It’s that time of year when we think back on all the incredible films and television we’ve watched this past year. Most year-end Top 10 Lists focus only on new releases. However, I think there were a lot of GREAT Shows that deserve a list. While I will never claim to have seen every single new show, I watch A LOT. This is why I will have three Favorites Lists for you: New Series, Returning Series, Canceled/Finished Broadcast Series!
So, let’s talk about my TOP 10 Returning Showing of 2023!
HONORABLE MENTIONS
There are a few shows that have gone the distance, and I think deserve to be called out. While they are far from perfect, they still entertain. First, Netflix’s YOU introduced us to serial killer Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley). While season 4 overall wasn’t my favorite, I think Part 1 is worth making it to my list.
Joe has gone overseas and we see him comfortable and creating his new life. However, someone out there in Joe’s new universe knows his true identity! I loved watching the table get turned onto Joe as he tries to figure out who this new version of “you” is, while also trying to save his own skin. The cat-and-mouse throughout all of part 1 of season 4 had me sitting on the edge of my seat the entire way through. Part 2, however…I like to pretend doesn’t exist.
Next, I have to talk about Shondaland’s Station 19 and Grey’s Anatomy. Station 19 will only have one more season before saying goodbye. However, it’s worth watching from beginning to end. You will fall in love with all of the characters and storylines. Even when the series gets a little preachy, it does so in a digestible way.
Grey’s Anatomy is heading into its 20th season and I have been here from the beginning. The show has had its ups and downs, there are only 2 original cast members left, but they have found the magic again. This new batch of interns is actually likable and I’m invested in my characters again. If you’ve never seen the show, I highly recommend a watch.
10. Happy Valley Season 3
I found this show while dog-sitting at a friend’s house. Don’t let the title fool you; Happy Valley is far from happy. The British series took seven years to bring fans its final season. I’m so glad I didn’t have to wait that long. Happy Valley follows Police Sergeant Catherine Cawood played by the incredible Sarah Lancashire (Julia). Catherine’s daughter took her own life after giving birth to her son. She firmly believes that Tommy Lee Royce, father, and rapist, to be responsible. Now, Tommy is out of jail, a high-profile child is missing, and Cathrine is trying to find her while also seeking justice for her daughter as well as herself. This series is dark, but it’s so, so, so good! You can watch the series streaming on AMC+!
9. Quantum Leap Season 2
I have wanted Quantum Leap to be rebooted for ages. I even created my own story for how they could make it happen. Does NBC’s reboot of the series follow my plan? No. However, it’s still great! I love the new characters, with season 2 the storyline has become less predictable, and I cannot wait to see where they’re going. Now, the ultimate question is will Ben Song (Raymond Lee) ever run into Sam Beckett (Scott Bakula)? Only time will tell.
8. Loki Season 2
Loki is my favorite character in the MCU. I mean, who doesn’t love a tortured anti-hero? Season one of Loki is arguably the best MCU TV Series. When season two of Loki begins, the stakes have never felt higher. The multiversal saga is merging with time itself, creating branching pathways that could see the rise of an evil we’ve never seen before.
While the season starts a little slow – there’s a lot of multiverse explanation, etc. the dynamic between Loki and Mobius continues to carry the season. On top of that, the finale (no spoilers) absolutely delivers.
7. What We Do In The Shadows Season 5
FX/Hulu’s What We Do In The Shadows is incredible satire. The series follows a quirky vampire coven as they try their best to horribly blend in with society. Each character within the vampiric household contributes something vital to the overall chemistry of the group, resulting in a compelling and cohesive portrayal of the household. If you enjoy Dark Comedy with wacky characters, you will absolutely love this series. It’s the perfect break from all the drama that controls most television networks.
6. And Just Like That Season 2
Season 1 of the MAX reboot of Sex and the City, …And Just Like That was rough. Some of the characters we know and love were destroyed or didn’t even come back. Navigating the new dynamic and introduction of new characters was tough. Honestly, I was surprised when it was renewed. However, season two manages to bring back the magic of the original series in a big way. It doesn’t hurt that Aiden (my favorite) returns.
5. Ghosts Season 2
The CBS comedy Ghosts is one of the funniest shows on television. While the series isn’t quite original – it’s a remake of a British series of the same name – the writers manage to keep its wit and charm.
Married couple Samantha and Jay inherit a mansion they want to turn into a Bed and Breakfast. However, after an accident, Samantha can now see and speak with the Ghosts who are stuck there. This eclectic bunch is made up of a 1920s Lounge Singer, a 1700s Militiaman, a Hippie, a Boy Scout Troop Leader, a 90s Wall Street Jerk, the original owner of the mansion so many more! If you’re looking for a laugh-out-loud series check out Ghosts!
4. The Gilded Age Season 2
I was a HUGE Downton Abbey fan. So, when Julian Fellowes decided to do an American version set in the Gilded Age of history I was all in. If you enjoy period dramas filled with incredible costumes, characters, and story arcs then this show is for you! A lot, if not most, characters are based on real people from history. The cast is star-studded with film and television icons such as Carrie Coon (Boston Strangler), Christine Baranski (The Good Fight), Cynthia Nixon (And Just Like That), Taissa Farmiga (The Nun), Debra Monk (The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel), and Nathan Lane (Dicks: The Musical) to name a few. There are also tons of my favorite Broadway stars like Audra McDonald, Donna Murphy, Kelli O’Hara, Michael Cerveris, Patrick Page, and so many more!
3. The Summer I Turned Pretty Season 2
The Jenny Han book series turned Prime Video series is one of the best Young-Adult Dramas I’ve seen in a long time. After an incredibly successful season 1 for The Summer I Turned Pretty that set the stakes incredibly high season 2 does not disappoint. That said, the first 3 episodes of season 2 have a very different tone and time jump. Just hold out for the rest of the ride. It will have you fully picking a team and debating with your friends.
2. Yellowjackets Season 2
The Showtime series Yellowjackets is the perfect dark and twisty series I need. While season 2 gets shockingly darker than the first I found myself enthralled and couldn’t look away. The talent of the cast is even more impressive delivering excellent performances in both past and present timelines. This show is difficult to discuss without giving too much away. So, just watch it. You won’t regret it!
1. The Bear Season 2
Hulu’s The Bear is one of THE BEST shows to hit our small screens in ages. Everything about it from the writing, directing, characters, and cast is stellar! The series follows a young Chef who comes home after the tragic death of his brother. While Jeremy Allen White continues to deliver an impressive performance it’s important to acknowledge the show thrives as a true ensemble.
With this series have your stress levels through the roof? Also yes. That said, I am truly amazed by the remarkable balance achieved in The Bear Season 2. The series manages to seamlessly blend deeply emotional and weighty themes with genuinely uplifting character moments. It is a beautiful experience to witness every character undergoing personal growth and the impact of these changes being both significant and subtle.
For more TOP 10 Lists, stay tuned to THS!
