Let’s all take a moment to thank God – or at least a higher power – for the upcoming new season of TV shows about to hit popular streaming networks. Networks look to ring in the New Year of entertainment with equal doses of drama, comedy, and of course, reality. There are even a couple of remakes in the mix to bring back fans of old TV shows like “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air.” What pleasant blend of escape do we all have to look forward to in 2022?
”Ghosts” on CBS:
Who doesn’t love a good ghost story? In “Ghosts,” our protagonist Sam has a near-death experience after moving into a spooky old home with her husband Jay. She might have been given the gift of a second chance at life, but she develops a new talent that keeps one foot firmly planted on the other side. As Sam encounters an increasingly quirky and hilarious group of ghosts, we all get to go along for the ride and enjoy their hijinks and character development. Now just in the middle of its first season, “Ghosts” looks like it’s here to haunt us for a while. Can also be watched on Dish TV.
“Black-Ish” on ABC:
Critically-acclaimed “Black-Ish” is a rare gem for family sitcoms on traditional networks. Actually wrapping up in its 8th season, this one succeeded despite the odds. It follows the upper crust of an African-American family as they navigate the complex, and sometimes hilarious, issues that crop up in their everyday lives. Rainbow, Dre, and company are set to live out the last season of their lives in front of an audience that never wanted to say goodbye. Expect poignant, old-school television at its finest and a truly tearful but cathartic farewell.
”Superman & Lois” on The CW:
Superman & Lois earned a second season this year, and it looks like they’re going to make the most of it. The timeless story of a superhero and his true love is played out in a way that only The CW could make plausible. This dramatic take on Superman lore shows Superman and Clark Kent in their alternating roles, one a National Security “issue,” and the other a devoted husband and father. As those two sides of Superman’s life play out on the screen, it brings on plenty of CW-style drama.
”Pam & Tommy” on Hulu:
Pamela Anderson and Tommy Lee made one of the world’s most infamous and watched X-rated viral videos in history. This miniseries on Hulu dives into the story behind the scenes and showcases the talents of Lily James (as Pamela Anderson) and Sebastian Stan (as Tommy Lee). Expect a series of dramatic twists and turns, followed by good-natured comedy and social commentary as their 96-hour romance evolves into a very public love.
”Bel-Air” on Peacock:
“Now, this is the story all about how my life got flipped-turned upside down.” Will Smith’s iconic Fresh Prince of Bel-Air intro first aired on September 10, 1990, and it remains so culturally relevant that someone at Peacock wanted to do a more dramatic version of the Fresh Prince’s life in Bel-Air. Peacock’s reimagining of the show sees Will transition from his rough upbringing to the mansions of Bel-Air. It’s a socio-political drama that turns dark at points but still throws casual nods back at the original show. Prepare for introspection and analysis if you want to make the most out of this one.
Ready to Watch TV Shows?
The newest series of TV shows are all out there and ready to stream online on your favorite streaming services. Grab some popcorn, your good humor, and/or your thinking cap, and get to watching. Each one of these shows has an already devoted following that proves they offer something of substance to the masses. Some are lighthearted with a few poignant moments (like “Ghosts”), while others are all the way dramatic (like “Bel-Air”). As the viewer, it’s you who makes the final decision as to which world is worth escaping to this year.
Other Shows to Research: Inventing Anna, Killing Eve, Bridgerton, Harley Quinn, Stranger Things
