Lorin Williams December 17th, 2024 - 11:00 AM
2024 ushered in a TV year free of any industry-halting delays. No pandemic. No strike. But, ramifications from those cultural shifts and the bursting of the peak TV bubble found a new word to define the year: contraction. The need to save impacted what shows were greenlit and canceled as the TV business continued to morph.
Playing it safe, nostalgia remained king as studios, networks, and streamers relied heavily on established IPs or formats. While some found success (Apple TV’s Presumed Innocent, CBS’s Matlock, Elsbeth), others crashed and burned (Showtime’s Fatal Attraction, FOX’s Rescue: Hi-Surf). On the other side of the lens, massive consolidation erupted in layoffs and studio shuttering. The biggest: NBC selling its cable networks, a recent and still-active development that sets a new business precedent.
Despite the precarious status, folks still devoured a lot of television. Broadcast saw the resurgence of the sitcom, from CBS’ Poppa’s House to NBC’s Happy’s Place. And ABC continued to win Wednesdays with the ratings gem Abbott Elementary. HBO unleashed the second season of House of the Dragon but soared higher with the unexpected DC hit, The Penguin, and the third season of British import, Industry. Netflix’s Arcane and Prime Video’s Fallout proved a good future for video game adaptations. And FX made Emmy history with a modern take on Shogun, displaying the artistry in talent outside of the U.S. While we don’t know what 2025 will hold, let’s reflect on the best of the best in television from the eyes of mxdwn’s TV team.
Honorable Mentions
Mr. & Mrs. Smith
Mr. & Mrs. Smith on Prime Video reimagines the classic action-comedy with a fresh, modern edge — and it absolutely delivers. Starring Donald Glover and Maya Erskine, the series takes the classic premise of a married couple leading double lives as elite assassins and gives it a modern, adrenaline-packed twist. From the first episode, it hooks viewers with explosive action, sharp humor, and just enough emotional depth to keep one invested in the characters beyond the chaos.
Glover brings his signature charisma and intensity to the role, making his character both fearless and surprisingly relatable. The chemistry between the leads is electric, whether they’re dodging bullets or trying to navigate the ups and downs of married life. What really stands out is how the series balances its over-the-top spy antics with the more personal story of two people trying to figure out if they really know—and can trust—each other.
It’s fun, it’s fast-paced, and it’s impossible to stop watching. Mr. & Mrs. Smith isn’t just a reboot; it’s a fresh take on a classic that feels tailor-made for today’s audience. The show scored a well-deserved 91% on Rotten Tomatoes. With its mix of action, heart, and humor, it’s definitely an honorable mention in 2024’s top 10 shows.
The Umbrella Academy
Based on the Dark Horse comic series by My Chemical Romance lead singer Gerard Way, The Umbrella Academy follows a dysfunctional adopted family full of siblings born with superhuman abilities. Living separate lives, they are reunited by their adopted father’s passing and the upcoming apocalypse that’s right around the corner.
With its fourth and final season airing this year, The Umbrella Academy concluded with the super-powered siblings collaborating one more time to save the world.
The Umbrella Academy has captivated viewers with its amazing acting and comedy mixed with drama and action. The series also has an amazing tracklist of various musical choices that are sometimes used in hilarious dance sequences making the series a must-watch.
Throughout its four seasons, The Umbrella Academy has been nominated for 62 awards and has won 13. Its most recent nomination includes the 2025 Saturn’s Award nomination for Best Superhero Television Series.
The cast of the series includes Elliot Page (X-Men: Days of Future Past) as Viktor, Tom Hopper (Resident Evil: Welcome to Raccoon City) as Luther, David Castañeda (Poker Face) as Diego, Emmy Raver-Lampman (Central Park) as Allison, Robert Sheehan (Misfits) as Klaus and Aidan Gallagher (Nicky, Ricky) as Number five, the original set of six Hargreeves siblings. Other cast members include Justin H. Min (Beef), Ritu Arya (Barbie), Colm Feore (She Came Back), Nick Offerman (The Last of Us), Megan Mullally (The Great North), and David Cross (Arrested Development).
All seasons of The Umbrella Academy are available to stream on Netflix.
Happy’s Place
With the wild success of the sitcom Reba many moons ago, Reba McEntire (The Voice, Young Sheldon) returns with a brand new sitcom, Happy’s Place, which reunites her with Reba co-star Melissa Peterman (Baby Daddy, The Singing Bee) and executive producers Kevin Abbott (Malibu Country, Roseanne), Mindy Schultheis (Rita Rocks, Titus) and Michael Hanel (Why Women Kill, The Exes) in the best way possible.
Happy’s Place is a comedy set in a Tennesee bar of the same name that belongs to McEntire’s character, Bobbie’s, father. After his passing, she transitions from working there for 10 years behind the scenes to reopening the doors as the new owner—but with a twist. Her half-sister, Isabella played by Belissa Escobedo (Blue Beetle, Sex Appeal), who she has never met, comes into her life unexpectedly and is the new co-owner.
The series portrays the differences between the two sisters with a healthy balance of nostalgia, heartfelt moments, and being extremely funny. Isabella wants to modernize the bar and advocate for herself and her ideas, while Bobbie isn’t too accepting of that strategy as she is more fond of keeping things the way they are and the status quo. It becomes clear in later episodes that the dynamic between the two will be a learning curve.
Overall, Happy’s Place, released in October, is shaping up to be a promising title for NBC. The polar opposite nature of McEntire and Escobedo’s characters is portrayed beautifully, coupled with the realization of their new reality and all the new feelings that come with it. It is a perfect plot for these two actresses, with a significant age gap between one another and for a sitcom.
10. Fallout (Prime Video)
Based on the coveted video game franchise beloved by millions, Fallout was a breakout series this year. With amazing visuals, a gripping storyline, and twists and turns that kept the audience at the edge of their seats, Ella Purnell (Sweetpea, Arcane) did a spectacular job portraying Lucy, a woman living in 2296 who knows only the world of Vaults until she finds herself in a post-apocalyptic Earth know as the Wasteland to find her father.
Eight episodes long, Fallout combines many different attributes and creepy creatures from all the games, including Ghouls, radiated mutant humans, Brahmins, two-headed radiated mutant cows, and the blast-inspired drink Nuka-Cola, just to name a few.
It’s clear that great care and respect were incorporated to make this series as accurate as possible, and it shines. Every episode tells its own story; the first episode looks like something out of a nightmare and is incredibly realistic. Each story has its mix of humor, terror, and suspense. It shows how every person involved in the blast, either before or after, has an integral—albeit sometimes evil—part.
Bringing this game franchise to life was more than a good idea; every actor and actress brings a new, dynamic layer to the series. As the story of Fallout progresses with its many Easter eggs and loose ends, fans will no doubt get to see more onion layers of Cooper, also known as The Ghoul, played by Walton Goggins (Django Unchained, The Hateful Eight), and what lies before Lucy and his new life and adventures in New Vegas.
Season one of Fallout is available on Prime Video.
9. X-Men ’97 (Disney Plus)
2024 was filled with shows that proved animation is a worthy storytelling medium. None met that mark more than Marvel Animation’s X-Men ‘97. The sequel series to the iconic 90s iteration hit all the right places, finally bringing the beloved characters into the Marvel Cinematic Universe. Under former showrunner Beau DeMayo’s leadership, the show earned one of Marvel’s highest ratings on Rotten Tomatoes.
Viewers return to the X-Mansion as the team continues the fight for mutant-human diplomacy. In the wake of an unlikely alliance, a more sinister threat rises. Led by Cyclops, Jean Grey, Storm, Bishop, Morph, Beast, Jubilee, Rogue, Wolverine, and Gambit find themselves being humanity’s only hope.
Beyond the show’s rave reviews, the series resonated with many fans because of its universal messaging. Mutants were “woke” long before the letters “d,” “e,” and “i” were controversial. Their fight to exist shows how one’s otherness is a superpower. While season two remains in limbo, we can relish the spectacular introduction that paired the familiar with the new, delivering an authentic experience void of forced fan service or a quick cash grab.
Season one of X-Men ’97 is available exclusively on Disney Plus.
8. Abbott Elementary (ABC)
Abbott Elementary continues to charm audiences with its sharp humor, heartwarming moments, and star-studded guest appearances. Set in a predominantly Black public school in Philadelphia, the series follows a group of passionate teachers working tirelessly to uplift their students. Quinta Brunson (A Black Lady Sketch Show, iCarly), the series creator who plays optimistic second-grade teacher Janine Teagues, continues to showcase her talent, earning an Emmy for her work. The third season was a hit with both audiences and critics, maintaining strong ratings comparable to its previous seasons, with the show even being renewed for a fourth season. The season’s lineup of guest stars added further excitement, including Bradley Cooper’s (Sex and The City, Alias) surprise appearance as himself in a post-Oscars episode, along with the likes of Tatyana Ali (The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Living Single), Keegan-Michael Key (Wonka, Reboot), and Cree Summers (A Different World, Rugrats). These guest spots keep the show fresh while maintaining its core charm.
The season saw Janine struggle between her new position with the district and her love for Abbott. Meanwhile, other characters like Lisa Ann Walter’s (The Parent Trap, The Sarah Silverman Program) Melissa Schemmenti, and Chris Perfetti (Looking, The Sinner) as Jacob Hill experienced big changes at home, further adding to the complexity of their lives. Tyler James Williams’ (The United States vs. Billie Holiday, Everybody Hates Chris) Gregory Eddie continues to evolve as a first-grade teacher. His character, who has been navigating the complexities of his role while dealing with personal challenges, brings depth and humor, underscoring the importance of Black male educators. Also his friendship with Janine, potentially being a committed relationship, was left at a cliffhanger for viewers. Meanwhile, Janelle James (The Stand-Up Show with Katherine Ryan, Black Monday), portraying the ambitious and often over-the-top principal Ava Coleman, adds a unique dynamic to the series. Her character faced new challenges in leadership while maintaining her comedic flair.
With a blend of comedy, social commentary, and memorable performances, Abbott Elementary remains a standout in the television landscape.
All three seasons of Abbott Elementary are available to stream on Hulu and Max. Season four is currently airing on ABC.
7. Baby Reindeer (Netflix)
Baby Reindeer is easily one of the most haunting and impactful series of the year. Adapted from Richard Gadd’s award-winning play, the show takes you on a harrowing journey through his real-life experience of being stalked. But it’s more than just a story of fear—it’s an unflinching exploration of the emotional chaos that comes with being trapped in someone else’s obsession.
What sets Baby Reindeer apart is its refusal to sugarcoat anything. Gadd, playing himself, doesn’t just tell his story—he lays bare every layer of fear, guilt, and confusion he endured. The series takes on big questions about trauma and victimhood without flinching, showing how society often fails to address the very real dangers of stalking. It’s not just intense—it’s deeply human, reminding us that these aren’t just headlines; they’re someone’s reality.
Baby Reindeer scored six Emmy Awards, including acting wins for leads Gadd and Jessica Gunning. It is available to watch on Netflix.
6. Industry (Max)
Our interns were all grown up in the third season of Max’s grossly underrated series. With the sunsetting of Succession, our Pierpoint coworkers rose to the challenge and delivered a powerhouse season. Originally airing on Monday, the series received a ratings boost premiering Sunday, August 11, sharing space with HBO’s bum-legged gangster.
Created by Konrad Kay and Mickey Down, the series follows the greed and ambition of a finance and investment banking company across the pond. While the first two seasons explored the toxicity of this work on a micro level, season three opened the floodgates to the power generational and institutional wealth wields at a macro level. Through eight episodes, we see the dangers our players risk in pursuit of a win; whether on the trading floor or in their personal lives.
Down and Kay flexed their pens, producing some of the tensest moments this year while its cast – anchored by Marisa Abela and Myha’la – stormed toward what felt like a series finale. Luckily, season four is already in the works, and so should those Emmy speeches.
All three seasons of Industry are available to stream on Max.
5. Agatha All Along (Disney Plus)
Agatha All Along is a mystical drama series and sequel to Wandavision that follows the journey of Kathryn Hahn (Bad Mom), returning as the titled witch, and Billy Maximoff (Joe Locke, Heartstopper). The duo assembles a coven consisting of Lilia played by Patti LuPone (Steven Universe), Jennifer played by Sasheer Zamata (Saturday Night Live) and Alice, played by Ali Ahn (Liberal Arts) to adventure down the Witches’ Road in pursuit of a great power. The series also starred Aubrey Plaza (Dirty Grandpa) as Rio, the original green witch.
The series differs from the regular Marvel format as the premise is less action-packed and more character-driven, as shown in the different trials the group completes, each representing each of them. The phenomenal writing, exceptional cast performances, and well-crafted setting and costume designs brought the magic to the series.
The entirety of Agatha All Along is available to stream on Disney +.
4. The Bear (Hulu)
Season three of The Bear centers around Carmy, played by Jeremy Allen White (Shameless, The Iron Claw), and the opening of his restaurant. The series stars White, Abby Elliot (How I Met Your Mother, No Strings Attached) as Sugar, Ayo Edibri (Bottoms, Abbott Elementary) as Sydney, Ebon Moss-Bachrach (Hold Your Breath, No Hard Feelings) as Richie, Edwin Lee Gibson (She Taught Love, UnPrisoned) as Ebraheim, Liza Colon-Zayas (Allswell in New York, IF) as Tina, Lionel Boyce (Looter Squad, The Jellies) as Marcus, Molly Gordon (You People, Booksmart) as Claire, and Matty Matheson (Cookin’ Somethin’, It’s Suppertime!) as Neil Fak. The actors excelled in their portrayals and their chemistry on screen felt as if they were an actual found family within the culinary world.
Fans loved seeing their favorite characters return on screen and seeing their dynamic inside the restaurant that was being built during season two. The series has a fantastic portrayal of anxiety and grief that resonates with many audiences such as Sydney’s decision to stay at The Bear or pursue another restaurant. The show also touches on character dynamics such as Sugar and her abusive mother Donna, played by Jamie Lee Curtis (Freaky Friday, Christmas with the Kranks), who come to a deeper understanding of each other when Sugar gives birth after their conflicts in season two. The comedy series won 11 Emmys during the 2024 Primetime Emmys Awards out of 23 nominations.
A standout episode follows Tina and how she landed her job at The Beef. Directed by Edibiri, the episode titled “Napkins”, is one of the reasons why the season stood out: it gave insight into Tina’s relationship with Mikey, Carmy’s deceased brother, played by Jon Bernthal (The Walking Dead, The Punisher), Audiences can see Mikey as kind and warm at times. Tina is seen as hardworking and considerate, only working to provide for her son. But as time progressed, her character actually cared about the people she worked with.
All three seasons of The Bear are available to stream on Hulu.
3. Arcane (Netflix)
Arcane stands out as a groundbreaking series that redefines the possibilities of animation. Blending stunning visuals with an emotionally charged narrative, the Netflix show adapts the lore of League of Legends into a richly woven tale of power, class struggle, and family bonds. Its breathtaking art style, which combines painterly textures with dynamic animation, creates a visual masterpiece that immerses viewers in the steampunk-inspired world of Piltover and the shadowy depths of Zaun. Each character is deeply complex, with heroes and villains crafted in shades of gray, making their journeys authentic and resonant.
The series also excels in its storytelling, with layered themes that appeal to gamers and newcomers alike. The voice acting and musical score elevate the experience, adding depth to moments of triumph and tragedy. Arcane’s critical acclaim and passionate fanbase underscore its impact as more than just an adaptation—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Whether you’re drawn by its visual splendor or the emotional depth of its characters, Arcane firmly deserves to earn a spot as one of the top shows of 2024.
Both seasons of Arcane are available on Netflix.
2. The Penguin (HBO)
The Penguin is one of the most-watched HBO series of the year. Although it has only one season, that hasn’t stopped the series from breaking records and earning award nominations.
Following the events that unfolded in The Batman movie released back in 2022, Oz Cobb aka The Penguin, portrayed by Colin Farrell (The Banshees of Inisherin, The Gentlemen), tries to become the most feared gangster in Gotham. The recurring characters are Victor Aguilar, portrayed by Rhenzy Feliz (Casual, Teen Wolf), Sofia Falcone, portrayed by Cristin Milioti (How I Met Your Mother, The Sopranos), Alberto Falcone, portrayed by Michael Zegen (The Walking Dead, Boardwalk Empire) and many others.
The first season is exhilarating, intense, and filled with plot twists, keeping the viewer glued to their seats, and eager to see what happens next. The acting performances from Farrell and Milioti are phenomenal, making this show worth watching.
The first season of The Penguin is available on Max.
1. Shogun (FX)
Shogun, starring Emmy-winning actor and producer Hiroyuki Sanada (47 Ronin), surprised fans this year with the premiere of its first season. Bringing home 14 trophies at the Creative Arts Emmys, the series would break the record of Emmys earned for a single television season with 18. Hulu’s historical drama continued ranking earning critical acclaim with six Television Critic Choice Awards nominations. The nominations consisted of Best Actor in a Drama Series, Best Supporting Actress in a Drama Series, Best Actress in a Drama Series, Best Drama Series, Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series, and Best Supporting Actor in a Drama Series.
Shogun follows the journey of two ambitious men from two different worlds: John Blackthorne, an English sailor played by Cosmo Jarvis, who becomes shipwrecked in Japan, where the unfamiliar culture redefines him, and Lord Toranaga, played by Hiroyuki, a powerful daimyo at odds with his dangerous political rivals.
From the production quality to the interesting characters and plots, the series does an amazing job of developing Western and Japanese characters. From facing day-to-day moral dilemmas to navigating through different political schemes, characters become relatable regardless of language and customs. Shogun has captivated viewers worldwide and is a must-see.
The series has various stars including Anna Sawai (Ninja Assassin), Tadanobu Asano (Battleship), Yuki Kedoin (The Naked Director), Akiko Kobayashi (Galaxy Angel Rune), Takehiro Hira (Gran Turismo), and many others.
Shogun is available to stream on Hulu.
