By Lyla Shroff
It’s finally time for the highly anticipated 2023 Emmy Awards, where the finest talent in the television and film industry are celebrated for their outstanding contributions to entertainment. As we gear up for the glitz and glamour of this prestigious event, it’s time to delve into the heart of the action. In this definitive watchlist, we present you with a carefully curated selection of the top eight TV series that have captivated audiences and critics alike. From gripping dramas to heartwarming comedies, these productions have left an undeniable mark on the industry. So, grab your popcorn, settle into your favourite spot, and get ready to enjoy some of the best work the industry has to offer.
1. The Last of Us
‘The Last of Us’ is an intense and emotionally charged post-apocalyptic drama series based on the critically acclaimed video game of the same name. Set in a world devastated by a deadly fungal infection that has transformed most of humanity into ruthless, zombie-like creatures, the story revolves around Joel (Pedro Pascal), a hardened smuggler, and Ellie (Bella Ramsey), a young girl who may hold the key to humanity’s survival. Joel reluctantly takes on the responsibility of escorting Ellie to a resistance group known as the Fireflies. Over the course of the show, their bond deepens and they form a unique father-daughter relationship.
Watch on: JioCinema
2. Succession
‘Succession’ is a riveting and darkly comedic drama series that centres around the Roy family, a wealthy and powerful media dynasty. Led by the ruthless and manipulative patriarch, Logan Roy, the series follows the intricate power struggles and family dynamics as they vie for control of the family’s global media conglomerate, Waystar Royco. The warm reception of the show has resulted in the production of an impressive number of 4 seasons.
Watch on: JioCinema
3. Only Murders in the Building
‘Only Murders in the Building’ is a witty and cleverly crafted comedic mystery series that revolves around three strangers with a shared fascination for true crime. Set in a luxurious New York City apartment building, the story follows Charles (Steve Martin), a washed-up Broadway producer, Oliver (Martin Short), a disillusioned former TV star, and Mabel (Selena Gomez), a mysterious young woman. After an unexpected death occurs in their building, the trio becomes engrossed in solving the perplexing murder mystery, believing it to be an actual crime and not just an accident.
Watch on: Disney+ Hotstar & Hulu
4. Black Bird
This limited series is a crime drama that only consists of 6 episodes. Following James ‘Jimmy’ Keene’s (Taron Egerton) ten-year imprisonment in a minimum security facility with no possibility of parole, he strikes an agreement with the FBI to transfer to a maximum-security prison housing the criminally insane. His mission is to establish a connection with a suspected serial killer named Larry Hall (Paul Walter Hauser) and extract a confession from him to ensure the closure of Hall’s appeal and uncover the whereabouts of potentially eighteen buried female victims.
Watch on: Apple TV+
5. Ted Lasso
‘Ted Lasso’ is a heartwarming and uplifting comedy series that follows the titular character, Ted Lasso (Jason Sudeikis) who is an American college football coach who unexpectedly finds himself in a new role as the head coach of a struggling English Premier League football team, AFC Richmond. He makes up for his lack of experience in the sport with his relentless optimism, folksy charm, and endearing personality that inspires the team to turn their fortunes around.
Watch on: Apple TV+
6. The White Lotus
‘The White Lotus’ is a captivating and darkly comedic drama series that takes place at an exclusive tropical resort, The White Lotus, located in Hawaii. The show follows the intertwining stories of various vacationers and staff members over the course of a week. As the guests arrive with their own baggage and expectations, the luxurious paradise becomes a backdrop for a simmering cauldron of conflicts, secrets, and hidden desires. The drama consists of a star cast featuring Jennifer Coolidge, Aubrey Plaza, Theo James, Jon Gries, Sydney Sweeney, Alexander Daddario, and many more.
Watch on: JioCinema
7. The Marvellous Mrs. Maisel
‘The Marvellous Mrs. Maisel’ is an enjoyable comedy-drama series set in the late 1950s and early 1960s. The show follows the journey of Miriam ‘Midge’ Maisel, (Rachel Brosnahan), a young Jewish housewife living in New York City’s Upper West Side. Midge appears to have it all—a loving husband, two children, and a comfortable life. However, her seemingly perfect world is turned upside down when her husband, Joel, leaves her for another woman. Fueled by frustration, Midge discovers an unexpected talent for stand-up comedy after delivering a spontaneous and hilarious rant at a local club. Watch as Midge rises in the comedy scene and faces numerous challenges, both personally and professionally.
Watch on: Amazon Prime Video
8. The Diplomat
Amid an international crisis, Kate Wyler (Keri Russel), an experienced diplomat, finds herself thrust into a high-profile position that is not an ideal fit for her. This unexpected appointment carries immense consequences, not only for her career but also for her marriage and political prospects. As Kate confronts the consequences of her new role, viewers are taken on a gripping journey that explores the complexities of balancing personal and professional aspirations in the midst of global turmoil.
Watch on: Netflix
