A&E
The best new TV shows of 2016
By Matt Burner ’17
December 8, 2016
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As the holidays kick into gear and 2016 comes to a close, it is a good time to look back on what TV shows were released this year and which ones are actually worth seeing. Many critics have called these past few years, “The Golden Age of Television,” and 2016 certainly seems to have continued the trend.
While there definitely were some duds, such as HBO’s expensive flop Vinyl, many others delivered. Although this is not a comprehensive list of the year’s best new shows, the ones listed below are worth keeping in mind.
Westworld, HBO
After Westworld’s first episode, an article was written regarding whether it was HBO’s next big hit. While that may have been slightly hasty, after eight more episodes it seems Westworld is here to stay. HBO recently renewed it for a second season and the show has been steadily gaining viewers. Westworld tells the story of a park where humans can interact with life-like robots and fulfill their most base desires.
While this may sound slightly absurd, the show’s overarching theme of technology run amok is something certainly relevant today. Featuring an ensemble cast of mostly experienced actors including Anthony Hopkins delivering arguably his best performance since his portrayal of Hannibal Lecter, Westworld is the perfect show for those who long for Game of Thrones’ return.
Atlanta, FX
Released in September, Atlanta was developed by Donald Glover, also known by his rapper name “Childish Gambino.” Glover portrays the main character as he attempts to manage Atlanta’s rap scene and ensure he makes the best of his cousin’s burgeoning rap career.
The show mixes drama and comedy elements well and does a very good job of not losing its often-humorous tone while depicting serious subject matter. Glover, who wrote for the NBC hit comedy 30 Rock, delivers arguably the best-written show of 2016.
Stranger Things, Netflix
While being arguably the most talked about new show of 2016, Stranger Things is also one of the best of the year. Developed by the Duffer Brothers, the show is a clear homage to 1980’s films such as E.T. and Star Wars. Stranger Things tells the story of a group of friends who search for their suddenly-missing companion.
Consisting of shadowy government organizations and a strange monster, the show toes the line between thriller and horror. Despite that, the most refreshing part is the star performances delivered by the show’s young cast. Regardless of whether one enjoys 80’s movies or not, Stranger Things is definitely worth checking out.