It could be contended that 2024 didn't emerge as the pinnacle year for television. Highly awaited shows such as the final season of "Stranger Things," "The Last of Us," and "The White Lotus" failed to make it onto the calendar and are instead slated to return in 2025. Streaming platforms and networks tightened their financial belts by approving fewer projects.

Uncover the Hidden Gems of 2024 Television

"Nobody Wants This"

In 2024, pop culture witnessed a significant resurgence when Netflix's "Nobody Wants This" brought back memories of why viewers had a crush on Adam Brody in the early 2000s while he was on "The O.C." In this romantic comedy crafted by Erin Foster, Brody portrays a rabbi named Noah who initiates a relationship with a gentile named Joanne (played by the ever-entertaining Kristen Bell), and their courtship as thirtysomethings unfolds. Before reaching their happily ever after, a series of obstacles such as religious differences, family pressures, and career goals need to be addressed. However, hope remains, and throughout it all, Noah and Joanne prove to be a great match. The supporting cast also adds to the delight.Another aspect that makes this show stand out is its ability to resonate with viewers on a personal level. It shows the challenges and joys of navigating relationships in a modern world while still maintaining a sense of humor and heart. The chemistry between Brody and Bell is palpable, drawing viewers in and making them root for the couple.

"Supacell"

The British series "Supacell" introduced a fresh and intelligent take on the superhero template. Created and written by Rapman, the show focuses on a group of Black, working-class individuals in London who discover they possess superpowers. Initially, it seems that the powerful are connected only by the color of their skin, but their true bond lies in a family history of sickle cell disease.This show not only entertains but also addresses important themes such as the medical exploitation of the Black community, poverty, and how the media often overlooks cases of missing people of color. It serves as a powerful reminder of the issues faced by these communities and offers a platform for their stories to be told. The show's renewal for a second season is a testament to its popularity and impact.

"The Penguin"

Another unique take on the world of superheroes and their villains is "The Penguin" on Max. The story picks up after the 2022 film "The Batman" starring Robert Pattinson, but here, Batman takes a backseat as the focus shifts to the gangster story of Oz Cobb. Colin Farrell, who played the criminal kingpin in the Pattinson film, reprises his role with great success. Cristin Milioti also receives positive reviews and a Golden Globe nomination for her portrayal of villain Sofia Falcone.The show delves deep into the complex world of crime and gangsterism, exploring the motivations and actions of its characters. It offers a fresh perspective on the Batman universe and showcases the darker side of the superhero genre. Farrell's performance as Oz Cobb is particularly noteworthy, as he brings a new level of depth and complexity to the character.

"Matlock"

When CBS announced a new "Matlock" with Kathy Bates in the lead role, it was initially seen as just a gender-flipped remake. However, Bates plays Madeline Kingston, a wealthy lawyer who comes out of retirement under the alias Mattie Matlock (with a similar folksy demeanor as Andy Griffith's). Her reason for returning to work is financial, but in reality, she is seeking revenge.The series also highlights the issue of older people being often overlooked and underestimated, which Madeline sometimes uses to her advantage. It shows how these individuals can still be powerful and make a difference, even in a world that often dismisses them. Bates' performance is outstanding, earning her a Globe nomination and adding to the show's appeal.

"The Valley"

When the "Vanderpump Rules" spinoff "The Valley" debuted on Bravo in spring, some viewers were initially skeptical. However, the show follows three former "Vanderpump" castmates - Jax Taylor, Brittany Cartwright, and Kristen Doute - as they navigate more settled lives among a new circle of friends.Taylor and Doute know how to stir the pot and create drama, while the new cast also impresses. Janet Caperna positions herself as both above the drama and fully immersed in it. Jesse Lally shows vulnerability over the end of his marriage to castmate Michelle Sanai while also being unapologetically snobbish. Viewers get to witness the ups and downs of Taylor and Cartwright's marriage as they navigate through various challenges.

"Mr. & Mrs. Smith"

Another adaptation with a twist is Prime Video's "Mr. & Mrs. Smith," starring Donald Glover and Maya Erskine. It shares a title with the famous film starring Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie but takes a different direction. Glover and Erskine play spies who are assigned to pose as a married couple named John and Jane Smith. They quickly transition from strangers to colleagues to lovers.Each episode presents the couple on a new assignment, with notable guest stars like Alexander Skarsgård, Michaela Coel, and Sharon Horgan. The show was nominated for 16 Emmy Awards and three Golden Globes, highlighting its quality and popularity. It offers a unique take on the spy genre and keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.

"Ripley"

Andrew Scott stars in "Ripley," a neo-noir Netflix adaptation based on Patricia Highsmith's "The Talented Mr. Ripley." Like the 1999 movie starring Matt Damon, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Jude Law, this limited series follows the story of con artist and serial killer Tom Ripley.Ripley is hired by a wealthy businessman to travel to Italy and persuade his son, Dickie, who is leading a life of leisure, to return to the United States. However, Ripley becomes enamored with Dickie's lifestyle, and the situation takes a deadly turn. The show captures the essence of the original story while adding its own unique flavor.

"English Teacher"

Brian Jordan Alvarez created and stars in FX's "English Teacher" as Evan, a high school teacher in Texas who juggles the normal demands of the job while dealing with societal changes. In one episode, Evan must show empathy towards a student who has self-diagnosed with a made-up disease. In another, he successfully gets the school's gun safety program shut down but then is required to receive firearm training.The show highlights the challenges faced by teachers in today's society and how they navigate through various issues. It also showcases the resilience and strength of the students, who seem less affected by labels and more focused on learning. The great soundtrack adds to the overall atmosphere of the show.

"Shōgun"

"Shōgun" had a remarkable first season on FX, winning a historic 18 awards at this year's Emmys, including best drama series and best actor and actress in a drama for Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai. Set during the power struggles in feudal Japan, the show is based on a 1975 James Clavell novel.FX spared no expense on the production value, drawing comparisons to "Game of Thrones." The attention to detail and the immersive storytelling transport viewers to a different time and place. Originally planned as a limited series, two more seasons are now in the works, ensuring that fans will continue to be captivated by this epic tale.

"Presumed Innocent"

Jake Gyllenhaal starred in his first TV series, "Presumed Innocent," for Apple TV+. Gyllenhaal plays Rusty Sabich, a Chicago prosecutor accused of killing a colleague. His real-life brother-in-law, Peter Sarsgaard, plays Rusty's adversary, another lawyer trying to prove his guilt.The story deviates from the original Scott Turow novel and the 1990 Harrison Ford film, offering a fresh take on the legal drama. It has become the streamer's most watched drama series so far, and a second season has been ordered, with Gyllenhaal serving as an executive producer. The show keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its twists and turns.