These five new TV shows are brimming with ratings potential
This year is a promising one for TV enthusiasts. Aside from returning favourites there’s an exciting lineup of new shows.
Agent Carter
Genre: Action, adventure, drama
Starring: Hayley Atwell, James D’ Arcy and Chad Michael Murray
Channel: ABC
Set in the mid-1940s, this show follows the events of Captain America: The First Avenger. The series tells the story of agent Peggy Carter who ventures on confidential missions while dealing with prevailing sexism. Agent Carter debuted on 6th January.
Why we’re watching: It’s refreshing to see a heroine from a Marvel comic.
The Last Man on Earth
Genre: Comedy, science fiction
Starring: Will Forte and January Jones
Channel: Fox
It’s the year 2022 and an unknown event has annihilated the human race. The last human, Phil Miller, is left to search for possible survivors while clad only in pajamas. The show will air in March.
Why we’re watching: Apocalyptic plots seem to be the norm nowadays. But this comedy sci-fi without zombies sounds way cooler.
Empire
Genre: Drama-musical
Starring: Terrence Howard, Bryshere Gray, Jussie Smollett and Trai Bayers
Channel: Fox
Lucious Lyon is a fictional hip-hop mogul diagnosed with the nerve disease amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which prompts him to think of ways to distribute his wealth. The series centres on a family in dispute over the control of his entertainment company. Empire premiered on 7th January.
Why we’re watching: A television show may not accurately provide a glimpse into celebrity life, but family members going at it over money sounds exciting.
Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt
Genre: Comedy
Starring: Ellie Kemper, Jane Krakowski and Tituss Burgees
Channel: Netflix
Created by 30 Rock producers Tina Fey and Robert Carlock, this show tells the story of Kimmy Schmidt, a woman who escapes a doomsday cult and hopes to start fresh in New York City. The comedy series will begin in March.
Why we’re watching: Viewers can expect a lot of aw-shucks moments from the naïve yet charming protagonist.
Fresh Off the Boat
Genre: Comedy
Starring: Randall Park, Constance Wu and Hudson Yang
Channel: ABC
This series is based on the book Fresh Off the Boat: A Memoir written by American food personality Eddie Huang. Set in the mid-1990s, the show follows Eddie and his Taiwanese family as they face various challenges on a journey from Washington DC to Orlando, Florida. The show made its debut on 4th February.
Why we’re watching: As it’s a situational comedy told from an Asian perspective and is based on a true story, it’s relatable to a broad audience without seeming too serious.
Ferdinand Godinez
