The year 2023 has brought us an impressive array of TV shows that have kept audiences on the edge of their seats and left them eagerly waiting for more. From enthralling dramas to hilarious comedies, streaming platforms like Netflix, Disney+, Amazon Prime, and others have treated viewers to a diverse selection of high-quality content. As we reach the halfway point of the year, it’s an opportune moment to look back and celebrate the best TV shows that have graced our screens in 2023. These series have not only showcased exceptional storytelling but also featured stellar performances from talented actors, making them must-watch shows for any television enthusiast.
The Last of Us (2023)
Platform: HBO Max | Rating: TV-MA | Seasons: 1 Genre: Drama
Cast: Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey | Created by: Craig Mazin, Neil Druckmann
A Haunting Post-Apocalyptic Drama “The Last of Us” is a gripping video game adaptation that takes viewers on an emotional rollercoaster through a post-apocalyptic world. Starring Pedro Pascal as Joel and Bella Ramsey as Ellie, the show follows their harrowing journey to find a cure for the cordyceps outbreak that has ravaged humanity.
From the very first episode, it became evident that this adaptation would be a faithful addition to the post-apocalyptic genre. The series beautifully explores the bond that forms between Joel and Ellie, elevating it beyond a simple survival story. Despite the delay in the release of its second season due to the writers and actors strike, the first season offers enough re-watch value for fans of the zombie category.
Jury Duty (2023)
Platform: Prime Video| Rating: TV-MA | Seasons: 1 | Genre: Comedy
Cast: Ronald Gladden, James Marsden, Alan Barinholtz | Created by: Gene Stupnitsky, Lee Eisenberg
Amazon Freevee’s Ultimate Prank Program “Jury Duty” takes the concept of a prank show to new heights, thanks to its original and entertaining premise. Ronald Gladden, portrayed by Ronald Gladden, finds himself among a group of quirky peers as he serves on a jury, only to discover that he is the unwitting target of an elaborate prank. The show cleverly blurs the line between reality and fiction, with actors pretending to be fellow jurors, and James Marsden shines as the only character Gladden knows is an actor. “Jury Duty” is a laugh-out-loud comedy that surprises and delights at every turn.
The Consultant (2023)
Platform: Prime Video | Rating: TV-MA | Seasons: 1 | Genre: Comedy, Drama
Cast: Christoph Waltz, Nat Wolff, Brittany O’Grady | Created by: Tony Basgallop
Christoph Waltz’s Captivating TV Debut “The Consultant” marks the transition of Academy Award winner Christoph Waltz to the world of television, and he delivers a powerful performance in this Amazon Prime original series. Waltz plays a power-hungry and creepy consultant for a video game company who takes a keen interest in the daily operations of the employees following the murder of their previous boss. While the plot may veer off course at times, the show compensates with its genre mash-up of comedy and drama, and Waltz’s captivating screen presence keeps viewers engrossed in the unfolding mystery.
The Mandalorian (2019)
Platform: Disney+ | Rating: TV-14 | Seasons: 3 | Genre: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Action & Adventure, Drama
Cast: Pedro Pascal, Katee Sackhoff | Created by: Jon Favreau
A Captivating Star Wars Adventure “The Mandalorian” has emerged as a standout series in the Star Wars franchise, proving that television can deliver riveting stories set in a galaxy far, far away. Pedro Pascal portrays the titular character, a stoic and enigmatic bounty hunter who forms an endearing bond with a small creature known as Grogu. With its captivating storytelling and impressive visuals, “The Mandalorian” has become one of the biggest draws in streaming today. The anticipation for the third season, which will see the duo reunited after Grogu’s Jedi training, is at an all-time high.
Yellowjackets (2021)
Platform: Prime Video | Rating: TV-MA | Seasons: 2 | Genre: Drama, Mystery
Cast: Melanie Lynskey, Tawny Cypress, Christina Ricci | Created by: Bart Nickerson, Ashley Lyle
A Thrilling Drama with Parallel Timelines Inspired by shows like “Lost” and “Lord of the Flies,” “Yellowjackets” masterfully weaves a gripping drama with a unique parallel timeline structure. The Showtime series follows the lives of a girls’ soccer team in 1996, who crash-land in the mountains and are forced to rely on their resourcefulness to survive. Simultaneously, the show follows a few key members of the team in 2021, exploring the trauma and drama of their lives after the harrowing events in the wilderness. This seamless blending of two timelines results in a remarkable and thrilling viewing experience.
The Bear (2022)
Platform: Hulu | Rating: TV-MA | Seasons: 2 | Genre: Drama, Comedy
Cast: Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ayo Edebiri | Created by: Christopher Storer
FX’s Culinary Masterpiece Continues to Impress FX’s “The Bear” returns with another delectable season, serving up a compelling drama with a touch of comedy. Jeremy Allen White shines as Carmy Berzatto, the head chef of his brother’s sandwich shop. When Carmy decides to reinvent the dive with money left from his brother’s death, the lives of the cooks and employees are forever changed. “The Bear” continues to be a hot topic of conversation, and White’s remarkable performance elevates it to one of the most talked-about shows of the summer.
Succession (2018)
Platform: HBO Max | Rating: TV-MA | Seasons: 4 | Genre: Drama
Cast: Jeremy Strong, Kieran Culkin, Sarah Snook | Created by: Jesse Armstrong
A Triumph in Satirical Drama “Succession” has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase with its satirical analysis of an immensely wealthy family’s dynamics. Creator Jesse Armstrong’s decision to conclude the series after four seasons was surprising, but it ended on a triumphant note. The show’s richness in character development and literary material makes it a delight for both casual and in-depth viewers. “Succession” stands out as a rare combination of humor and thought-provoking moments, cementing its status as a modern classic.
Silo (2023)
Platform: Apple TV+ | Rating: TV-MA | Seasons: 1 | Genre: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama
Cast: Rebecca Ferguson, Common, Harriet Walter | Created by: Graham Yost
A Riveting Science Fiction Revelation Rebecca Ferguson delivers a standout performance in “Silo,” a captivating science fiction series available on Apple TV+. Set in a dystopian future, the series explores the facade of serenity within an underground sanctuary for survivors. As the characters’ perceptions are challenged, “Silo” enthralls sci-fi enthusiasts with its post-apocalyptic elements and intriguing character arcs.
BEEF (2023)
Platform: Netflix | Rating: TV-MA | Seasons: 1 | Genre: Comedy, Drama
Cast: Steven Yeun, Ali Wong, Joseph Lee | Created by: Lee Sung-jin
Comedy and Drama Collide in Road Rage In “BEEF,” Steven Yeun and Ali Wong create a mesmerizing series that delves into the complexities of road rage and its underlying themes. The show masterfully tackles issues like depression, anxiety, the impact of capitalism, and the pressures faced by Asian Americans in achieving success. Yeun and Wong deliver outstanding performances, making “BEEF” an enlightening and entertaining journey.
Lucky Hank (2023)
Platform: Prime Video | Rating: TV-14 | Seasons: 1 | Genre: Drama
Cast: Bob Odenkirk, Mireille Enos, Cedric Yarbrough | Created by: Aaron Zelman, Paul Lieberstein
Bob Odenkirk’s Hilarious Midlife Crisis Bob Odenkirk returns to the comedy scene after his iconic role in “Better Call Saul,” and he does not disappoint in “Lucky Hank.” Playing a professor experiencing a chaotic midlife crisis, Odenkirk’s comedic talents are on full display. The series strikes a perfect balance between Hank’s workplace and home life, providing a delightful and hilarious ride for viewers.