The Best TV Shows Of 2022
The streaming wars are in full force with a jam-packed slate of excellent television programming for the 2022 year. The Emmy nominations highlighted outstanding series like "Abbott Elementary," "Better Call Saul," "Stranger Things," "Hacks," and "Only Murders in the Building," which is only a small sampling of the exceptional television that has been released this year. With production back in full swing, viewers were gifted with an overwhelming amount of prime entertainment on every platform.
Decision paralysis is all too real and often leads audiences to spend more time looking for something to watch than actually enjoying these inspiring narratives. From evil eradicating priests and daring flight attendants to shady lawyers and legendary comedians, 2022 has a unique selection for everyone. We've taken the liberty to absorb these intriguing series and compile a list for you to peruse and enjoy.
This is only a small fraction of the many engrossing shows currently on air, with many more still to come. Be sure to check throughout 2022 for even more sublime television as it arrives.
Better Call Saul
One of the best returning series enters its final season and closes out the "Breaking Bad" universe for the time being. "Better Call Saul" chronicles the devastating downfall of Jimmy McGill (Emmy nominated actor Bob Odenkirk) and his tragic turn into criminal lawyer Saul Goodman. Season 6 picks up immediately where Season 5 left off with Jimmy and Kim Wexler (the recently, and very well deserved, Emmy nominated Rhea Seehorn) plotting a dastardly scheme to discredit fellow lawyer Howard Hamlin (Patrick Fabian) with irreversible results.
The final season delivers impeccable performances from "Breaking Bad" favorites Giancarlo Esposito (Gus Fring), Jonathan Banks (Mike Ehrmantraut), and Mark Margolis (Hector Salamanca). It also features the fatal interweaving of the cartel and lawyers Jimmy and Kim with jaw-dropping results. If you haven't sought out Jimmy's expertise, you "Better Call Saul" as soon as possible. Seasons 1 through 5 are available on Netflix and you can catch up on the final season on AMC+ or linear AMC with your cable subscription.
Hacks
The multi-Emmy nominated series returns for a hilarious 2nd Season on HBO Max. After a harrowing cliffhanger, Ava (Hannah Einbinder) is forced to deal with the fallout of the scathing email she sent about Deborah (Jean Smart) on a cross-country road trip full of laugh-out-loud adventures. Featuring an assortment of guest stars, including Laurie Metcalf, Ming-Na Wen, Martha Kelly, and Margaret Cho, Season 2 is as insightful, heartfelt, and witty as the original — maybe even better.
The 2nd Season follows Deborah finding her most authentic self while workshopping a semi-autobiographical new stand-up show. It also features more of the wacky misdoings of Jimmy (series co-creator Paul W. Downs) and his outlandish assistant Kayla (Megan Stalter) as they simultaneously manage Deborah while navigating the increasingly outdated representative agency. Seasons 1 and 2 are now available to stream on HBO Max, and thankfully The Hollywood Reporter has announced that the series will return for a third next summer.
Ms. Marvel
Marvel's newest Young Avenger explores passion, destiny, family, heritage, and what it means to be a hero in this dazzling new series on Disney+. Kamala Khan (Iman Vellani) shines in "Ms. Marvel" as a super fan turned superhero in this awe-inspiring debut. "Ms. Marvel" also tackles pertinent hard-hitting issues like racism, militarism, and even flashes back to memories of the Partition of India.
Marvel has been slowly seeding the Young Avengers with teases of Patriot (Elijah Richardson) in "The Falcon and The Winter Soldier," Kate Bishop (Hailee Steinfeld) "Hawkeye," twins Wiccan and Speed in "WandaVision," and Ironheart (Dominique Thorne) in "Black Panther: Wakanda Forever." Ms. Marvel is a glorious addition to this diverse team of young heroes and a promising sign of an anticipated team-up in the future. The entire first season is now streaming on Disney+, and though a second hasn't officially been announced, it seems very likely.
Atlanta
Season 3 of FX's Emmy-winning series "Atlanta" is the most subversive and experimental yet. The new season finds our crew in the streets of Paris on Paper Boi's (Brian Tyree Henry) long-awaited world tour. Earn (Donald Glover) is doing his best to ensure the tour is profitable, but sleazy venue managers and obsessive stage hands have other plans. Van (Zazie Beetz) also tags along in a soul-searching excursion while dealing with both an identity and an existential crisis (as one does in their 30s) by enlisting help from the whimsical and philosophical Darius (LaKeith Stanfield)
The newest season also features another stand-alone episode without any of the core cast members. The episode has a haunting nature and is reminiscent of the singular "Teddy Perkins" episode from Season 2. The black-and-white composition further sets it apart from other episodes this season and will leave viewers with many and much bigger questions. Seasons 1 through 3 of "Atlanta" are streaming on Hulu and the fourth and final season is set to premiere in September.
Stranger Things
"Stranger Things" finally returned in the cinematic blockbuster event of the summer with the epic two-part Season 4. The pop-culture event significantly impacted music charts (with Kate Bush's "Running Up That Hill" climbing to #1 globally) and even broke Netflix when Volume 2 aired. The series has simply never been bigger or better as it ramps up the stakes and sets up what will likely be an explosive final season.
The most recent season of "Stranger Things" sees Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) regaining her powers just in time to save Max (Sadie Sink) from Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower) in a heart-pounding battle of the minds. It also features the universally beloved Joseph Quinn as the irresistible dungeon master and guitar shredder Eddie Munson. Season 4 even revealed shocking details about the telekinetic super villain Vecna and his surprising connection to Eleven. Seasons 1 through 4 of "Stranger Things" is now streaming exclusively on Netflix where you can catch up or rewatch in preparation for the final season, where hopefully our biggest unanswered questions will be resolved.
Better Things
The final season of "Better Things" comes to a perfect conclusion embodying all the heartwarming themes of family and acceptance that the series' is most loved for. Pamela Adlon's direction comes to a stunning close in the series' final moments leaving viewers sad that it's over but entirely grateful for the unforgettable experience. The rousing musical number makes it impossible to mourn the end as the entire cast's joy is absolutely infectious.
Sam's (Pamela Adlon) contagious and uplifting spirit is one of the many elements that makes "Better Things" so wonderful. An impeccable cast, filled with talented young actresses like Mikey Madison, Hannah Alligood, and Olivia Edward, deftly handles the show's many emotional and comedic moments. Sam's mother, Phyllis (Celia Imrie), also remains as headstrong and cheeky as ever in a special sentimental episode taking place in her English hometown. If you haven't had the pleasure of watching "Better Things," the entire series is now streaming on Hulu.
The Flight Attendant
The Hitchcockian anthology series "The Flight Attendant" returns in an off-the-book bonkers new adventure for Cassie (Kaley Cuoco) and her friends. Season 2 finds Cassie in recovery and focusing on her sobriety while also continuing her work as a CIA informant. This puts unwanted attention on Cassie, whether she realizes it or not, which centers her in a conspiracy framing her for multiple murders. Cassie must work through her childhood trauma (including reconciling with her mother, guest star Sharon Stone) and trust in her friends Annie (Zosia Mamet), Max (Deniz Akdeniz), and CIA agent Shane (Griffin Matthews) to solve the mystery and clear her name.
Megan (Rosie Perez) also returns while on the run from both the U.S. as well as North Korea for her international espionage, and Perez shines in a scene-stealing role that matches Cuoco's multifaceted performance. Cassie must also confront a formidable new adversary making a bullish appearance post-sobriety: herself. The newest season of "The Flight Attendant" is currently streaming on HBO Max where you can take off on a binge-worthy adventure while we eagerly await a possible Season 3.
Loot
Maya Rudolph (as the on-the-up divorcee Molly Novak) shines in this gem of a series that delves into themes like wealth, awareness, and identity. After getting her heart broken by her ex-husband, tech guru John (Adam Scott), "Loot" sees billionaire Molly set off on a necessary mission of self-discovery with her newly found freedom. Molly begins working at one of her charitable foundations, where she finds real-world insight and friendship in a stellar cast featuring Michaela Jaé Rodriguez as charity manager Sofia, Ron Funches as the lovable fanboy Howard, Joel Kim Booster as her devoted assistant Nicholas, and Nat Faxon as her possible new love interest.
Rather than celebrate the inordinate amount of wealth Molly possesses, "Parks and Recreation" writers Matt Hubbard and Alan Yang (who previously teamed up with Rudolph on Amazon's "Forever") instead commemorate the leading lady and her side-splitting acting chops. You can catch up on "Loot" on AppleTV+.
The Umbrella Academy
The rambunctious super-powered family returns to avert yet another apocalyptic catastrophe. Season 3 of "The Umbrella Academy" is a wild ride featuring the addition of new cast member Javon Walton. The third season opens with The Umbrella Academy transported back to the present in their childhood home to find themselves in an entirely new timeline.
Because of the group's misadventures in Season 2, "The Umbrella Academy" now has entered a drastically altered the timeline and is living in a world where their adopted father, Sir Reginald Hargreeves (Colm Feore), instead chose seven other gifted children to call his own. This new team, now dubbed the Sparrow Academy, also features previously deceased Umbrella member Ben (Justin H. Min) in an aggravated new role.
With plenty of small details that call back to the original comic book source material and enough astonishing reveals to throw the most dedicated fans for a loop, Season 3 is easily the best one yet. While we await a possible Season 4, you can binge the previous seasons exclusively on Netflix.
Evil
"Evil" returns for its scariest and bloodiest installment yet in Season 3. After learning the shocking and grizzly details of Kristen's (Katja Herbers) violent axe slaughtering, the newest season of "Evil" ramps up the scares with an impressive new opening and an abundance of blood and expletives. The 1st Season was a bit milder to meet the network standards of CBS, while the 2nd Season was already similarly developed before moving solely to Paramount+. Now, the horror series relishes in its new freedom and unleashes a pandemonium of demons to haunt Kristen, David (Mike Coulter), and Ben (Aasif Mandvi).
The new season also explores the demonic origins of Kristen's daughter Lexis (Maddy Crocco) who came from a demon-infested fertility clinic via in vitro fertilization. Previously, Lexis chomped off a dentist's finger in a seemingly isolated incident, but now her malicious tendencies may be coming to the surface with the aid of Satan's little helper, Leland (Michael Emerson). If you're feeling brave, you can stream "Evil" on Paramount+ but be sure to leave a light on, and please, don't skip the opening credits or you will be haunted.
Abbott Elementary
Quinta Brunson has done the unimaginable in our current streamer dominated television landscape with "Abbott Elementary." The star of "A Black Lady Sketch Show" star recruited a fantastic cast to breathe new life into network TV while bringing much-needed attention to the struggling teachers of the American school system. The multi-Emmy nominated hit also stars an incredible array of talent, including Tyler James Williams, Lisa Ann Walter, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Janelle James, and Chris Perfetti.
The heartwarming series is chock full of laughs and authentically paints a realistic picture of the relationships children often share with their teachers. "Abbott Elementary" also captures special core moments with young students that make audiences remember just how essential and rare good teachers are. Thankfully, Deadline reports that ABC has already given "Abbott Elementary" a 22-episode Season 2 order that premieres September 21, and the series is also on Hulu where you can also catch up on Season 1.
Obi-Wan Kenobi
"Star Wars" fans have waited nearly 20 years for the chilling reunion of Ewan McGregor's Obi-Wan Kenobi and Hayden Christensen's Anakin Skywalker — who is now known as Darth Vader. The former master and padawan haven't shared a screen together since "Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith" in 2005, and the dueling duo do not disappoint. Lightsaber sparks scatter viciously as Lord Vader mercilessly hacks away at his old master in a terrifying battle that torches and chars Obi-Wan in a raging inferno.
Though the story takes a surprising and often inconsequential turn with the inclusion of a young Princess Leia (Vivien Lyra Blair), the extraordinary performances from Christensen and McGregor make "Obi-Wan Kenobi" an unmissable event. With harrowing flashbacks to Anakin's part in the infamous Order 66 (and the tragic backstory of Inquisitor Reva played by Moses Ingram), the series shines a new light on formative "Star Wars" events. The first season is now available on Disney+ while we anxiously await the announcement of a possible Season 2.
Duncanville
"Duncanville" unfortunately saw an early cancellation at Fox during Season 3 of Amy Poehler's joyful animated comedy series. Poehler pulls double duty voicing both Duncan and his mother Annie with often hilarious results. The especially average 15-year-old spends most of his days dreaming ludicrous fantasies, hanging out with his zany friends, or spending time with his loving family at home.
"Duncanville" also features Ty Burrell as Duncan's father Jack while Riki Lindhome and Joy Osmanski play his phone-obsessed and energetic sisters Kimberly and Jing. Luckily, Deadline reports that there are still six episodes of "Duncanville" set to air on Hulu later this year but for now, you can catch up on this fun-loving series to cool down on a hot summer day. Seasons 1 through 3 are currently available on Hulu where you'll find wacky adventures including an annual Witch Day celebration, a talking and diabolical smart refrigerator, and Annie's many parking meter misadventures.
The Bear
FX on Hulu premiered the surprise smash hit of the summer with "The Bear," starring Jeremy Allen White as the pristinely trained chef Carmy. The young cooking prodigy returns to his hometown in the wake of his brother's (Jon Bernthal) tragic death to take over his family's restaurant in Chicago. This spiritual sequel to "Shameless" is equally as chaotic and overflowing with expletives as it is rich with outstanding performances.
"The Bear" stars Ebon Moss-Bachrach as "cousin" Richie, Ayo Edebiri as sous chef Sydney, Lionel Boyce as pastry chef Marcus, and Liza Colón-Zayas as the experienced line cook Tina, all of whom make up Carmy's all-star kitchen crew. Upon his arrival, he employs a French brigade style in the kitchen to increase efficiency and professionalism. Sydney follows his lead and enlists an online Doordash-esque order scheme that throws the kitchen into a disastrous fury on its first day. This culminates in a stunning one-shot Episode 7 that you can experience now only on Hulu.
The series has already earned fans a speedy Season 2 renewal that will hopefully answer all our lingering questions.
Tuca & Bertie
The enduring optimism of "Tuca & Bertie" is a loving testament to the dedication of loyal fans and creator and animator Lisa Hanawalt's unique and emotional art style. The series began as a Netflix original before being canceled and rescued by Adult Swim for Season 2. Now, in Season 3, the quirky and wild series returns to Adult Swim while also expanding to stream the next day on HBO Max.
Thankfully, the series survived because it's one of the best animated series currently on air. "Tuca & Bertie" tackles severe issues like gentrification, anxiety, and toxic partners in manageable and often therapeutic ways. All of that credit is due to the astounding cast and crew behind this special series. Tuca is voiced by Tiffany Haddish, while Ali Wong chirps the meek (but healthily working on it and setting boundaries) Bertie with her architecture loving boyfriend Speckle, who is played by Steven Yeun.
These themes, alongside hilarious guest stars like Nicole Byer, Richard E. Grant, John Early, Tessa Thompson, and Sasheer Zamata, elevate "Tuca & Bertie" into a validating and healing viewing experience. You can stream Season 1 on Netflix while Seasons 2 and 3 are available on HBO Max.
Severance
What if you forgot your entire work life when you left the office but forgot your entire home life when you clocked into work the next day? That's the unsettling twist waiting for you in AppleTV+'s "Severance." It seems simple enough, but when you break it down and understand that this fragmentation of your brain creates another you, this futuristic corporate nightmare becomes a little too scary.
As if that weren't enough, Mark (Adam Scott) isn't even sure what exactly his work entails at the evasive Lumon corporation. After his senior leader is mysteriously "retired" by his terrifying boss Ms. Cobel (Patricia Arquette), Mark begins to investigate with his co-workers Dylan (Zach Cherry), Irving (John Turturro), and new hire Helly (Britt Lower). The invigorating rebellion is masterfully directed by Ben Stiller in uncanny extreme wide shots of pristine symmetry that send shivers down viewers' spines from the commanding perfection.
Season 1 ends on a mind-blowing cliffhanger that demands an immediate second season. You can experience this terrifying corporation by streaming "Severance" only on AppleTV+.
Everything's Trash
Phoebe Robinson (playing a loosely autobiographical version of herself) is fed up and trashes the systemic failures of recent years in her new Freeform series "Everything's Trash." Set in New York City, Phoebe portrays a fleshed-out iteration of herself in enviable fashion pieces — such as a vintage "Scream" shirt in the 1st Episode — while exudes self-confidence, ultimately painting a realistic depiction of life in your 30s unseen anywhere else. The culmination of these results in a highly entertaining and relatable series that embraces the fact that you don't, and truly can't, ever really have it all figured out.
Each episode rounds out with Phoebe reflecting on her experiences and processing them on her podcast with co-host Malika (Toccarra Cash). This self-reflexive style allows the title character to grow, develop and learn with each episode — the true harsh reality of your 30s. New episodes of "Everything's Trash" air on Freeform and stream the next day on Hulu.
Westworld
Have you ever questioned the nature of your reality? "Westworld" is back and better than ever with a stupefying Season 4. The futuristic new season remixes the 3rd Season with abundant nostalgic callbacks to the very 1st Season while adding a horrifying new brainwashing element. The fly has been used in countless cinematic entities ranging from "Breaking Bad" to "The Ring," but "Westworld" does something entirely different.
The human ex-soldier Caleb (Aaron Paul) teams up with Maeve (Thandie Newton) to destroy the tyrannical Halores (a hybrid of Charlotte Hale's skin with Dolores' pearl brain). The sometimes confounding nature of "Westworld" may seem complicated, but its audience has proven sophisticated enough to handle Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy's sprawling narratives wherever they go, especially with such a tremendously talented cast.
The newest season even features a return to the theme parks with the opening of Temperance, a new town showing off the Golden Age of the 1920s. However, the series has since been canceled and removed from the HBO Max streaming service.
American Horror Stories
The episodic horror anthology returns with a gripping new season brimming with urban legends, evil doll makers, and the flesh-eating undead. "American Horror Stories" will also feature more notable alumnus from the original "American Horror Story" series including Gabourey Sidibe (Queenie from "Coven" and "Hotel"), Cody Fern (Michael Langdon in "Apocalypse" and the park ranger from "Feral"), Max Greenfield (Gabriel in "Hotel"), and Denis O'Hare (Seasons 1, 3, 4, 5, 6, and 10) who stars in the 1st Episode. Other Ryan Murphy universe stars will also make their "American Horror Stories" debut with Judith Light ("American Crime Story: Versace") and Dominique Jackson ("Pose").
The first episode immediately possesses the audience with eerie dollhouse imagery and suspenseful competitions with deadly consequences. The "Freak Show" elements (a Twisty-colored clown outfit and toy carousel) lure viewers to expect a connection to the 4th Season, yet the witchy subversion will leave fans speechless. You can stream "American Horror Stories" through FX on Hulu — if you've got the guts.
Only Murders in the Building
The funniest whodunit to date returns for another hysterical season of murder, mayhem, and mystery. Starring Martin Short, Steve Martin, and Selena Gomez, the 2nd Season of "Only Murders in the Building" revolves around the brutal stabbing of hotel manager Bunny Folger (Jayne Houdyshell). The newest puzzle includes a fresh twist as this year's killer is attempting to frame our adored podcast hosts and investigators.
Guest stars Amy Schumer and Cara Delevingne add their name to the suspect list as our inquisitive trio discovers secret passageways throughout the grand Arconia and scandalous valuable portraits. Teddy (Nathan Lane) also makes a hair-raising return when he vows to exact revenge upon the central trio for exposing his criminality last season. The near perfect 2nd Season wowed audiences and critics alike even without the killer reveal. You still have plenty of time to catch up and hedge your bets while you stream on Hulu.
Bad Sisters
"Bad Sisters" is a riotous dark comedy that tackles grief and domestic abuse in a gripping and refreshing way. It also illustrates how far we're willing to go for family, especially when it comes to protecting those we love. With a side-splitting cast, "Bad Sisters" follows five sisters — Eva (Sarah Horgan, who also co-developed the show), Becka (Eve Hewson), Bibi (Sarah Greene), Grace (Anne-Marie Duff), and Ursula (Anne-Marie Duff). With dueling timelines, "Bad Sisters" unravels a darkly funny mystery when brother-in-law John Williams (Claes Bang) dies under suspicious and mysterious circumstances.
The series is highly regarded among critics, boasting a perfect 100% fresh score on Rotten Tomatoes, while The Independent raves that "the sharp, chummy world Horgan creates here would make a terrific binge session." "Bad Sisters" is a welcome addition to Apple TV+ and sits alongside other hits on the streaming platform such as "Ted Lasso" and the nail-biting drama "Severance."
The series balances humor and drama exceptionally as an easy watch and brims with tension throughout. Fans of "Big Little Lies" will feel right at home in this twisted comedic treasure that can be streamed on AppleTV+ now.
If you or someone you know is dealing with domestic abuse, you can call the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 1−800−799−7233. You can also find more information, resources, and support at their website.
House of the Dragon
After the mind-boggling and disappointing series finale of "Game of Thrones," fans felt a scorching burn so hot, it could've come from dragon fire. This gave way to a petition with viewers desperately hoping HBO would remake the final season as a deserved conclusion. Instead, viewers were taken back to the beginning of Westeros almost 300 years before the original series with "House of the Dragon."
Chronicling the conflicting Targaryen dynasty, this prequel aims to be bigger, better, and far more deadly than the original series. Through its unconventional pacing and excellent cast, it pays off while also helping cover years' worth of events from the original "Fire & Blood" book by acclaimed author George R.R. Martin. In "House of the Dragon," even knowledgeable book readers don't know what to expect as the series continually alters events based on witness accounts in the original source. This allows the show to consistently surprise viewers with plenty of disturbing moments exclusive to Westeros.
This was a staple of the original series, which added a shock factor to the layered story of castle intrigue, succession, and of course, enormous fire-breathing dragons. Unlike in "Game of Thrones," there are far more than three-winged beasts towering over Westeros this time around, making for an even more exciting return.
Barry
Bill Hader's hysterical depiction of the titular conflicted hitman is a surprising and energizing role for the gifted comedian. In "Barry," Hader flexes his comedic chops in a variety of memorable instances alongside Henry Winkler as his guiding light and acting coach, Gene Cousineau. Season 3 continues Barry's high stake journey to leave his violent past behind and pursue a burning passion for acting.
The HBO Emmy Award-winning series returns with possibly the most daring installment yet and features the highly anticipated and nail-biting face-off between the criminal underground and militarized law enforcement. In the midst of this is Hader's wide-eyed Barry witnessing the gory horror of it all and his undeniable part in it. His search for redemption in Season 3 is extremely fitting for the reluctant killer and a unique portrayal of Hollywood's mainstream assassin.
Fans of Hader's standout performances on "Saturday Night Live" will absolutely love Barry's bizarre misadventures. The multitalented actor even wears multiple hats throughout this production. In addition to starring in the series, Hader also shares a creator credit and writes and directs multiple episodes.
Derry Girls
After three outstanding seasons, viewers said goodbye to Derry and to Lisa McGee's cheerful Channel 4 comedy "Derry Girls" in 2022. With even more eccentric outings — including an accidental break-in, Spice Girls talent show performances, and a frightening train encounter — "Derry Girls" goes out with a tremendous bang.
Starring Saoirse-Monica Jackson (Erin), Louisa Harland (Orla), "Bridgerton" standout Nicola Coughlan (Clare), Jamie-Lee O'Donnell (Michelle), and Dylan Llewellyn (James) as the titular "Derry Girls," the series chronicles McGee's own experiences growing up in the Northern Ireland city. It also tackles political division as it incorporates the last years of the Troubles in the '90s (per The Guardian). This dark background coldly contrasts the warm and bubbly energy of the energetic and rebellious students, accompanied by an abundance of catchy '90s jams.
The bittersweet ending comes with a tragic loss for one of our beloved Derry Girls as they suddenly lose their father. This upsetting moment comes after an especially momentous evening for the main characters, which quickly undercuts the joyful night. The finale then flashes forward to conclude in a fitting and memorable fashion that fans can revisit (and all three seasons) on Netflix now.
Somebody Somewhere
Typically, when an actor tackles another genre of film or television, the experimental leap is often a glorious depiction of their range and talents. "Somebody Somewhere" does exactly that and gifts comedian Bridget Everett a dramatic role to shine in. You may know Everett from an abundance of Amy Schumer projects like "Inside Amy Schumer" and "Trainwreck," or even from Netflix's "Lady Dynamite." In "Somebody Somewhere," we see a more vulnerable side to Everett in the lead role of Sam.
The HBO series also recruits Jeff Hiller (who you might recognize from "American Horror Story: NYC" as Mr. Whitely) in the much more tender and emotional role of Joel. The two are kindred spirits and outcasts in the small midwestern town of Manhattan, Kansas, who find acceptance in each other following the tragic death of Sam's sister. "Somebody Somewhere" is also inspired by true events from Everett's life, who told Distractify, "Losing your voice, feeling like you're rudderless through life, giving up on yourself — those are all things that hit close to the bone."
Initially, Sam feels disconnected from her community before finding her voice — literally — as she begins singing with them again. This sets her on a path of healing and self-rediscovery that's instantly recognizable and empathetic for viewers dealing with life after the pandemic.
Reboot
Steven Levitan, one of the accomplished co-creators of the wildly successful Emmy Award-winning comedy "Modern Family," returns to the sitcom format with Hulu's "Reboot." Inspired by the controversial and short-lived "Roseanne" revival, he told KCRW how fascinated and consumed he was by the event: "To go away for 15 years and have your life, perhaps not turn out the way you thought it would, just seemed like a very ripe comedic situation filled with very eccentric characters, and I thought, 'That's such a good idea that someone's bound to do it.'" This led to "Reboot" with an all-star cast including Paul Reiser (Gordon), Judy Greer (Bree), Keegan-Michael Key (Reed), Johnny Knoxville (Clay), Calum Worthy (Zack), and Rachel Bloom (Hannah).
The self-reflexive themes and meta jokes reflect our real-world television landscape and fit the multi-cam sitcom formatting exceedingly well. Levitan is an exceptional leader for this distinctive narrative that results in an amusing and thoughtful series. "Reboot" interestingly follows both the character's off-screen journeys, as well as the trajectory of their on-screen roles in the revival of the fictional '00s show, "Step Right Up." This adds an interesting duality to "Reboot" that gives that reflexivity an extra insightful layer.
What We Do in the Shadows
Season 4 of "What We Do in the Shadows" delivers an unpredicted turn for Mark Proksch's character, Colin Robinson. The energy-sucking vampire undergoes a drastic transformation which reverts him back to a toddler. True to the goofy fashion of Jemaine Clement's subversive series, (who also helmed the 2014 film alongside Taika Waititi), Colin's adult head is mismatched onto a tiny body. This leaves the rest of the coven of vampires to care for Colin's new state, especially Matt Berry's Laszlo.
"What We Do in the Shadows" is no stranger to wild scenarios, though this may be the most outlandish yet. The series famously included a feud-ending duel with "Star Wars" icon Mark Hamill (as Jim the Vampire) in Season 2 and seamlessly utilizes a signature documentary style to highlight this enthusiastic bunch of oddballs. Season 4 brings even more laughs which fans and critics agree is near perfect from their Rotten Tomatoes ratings. In June 2022, per The Hollywood Reporter, a fifth and sixth season of the show has been confirmed. The first four seasons of "What We Do In The Shadows" is available on Hulu now.
Dark Winds
It's safe to say that AMC is knocking it out of the park with thrilling dramas and unforgettable series in 2022. Hot off the dramatic tail of "Better Call Saul," "Dark Winds" follows a disturbing murder case involving two victims. Produced by George R.R. Martin and Hollywood legend Robert Redford, the show depicts an unflinching and harrowing mystery set in the Southwest during the '70s. "Dark Winds" also brings to life Tony Hillerman's acclaimed Leaphorn and Chee book series, with Martin telling The Hollywood Reporter "it is our dream to adapt as many of them as we can."
While a second season is confirmed to premiere in 2023, Season 1 showcases the Navajo community with authentic and multifaceted representation through sharp-witted characters and a heartfelt close-knit society. "Dark Winds" is thoroughly electrifying with gorgeous landscapes and chilling revelations and also has a 100% fresh rating by critics on Rotten Tomatoes.
Heartstopper
This heartwarming series is a delightful adaptation of the best-selling and ground-breaking graphic novel. "Heartstopper" boasts a dazzling young cast including Kit Connor as Nick and Joe Locke as Charlie. As Season 1 of "Heartstopper" progresses, our hearts swell watching Nick and Charlie fall in love in an unexpected and uplifting romance.
It's also an incredible coming-of-age story with exceptional pacing and relevant themes engaging for viewers of all ages. The show earned multiple well-deserved Children's and Family Emmy nominations for its outstanding and authentic depiction of LGBTQ+ characters and also features veteran screen legends like Academy Award winner Oliva Colman (as Nick's mother, Sarah) who is confirmed to return for "Heartstopper" Season 2.
The emotional journeys both lead characters take in Season 1 are definitely heart-stopping on more than one occasion. It reflects many painful obstacles queer people too often face, such as the hurtful teasing Nick endures from his own teammates. Fans of other romantic Netflix series like "Sex Education" and "Young Royals" will thoroughly enjoy "Heartstopper" as a quick binge they can revisit time and again. Season 1 of "Heartstopper" is now streaming on Netflix.
The Legend of Vox Machina
Outrageous, wildly entertaining, and unconventionally deranged, this series truly has a little something for everyone. "The Legend of Vox Machina" is a bloody animated hit based on campaign one of the "Dungeons & Dragon" web series, "Critical Role." Amazon Prime conjures up another faithful series by adapting the Vox Machina campaign game and infuses multiple gut-busting moments into the mix.
With a lovable bunch of charming and diverse characters, "The Legend of Vox Machina" captures the fun intricacies of "Dungeons & Dragons" style role-playing games which has been enjoyed by both critics (an impressive Rotten Tomatoes score of 100% fresh) and audiences (who give it a solid 93%). "The Legend of Vox Machina" also has favorable reviews on Metacritic, with The AV Club also singing its praises: "The tight friendship of the Vox Machina group, combined with sharp animation, funny jokes, rich action, and raw, honest drama, will win over new fans and satisfy old ones. 'The Legend Of Vox Machina' is a critical hit."
The cast, which includes Marisha Ray, Liam O'Brien, and Travis Willingham, elevates the animated comedy by adding heart to the underestimated heroes. This even includes a reunion for "The Last of Us Part 2" stars, Laura Bailey (Abby) and Ashley Johnson (Ellie), as Vex'ahlia and Pike respectively. The entire first season is available now on Amazon Prime which fans can binge while they wait for Season 2, set for release in early 2023.
Reservation Dogs
When the first season of "Reservation Dogs" premiered on FX in 2021, fans and critics were treated to a revitalizing and unorthodox comedy series. By defying and dismantling harmful stereotypes, "Reservation Dogs" is an illuminating breath of fresh air. The series looks both inward at the struggles of young adults today and outward at their community in an authentic portrayal that centers on a group of Indigenous teenagers.
Co-created by Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi, the uproarious comedy enlists Devery Jacobs (Elora), D'Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai (Bear), Lane Factor (Cheese), Paulina Alexis (Willie), and Dallas Goldtooth in a gleeful scene-stealing role as Bear's guiding spirit. This ensemble's delivery and comedic timing are simply unmatched and make the series an unmissable watch. Critics and fans agree, giving "Reservation Dogs" a 100% score from critics and 89% from viewers on Rotten Tomatoes.
Season 2 picks up immediately where Season 1 left off and the aftermath of the tornado sets the season up on a somber and reflective note that keeps the series far away from anything resembling a sophomore slump. You can enjoy both seasons now only on Hulu before Season 3 premieres, which is expected to come in 2023, according to Deadline.
Harley Quinn
Harley Quinn (Kaley Cuoco) and Poison Ivy (Lake Bell) return for Season 3 of "Harley Quinn" — the funniest installment yet. The series incorporates, and lovingly pokes fun at, a wide variety of "Batman" characters including the Dark Knight himself (Diedrich Bader), Nightwing (Harvey Guillén), Batgirl (Briana Cuoco), and Commissioner James Gordon (Christopher Meloni). This also gives "Harley Quinn" an unparalleled ability to comment on the various snafus of the DC universe, such as Henry Cavill's disastrous mustache and Batman's arguably overly drawn-out relationship with Catwoman (Sanaa Lathan) depicted in 2022's "The Batman," with Robert Pattinson and Zoë Kravitz.
Season 3 naturally progresses Harley and Ivy's blossoming relationship and kicks off the newest batch of episodes on a stirring and priceless note. We open with the two canoodling in none other than Superman's Fortress of Solitude. From there, the series remarkably balances serialized storytelling with singular memorable episodic antics. This culminates in a jaw-dropping season finale that emphasizes Harley's deep love for Ivy that will continue in 2023 with "Harley Quinn: A Very Problematic Valentine's Day Special." You can catch up on this critically acclaimed and fan-celebratory series, per Rotten Tomatoes, exclusively on HBO Max.