspicious actress involved in the latest murder. The chemistry between Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez continued to be a highlight, and the series cleverly played with its own format, incorporating elements of Broadway theater into the mystery.  Only Murdersremained a delightful and entertaining watch, proving that it still has plenty of life left in it.

9. Shrinking

Jason Segel and Harrison Ford formed an unlikely but hilarious duo in this comedy about a therapist who starts breaking the rules and telling his patients exactly what he thinks. Segel starred as Jimmy, a grieving therapist who decides to abandon his traditional approach and start being brutally honest with his patients. Ford played Paul, a veteran therapist who serves as Jimmy’s mentor and voice of reason.  Shrinking tackled themes of grief, loss, and mental health with humor and heart, exploring the complexities of human relationships and the challenges of healing. The series was a refreshing take on the therapy genre, offering both laughs and poignant moments of self-discovery.

10. Fallout

Amazon brought the popular video game franchise to life with this post-apocalyptic series.  Fallout successfully captured the retro-futuristic aesthetic and dark humor of the games while exploring new stories and characters in the wasteland. The series followed a group of survivors as they navigated the dangers of post-nuclear America, encountering mutated creatures, raiders, and the remnants of pre-war society. With its impressive visual effects, engaging storylines, and faithful adaptation of the game’s lore, Fallout was a hit with fans and newcomers alike.

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This is just a small sampling of the amazing television that graced our screens in 2024. With so much variety and quality, it’s a great time to be a TV fan!