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#MustWatchTV
Welcome to my #MustWatch TV! One of the questions I get asked the most is what my favorite TV shows are. Whilst my favorite shows might vary depending on new things on TV - the shows below are always floating around in my watch rotation. Be sure to check back as there may be new shows added as they get promoted to #MustWatch Status.
The easiest way to list them seemed to be Alphabetical - so that's what I did. If I have a #Vlog that goes with the show, then that is posted here too. I have tried to note the things that I consider important (such as if the show got cancelled leaving a major cliffhanger!), and general info to help you decide if it's a good show for you to try.
**Please Note Some Of The Vlogs Posted Were Filmed While I Was With Telfie. Both The Telfie App and Any Stickers Mentioned Are No Longer Available. (That also means that some of the videos are old ... and may cause cringing - Oh the things you learn!) **
The easiest way to list them seemed to be Alphabetical - so that's what I did. If I have a #Vlog that goes with the show, then that is posted here too. I have tried to note the things that I consider important (such as if the show got cancelled leaving a major cliffhanger!), and general info to help you decide if it's a good show for you to try.
**Please Note Some Of The Vlogs Posted Were Filmed While I Was With Telfie. Both The Telfie App and Any Stickers Mentioned Are No Longer Available. (That also means that some of the videos are old ... and may cause cringing - Oh the things you learn!) **
Being Human UK (First 3 Seasons Only)
Not to be confused with its American counterpart, Being Human UK started off as amazing television. Mitchell (Played by Aidan Turner) was a broody vampire who really just wanted to be human, but when he went crazy – it was a fantastic, bloodthirsty train-wreck. Airing from 2008-2013, for me only the first 3 seasons are worth watching. Without giving major spoilers I will say that in my opinion the last 2 seasons totally jumped the shark. That being said it doesn’t stop the first 3 for being an outstanding must watch for me!
Not to be confused with its American counterpart, Being Human UK started off as amazing television. Mitchell (Played by Aidan Turner) was a broody vampire who really just wanted to be human, but when he went crazy – it was a fantastic, bloodthirsty train-wreck. Airing from 2008-2013, for me only the first 3 seasons are worth watching. Without giving major spoilers I will say that in my opinion the last 2 seasons totally jumped the shark. That being said it doesn’t stop the first 3 for being an outstanding must watch for me!
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Buffy The Vampire Slayer
What started out as a movie in 1992, really took off when it switched to a TV Series with a whole new cast in 1997. Running for an impressive 7 Seasons and inspiring a 5 Season “Angel” Spin-off (which whilst it is worth watching, it doesn’t get its own spot on my list), the Sarah Michelle Gellar led cast was definitely a trendsetter. Never afraid to push boundaries (I mean they had a whole episode with basically no speech), Buffy is definitely a fantastic show to sink your teeth into. Plus it is one of the FEW shows ever that has not flaked on the ending providing the perfect wrap up for fans (which sadly cannot be said for Angel). |
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Constantine
Not the movie with Keanu Reeves – this is the TV ZONE! Of course I am talking about the ill-fated one season wonder featuring Matt Ryan in the leading role. Originally airing on NBC in October 2014, this show seemed doomed from the start despite quickly becoming a fan favorite. The dark magic, smoking, and drug use were integral to the character, but did not fit with the image NBC wanted to portray.
Ending on a massive Cliffhanger, the pleas from fans to have this show picked up, have not gone entirely unanswered, with an an animated show, a guest appearance on Arrow, and now a main role in DC’s The Legends of Tomorrow – but sadly none of these give the fans what they really want. A continuation of the original series.
Not the movie with Keanu Reeves – this is the TV ZONE! Of course I am talking about the ill-fated one season wonder featuring Matt Ryan in the leading role. Originally airing on NBC in October 2014, this show seemed doomed from the start despite quickly becoming a fan favorite. The dark magic, smoking, and drug use were integral to the character, but did not fit with the image NBC wanted to portray.
Ending on a massive Cliffhanger, the pleas from fans to have this show picked up, have not gone entirely unanswered, with an an animated show, a guest appearance on Arrow, and now a main role in DC’s The Legends of Tomorrow – but sadly none of these give the fans what they really want. A continuation of the original series.
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Doctor Who
I have been a Whovian since I was a child and the show was airing with Tom Baker (4th Doctor) on the BBC. Going through many reincarnations, some better than others, a failed movie reboot in 1996 (which broke up the gap between 1989 and 2005), and a complete overhaul in 2005 with the 9th Doctor hitting the screens, Doctor Who has a huge fan base which has only continued to grow. For the most part new people watch from the 2005 “New Season 1”, but there are several great jumping in points. Personally I always recommend “Blink” (New Season 3 – Episode 10) which features the 10th Doctor (David Tennant), but unlike other episodes is told from the perspective of someone not familiar with the show. This is actually how I hooked Greg - and then he went back and watched from the 9th Doctor's introduction. Other great jumping in points are the beginning of the new Season 5 and introduces us to the 11th Doctor (Matt Smith), a new Showrunner (Steven Moffat) and no continuing companions, and then finally the beginning of Season 11 which introduces us to the 13th Doctor (Jodi Whitaker) and another new Showrunner (Chris Chibnull), and again all new companions meaning that the story starts completely fresh. Whilst it has always been a #MustWatch for me – I love to see all the new Whovians popping up – maybe it could be your next fandom! |
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Downton Abbey
An English period drama that captured the hearts of English and American fans alike, Downton Abbey ran for 6 seasons from 2010-2015, and is the 2nd show on this list to actually manage a proper finale. That doesn’t mean it didn’t have a few dodgy episodes along the way, but for the most part this tale of an English Manor and the staff did things right. Of course any time Maggie Smith gets to be on screen is a plus, and she was outstanding in this with some very witty one-liners. Fans were so sad to see it go that a movie released in 2019 (in theaters), featuring a visit from the King, but although it got full length feature length treatment, fans seemed to agree that it just felt like a regular special episode – which is exactly as it should be! If you like historical drama, and haven’t seen this – what are you waiting for?
An English period drama that captured the hearts of English and American fans alike, Downton Abbey ran for 6 seasons from 2010-2015, and is the 2nd show on this list to actually manage a proper finale. That doesn’t mean it didn’t have a few dodgy episodes along the way, but for the most part this tale of an English Manor and the staff did things right. Of course any time Maggie Smith gets to be on screen is a plus, and she was outstanding in this with some very witty one-liners. Fans were so sad to see it go that a movie released in 2019 (in theaters), featuring a visit from the King, but although it got full length feature length treatment, fans seemed to agree that it just felt like a regular special episode – which is exactly as it should be! If you like historical drama, and haven’t seen this – what are you waiting for?
Firefly
This 2002 one season wonder from Joss Whedon STILL has Browncoats begging for more even today. A show that was pretty much sabotaged by the network with episodes being aired out of order so that things didn’t make sense, scheduling issues, and more, it was pretty much doomed from the start, but that didn’t stop the fans falling in love with Captain Mal (Nathan Fillion) and his rag tag bunch of Space Cowboys to the extent that once it was cancelled they successfully rallied with enough noise to get the follow up movie Serenity made 3 years later (although personally I like to pretend that never happened!) It’s a short 13 episode binge – and it doesn’t give you a proper ending – but I still recommend it. Even now I watch it often!
This 2002 one season wonder from Joss Whedon STILL has Browncoats begging for more even today. A show that was pretty much sabotaged by the network with episodes being aired out of order so that things didn’t make sense, scheduling issues, and more, it was pretty much doomed from the start, but that didn’t stop the fans falling in love with Captain Mal (Nathan Fillion) and his rag tag bunch of Space Cowboys to the extent that once it was cancelled they successfully rallied with enough noise to get the follow up movie Serenity made 3 years later (although personally I like to pretend that never happened!) It’s a short 13 episode binge – and it doesn’t give you a proper ending – but I still recommend it. Even now I watch it often!
The Following
Slightly different from my other #MustWatch options, The Following was a show I became completely obsessed with when it first aired. In January 2013 viewers were introduced to a Poe Obsessed serial killer, Joe Carroll (James Purefoy) and his “Followers” which was basically a nice name for a cult that killed for him. For the FBI there was disgraced agent Ryan Hardy (Kevin Bacon), in a typical break the rules to get the job done kind of role. This was the first show that I became involved with that had a huge social media influence with the show actively providing online promotional activities, aimed more towards the darker side. They weren’t looking for people to help solve the clues – they were looking for new members. Videos that featured in the show in Season 1 were online with clues and you could become a “Follower” and yes … I totally did it! For 2 seasons this show could almost do no wrong for me, and I have rewatched those first 2 seasons repeatedly … but then came season 3. Conceptually, I guess the idea was OK, it just didn’t work for me. Missed opportunities and missing characters led it to what I believe was a rightful end (although it was left open plot wise for a possible season 4). My rewatches like to pretend that season 3 didn’t happen (can you see a theme with my shows lol) – but for those that like the little extras – Season 2 has an alternate ending on the DVDs. An alternative ending which was filmed, and then to maintain secrecy, even the cast and crew weren’t sure which version would finally air. I have that DVD – and I know what happens from the commentary – but I can’t bring myself to watch it play out.
Slightly different from my other #MustWatch options, The Following was a show I became completely obsessed with when it first aired. In January 2013 viewers were introduced to a Poe Obsessed serial killer, Joe Carroll (James Purefoy) and his “Followers” which was basically a nice name for a cult that killed for him. For the FBI there was disgraced agent Ryan Hardy (Kevin Bacon), in a typical break the rules to get the job done kind of role. This was the first show that I became involved with that had a huge social media influence with the show actively providing online promotional activities, aimed more towards the darker side. They weren’t looking for people to help solve the clues – they were looking for new members. Videos that featured in the show in Season 1 were online with clues and you could become a “Follower” and yes … I totally did it! For 2 seasons this show could almost do no wrong for me, and I have rewatched those first 2 seasons repeatedly … but then came season 3. Conceptually, I guess the idea was OK, it just didn’t work for me. Missed opportunities and missing characters led it to what I believe was a rightful end (although it was left open plot wise for a possible season 4). My rewatches like to pretend that season 3 didn’t happen (can you see a theme with my shows lol) – but for those that like the little extras – Season 2 has an alternate ending on the DVDs. An alternative ending which was filmed, and then to maintain secrecy, even the cast and crew weren’t sure which version would finally air. I have that DVD – and I know what happens from the commentary – but I can’t bring myself to watch it play out.
Friends
OK So I am thinking most people if they found their way here has at least heard of Friends. The NBC Sitcom which originally ran for 10 seasons from 1994-2004 has recently seen a revival since it hit streaming sites (originally Netflix but as of the end of 2019 they lose the right to air it). Other than a few obvious things like the lack of cell phones, for the most part this series holds up really well and is a staple in this house for many jokes, one liners, and quotes being shared regularly, and at very random times. Season 1 is great when you rewatch but I will admit it doesn’t have that instant appeal that others do, making me think if it aired now it would probably have been cancelled before it could make its mark. Luckily for everyone that didn’t happen and the Friends phenomena keeps going strong!
OK So I am thinking most people if they found their way here has at least heard of Friends. The NBC Sitcom which originally ran for 10 seasons from 1994-2004 has recently seen a revival since it hit streaming sites (originally Netflix but as of the end of 2019 they lose the right to air it). Other than a few obvious things like the lack of cell phones, for the most part this series holds up really well and is a staple in this house for many jokes, one liners, and quotes being shared regularly, and at very random times. Season 1 is great when you rewatch but I will admit it doesn’t have that instant appeal that others do, making me think if it aired now it would probably have been cancelled before it could make its mark. Luckily for everyone that didn’t happen and the Friends phenomena keeps going strong!
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Grimm
Considering that Grimm found its home on NBC I am still amazed that this supernatural drama (OK before anyone messages me to let me know – I know if you google it is listed as Horror in many places but I REALLY don’t think this counts as that and so supernatural drama is what I’m going with here), lasted for 6 seasons running from 2011 to 2017 and surviving a whole bunch of scheduling switch ups. The show primarily follows Detective Nick Burkhardt (David Giuntoli) as he inherits the powers that come with being a “Grimm”. Learning about a whole new world that shows us that people aren’t always what they seem – in this case literally as they turn into various half animals or creatures – that only other creatures or “Grimms” can see. Keeping this hidden and solving crimes (which of course are all cases relating to the Wesen – the collective name for the shapeshifters) might be the main premise, but for me the stars of the show were Monroe (Silas Weir Mitchell) and Captain Renard (Sasha Roiz), with a special shout out to Bud (Danny Bruno), Sadly as with many series the end didn’t live up to the hype but the ride is still worth it! |
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Harlots
A Hulu Original (which aired on ITV originally in England), is another period piece, but this is nothing like Downton Abbey. Set in 18th Century London, Harlots follows the exploits of 2 very different brothels, and the characters that work, run, and visit them. An amazing cast and fantastic costuming make this show a must watch, but it definitely comes with an Adult Content warning for Language and Sexual Content, but if you don’t mind that, it could fast become a favorite. As of December 2019 there have been 3 seasons, but although the finale aired in August its renewal status is unknown. My personal bet is that will be cancelled, because the finale to me felt like a good place to end, and Hulu does seem to love “3 seasons”. If this is the end then there are three seasons of gold for you to check out! |
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HEX
Oh HEX – where do I begin. This is another ill-fated show, possibly more so than the others because the 2 seasons (which are ridiculously different in length) aired in the UK from 2004-2005 then in the US on BBC America (but before BBC America was really a thing for people other than those like me that came from England), and then it got cancelled and it was no more. This ends on an absolutely ridiculous cliffhanger – in fact there really isn’t an ending at all – but I LOVE IT! Staring several people that most will recognize from other things, (Joseph Morgan, Michael Fassbender, Colin Salmon), this show will always make my list – despite the lack of an ending! I have to think that if this had aired today it would have found a better audience, plus one of the streaming giants would have swept in and saved it. *sigh*
Oh HEX – where do I begin. This is another ill-fated show, possibly more so than the others because the 2 seasons (which are ridiculously different in length) aired in the UK from 2004-2005 then in the US on BBC America (but before BBC America was really a thing for people other than those like me that came from England), and then it got cancelled and it was no more. This ends on an absolutely ridiculous cliffhanger – in fact there really isn’t an ending at all – but I LOVE IT! Staring several people that most will recognize from other things, (Joseph Morgan, Michael Fassbender, Colin Salmon), this show will always make my list – despite the lack of an ending! I have to think that if this had aired today it would have found a better audience, plus one of the streaming giants would have swept in and saved it. *sigh*
Lost Girl
In 2010 SyFy really hit a winner with the Fae based show Lost Girl. For 6 seasons we got to follow Succubus Bo as she learned about her fae heritage, explored her love life, and the supernatural enemies she encounters before it finally ended in 2015. This for me was the first time a fae based show was front and center with other creatures such as werewolves being incorporated as a type of fae, rather than a separate species. The first couple of seasons are really quite groundbreaking, but sadly, as with many shows, it jumped the shark, especially with the final season, but hey, at least there isn’t a cliffhanger. By far the must watch episode for me has to be the one with the “body-switching”, (Original Skin – Season 2 Ep 9) – If nothing else hit YouTube and watch that scene, of course it is was funnier when you know the characters but even going in blind it will make you smile. Kenzi as Dyson is just too good to miss.
In 2010 SyFy really hit a winner with the Fae based show Lost Girl. For 6 seasons we got to follow Succubus Bo as she learned about her fae heritage, explored her love life, and the supernatural enemies she encounters before it finally ended in 2015. This for me was the first time a fae based show was front and center with other creatures such as werewolves being incorporated as a type of fae, rather than a separate species. The first couple of seasons are really quite groundbreaking, but sadly, as with many shows, it jumped the shark, especially with the final season, but hey, at least there isn’t a cliffhanger. By far the must watch episode for me has to be the one with the “body-switching”, (Original Skin – Season 2 Ep 9) – If nothing else hit YouTube and watch that scene, of course it is was funnier when you know the characters but even going in blind it will make you smile. Kenzi as Dyson is just too good to miss.
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Lucifer
Hitting our screens in 2016, this urban fantasy show questions what it would be like if the devil was simply misunderstood. With vibes that reminded me a little of Anne Rice’s Memnoch The Devil, this show came out the gate hard, and hooked me from episode one. With exceptional side characters that develop as the series goes on, and of course some human issues, there are questions that you ask, questions that you want answers to, and throwing it into a crime procedural based drama was genius. The writing crew for this show is outstanding and the one liners just fly, and it really made no sense when Fox pulled the plug after 3 seasons in 2018. With huge petitioning from the fandom, Netflix saved the show and we got an amazing season 4 earlier this year. It has been scheduled for a 5th and final season – which I have mixed feelings about. I am excited to see more, but I felt the end of Season 4 worked for me – so now I worry that as with so many other shows have done – the ending won’t be able to live up to the expectations. Airing in 2020 I guess we will have to wait and see – and then I will update this to reflect what happened. **Small Note – When Season 3 originally aired on Fox, after the finale there were 2 bonus episodes. The Episode “Boo Normal” should be watched after S3 Ep 15 but before S3 Ep 16 (I am not sure why Netflix doesn’t take this opportunity to FIX it as they are streaming them) – and the other episode is a completely alternative reality “What If” type scenario so can really be viewed at any time. Personally I like it at the end of S4 as sort of a palate cleanser but most people watched it after S3. Fun fact – the episode is narrated by Neil Gaiman as God – which as he invented the Sandman world that Lucifer appears in in the comic books was a lovely touch. There are other references to the comics too through out the show such as the devil worshippers thinking he would be blonde (Lucifer is blonde in Gaiman’s versions). ** https://youtu.be/2Az7UQyWt5s (Note this was under my VampireLovingDork Channel – This Channel is no longer active) |
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Salem
From WGN from 2014-2017 came three seasons of a show that started out dealing with the infamous Salem witch trials, but this time the witches are real, and they are running the show! Dark and gritty, this is a totally new take on a story told many times. As the show progressed we got to see actual deals with the devil, true witch-hunters, tragic love stories, and unexpected guest stars making this show one that I have returned to many times. When it comes to shows about witches, this one definitely portrays the darker side (just wait till you see the crags), and has truly gasp worthy moments. If magic and history intrigue you – this is a must watch for sure! It is one of the shows that has an ending, I won’t say it is a favorite, but it definitely works, perhaps because the writers say when they started they envisioned a 3 season arc – and that is what they delivered. |
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Sons of Anarchy
Greg and I were very late to the SOA scene which originally aired from 2008 – 2014, because we didn’t watch until 2018! When we did though we questioned WHY we were so late to the party. Following the Motorcycle club through a huge adventure including guns, drugs, gang rivals, and of course love interest, this is probably one of the most bingeworthy dramas to hit my must watch list and the more you watched the less you wanted to stop. Amazingly the ending actually worked for me – one of the few shows on the list I can say this for. It felt right, it felt like a good ending spot, and it didn’t disappoint. The final season has you on the edge of your seat, the fast pace continuing to the very end. If you haven’t checked it out I would definitely add it to your list!
Greg and I were very late to the SOA scene which originally aired from 2008 – 2014, because we didn’t watch until 2018! When we did though we questioned WHY we were so late to the party. Following the Motorcycle club through a huge adventure including guns, drugs, gang rivals, and of course love interest, this is probably one of the most bingeworthy dramas to hit my must watch list and the more you watched the less you wanted to stop. Amazingly the ending actually worked for me – one of the few shows on the list I can say this for. It felt right, it felt like a good ending spot, and it didn’t disappoint. The final season has you on the edge of your seat, the fast pace continuing to the very end. If you haven’t checked it out I would definitely add it to your list!
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Supernatural
When the WB (now The CW) aired the first season back in 2005, I doubt any of them expected that the show would still be running 14 years later. What started off as 2 brothers hunting for their father, taking out supernatural monsters a week at a time (literally season 1 had a monster of the week format), over the seasons it has evolved to far more complex storylines, long running arcs, and characters that were only supposed to be in a couple of episodes turning into fan favorites, and some still with us now. Now in its final episode we are now waiting to see how this long running show will end. If you haven’t watched, 14 seasons can feel so daunting, but once you start watching they really start to fly, especially once you hit Season 3 and beyond. Even with huge number of episodes, I have done a complete rewatch a couple of times, and there are some episodes that I have watched more times than I can count. The best ones for me personally is when they go a little (or a lot meta) and are able to laugh at themselves, or embrace what us the fans would be like in certain situations. Clever writing, and an amazing cast has enabled this show’s longevity. Yes there have been some “oh dear” moments along the way – but with over 200 episodes they are few and far between. Join the fandom, it’s worth it! |
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The Last Kingdom
The BBC Counterpart to the hit show The Vikings, The Last Kingdom features a slightly different time in history but the battles and over the top action make it definitely comparable, if not better (Greg and I disagree on this a lot lol). The first season aired in 2015 and was a huge Netflix hit (despite originally coming from the BBC) which encouraged Netflix to step in and help with production. Whether the BBC would have kept it going is debatable, but thanks to Netflix we have 3 seasons currently available with the 4th to air in 2020. Follow the saga of Uhtred son of Uhtred and get swept up in some amazing cinematography.
The BBC Counterpart to the hit show The Vikings, The Last Kingdom features a slightly different time in history but the battles and over the top action make it definitely comparable, if not better (Greg and I disagree on this a lot lol). The first season aired in 2015 and was a huge Netflix hit (despite originally coming from the BBC) which encouraged Netflix to step in and help with production. Whether the BBC would have kept it going is debatable, but thanks to Netflix we have 3 seasons currently available with the 4th to air in 2020. Follow the saga of Uhtred son of Uhtred and get swept up in some amazing cinematography.
The Tudors
With Jonathan Rhys Meyers portraying Henry VIII for four seasons from 2007-2010 we got to see a version of English History that is mainly fact based, with some poetic license, and if you don’t know what Henry actually looked like, suddenly his 6 wives feel like if he'd looked like JRM, they might have made a little more sense. This series is grand, over the top, and beautiful. It made me both want to be a part of the English court, but at the same time realizing what a precarious position it would have been dealing with a King like that where his favor changed pretty much with the weather. Penned by Michael Hurst (who also writes the Vikings which also made my Must Watch List), the drama, and the plethora of stars that appear for various lengths of times, makes this a show not to be missed, especially as now you don’t have to wait for the next episode. Unlike many on this list, this show ends with a proper finale, it was a planned ending, and ended pretty much as history portrayed. Excellent viewing!
With Jonathan Rhys Meyers portraying Henry VIII for four seasons from 2007-2010 we got to see a version of English History that is mainly fact based, with some poetic license, and if you don’t know what Henry actually looked like, suddenly his 6 wives feel like if he'd looked like JRM, they might have made a little more sense. This series is grand, over the top, and beautiful. It made me both want to be a part of the English court, but at the same time realizing what a precarious position it would have been dealing with a King like that where his favor changed pretty much with the weather. Penned by Michael Hurst (who also writes the Vikings which also made my Must Watch List), the drama, and the plethora of stars that appear for various lengths of times, makes this a show not to be missed, especially as now you don’t have to wait for the next episode. Unlike many on this list, this show ends with a proper finale, it was a planned ending, and ended pretty much as history portrayed. Excellent viewing!
True Blood
Based (loosely) on the bestselling Southern Vampire Mysteries by Charlaine Harris, True Blood hit screens in 2008 and lasted an impressive 7 seasons. A grown up vampire show with grown up vampires that were openly living among humans after the invention of synthetic blood, this was nothing like anything that was out there at the time. Season 1 is almost identical to book 1, but after that, other than a few of the same name characters, the show basically does its own thing, for better or worse. The first season of True Blood remains, one of the best series to watch, out of every genre. The level of foreshadowing, hidden messages, and even down to costume color, it seemed that everything had meaning. There are numerous books on the subjects, from one dissecting the opening sequence, to a philosophy guide, and about everything in between. Through Season 4, for the most part, the show was such a sensation that fans were willing to overlook some pretty obvious missteps. This was one of the first shows that I was actively involved with blogging about, with overly detailed recaps and reviews from season 4 until the end, because even as the show went completely off the rails, like a car wreck I couldn’t look away. I had been so used to the in-depth layering through the early seasons, that with the new show-runners and their complete contempt for continuity, I found myself asked to stop trying to make connections that weren’t there and putting conspiracy theories where there was none. Needless to say I did no such thing, but it did reinforce how much the show had changed from the beginning. Even with all that, I do still miss the anticipation of a new episode Sunday night’s in the summer. True Blood will always have a special place in my heart, and I constantly recommend the show, but warn that the end does not live up to the hopes from the beginning.
Based (loosely) on the bestselling Southern Vampire Mysteries by Charlaine Harris, True Blood hit screens in 2008 and lasted an impressive 7 seasons. A grown up vampire show with grown up vampires that were openly living among humans after the invention of synthetic blood, this was nothing like anything that was out there at the time. Season 1 is almost identical to book 1, but after that, other than a few of the same name characters, the show basically does its own thing, for better or worse. The first season of True Blood remains, one of the best series to watch, out of every genre. The level of foreshadowing, hidden messages, and even down to costume color, it seemed that everything had meaning. There are numerous books on the subjects, from one dissecting the opening sequence, to a philosophy guide, and about everything in between. Through Season 4, for the most part, the show was such a sensation that fans were willing to overlook some pretty obvious missteps. This was one of the first shows that I was actively involved with blogging about, with overly detailed recaps and reviews from season 4 until the end, because even as the show went completely off the rails, like a car wreck I couldn’t look away. I had been so used to the in-depth layering through the early seasons, that with the new show-runners and their complete contempt for continuity, I found myself asked to stop trying to make connections that weren’t there and putting conspiracy theories where there was none. Needless to say I did no such thing, but it did reinforce how much the show had changed from the beginning. Even with all that, I do still miss the anticipation of a new episode Sunday night’s in the summer. True Blood will always have a special place in my heart, and I constantly recommend the show, but warn that the end does not live up to the hopes from the beginning.
Versailles
Instead of the English court in The Tudors, Versailles gives you a taste of the opulent French Court life during the reign of King Louis XV1 also known as the Sun King, and was on our screens for just 3 seasons from 2015 to 2018 . As with The Tudors, this show is loosely based on history, in fact you can still visit the actual palace of Versailles to this day. The show takes place in the lead up to the French Revolution but ends before the well known events take place. With outstanding costuming, stunning dialogue, and scenery and sets beyond compare, it really is beautiful to watch. Although I would have liked to see the story continue, I have to say that this has three solid seasons, and ends at the height of Louis’ reign, leaving me feeling satisfied that they probably made the right decision. As has been noted in other shows, sometimes they should just stop!
Instead of the English court in The Tudors, Versailles gives you a taste of the opulent French Court life during the reign of King Louis XV1 also known as the Sun King, and was on our screens for just 3 seasons from 2015 to 2018 . As with The Tudors, this show is loosely based on history, in fact you can still visit the actual palace of Versailles to this day. The show takes place in the lead up to the French Revolution but ends before the well known events take place. With outstanding costuming, stunning dialogue, and scenery and sets beyond compare, it really is beautiful to watch. Although I would have liked to see the story continue, I have to say that this has three solid seasons, and ends at the height of Louis’ reign, leaving me feeling satisfied that they probably made the right decision. As has been noted in other shows, sometimes they should just stop!
Vikings
The second Michael Hirst penned show to make the list, although this originally hit screens in 2013 (and has the 6th and final season airing now due to finish in 2020), Greg and I didn’t actually discover this until 2018. We binge watched the first 4 seasons and it fast became Greg’s favorite show. With lots of action, violence, and huge battle scenes, it would be easy to overlook that this is at least in part, based loosely on some of the believed history. Stories may not feature the actual Viking names of those that that lived, but the essence of their lives is portrayed and it makes for excellent viewing. With the final season airing there has already been talk of a spin off that will have input from Michael Hurst but will be set in a completely different time. I am sure that we will be watching that too, and as I write this I hope that they don’t ruin the end of this season. Season endings are hard it seems, especially for TV!
The second Michael Hirst penned show to make the list, although this originally hit screens in 2013 (and has the 6th and final season airing now due to finish in 2020), Greg and I didn’t actually discover this until 2018. We binge watched the first 4 seasons and it fast became Greg’s favorite show. With lots of action, violence, and huge battle scenes, it would be easy to overlook that this is at least in part, based loosely on some of the believed history. Stories may not feature the actual Viking names of those that that lived, but the essence of their lives is portrayed and it makes for excellent viewing. With the final season airing there has already been talk of a spin off that will have input from Michael Hurst but will be set in a completely different time. I am sure that we will be watching that too, and as I write this I hope that they don’t ruin the end of this season. Season endings are hard it seems, especially for TV!