9 of the best BBC shows of the year so far

As a seasoned gamer with a penchant for both the digital and the televisual worlds, I must say that BBC has truly outdone itself this year! The array of shows they’ve served us is nothing short of extraordinary.


So far in 2024, we’ve shared our top choices for the best series, but the BBC is offering an impressive array of both new and returning programs, even before the full fall TV lineup begins!

If you prefer catching shows during primetime on BBC One, or if you’re all about marathon-watching series on BBC iPlayer (one of the top streaming platforms in the UK), here’s a roundup of what you likely watched on the Beeb in 2024.

9 of the best BBC shows of the year so far

Lost Boys and Fairies

In this television series titled “Cardiff-set,” written by Daf James, we follow the narrative of a same-sex couple as they navigate their path to adoption, a topic seldom depicted on screen from a LGBTQ+ viewpoint.

The tale, titled “Lost Boys and Fairies“, has been praised as exceptionally joyful yet thought-provoking, balancing lightness with deeper, weightier subjects. Notably, a specific scene earned recognition from Digital Spy as one of the top LGBTQ+ screen moments in the recent past year.

9 of the best BBC shows of the year so far

The Jetty

In this fresh BBC drama, I found myself center stage, slipping into the shoes of Detective Ember Manning, unraveling a tale that seemed to mirror my own life a bit too closely for comfort. “I May Destroy You” star Weruche Opia also shines brightly as podcast investigator Riz, whose journey intertwines with mine.

In two separate timeframes, “The Jetty” unfolds to solve an enigma that’s been lingering for 17 years. Initially following a conventional crime narrative, the story eventually delves into topics related to the #MeToo movement.

9 of the best BBC shows of the year so far

A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder

The mystery thriller TV series “A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder,” adapted from Holly Jackson’s widely acclaimed YA novel, has been garnering significant attention lately. It initially aired on BBC earlier this year and is currently topping the charts of Netflix’s most-watched series in the United States.

On Wednesday, Emma Myers’ character, Pip Fitz-Amobi, joins a group of friends during their summer break to delve into the mystery surrounding the vanishing of a classmate that occurred five years back.

9 of the best BBC shows of the year so far

Doctor Who

Ncuti Gatwa, along with showrunner Russell T Davies, introduced a fresh chapter for the cherished science fiction series, making it accessible to a broader audience through Disney+. However, it remains an integral part of BBC’s lineup to fans like us.

Among its memorable episodes like ’73 Yards’ and the highly acclaimed ‘Rogue’, featuring the notable guest appearance of Jonathan Groff, season 14 – or season 1, based on perspective – is likely to be remembered as one of the most powerful introductions for the character.

9 of the best BBC shows of the year so far

The Responder

In the role of an enthusiastic viewer, I was thrilled to return to the streets of Liverpool as we delved into the second season of “The Responder.” Six months had passed since the gripping premiere of this BAFTA-nominated cop show, and I couldn’t wait to see where the story would take us next.

In this BBC series, they’ve added a raw and authentic feel to the police drama genre, with Martin Freeman portraying emergency responder Chris Carson and Adelayo Adedayo taking on the role of the new recruit, Rachel.

9 of the best BBC shows of the year so far

The Tourist

This upcoming season, another popular show on BBC featuring Jamie Dornan is returning. Originally set in Australia, the series has shifted locations to Ireland, yet it managed to retain its unique style effectively.

In our critique, we noted that under the skillful direction of the Williams brothers, Dornan transformed into an action hero reminiscent of Jason Bourne, all while showcasing his natural talent for humor.

9 of the best BBC shows of the year so far

Domino Day

Comparisons to ‘Buffy’ were unavoidable, but ‘Domino Day’ uniquely redefined the supernatural fantasy genre while maintaining a stronger connection to contemporary settings.

The show centres on a powerful witch with a dark secret, who uses dating apps to hunt. The six-part series is also packed full of queer metaphors, which is always worth celebrating.

9 of the best BBC shows of the year so far

I Kissed a Girl

Following the release of “I Kissed a Boy“, it was now the ladies’ turn to venture into an Italian masseria, seeking their own romantic endeavors.

The popular reality dating show is now a highly anticipated annual event on the BBC, and we eagerly anticipate what new direction this long-awaited format (it’s hard to believe that this represents the first gay dating format in the UK) will take next.

9 of the best BBC shows of the year so far

The Traitors US

AKA, the one with Ekin-Su.

You might have come across numerous clips on TikTok, yet here’s another chance to watch it: The American adaptation of the popular show, featuring stars among its Faithfuls and Traitors, is now available on BBC iPlayer for everyone to watch.

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2024-08-30 19:49

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