2019 was a phenomenal year for TV enthusiasts. It brought us an array of captivating, touching, and thrilling series that became cultural phenomena and remain widely discussed. Indeed, 2019 offered plenty of content to admire and enjoy.
Let’s rewind time and dive into the world of the best TV shows of 2019, which captured the hearts of viewers and left unforgettable impressions. AdmiGram.com revisits the series you should definitely add to your favorites list if you happened to miss them in 2019.
Rewind: The Best TV Shows of 2019
Chernobyl
Director: Johan Renck
Starring: Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgård, Paul Ritter
The story of the Chernobyl nuclear disaster in 1986 was brought to life not with perfect accuracy, but with incredible emotional power. The outstanding performances and gripping, touching storyline exposed the grim reality of the Soviet political system, which tried to silence the tragedy and feared losing control. It’s a haunting series about ordinary people carrying the weight of a catastrophe far bigger than themselves.
The Boys
Showrunner: Eric Kripke
Starring: Karl Urban, Jack Quaid, Antony Starr
This bold, dynamic, youthful, and occasionally cynical series about the real backstage lives of superheroes burst onto the scene, quickly overshadowing even the finale of “Game of Thrones” and the premiere of “The Witcher.” Everything in “The Boys” felt authentic and unflinching. It was a breath of fresh air that skewered corporate greed and celebrity worship with real bite. An undeniable standout of the decade.
Kingdom
Director: Kim Seong-hun
Starring: Ju Ji-hoon, Bae Doona, Ryu Seung-ryong
A blend of history, political thriller, and zombie horror — what could be more intriguing? Especially with a distinctly Korean twist, and following the phenomenal success of the Korean film “Train to Busan.” This colorful and well-crafted series used allegory to expose the horror and injustice lurking beneath a rigid social order. With only six episodes, it was a binge-worthy experience from start to finish. It’s fair to say that this series marked the triumphant start of Korean dramas’ takeover of Netflix.
The Mandalorian
Showrunner: Jon Favreau
Starring: Pedro Pascal, Carl Weathers, Giancarlo Esposito
The first live-action series set in the Star Wars universe won our hearts with its unique style, charismatic lead character, and, of course, “Baby Yoda.” It felt like a reincarnation, a reimagining of the most popular franchise that had lost some of its original wonder and awe. It was the best series of 2019 for all fans of space adventures and those simply looking to relax in front of the TV.
Sex Education
Creator: Laurie Nunn
Starring: Asa Butterfield, Gillian Anderson, Emma Mackey
What could be funnier than looking back at yourself or remembering your youth, especially during the critical period of puberty? This rare series not only focuses on the challenges of growing up but also teaches how to set boundaries and respect others’. It’s equally valuable for teenagers and their parents, offering a humorous lens through which to view serious and mature topics.
Vagabond
Director: Yoo In-sik
Starring: Lee Seung-gi, Bae Suzy, Shin Sung-rok
Another South Korean series that impressed us in 2019. Fake news, conspiracy theories, corruption at the highest levels of power — all were eye-opening for viewers just getting acquainted with Korean dramas. This tightly woven thriller with its complex plot left no room to catch your breath. Gunfights, fistfights, action scenes, a romantic subplot — all kept viewers hooked until the very last episode.
Euphoria
Director: Augustine Frizzell, Sam Levinson, Jennifer Morrison
Starring: Zendaya, Maude Apatow, Angus Cloud
This series took society by storm with its boldness and honesty. The dramatic portrayal of teenagers, their struggles, emotions, and search for identity shocked audiences with its raw, deep, and truthful narratives. It’s one of the best series calling for open eyes to the truth, showcasing incredibly honest performances and a stunning visual style that immerses viewers in the harsh realities modern teenagers face.
Demon Slayer: Kimetsu no Yaiba
Director: Haruo Sotozaki
Voice Cast: Natsuki Hanae, Zach Aguilar, Akari Kitô
An incredibly vibrant animated story about the life of a young girl and her strong older brother. With pleasing artwork, the anime doesn’t shy away from showing the cruelty of the world, while also featuring adorably silly and heartfelt moments. Tragic moments are perfectly balanced with comedy. The well-crafted world, animation, sound, attention to detail, character design, and battles are all just stunning. This animated work deserves a special spot on the “My Best Anime” shelf.
Der Pass
Director: Cyrill Boss, Philipp Stennert
Starring: Julia Jentsch, Nicholas Ofczarek, Franz Hartwig
Beautiful, dark, and atmospheric are the hallmarks of the best European series of 2019. It’s rightly compared to the cult Scandinavian “Bron / Broen” and the first season of “True Detective,” and for good reason. Doomsday cultists, local legends and myths, undocumented immigrants, corrupt officials, and police — it really sends chills down your spine. A highly atmospheric detective series with a slow-paced Scandinavian style. Recommended for all fans of dark, moody detective stories.
Love, Death & Robots
Creator: Tim Miller
Voice Cast: Fred Tatasciore, Scott Whyte, Nolan North
What else made 2019 memorable in terms of TV series? Of course, these short yet masterful stories from parallel worlds! Post-apocalypse and cyberpunk, a tour through the world of Red Army soldiers and ghouls, a tale of how yogurt took over the world — this was truly incredible and exhilarating. The most daring, unpredictable, and colorful project, fully given over to the boundless imagination of its directors and animators. A masterpiece of 2019!
