The UK has had a long history of producing some of the most innovative and entertaining TV shows in the world. From classic comedies to gritty dramas, British television has something for everyone. As we look ahead to 2023, there are several new shows and returning favorites that are sure to capture the hearts and minds of audiences across the country.
Picnic at Hanging Rock
Based on the classic novel by Joan Lindsay, Picnic at Hanging Rock is a fascinating mystery set in the Australian outback. When three schoolgirls and their teacher disappear during a picnic, a wave of panic sweeps through their community. As the search for the missing girls intensifies, dark secrets are unearthed and long-held grudges are brought to the surface.
Starring Natalie Dormer (Game of Thrones) as the enigmatic headmistress Mrs. Appleyard, Picnic at Hanging Rock is a visually stunning and emotionally gripping drama. With its haunting score, breathtaking landscapes, and powerful performances, this is a show that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
Bodyguard
From writer and creator Jed Mercurio (Line of Duty), Bodyguard is a high-octane thriller that will have you on the edge of your seat. When a home secretary is targeted by a terrorist attack, her personal protection officer, David Budd (Richard Madden, Game of Thrones), is thrust into the spotlight. As he navigates the complex world of politics and terrorism, he must also confront his own personal demons.
With its intricate plot, explosive action sequences, and powerhouse performances, Bodyguard is a show that demands your attention. Richard Madden is a revelation in the lead role, bringing both vulnerability and intensity to his character. This is a show that will keep you guessing until the very end.
The Crown
The Crown has been a critical and commercial success since it premiered on Netflix in 2016. The drama, which explores the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, has won numerous awards and garnered a dedicated fanbase. As we look ahead to season 5, there are plenty of reasons to be excited.
One of the biggest changes for the upcoming season is the addition of Imelda Staunton as Queen Elizabeth II. Staunton, who is best known for her roles in Harry Potter and Vera Drake, is sure to bring her signature style and nuance to the role. We can also expect the show to delve deeper into the personal lives of the royal family, including the tumultuous marriage of Princess Margaret and Lord Snowdon.
Fleabag
Fleabag has been one of the most talked-about shows of the past few years. Written by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, the show is a darkly funny exploration of love, loss, and sex. As we anticipate the third and final season, there is a lot of speculation about where Waller-Bridge will take the story.
One thing is for sure: the show will continue to be as irreverent and surprising as ever. With its fourth-wall breaking, its frank depiction of sexuality, and its unflinching honesty, Fleabag is a show that refuses to play by the rules. Whether you love it or hate it, you can’t deny its impact on modern television.
Gentleman Jack
Gentleman Jack is a period drama set in the early 19th century, exploring the life of Anne Lister, a landowner and entrepreneur who was also known for her homosexuality. Starring Suranne Jones (Doctor Foster) as Lister, the show is a fascinating exploration of a woman who defied convention and lived life on her own terms.
With its sumptuous costumes, stunning locations, and compelling performances, Gentleman Jack is a show that transports you to another time and place. Jones is magnetic as Lister, capturing both her strength and vulnerability. The show is a celebration of a remarkable woman, and a reminder that history is full of hidden stories waiting to be told.
In Conclusion
These five shows are just a taste of what’s to come in the world of British television in 2023. Whether you’re a fan of high stakes drama, dark comedy, or historical intrigue, there is something for everyone. As we look ahead to the future of television, it’s clear that the UK will continue to be a major player in the industry, producing groundbreaking shows that captivate audiences far and wide.