The Best of 2022 Television Shows: A Look Back at the Year’s Top Series
The year 2022 delivered a diverse and captivating array of television shows, spanning genres from gripping dramas and thought-provoking comedies to thrilling mysteries and captivating documentaries. From returning favorites to breakout new hits, there was something for everyone. Let’s delve into some of the most noteworthy series that graced our screens in 2022.
Gripping Dramas and Thrillers Dominate 2022 Television Shows
2022 saw a surge of compelling dramas that kept viewers on the edge of their seats. The Bear, a critically acclaimed series set in a chaotic Chicago sandwich shop, offered a visceral and emotionally charged portrayal of grief, ambition, and the culinary world.
Sherwood, a British crime drama, masterfully explored the lingering divisions in a former mining town while unraveling a compelling murder mystery. Severance, a psychological thriller, delved into the unsettling consequences of separating work and personal life with its innovative premise and stellar cast.
The Responder, starring Martin Freeman, offered a raw and unflinching look at the life of a morally compromised police officer struggling to navigate a broken system. House of the Dragon, the highly anticipated prequel to Game of Thrones, delivered on its promise of fire, intrigue, and political maneuvering in the world of Westeros.
Comedies Offer Laughter and Insight in the 2022 Television Landscape
Comedy shone brightly in 2022 with shows that tackled complex themes with wit and heart. Hacks, starring Jean Smart and Hannah Einbinder, continued to delight with its sharp writing and poignant portrayal of an unlikely comedic duo. Derry Girls, the beloved Irish coming-of-age comedy, concluded its run with a final season that was both hilarious and emotionally resonant.
Big Boys, a semi-autobiographical series, explored male friendship and grief with sensitivity and humor. Abbott Elementary, a mockumentary sitcom set in an underfunded Philadelphia school, charmed viewers with its relatable characters and sharp social commentary.
Genre-Bending Series and Limited Series Make Their Mark on 2022 TV
Several series defied easy categorization, blending genres to create unique and memorable viewing experiences. Yellowjackets, a survival drama with horror elements, captivated audiences with its intriguing mystery and strong female characters. Station Eleven, a post-apocalyptic drama, offered a surprisingly hopeful and poetic vision of a world ravaged by a pandemic. Industry returned with a second season, further solidifying its position as a compelling and anxiety-inducing portrayal of the cutthroat world of finance.
Bad Sisters, a darkly comedic thriller, kept viewers guessing with its intricate plot and stellar ensemble cast. The White Lotus continued to satirize the lives of the wealthy with its sharp writing and captivating performances. Limited series like The Dropout, Pam & Tommy, and Under the Banner of Heaven also garnered critical acclaim for their compelling storytelling based on real-life events.
A Year of Exceptional Television
2022 proved to be a remarkable year for television, offering a diverse range of shows that entertained, challenged, and captivated audiences. From intense dramas and witty comedies to genre-bending masterpieces, the year’s top series showcased the power of television to tell compelling stories and reflect the complexities of the human experience. These shows left a lasting impact, setting a high bar for the years to come.
