Best New TV Shows Of 2023: A Metacritic Guide

Hey guys! Are you ready to dive into the awesome world of television? 2023 has been an amazing year for TV, with a ton of fresh and exciting shows hitting our screens. If you're anything like me, you're always on the lookout for the next binge-worthy series. That's where Metacritic comes in super handy! Metacritic is like the ultimate guide, pulling together reviews from all sorts of critics to give you a single, easy-to-understand score. This helps us quickly see what's hot and what's not.

In this article, we're going to explore some of the best new TV shows of 2023, according to Metacritic. We'll break down what makes each show special, why critics loved them, and why you might want to add them to your watchlist. So, grab your popcorn, get comfy, and let's get started!

Understanding Metacritic Scores for TV Shows

Before we jump into the shows, let's quickly chat about how Metacritic works. Basically, Metacritic gathers reviews from a whole bunch of reputable sources – think big names like The New York Times, The Guardian, and Variety. They then assign a numerical score to each review, and these scores are averaged to give the show an overall Metascore. This score is out of 100, so the higher the score, the better the critics generally think the show is.

Why is this useful? Well, with so many TV shows out there, it can be tough to know where to start. Metacritic gives you a quick snapshot of critical opinion, helping you narrow down your choices. Of course, taste is subjective, and what one critic loves, another might not be so keen on. But as a general guide, Metacritic is super helpful. A show with a Metascore of 80 or above is usually a pretty safe bet, suggesting it's well-written, well-acted, and generally high-quality. Anything in the 60-79 range is worth checking out, as it might have some strong points that appeal to you. And anything below 60? Well, proceed with caution, but don't write it off completely – you might just find a hidden gem!

Top TV Shows of 2023 According to Metacritic

Alright, let's get to the good stuff! Based on Metacritic scores, here are some of the top TV shows of 2023 that you absolutely need to know about. These are the shows that critics have been raving about, and for good reason.

1. "Beef" (Netflix)

"Beef" is a dark comedy-drama series created by Lee Sung Jin, starring Steven Yeun and Ali Wong. The plot revolves around two strangers, Danny Cho and Amy Lau, who are involved in a road rage incident that escalates into an all-consuming feud. This show has garnered widespread critical acclaim, with a Metascore that places it among the best TV shows of the year.

Critics have praised "Beef" for its sharp writing, compelling performances, and its ability to explore themes of anger, frustration, and the search for meaning in modern life. The show is particularly lauded for its authentic portrayal of Asian-American experiences, offering a fresh and nuanced perspective that resonates with viewers. Steven Yeun and Ali Wong deliver career-defining performances, bringing depth and complexity to their characters. The show's blend of humor and drama keeps you hooked from beginning to end, making it a truly unforgettable viewing experience.

Why you should watch it: If you're a fan of dark comedies with complex characters and thought-provoking themes, "Beef" is a must-watch. It's a show that will make you laugh, cry, and think long after the credits roll.

2. "Poker Face" (Peacock)

"Poker Face" is a mystery-of-the-week series created by Rian Johnson, starring Natasha Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a woman with an extraordinary ability to tell when someone is lying. Each episode features a new mystery that Charlie must solve as she travels across the country, encountering a colorful cast of characters. The show has been praised for its clever writing, engaging mysteries, and Lyonne's captivating performance.

Critics have celebrated "Poker Face" for its refreshing take on the traditional detective show format. Rian Johnson's creative vision shines through in every episode, delivering intricate and surprising mysteries that keep viewers guessing. Natasha Lyonne's performance is a standout, bringing her signature wit and charm to the role of Charlie Cale. The show's episodic structure makes it easy to jump in and out, making it perfect for casual viewing. If you love a good mystery with a touch of humor, "Poker Face" is definitely worth checking out.

Why you should watch it: If you're a fan of classic detective shows like "Columbo" but want something with a modern twist, "Poker Face" is the show for you. It's smart, funny, and endlessly entertaining.

3. "The Last of Us" (HBO)

"The Last of Us" is a post-apocalyptic drama series based on the acclaimed video game of the same name. The show follows Joel (Pedro Pascal), a hardened survivor, as he escorts Ellie (Bella Ramsey), a young girl immune to the zombie-like Cordyceps fungus, across a ravaged United States. The series has received widespread critical acclaim for its faithful adaptation, compelling performances, and emotional storytelling.

Critics have lauded "The Last of Us" for its ability to capture the essence of the video game while also expanding on its themes and characters. Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey deliver powerful and nuanced performances, bringing depth and humanity to their roles. The show's production design is stunning, creating a believable and immersive post-apocalyptic world. While the zombie genre may seem overdone, "The Last of Us" elevates it with its focus on character development and emotional resonance. If you're a fan of the game or just love a good post-apocalyptic story, this show is a must-see.

Why you should watch it: If you're looking for a gripping, emotional, and visually stunning post-apocalyptic drama, "The Last of Us" is the perfect show for you. Just be prepared to cry!

4. "Shrinking" (Apple TV+)

"Shrinking" is a comedy-drama series created by Jason Segel, Brett Goldstein, and Bill Lawrence. The show follows Jimmy (Jason Segel), a therapist who starts to break ethical boundaries by telling his patients exactly what he thinks. This leads to significant changes in his patients' lives, as well as his own. The series has been praised for its heartfelt writing, strong performances, and its exploration of grief and healing.

Critics have celebrated "Shrinking" for its refreshing and honest portrayal of mental health. Jason Segel delivers a standout performance, bringing vulnerability and humor to the role of Jimmy. The show's supporting cast, including Harrison Ford and Jessica Williams, is equally impressive. "Shrinking" manages to balance its comedic and dramatic elements perfectly, creating a show that is both funny and deeply moving. If you're looking for a show that will make you laugh, cry, and think about your own life, "Shrinking" is definitely worth watching.

Why you should watch it: If you enjoy comedy-dramas with well-developed characters and a focus on mental health, "Shrinking" is a must-watch. It's a show that will leave you feeling hopeful and inspired.

5. "Reservation Dogs" (FX on Hulu)

"Reservation Dogs" is a comedy-drama series created by Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi. The show follows a group of Native American teenagers in rural Oklahoma who dream of escaping their reservation and moving to California. The series has been praised for its authentic portrayal of Native American life, its sharp humor, and its heartfelt storytelling.

Critics have lauded "Reservation Dogs" for its groundbreaking representation of Native American culture. The show is written, directed, and acted by a predominantly Native American cast and crew, bringing a level of authenticity that is rarely seen on television. The show's humor is sharp and witty, but it also tackles serious issues such as poverty, addiction, and cultural identity. "Reservation Dogs" is a show that is both entertaining and educational, offering a unique and important perspective on the Native American experience. If you're looking for a show that is both funny and thought-provoking, "Reservation Dogs" is a must-see.

Why you should watch it: If you're interested in seeing authentic representation of Native American life and enjoy comedies with heart, "Reservation Dogs" is the perfect show for you. It's a show that will make you laugh, cry, and learn something new.

Other Notable TV Shows of 2023

While the shows listed above have received the highest Metacritic scores, there are plenty of other great TV shows that premiered in 2023. Here are a few more that are worth checking out:

• "Succession" (Season 4) (HBO): The final season of this critically acclaimed drama did not disappoint, continuing its reign as one of the best TV shows on television.
• "Ted Lasso" (Season 3) (Apple TV+): While some critics felt the third season wasn't as strong as previous ones, it still offered plenty of heartwarming moments and feel-good humor.
• "The Bear" (FX on Hulu): This intense and anxiety-inducing comedy-drama about a chef taking over his family's sandwich shop continued to impress in its second season.

Conclusion

So there you have it, folks! A look at some of the best new TV shows of 2023, according to Metacritic. Whether you're into dark comedies, mysteries, post-apocalyptic dramas, or heartfelt comedies, there's something on this list for everyone. Remember, Metacritic is just a guide – the best way to find your next favorite show is to give these a watch and see what resonates with you. Happy watching! Don't forget the snacks!