In the wake of Hollywood’s tumultuous Hot Strike Summer in 2023, where picket lines halted production across the industry, 2024 promises to be a year of exceptional television. Despite the setbacks, the small screen is gearing up for an exciting lineup of both new and returning shows that will captivate audiences. From spinoffs to crime-thrillers and royal dramas, here are 15 shows that are set to make 2024 a remarkable year for television enthusiasts.
Oz Cobblepot Takes Gotham by Storm in “The Penguin”
Colin Farrell’s riveting performance as the villainous Oz Cobblepot, aka Penguin, in Matt Reeves’ “The Batman” has earned him a spinoff series. In this eight-episode limited series, viewers will witness Cobblepot’s violent ascent to the top of Gotham City’s underworld over the span of just one week.
“Echo”: A Hawkeye Spinoff with a Difference
Marvel’s television universe expands with “Echo,” a Hawkeye spinoff that delves into the origin story of Maya Lopez. Portrayed by Alaqua Cox, Echo’s journey will unravel the character’s past, reconnecting her to her Native American heritage. With Vincent D’Onofrio reprising his role as Kingpin and Charlie Cox returning as Daredevil, “Echo” promises to be a unique addition to the Marvel lineup.
“True Detective: Night Country”: A Return to Creepy Roots
True Detective returns with its fourth season, titled “Night Country,” signaling a departure from previous seasons. Jodie Foster and Kali Reis lead the cast as detectives investigating the mysterious disappearance of a group of men in an Alaskan research station. Early footage suggests a return to the eerie and strange, reminiscent of the series’ acclaimed first season.
Mandy Patinkin Stars in “Death and Other Details”
Mandy Patinkin takes on the role of Rufus Cotesworth, the world’s greatest detective, in “Death and Other Details.” Trapped on a luxury ocean liner with potential murderers among the world’s elite, Cotesworth and his sidekick embark on a mission to uncover the truth in this suspenseful limited series.
Nicole Kidman in “Expats”: A Hong Kong Love Story
Nicole Kidman makes her mark in “Expats,” a Prime series based on Janice Y. K. Lee’s bestselling novel. Kidman stars as Margaret, part of a close-knit group of expatriates living and loving in Hong Kong. Will this series be the redemption for Kidman’s recent small-screen endeavors?
“Masters of the Air”: Tom Hanks, Spielberg, and Goetzman Return to WWII
More than a decade after “The Pacific,” Tom Hanks, Steven Spielberg, and Gary Goetzman present “Masters of the Air,” the third miniseries in their WWII trilogy. Following the 100th Bomb Group, the series explores their harrowing combat missions, earning them the nickname the “Bloody Hundredth.”
“Avatar: The Last Airbender”: A Redemption Tale
Netflix aims to redeem the critical misstep of M. Night Shyamalan’s 2010 adaptation with a live-action series of “Avatar: The Last Airbender.” The series follows Aang, the last living Airbender, as he battles evildoers seeking to harness his unique abilities to bend all four elements.
Helena Bonham Carter Shines in “Nolly”
Helena Bonham Carter captivates as Noele “Nolly” Gordon in “Nolly,” a three-part limited series created by Russell T. Davies. Set 40 years ago, the series offers a campy look at Nolly’s sudden fall from grace and her determination to remain relevant in the cutthroat world of show business.
“3 Body Problem”: Benioff and Weiss’s Dive into Astrophysics
“Game of Thrones” creators David Benioff and D. B. Weiss venture into astrophysics with “3 Body Problem.” Adapted from Liu Cixin’s award-winning novel, the series explores the consequences of a 1960s astrophysicist’s decisions on modern-day scientists, threatening the future of humanity.
Cate Blanchett Stars in Alfonso Cuarón’s “Disclaimer”
Featuring an ensemble cast including Cate Blanchett, Kevin Kline, Sacha Baron Cohen, Lesley Manville, and Kodi Smit-McPhee, “Disclaimer” adapts Renée Knight’s novel. Directed and written by Alfonso Cuarón, the series follows a television journalist whose deepest secret is on the brink of revelation in a new book.
“The Acolyte”: A Crime-Thriller in the Star Wars Universe
“The Acolyte” promises a unique perspective in the Star Wars universe, with former Padawan Amandla Stenberg teaming up with Jedi Master Lee Jung-jae to investigate a series of mysterious crimes. This crime-thriller departure offers a fresh take on the beloved franchise.
Julianne Moore Stars in “Mary & George”: A 17th Century Royal Drama
Julianne Moore takes center stage in “Mary & George,” recounting the wild antics of Mary Villiers, Countess of Buckingham. The series follows Mary’s calculated maneuvers to gain favor with the royal family, including encouraging her son, George, to seduce King James VI of Scotland and I of England.
“The Regime”: Succession’s Successors
For fans lamenting the end of “Succession,” “The Regime” might provide solace. Starring Kate Winslet as the chancellor of an oligarchy facing its final moments of power, the limited series promises the same jet-black humor that defined its predecessor.
“Rivals”: Jilly Cooper’s Thrilling Adaptation
Adapted from Jilly Cooper’s Rutshire Chronicles, “Rivals” explores the rivalry between Rupert Campbell-Black (Alex Hassell) and Tony Baddingham (David Tennant). The series delves into their lavish neighbourhood, where the rivalry threatens both careers and reputations.
“The Sympathizer”: Robert Downey Jr. in Multiple Roles
Robert Downey Jr. takes on multiple roles in “The Sympathizer,” a spy thriller/satire based on Viet Thanh Nguyen’s Pulitzer Prize–winning novel. Co-showrunners Park Chan-wook and Don McKellar bring to life the challenges faced by a French-Vietnamese communist spy in the final days of the Vietnam War.
As 2024 unfolds, television enthusiasts can look forward to a diverse and captivating array of shows that promise to redefine the small screen. From crime thrillers to historical dramas, this year’s line up ensures there’s something for everyone to enjoy. So, grab your popcorn and get ready for a year of unforgettable television moments.
