Fall is here, and with it comes the perfect excuse to hibernate on your couch, wrapped in a cozy blanket, binge-watching TV for hours on end—no guilt allowed! But here’s where it gets controversial: while some shows are worth every second of your time, others might just leave you scratching your head. Let’s dive into the best (and most debated) TV picks of the season, along with a few surprises that’ll keep you talking.
This Week’s Highlights:
- A fall TV guide that’s as cozy as your favorite sweater.
- A heartfelt tribute to the iconic Diane Keaton.
- A love letter to a Broadway revival that’s stealing hearts.
- A Wicked guessing game that’s got everyone buzzing.
- A shoutout to Gwyneth Paltrow for being effortlessly charming.
What I’m Loving Right Now
Fall isn’t just about pumpkin spice and crunchy leaves—it’s about the flood of new TV shows that demand your attention. From prestige dramas to guilty pleasures, here’s what’s worth your time:
Task (HBO)
Last Sunday’s episode of Task is, in my opinion, the best hour of TV this year. And this is the part most people miss: it’s not just the intense 20-minute shootout that grabs you—it’s the emotional aftermath that lingers long after the credits roll. I’ve seen the finale, and trust me, it’s a masterpiece. Mark Ruffalo, start polishing that Emmy speech.
Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy (Peacock)
Let’s address the elephant in the room: serial killer shows are often exploitative and tasteless. But here’s where it gets controversial: Devil in Disguise breaks the mold by focusing on the victims and the tragedy rather than glorifying the killer. It’s a refreshing take that deserves your attention.
The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City (Bravo)
If there’s one hill I’m willing to die on, it’s this: RHOSLC is Bravo’s greatest gift to humanity. Every episode this season has been a chef’s kiss—so much so that I’m surprised the chef hasn’t filed a restraining order against me. It’s that good.
Ghosts (CBS)
There’s something about Ghosts that just screams fall—and it’s not just the spooky vibes. Now in its fifth season, this comedy strikes the perfect balance of humor, heart, and familiarity. It’s like a warm hug on a chilly evening.
Dancing With the Stars
Am I getting old, or is Dancing With the Stars suddenly cool again? This season’s eclectic cast and jaw-dropping performances have me hooked. And this is the part most people miss: during one episode, I actually teared up. Yes, really.
Matlock (CBS)
I’m at the point where I want to stop strangers on the street and scream, “Have you seen Matlock?!” The reboot, starring Kathy Bates, is a clever, gripping ride with a storyline that keeps you guessing. Season 2 just started, and it’s already delivering in spades.
The Lowdown (FX)
Ethan Hawke is having a career year, and The Lowdown is a wild, fun addition to his resume. Between his Oscar-worthy performance in Blue Moon and his turn in Black Phone 2, Hawke is on fire. This show is a rollercoaster you won’t want to miss.
A Tribute to Diane Keaton
Spending a week revisiting Diane Keaton’s life and work has been both profound and heartbreaking. Her death is devastating, but her legacy is a gift. Here’s where it gets personal: Keaton’s characters—quirky, deep, and utterly human—reminded us that oddballs deserve love too. She wasn’t just kooky; she was a beacon of empathy and authenticity. Her turn in Annie Hall was electric, and her interviews were a masterclass in being unapologetically yourself.
Ragtime: A Broadway Triumph
The revival of Ragtime on Broadway is nothing short of staggering. The score, performed with such passion and precision, is enough to give you goosebumps. Songs like “Wheels of a Dream” and “Make Them Hear You” are so powerful, they might just leave you in tears. But here’s where it gets controversial: Broadway is expensive, and not everyone can make the trip to New York. But if you can, this production is a must-see.
Wicked’s Wild Surprise
Director Jon M. Chu has teased a major celebrity voice for the Cowardly Lion in Wicked: For Good, and the internet is going wild with speculation. Here’s where it gets controversial: Will it be a safe choice like Morgan Freeman, or will they go bold with someone like Miss Piggy? Personally, I’m team Fran Drescher or bust.
Gwyneth Paltrow: Forever a Fan
If you’re not obsessed with Gwyneth Paltrow’s story about meeting Timothée Chalamet, we can’t be friends. Her anecdote about not realizing his girlfriend was Kylie Jenner is pure gold—and proof that even stars can be adorably out of the loop.
What to Watch This Week
- Black Phone 2: The press images alone are terrifying. (Now in theaters)
- Devil in Disguise: John Wayne Gacy: A rare endorsement for a serial killer series. (Now on Peacock)
- Mr. Scorsese: An epic docuseries about a cinema legend. (Now on Apple TV+)
What to Skip This Week
- The Astronaut: Sometimes, the astronaut should stay in space. (Now in theaters)
- The Road: A reality competition with Keith Urban? Hard pass. (Mon. on CBS/Paramount+)
Final Thoughts
Fall TV is a mixed bag, but this season’s highlights are truly special. From emotional dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, there’s something for everyone. But here’s where it gets controversial: What’s your take on the serial killer genre? Is Devil in Disguise a step in the right direction, or just more of the same? And who do you think will voice the Cowardly Lion? Let’s debate in the comments—I’m all ears!
