After diving into the vastness of television and streaming this past year, it’s very apparent that 2024 brought plenty of fun content to the table — from sleek, accolade-worthy genre stories, to off-the-wall, campy chaos, there’s a little something for everyone. With that being said, here’s our all-inclusive selection of titles that managed to rise above the rest.

The Penguin

The Penguin, a spin-off from the acclaimed Batman universe, dives deep into the gritty underworld of Gotham City. Starring Colin Farrell as Oswald Cobblepot, the series traces his rise from a small-time crook to the feared crime lord known as the Penguin – and of course, the now infamous Sofia Gigante played by Cristin Milioti. Through its dark tone, intricate plot, and stellar performances, The Penguin offers a fresh perspective on one of DC's most iconic villains. More importantly, the show's exploration of power, corruption, and ambition provides a captivating narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats from start to finish.

Hysteria!

Hysteria! is a riveting horror/comedy series from Peacock that delves into the dark (and quirky) side of the human psyche. Set in a small town plagued by a mysterious outbreak of mass hysteria in relation to the ‘Satanic Panic,’ the show masterfully satisfies each of its genre inclusions. Having developed a strong narrative, compelling characters, and a lightly spooky atmosphere, Hysteria! has captivated audiences and critics alike, making it one of the standout series of 2024.

Mr. & Mrs. Smith

A reimagining of the classic spy comedy, Mr. & Mrs. Smith stars Donald Glover and Maya Erskine as a married couple who are secretly elite assassins. The series combines action, humor, and romance, creating a dynamic and entertaining storyline that suropsignly exceeds the potential of the popular film. With Glover's creative vision and the chemistry between the leads, Mr. & Mrs. Smith delivers a compelling new take on the original premise, making it one of the must-watch shows of 2024. The blend of witty dialogue, thrilling action sequences, and complex character relationships ensures that the series stands out in a crowded space.

Echo

Echo continues the story of Maya Lopez, first introduced in the Marvel series Hawkeye. Portrayed by Alaqua Cox, Maya navigates her complex identity as a deaf Native American superhero with ties to both heroic and criminal worlds. Throughout its limited and impactful run, the series boldly delves into her past, exploring her connections to the Kingpin and her journey toward redemption – offering one of Marvel’s less-prominent characters the spotlight they’ve deserved.

Orphan Black Echoes

While the series was released in Austraila in 2023, the rest of us didn’t get to witness the sci-fi appeal of Orphan Black Echoes until 2024. And this time around, the Orphan Black title brings a bold, original chapter to the beloved universe, introducing new clones and a host of thrilling mysteries. With a mix of returning and new characters, the show explores the ethical implications of human cloning in a world where biotechnology has advanced at a rapid pace. The series maintains the high-stakes drama and emotional depth that fans loved about the original, while introducing new plot twists and complex character dynamics. It's a worthy continuation that keeps the Orphan Black universe alive and kicking. And honestly, we deserve a second season regardless of its current status.

Shōgun

Shōgun brings James Clavell's epic novel to life with breathtaking visuals and a gripping narrative. Set in feudal Japan, the series follows the adventures of John Blackthorne, an English navigator shipwrecked on the Japanese coast. The show's meticulous attention to historical detail, stunning cinematography, and praiseworthy performances make Shōgun a standout historical drama. The intricate political and cultural dynamics explored in the series provide a rich and immersive viewing experience, masterfully transporting audiences to a fascinating period of Japanese history.

True Detective: Night Country

After experiencing a lengthy pause in the anthology series, its third season, titled True Detective: Night Country, continues the tradition of the contained series with a new, gripping tale set in the dark and eerie landscapes of Alaska. The season follows two detectives, played by Jodie Foster and Kali Reis, as they investigate a series of mysterious disappearances in a remote town. With its atmospheric setting, well-paced mysteries, and intricate storytelling, Night Country delivers the same intense and thought-provoking drama that fans have come to expect from the franchise.

The Acolyte

The Acolyte, a highly-underrated entry in the Star Wars saga, delves into the dark side of the Force during the final days of the High Republic era. The series follows a former Padawan who investigates a series of sinister events, uncovering secrets about the Sith and their rising power. During this exploration of rich lore, stunning special effects, and captivating new avenues ripe for exploration, The Acolyte offers audiences a unique perspective on the Star Wars universe. Furthermore, the show's blend of action, mystery, and political intrigue has made it a true gem in the Star Wars arsenal.

Them: The Scare

Them: The Scare is the latest installment in the Them anthology series, known for its chilling stories that tackle social issues through the gripping lens of horror. Set in a haunted rural town, this season explores themes of fear, racism, and trauma – delicately blening supernatural horror with real-world issues to forge a thought-provoking and terrifying viewing experience. While the first season was strong, Them: The Scare raises the bar with its powerful performances, atmospheric storytelling, and its unflinching look at the horrors of both the supernatural and the societal.

Knuckles

Knuckles, a spin-off from the Sonic the Hedgehog movie series, follows the adventures of the tough and loyal echidna warrior. Voiced by Idris Elba, Knuckles embarks on a quest to protect the Master Emerald and uncover his mysterious past. The series is easygoing and not overly plot-heavy, combining high-energy action, humor, and heart, making it a hit with both kids and adults. Knuckles' strong character development and engaging storyline ensure it is a worthy addition to the Sonic universe, offering fans more of the fast-paced fun they love.

The 10 Best TV Shows of 2024