Ah, 2024—a year where television in the United States continued its relentless quest to oscillate between sheer brilliance and mind-numbing drivel. If you thought previous years had their share of highs and lows, buckle up. Here’s a rundown of the shows that made us binge with glee and those that made us question our life choices.

The Best Shows of 2024: Gems Amidst the Rubble

1. True Detective Season 4

HBO’s anthology crime series returned with a vengeance, featuring Jodie Foster in a gripping narrative set against the eerie backdrop of the Alaskan wilderness. The season masterfully combined atmospheric storytelling with complex character development, reminding us why we fell in love with the series in the first place.

2. The Boys Season 4

Amazon Prime’s anti-superhero series continued its reign of chaos, blending dark humor with social commentary sharper than Homelander’s jawline. Season 4 pushed boundaries and buttons, delivering gut-punching satire that left viewers both laughing and cringing. It’s the kind of show that makes you grateful for the “Are you still watching?” prompt—yes, we are, and we need a moment to process.

3. The Penguin

Colin Farrell reprised his role as Oswald Cobblepot in this HBO Max series, diving deep into the gritty underworld of Gotham City. The show’s noir aesthetic and Farrell’s captivating performance made it a standout, even in a year saturated with comic book adaptations.

4. Fallout

Amazon’s adaptation of the beloved video game series brought the post-apocalyptic wasteland to life with impressive production values and a storyline that appealed to both fans and newcomers. It was a delightful blend of nostalgia and fresh narrative, proving that video game adaptations don’t have to be disasters.

5. Shōgun

Hulu’s Shōgun sliced through the clutter of mediocre period dramas, delivering a masterclass in storytelling set in feudal Japan. With meticulous attention to historical detail and performances that could make a stone weep, this series redefined the genre. It’s as if someone finally remembered that good writing and compelling characters matter.

The Worst Shows of 2024: When TV Goes Off the Rails

1. The Idol Season 2

HBO’s attempt to continue the controversial series fell flat, with critics and audiences alike panning its lackluster plot and gratuitous content. It seems the showrunners missed the memo that shock value without substance doesn’t equate to quality television.

2. Love Island All Stars

Just when you thought reality TV couldn’t sink lower, Love Island All Stars arrived to prove you wrong. A parade of former contestants desperate to extend their 15 minutes of fame led to a season as shallow as the villa’s infinity pool. Manufactured drama and forced romances made viewers yearn for the intellectual stimulation of watching paint dry.

3. The Perfect Couple

Despite a star-studded cast led by Nicole Kidman, this Netflix series fell flat. A predictable plot and lackluster character development turned what should have been a compelling drama into a forgettable experience. It seems even Kidman couldn’t save this sinking ship.

4. Smoggie Queens

BBC3’s attempt at a reality series focusing on Teesside’s socialites was an unmitigated disaster. Lacking wit, charm, or any semblance of entertainment value, Smoggie Queens felt like a punishment rather than a viewing experience. It managed to offend both the featured community and the audience’s intelligence—a true feat.

5. Football Focus

The once-revered BBC sports show fumbled spectacularly this year. With analysis as insightful as a fortune cookie and a presentation style that could cure insomnia, Football Focus became the poster child for how not to do sports journalism. Fans were left wondering if the producers had ever actually watched a football match.

Honorable Mentions: The Surprisingly Good and the Disappointingly Bad

Surprisingly Good: Blue Lights Season 2

This BBC police drama set in Belfast returned with a second season that was both gripping and authentic. The portrayal of rookie officers navigating complex moral landscapes offered a refreshing take on the genre, proving that sometimes, the best stories are grounded in reality.

Disappointingly Bad: The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City Season 5

Despite high expectations, the latest season failed to deliver the drama and intrigue that fans have come to expect. Stale storylines and unengaging new cast members made it a chore to watch, signaling that perhaps it’s time for this franchise to hang up its heels.

In conclusion, 2024’s television landscape was a testament to the industry’s capacity for both excellence and mediocrity. For every show that pushed the envelope and challenged viewers, there was another that made us question the direction of modern entertainment. Here’s to hoping that 2025 brings more of the former and less of the latter.