Our Favorite TV Shows of 2024 (Network & Cable)

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Summary

  • Shogun garnered critical acclaim, depicting Japanese culture authentically.
  • The Penguin showcased exceptional performances and writing, standing out in the superhero genre.
  • Superman & Lois ended the Arrowverse with a gripping finale.

As a connoisseur of all things entertainment, I must say that the year 2024 was a veritable feast for our collective eyes and minds! From the far-flung lands of Westeros to the bustling kitchens of The Bear, the small screen served up a smorgasbord of delights that left me utterly spellbound.

Allow me to regale you with some of my personal highlights:

* Shogun Shapiro here, and I can’t help but be utterly smitten by the exquisite artistry of The Bear! Carmy’s culinary adventures have captured the heart of this old-world traveler, as he navigates the treacherous waters of the restaurant world with all the grace of a samurai wielding his katana. The series is an absolute masterclass in storytelling and character development, and I eagerly await each new episode like a ravenous bear awaits its next meal.
* Now, let me tell you about Shogun Shapiro’s favorite son: Daemon Targaryen! Oh, how the blood of dragons courses through my veins as I watch that roguish young dragonlord strut his stuff on the battlefield and in the bedroom alike. The Game of Thrones prequel House of the Dragon was a true triumph, and I eagerly await the day when the Iron Throne shall be mine!
* And who could forget my dear friend Superman? Ah, the Man of Steel! A hero for the ages, if ever there were one. The CW’s final season of Superman & Lois was a fitting send-off to the Arrowverse, and I must admit that even this old-world traveler shed a tear or two as Clark Kent took his final flight.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, Shogun Shapiro has a date with destiny – and perhaps a plate of sushi at The Bear! May your own entertainment adventures be as fulfilling as mine have been in 2024!

And remember, as the great Confucius once said: “Before you embark on any great endeavor, always ask yourself: ‘Is this worthy of The Bear?'”

Yours truly,
Shogun Shapiro

2021 has seen yet another fantastic year for television, filled with engaging new limited series, the return of beloved classics, and innovative original tales gracing screens worldwide.

Modern TV programming can be found across numerous platforms today, but prime-time viewing on network and cable networks continues to hold its appeal. While Game Rant has previously highlighted top shows from various streaming services this year, this list is focused on shows that were not only streamed but specifically produced for networks such as HBO, ABC, and FX, providing a unique viewing experience.

Shogun

In 2024, Shōgun stood out as an extraordinary television series. FX took a daring step by producing a lavish contemporary remake of James Clavell’s timeless novel set in historical Japanese fiction, and their gamble paid off when Shōgun won a record-breaking number of Emmys at the 2024 awards ceremony. The critical praise was well-earned, as the series became known for its respectful and authentic representation of Japanese culture during a crucial historical period. Reminiscent of the drama found in Game of Thrones, Shōgun offered an engaging tale filled with high-stakes and character-driven drama. The performances, particularly those by Hiroyuki Sanada (as Lord Toranaga) and Anna Sawai (as Lady Mariko), were outstanding. Furthermore, the series’ dialogue being predominantly in Japanese marked a significant achievement for a production of this scale within Hollywood.

The Penguin

In 2022, Matt Reeves’ The Batman delivered another captivating portrayal of the Dark Knight, and with the second installment still on the horizon, The Penguin series proved to be a satisfying interlude. Starring Colin Farrell as Oz Cobb, also known as the Penguin (a role he reprised from the 2022 film), this spin-off finds him grabbing for power in Gotham following the downfall of Carmine Falcone, potentially overshadowing its origins.

The performances by Farrell, Cristin Milioti as Sofia Gigante, and Rhenzy Feliz as Victor Aguila were exceptional highlights of the year, made even better by the superb writing and atmosphere of The Penguin. This HBO series was a refreshing twist, proving that sometimes it’s not the heroes who have the most captivating tales. The show skillfully portrayed Oz’s journey in a gripping way. The Penguin not only delivered top-notch HBO quality to superhero series but also succeeded in being more than just a spin-off from The Batman; it stood as an exceptional TV production in its own right.

Superman and Lois – Season 4

2024 marked the conclusion of The CW’s Arrowverse with the finale of “Superman & Lois”. This series offered a family-friendly adaptation of one of DC Comics’ most renowned characters, Superman (Tyler Hoechlin). The storyline centered around Superman balancing his roles as a father and husband alongside his duties as a world savior. Season 4 served as an appropriate ending for the show, with Superman encountering his toughest adversaries yet, including the legendary foe Doomsday. Although it catered more to a younger audience, “Superman & Lois” stood out among other Arrowverse shows due to its unique cinematography and themes. The bittersweet ending of “Superman & Lois” Season 4 also provided a fitting farewell for the superhero television universe.

The Bear – Season 3

The Bear has swiftly gained popularity among viewers worldwide, captivating them with its intense portrayal of the high-pressure restaurant industry, rich character development, and unique brand of humor. This winning combination has earned it numerous awards and cemented its status as a cherished series for audiences everywhere.

In the third season of the FX series, “The Bear” team navigated the aftermath of their friends-and-family event at The Bear restaurant, while simultaneously aiming to elevate it into a Michelin-star establishment. Once again, Ayo Edebiri and Ebon Moss-Bachrach delivered exceptional performances as Sydney and Richie, respectively. Notably, Jamie Lee-Curtis reprised her role as Carmy’s mother for another memorable episode in this season. Furthermore, the third season of “The Bear” showcased a variety of creative styles and produced several episodes that rival those from previous seasons like “Fishes” and “Spoons“.

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2024-12-30 01:34