Best 2023 Series To Watch Now
Hey everyone! So, 2023 has been an absolutely insane year for television, right? We've seen some absolute bangers drop, some returning faves absolutely smash it, and a whole bunch of new shows that have totally captured our attention. If you're anything like me, you're probably scrolling endlessly, trying to figure out what to binge next. Well, guys, stop your scroll! I've put together a list of the must-watch series from 2023 that you seriously need to get on your radar. Whether you're into gripping dramas, laugh-out-loud comedies, mind-bending sci-fi, or something completely different, there's definitely something here for you.
We're talking about shows that have sparked conversations, dominated social media, and given us those water-cooler moments (even if the water cooler is now our group chat). It's been a year of incredible storytelling, stellar performances, and productions that have really pushed the boundaries. So, grab your snacks, get comfy, and let's dive into the absolute best of 2023's television offerings. You won't regret it, I promise! We'll break down some of the biggest hits and hidden gems, so you can fill up that watchlist and never be bored again. Get ready to add some serious contenders to your 'currently watching' list!
The Crown Season 6: A Royal Farewell
Alright, let's kick things off with a show that needs no introduction: The Crown. Season 6 of this absolutely epic historical drama dropped in 2023, and it was a massive moment for fans. This season covered some of the most pivotal and, let's be honest, heartbreaking events in recent royal history. We're talking about the final years of Princess Diana's life and the aftermath, which was handled with the usual grace and dramatic flair that The Crown is known for. The casting continues to be impeccable, with Elizabeth Debicki absolutely shining as Diana. Seriously, her portrayal was so nuanced and powerful, it felt like stepping back in time. The showrunners really leaned into the emotional weight of these events, making it a truly compelling watch, even when it was tough to see.
Beyond Diana, the season also delved into the early 2000s, showing the young princes, William and Harry, navigating their lives under the intense scrutiny of the media. It explored the changing relationship between the monarchy and the public, and how the institution had to adapt (or struggled to). The attention to detail in the costumes, sets, and overall atmosphere is, as always, second to none. You really feel transported to the palaces, the estates, and the streets of London during these significant times. It's a testament to the incredible production value. For anyone who's followed the series from the beginning, this season felt like a fitting, albeit poignant, conclusion to an era. It's a masterclass in historical drama, offering a fictionalized yet deeply resonant look at the lives of the Windsors. It definitely sparked a lot of debate and reflection, which is exactly what good television should do. If you're looking for a series that's both incredibly well-made and emotionally engaging, The Crown Season 6 is an absolute must-see.
The Last of Us: A Post-Apocalyptic Phenomenon
Okay, guys, we have to talk about The Last of Us. If you haven't watched this yet, where have you been?! Dropping in early 2023, this HBO adaptation of the beloved video game was an absolute sensation. Pedro Pascal as Joel and Bella Ramsey as Ellie? Perfection. The chemistry between them is off the charts, and they just embodied these characters. The showrunners, Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann (who also co-created the game), managed to translate the game's gripping narrative and emotional depth onto the screen flawlessly. It's a story about survival, loss, and the unexpected bonds that form in the most dire of circumstances. The world-building is incredible – the post-apocalyptic setting feels terrifyingly real, with the infected being genuinely scary and the human antagonists just as dangerous.
What makes The Last of Us so special is its focus on the human element. Yes, there are the terrifying clickers and the constant threat of danger, but at its core, it's a story about love, grief, and finding hope in a broken world. Each episode felt like a mini-movie, with incredible performances not just from Pascal and Ramsey, but from the entire supporting cast. Standout episodes like 'Long, Long Time' featuring Nick Offerman and Murray Bartlett were absolute tear-jerkers and garnered so much praise. It proved that video game adaptations can be serious television. The show didn't shy away from the brutality of its source material, but it also found moments of profound beauty and connection. It’s the kind of show that stays with you long after the credits roll, making you think about what you would do in such a situation and the true meaning of humanity. The Last of Us wasn't just a TV show; it was an event, and it absolutely deserves all the hype it received. Seriously, go watch it!
Succession Season 4: The End of an Era
Prepare yourselves, because Succession Season 4, which aired in 2023, was the ultimate conclusion to one of the most critically acclaimed series of the past decade. This season was a masterclass in writing, acting, and sheer dramatic tension. The Roy family's power struggles reached their peak, and honestly, it was a wild ride from start to finish. The dialogue is as sharp and witty as ever, filled with those iconic insults and power plays that we've come to expect. The performances are, as always, phenomenal. Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook, Kieran Culkin – they all delivered, making you love to hate these characters and yet somehow root for them. The final episode, in particular, was a moment for television history, leaving viewers absolutely stunned and debating every single choice.
This season saw the siblings unite and then inevitably fracture, grappling with their father Logan's legacy and their own insatiable desire for control. The stakes were incredibly high, and you could feel the pressure building with every scene. The show's ability to blend dark humor with intense drama is unparalleled. It explores themes of wealth, power, family dysfunction, and the corrosive nature of capitalism in a way that is both entertaining and thought-provoking. The cinematography remains slick and stylish, adding to the opulent yet deeply unsettling world of the ultra-rich. If you've been following the Roys' saga, this season was the payoff you'd been waiting for – dramatic, shocking, and utterly unforgettable. It cemented Succession's legacy as one of the greatest TV shows of all time. Succession Season 4 wasn't just a finale; it was a cultural moment, and it’s a series that will be talked about for years to come. It’s a must-watch for anyone who appreciates brilliant storytelling and complex characters. Definitely add this to your list if you haven't already finished it!
Beef: A Darkly Comedic Collision
Alright, let's switch gears to something a bit more… unpredictable. Beef, which landed on Netflix in 2023, was an absolute revelation. Starring Steven Yeun and Ali Wong, this dark comedy series starts with a simple road rage incident and spirals into a full-blown, existential crisis for both protagonists. The premise sounds almost mundane, but the execution is anything but. Yeun and Wong are incredible, bringing such depth and raw vulnerability to their characters, Danny and Amy. You find yourself simultaneously cringing at their escalating actions and deeply empathizing with their underlying frustrations and pain.
The show brilliantly explores themes of class, success, and the crushing weight of expectations. It delves into the darker aspects of human nature, showing how easily resentment and anger can consume us. What's so compelling about Beef is its refusal to offer easy answers. It’s messy, uncomfortable, and often hilarious in the most awkward ways possible. The creators managed to tap into a universal feeling of dissatisfaction and 'what if' that resonates deeply. The escalating 'feud' between Danny and Amy is captivating, as their lives become increasingly intertwined and chaotic due to their mutual animosity. It’s a show that makes you think about the choices we make, the masks we wear, and the primal urges we often suppress. The pacing is excellent, drawing you in and keeping you hooked episode after episode. Beef is one of those shows that feels incredibly fresh and original, offering a unique blend of humor and drama that is both thought-provoking and wildly entertaining. If you're looking for something a little bit different, something that will make you laugh and squirm in equal measure, then this is definitely the series for you.
The Bear Season 2: Culinary Chaos and Character Growth
Get ready to head back into the kitchen with The Bear Season 2, which arrived in 2023 and somehow managed to be even better than the already fantastic first season. This show is a masterclass in controlled chaos, brilliant character development, and intense, emotional storytelling. Following Carmy (Jeremy Allen White) and his team as they work to transform their grimy sandwich shop into a fine-dining establishment, this season dives deeper into the personal lives and backstories of the supporting characters, giving them each their moment to shine. We see Sydney (Ayo Edebiri) step further into her culinary vision, Richie (Ebon Moss-Bachrach) undergo a significant and incredibly moving transformation, and Marcus (Lionel Boyce) embark on a journey that is both visually stunning and emotionally resonant.
The show continues to excel at capturing the frenetic energy of a professional kitchen, with its rapid-fire dialogue, claustrophobic camerawork, and nerve-wracking culinary challenges. However, Season 2 really shines in its quieter moments, exploring themes of ambition, family trauma, the pursuit of excellence, and the courage it takes to confront your past and build a better future. The guest stars this season were absolutely incredible, adding even more depth and star power to an already stellar cast. Episodes like 'Fishes,' a flashback episode that brought back much of the original cast from the movie The Bear, were particularly standout, offering a raw and powerful glimpse into the dynamics that shaped Carmy and his family. The Bear Season 2 is a testament to what great television can be – intense, heartwarming, hilarious, and deeply human. It's a show that celebrates the passion of its characters while also acknowledging their flaws and struggles. If you haven't caught up yet, you're missing out on one of the most compelling and well-crafted shows on television right now. Get it on your watchlist, stat!
Conclusion: Your 2023 Watchlist Awaits!
So there you have it, guys! A curated selection of some of the absolute best series that 2023 had to offer. From the poignant farewell of The Crown to the adrenaline-pumping world of The Last of Us, the dramatic conclusion of Succession, the darkly comedic chaos of Beef, and the culinary artistry of The Bear, this year was stacked with incredible television. Each of these shows brings something unique to the table, offering compelling stories, unforgettable characters, and masterful performances that will keep you hooked.
We've seen adaptations that surpassed expectations, original concepts that blew us away, and returning series that continued to deliver excellence. It’s been a reminder of the power of storytelling and the incredible talent working in the television industry today. Whether you're looking for something to spark conversation, a show that will make you laugh, cry, or gasp, or just a fantastic way to unwind, this list has got you covered. So, what are you waiting for? Dive in, start binging, and prepare to be amazed. Your 2023 watchlist is officially complete, and trust me, it's a good one! Happy watching!
