It’s that time of the year again when television enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the release of new TV shows. In 2023, there has been an influx of fresh content, spanning various genres and streaming platforms. To help you navigate this sea of entertainment, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 new TV shows based on Rotten Tomatoes audience scores. Let’s dive into the world of captivating storytelling and memorable characters.
| Rank | TV Show | Audience Score |
|---|---|---|
| 10 | The Diplomat | 83% |
| 9 | Ghosts of Beirut | 84% |
| 8 | Rabbit Hole | 87% |
| 7 | Shrinking | 87% |
| 6 | Silo | 89% |
| 5 | The Last of Us | 89% |
| 4 | Tulsa King | 91% |
| 3 | Bloodhounds | 91% |
| 2 | Twisted Metal | 94% |
| 1 | Jury Duty | 97% |
Now, let’s take a closer look at each of these TV shows, exploring what makes them stand out in the ever-competitive world of television.
10. The Diplomat
Audience Score: 83%
Genre: Political Thriller
The Diplomat is a Netflix original series that immerses viewers in the world of political intrigue. Created by Deborah Khan, the show stars Keri Russell as Kate Weiler, the new United States ambassador to the United Kingdom. As she navigates her diplomatic duties amid an international crisis, she also grapples with her turbulent marriage to fellow diplomat Hal Weiler, portrayed by Rufus Sewell.
What sets The Diplomat apart is its well-written script with sharp, witty dialogue. If you’re a fan of shows that keep you on the edge of your seat while delving into the complexities of international relations and personal relationships, this series is a must-watch. The good news is that Netflix has renewed it for a second season.
9. Ghosts of Beirut
Audience Score: 84%
Genre: Espionage Thriller
Ghosts of Beirut is a four-part limited series on Showtime that takes inspiration from real-life events. This espionage thriller follows a high-stakes global operation orchestrated by the CIA and Israel’s intelligence agency to track down and eliminate one of the world’s most wanted terrorists responsible for attacks during the 1980s and 1990s.
The storytelling in Ghosts of Beirut is both suspenseful and engaging, making it a binge-worthy experience. From the first episode to the final one, you’ll find yourself hooked on this gripping tale of covert operations and international intrigue.
8. Rabbit Hole
Audience Score: 87%
Genre: Spy Thriller
Kiefer Sutherland makes a triumphant return to the small screen in Rabbit Hole, available on Paramount Plus. Sutherland takes on the role of John Weir, a master of deception in the world of corporate espionage. When he’s framed for murder by powerful forces, Weir becomes embroiled in a high-stakes cat-and-mouse game to regain his freedom.
Rabbit Hole offers a rollercoaster of twists and turns, and Sutherland’s performance is nothing short of spectacular. While Paramount Plus hasn’t officially confirmed a second season, the show’s suspenseful narrative leaves viewers hungry for more.
7. Shrinking
Audience Score: 87%
Genre: Comedy Drama
Shrinking introduces viewers to Jason Segel as Jimmy Laird, a therapist grappling with the loss of his wife. To cope, he decides to breach ethical boundaries by becoming more involved in the lives of his patients. Adding to the star power, Harrison Ford makes a rare appearance in a TV role as a senior therapist and colleague of Jimmy’s.
While the subject matter of Shrinking is dark, it manages to interject moments of humor, creating a unique blend of emotions. The chemistry between Segel and Ford is nothing short of fantastic. Apple TV Plus has already renewed the series for a second season, promising more engaging and thought-provoking episodes.
6. Silo
Audience Score: 89%
Genre: Science Fiction Drama
Cram Yost, the creator of the beloved series Justified, takes viewers to a dystopian future in Silo. Here, a community exists in a massive silo extending hundreds of stories underground, governed by strict regulations they believe protect them.
Silo has garnered acclaim from both die-hard science fiction fans and casual viewers alike. It boasts top-notch production values and stands as one of the best sci-fi shows released in recent years. Apple TV Plus has recognized its potential, renewing it for a second season to continue the journey into this gripping dystopian world.
5. The Last of Us
Audience Score: 89%
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic
The Last of Us brings the acclaimed 2013 video game to life on HBO and its streaming service, Max. Set in a world plagued by a mass fungal infection, the series follows Joel, a smuggler tasked with escorting Ellie, an immune teenager, across America.
While the series is praised for its faithful adaptation of the video game, it’s important to note that some fans argue the game still reigns supreme. Nevertheless, HBO has greenlit a second season, promising more post-apocalyptic adventures and nail-biting encounters.
4. Tulsa King
Audience Score: 91%
Genre: Mafia Crime Drama
Tulsa King, created by Taylor Sheridan of Yellowstone fame, offers a change of pace from the darker themes of some other shows on this list. Sylvester Stallone stars as a New York mafia captain who, after 25 years in jail, gets exiled to Tulsa, Oklahoma, with a mission to set up a criminal organization.
Stallone’s charisma carries the show, and its fast pacing keeps viewers engaged throughout the season. Paramount Plus has already announced a second season, ensuring that the saga of the Tulsa King will continue.
Bonus Picks
Before we reveal the top three shows on our list, let’s take a moment to acknowledge some notable TV series that didn’t quite make the top 10 but are still worth your time.
| TV Show | Genre | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| Hijack | Southern Part Thriller | Apple TV Plus |
| 1923 | Western Drama/Prequel | Paramount Plus |
| Special Ops Lioness | Spy Thriller | Paramount Plus |
| The Night Agent | Action Conspiracy Thriller | Netflix |
| Poker Face | Murder Mystery Crime Drama | Peacock |
These bonus picks offer a diverse range of genres and storytelling styles, ensuring there’s something for everyone in the world of television.
3. Bloodhounds
Audience Score: 91%
Genre: South Korean Action Crime Drama
Bloodhounds injects some international flair into our list, hailing from South Korea. This action crime drama centers around two young boxers who join forces to take down a ruthless loan shark notorious for exploiting those in dire financial straits.
The show surprises viewers with its complex characters and action-packed sequences. While Netflix hasn’t confirmed a second season yet, Bloodhounds has garnered a loyal following eagerly awaiting more South Korean crime-solving adventures.
2. Twisted Metal
Audience Score: 94%
Genre: Post-Apocalyptic Action Comedy
Twisted Metal takes inspiration from the popular video game franchise of the same name and transforms it into a post-apocalyptic action comedy. Set in a desolate wasteland, the series follows a talkative outsider with amnesia who must deliver a mysterious package for a chance at a better life.
This chaotic and cartoonishly violent series is reminiscent of Mad Max but cranked up to eleven. It’s pure, unadulterated fun, providing a much-needed break from the heavier themes of many contemporary shows. While peacock released it amidst strikes, fans are hopeful for a second season to continue the wild ride.
1. Jury Duty
Audience Score: 97%
Genre: Docu-Comedy
In the top spot of our list, we have Jury Duty, available on the free streaming service Amazon Freebie. This docu-comedy was crafted by two former writers of the US version of The Office, promising a unique and humorous take on a familiar setting.
The show follows Juror Ronald Gladden, who unwittingly finds himself in the midst of an American jury trial where everyone except him is an actor. James Marsden plays himself, surrounded by an ensemble cast of unknown actors. Jury Duty seamlessly blends scripted and improvised moments, resulting in an uproarious and unpredictable viewing experience.
In a world filled with serious dramas and intense thrillers, Jury Duty stands out as a refreshing and side-splitting comedy. It’s a reminder that television can be both entertaining and thought-provoking. So, don’t miss out on this gem—it’s sure to leave you in stitches.
Conclusion
The world of television in 2023 offers a diverse range of options for viewers seeking entertainment, from political thrillers and espionage dramas to post-apocalyptic adventures and comedic escapades. Our list of the top 10 new TV shows provides a glimpse into the remarkable storytelling and talented performances that have graced our screens this year.
Whether you’re in the mood for heart-pounding action, thought-provoking drama, or belly-aching laughter, there’s a show on this list to cater to your tastes. So, grab your popcorn, settle into your favorite spot on the couch, and embark on a journey through these captivating worlds created by some of the finest talents in the industry.
As the year unfolds, more exciting TV shows are sure to make their debut, but for now, these top 10 picks are the cream of the crop, offering hours of entertainment and storytelling excellence. Happy binge-watching!