Top 5 Best New TV Series of 2019

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Our picks highlight 2019’s best brand-new series—limited runs and ongoing shows that launched this year.

List compiled by Dylan Blight & Ashley Hobley

Ranked list

    1. Wayne
      5) Wayne — YouTube

      Wayne McCullough (Mark McKenna) lets his fists do the talking—usually in defense of what’s right. His violent, oddly sweet road trip with Del (Ciara Bravo) to reclaim his dad’s stolen car is packed with chaotic pursuers and pitch-black humor. Del gives the show heart, culminating in an epic finale. With YouTube moving away from scripted series, this gem may remain frustratingly unresolved—but it still rules.

      — Ashley Hobley

    1. Daybreak
      4) Daybreak — Netflix

      Style to spare: fourth-wall breaks, RZA narration, and sitcom flashbacks—balanced by a fun story and lovable weirdos. Colin Ford leads a great ensemble (standouts: Alyvia Alyn Lind, Sophie Simnett, Austin Crute), and Matthew Broderick is having a blast. With that finale, we’re eager to see what’s next for Josh, Angelica, and Wesley.

      — Ashley Hobley

    1. When They See Us
      3) When They See Us — Netflix

      Ava DuVernay’s four-part mini-series is essential viewing—shocking, empathetic, and impeccably crafted. If you missed it in 2019, it’s just as vital now.

      — Dylan Blight

    1. Chernobyl
      2) Chernobyl — HBO / Foxtel

      Near-perfect television: Craig Mazin’s writing and Johan Renck’s direction deliver a harrowing, meticulously researched account that’s hard to watch—and impossible to ignore. A stark warning wrapped in masterful drama.

      — Dylan Blight

  1. Watchmen
    1) Watchmen — HBO / Foxtel

    Damon Lindelof’s sequel series to the graphic novel is 2019’s most audacious surprise: bold, timely, and stunningly executed. If it’s one-and-done, it’s an all-timer; if there’s more story to tell, we’re listening.

    — Dylan Blight

Best of 2019