The year 2026 has been a treasure trove for television enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of shows that have captivated audiences worldwide. From gripping dramas to clever comedies, and even meta meta-commentaries, the small screen has proven to be a powerful medium for storytelling. Here's a look at some of the standout shows that have made waves so far, each offering a unique perspective and a fresh take on the art of television.
Industry: The Evolution of Ambition
The BBC/HBO drama Industry has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception in 2020. What started as a tight, claustrophobic drama about London graduates in the banking industry has evolved into a broader exploration of power, media, and politics. The show's ambition is commendable, but it's the writing and performances that truly shine. Myha'la and Marisa Abela's portrayal of frenemies Harper and Yasmin is a chilling magnetism, while Kit Harington's Sir Henry Muck is a mentally broken, failed politician-cum-entrepreneur. The final season is a fitting conclusion, and it's about time this show gets the awards attention it deserves.
How to Get to Heaven from Belfast: A Comedy-Mystery Road Trip
Lisa McGee's How to Get to Heaven from Belfast is a thoroughly winning romp that blends comedy, mystery, and a road trip across Ireland. The story follows three late-thirty-something heroines: Robyn, a polished but harried mother of three; Saoirse, a successful TV writer engaged to the wrong man; and Dara, a carer for her mother and still mourning a broken romance. The series explores their relationships and the tensions that arise, all while delivering fast-paced, cliff-hanging episodes filled with droll dialogue, wacky humor, and action. McGee's unique voice shines through, making this show a delightful and engaging watch.
The Beauty: A Satirical Satire on Vanity
Ryan Murphy's The Beauty is a body horror satire that takes on the vanity-driven age. Based on a comic book, it tells the story of a wonder drug that causes people to be reborn as a more physically attractive version of themselves, with the unfortunate side effect of potential explosions. The show is not subtle in its messaging, but that's part of its charm. With a stellar cast including Evan Peters, Rebecca Hall, Ashton Kutcher, and Isabella Rossellini, it carries viewers through its 10 episodes with brio, humor, and game performances. The cliffhanger ending suggests a second season, and it's a welcome addition to the small screen.
The Night Manager: A Thrilling Espionage Drama
The Night Manager is a thrilling espionage drama that has earned its reputation as one of the best series in the genre. Tom Hiddleston's portrayal of Jonathan Pine, an MI5 agent, is both tightly wound and endlessly charming. The show builds upon the plot of John le Carré's novel, creating a new story involving gun-running and political intrigue. Diego Calva's performance as the arms dealer Teddy Dos Santos is magnetic and star-making. The series is a perfect blend of danger, tension, and glamour, making it a must-watch for fans of spy stories.
Lord of the Flies: A Chilling Inquiry into Human Nature
Jack Thorne's adaptation of William Golding's Lord of the Flies is a triumph. The show presents each episode from a different character's point of view, giving it an immersive quality. The period setting is retained, but the storytelling is fresh and innovative. The cast, including David McKenna as the doomed Piggy, is expertly chosen, and the visuals and score add to the tense and chilling atmosphere. This adaptation is both a thrilling thriller and a thought-provoking exploration of the dark side of human nature.
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms: A Light-Hearted Game of Thrones Prequel
A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms is a lively standalone series that takes place in the familiar world of George RR Martin's Game of Thrones. The show introduces the impoverished Ser Duncan and his clever sidekick, Egg, offering a refreshing take on the franchise. The characters are the highlight, with Daniel Ings' high-spirited Ser Lyonel Baratheon standing out. The series is a treat for fans, providing a lighter and more accessible entry point into the complex world of Game of Thrones.
The Comeback: A Mockumentary with a Melancholy Edge
Lisa Kudrow's The Comeback is a mockumentary that has evolved over the years. The show follows Valerie Cherish, a sitcom actress desperate to stay relevant. The third run takes on Hollywood's AI crisis, with Valerie signing up to appear in a new multi-camera comedy written by machine. The series is sharply satirical, with a poignant and searching undertow of melancholy. It's a sophisticated piece of work that remains laugh-out-loud hilarious, thanks to its perfect plot turns and engaging performances.
Rooster: A Heartfelt Sitcom with a Messy Hero
Steve Carell and Bill Lawrence's Rooster is a smart sitcom that avoids the pitfalls of saccharine or fake humor. The premise is improbable, but Carell's performance as Greg Russo, a writer hired to teach at a college, is a triumph. The ensemble cast, including Danielle Deadwyler and Phil Dunster, adds to the show's charm. The feel is breezy and low-key, making it a refreshing addition to the landscape of intense dramas and strained sitcoms.
Bait: A Meta-Commentary on Representation
Riz Ahmed's Bait is a meta-commentary on the issue of representation in the film industry. The show follows Shah Latif, a down-on-his-luck actor, as he auditions for the role of James Bond. The meta-narrative explores the media circus that ensues, with attacks from those who believe Bond should remain a white man and Muslim peers who think he's selling out. The show is a penetrating industry satire, a delightful family comedy, and an involving psycho-drama, all topped off with surrealist elements and Patrick Stewart's disembodied pig's head.
The Pitt: A Compelling Medical Drama
The Pitt is a compelling medical series that focuses on a single 15-hour shift at a Pittsburgh trauma centre. Noah Wyle's performance as Dr Robby is intense and empathetic, capturing the life-or-death stakes and personal stories of the staff. The show's humane tone extends to the patients, who are treated briefly but emerge as vivid characters. The latest season sees Robby on edge, dealing with the stress of treating patients who can't always be saved. The series is a throwback to older episodic television, but it resonates as a modern portrait of the medical profession's challenges.
