Top TV Shows Of 2020: A Year In Review
Hey guys, let's rewind to 2020, a year that, let's be honest, we all remember! Besides everything else going on, it was also a fantastic year for television. We saw some incredible shows drop, offering us much-needed escapes, tons of laughs, and some seriously thought-provoking storylines. This article is your ultimate guide to the best TV shows of 2020, the ones that really stood out and kept us glued to our screens. We're talking about the shows that everyone was buzzing about, the ones that dominated water cooler conversations (or, you know, Zoom calls). So, buckle up, grab your snacks, and let's take a trip down memory lane, celebrating the TV shows that defined 2020. From edge-of-your-seat dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, we'll dive deep into what made these shows so special and why they deserve a spot on your must-watch list, if you haven't already seen them. We'll explore the acting, the writing, the directing, and the overall impact these shows had on the world of television and pop culture. Whether you're a seasoned TV aficionado or just looking for some new shows to binge, this guide will provide you with all the insights you need to make some great choices. Prepare to revisit some familiar favorites and maybe even discover a few hidden gems that you missed the first time around. Ready to get started? Let’s jump right in and check out some amazing shows!
The Must-Watch Dramas of 2020
2020 was a stellar year for drama, offering a diverse range of stories that captivated audiences worldwide. These TV dramas of 2020 tackled complex themes, featured compelling characters, and kept us on the edge of our seats. One of the standout series from 2020, was "The Queen's Gambit." This Netflix miniseries, set in the Cold War era, follows the life of Beth Harmon, a young chess prodigy. The show's stunning visuals, combined with Anya Taylor-Joy's mesmerizing performance, made it an instant classic. It wasn't just about chess; it was a story about overcoming adversity, addiction, and finding your place in the world. The attention to detail in the set design and costumes was remarkable, perfectly transporting viewers back to the 1960s. The show's success proved that even a topic like chess could be turned into a gripping drama. Another must-see drama from 2020 was "I May Destroy You." Created and starring Michaela Coel, this show is a powerful exploration of consent, trauma, and the complexities of modern relationships. Coel's unflinching portrayal of Arabella, a young woman navigating the aftermath of a sexual assault, was both heartbreaking and inspiring. The show's raw honesty and innovative storytelling made it a critical darling. It sparked important conversations about difficult topics and offered a fresh perspective on the challenges faced by many young people today. Then, we have "Better Call Saul" (Season 5). While not a brand new show in 2020, the fifth season of this Breaking Bad spin-off continued to deliver some of the best television on air. The show's slow burn approach to storytelling, coupled with Bob Odenkirk's incredible performance as Saul Goodman, kept fans hooked. The season saw Jimmy McGill inching closer to becoming the Saul Goodman we know from Breaking Bad, and the tension was palpable throughout. The show's writers masterfully crafted intricate plots and developed complex characters, making it a must-watch for any fan of compelling drama. Finally, let's not forget the critically acclaimed "Ozark" (Season 3), which continued to deliver intense thrills. This show is a masterclass in suspense and features strong performances from Jason Bateman and Laura Linney. If you're a fan of thrillers with a lot of twists and turns, this show is totally for you!
Comedy Gold: Laughing Our Way Through 2020
Now, let's talk about the lighter side of life. The 2020 comedy shows brought a lot of laughter during a difficult time. These shows provided much-needed relief and were a total hit, helping us get through the year with some smiles. One of the comedic highlights of 2020 was "Ted Lasso." While the show officially premiered in 2020, its uplifting and heartwarming message resonated deeply with audiences. Jason Sudeikis' portrayal of the relentlessly optimistic coach Ted Lasso was a breath of fresh air. The show's unique blend of humor and heart made it an instant hit, quickly gaining a devoted following. It was a reminder of the power of kindness and the importance of believing in yourself. The show has a brilliant ability to balance humor with touching moments, making it a great choice for anyone looking for a feel-good show. Another great comedy, "Schitt's Creek" finally wrapped up its run, and what a run it was! This show, which started earlier in the 2010s, reached its peak popularity in 2020, winning a ton of awards and earning itself a huge fanbase. It's a show about a wealthy family who lose everything and are forced to live in a small town they once bought as a joke. What sets this show apart is its genuine heart and hilarious characters. You'll find yourself laughing out loud one minute and tearing up the next. "What We Do in the Shadows" (Season 2) also kept the laughs coming. This mockumentary-style comedy, based on the film of the same name, follows the lives of a group of vampires living in Staten Island. The show's dry humor, witty writing, and quirky characters made it a critical and fan favorite. If you're looking for a show that's both funny and clever, this is it. It has a unique premise and delivers consistent laughs. Lastly, "Space Force," while maybe not universally loved, provided some solid laughs with Steve Carell. The show’s premise, which satirizes the creation of a new branch of the U.S. Armed Forces, offered plenty of comedic material. If you like Carell’s comedy, this show is definitely worth checking out.
Docuseries and Reality TV: Real-Life Stories That Captivated Us
In 2020, docuseries and reality TV shows continued to captivate audiences with their real-life stories and captivating narratives. These shows offered glimpses into diverse worlds and sparked important conversations. One of the most talked-about docuseries of 2020 was "Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, and Madness." This show, which premiered on Netflix, quickly became a global phenomenon. It followed the eccentric personalities of big cat owners, and the controversies surrounding them. The show’s bizarre characters, shocking revelations, and dramatic twists kept viewers hooked. It became a cultural touchstone, generating countless memes and sparking intense debates about animal welfare and the exotic animal trade. Another significant docuseries of the year was "The Last Dance." This series, centered on Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls, provided an in-depth look at their final championship season in the 1990s. The show used never-before-seen footage and interviews to tell a compelling story about one of the greatest athletes of all time. It resonated with sports fans and general audiences alike, offering an inspiring story of teamwork, dedication, and the pursuit of excellence. For those looking for a bit of reality TV drama, "Love Is Blind" continued to generate buzz. This show experimented with the concept of love, where couples got engaged without ever seeing each other. The show was full of surprises, and it kept viewers talking about the nature of relationships and the importance of connection. These reality shows provided a perfect escape from everyday life, while at the same time opening up conversations about key social dynamics.
Honorable Mentions and Underrated Gems
Beyond the major hits, 2020 also gave us several hidden gems that deserve a shout-out. These shows, although perhaps not as widely popular, were still critically acclaimed and offered unique viewing experiences. One such show is "Normal People." This adaptation of Sally Rooney's novel tells a beautifully poignant story of young love and the complexities of relationships. The show's intimate storytelling and strong performances by the lead actors made it a favorite among viewers. Another show that deserves a mention is "I Know This Much Is True." This HBO miniseries features Mark Ruffalo in a dual role, portraying twin brothers. The show delves into themes of mental health, family dynamics, and the challenges of life. Ruffalo's outstanding performance and the show's thought-provoking themes made it a must-watch for many. Then there is "The Mandalorian" (Season 2), which continued to deliver exciting Star Wars adventures. The show combined action, humor, and heart, making it a huge success. The second season kept the momentum going, with its intriguing story and impressive visuals. For those looking for something different, there was "Upload," a sci-fi comedy-drama set in a digital afterlife. The show's creative premise and unique humor made it stand out from the crowd. Finally, let’s not forget the animated series "BoJack Horseman" (Season 6), which concluded its run in 2020. This show is known for its dark humor and complex characters, which made it a critical darling.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of 2020 TV
As we wrap up our look back at the best TV shows of 2020, it's clear that the year was a landmark one for television. The shows of 2020 offered something for everyone, from gripping dramas and laugh-out-loud comedies to insightful docuseries and heartwarming reality TV. These shows provided a much-needed escape during a difficult time, and they continue to resonate with audiences today. They not only entertained us but also sparked important conversations, challenged our perspectives, and brought us together. The impact of these shows went beyond entertainment; they became cultural touchstones, defining moments of a year we will never forget. So, whether you're looking to revisit some old favorites or discover some new shows, this guide should help you navigate the amazing world of TV in 2020. Happy watching, everyone! And remember, there's always something great to watch, so get watching!