9 Must-Watch TV Shows for Fall 2020
Earlier this year, COVID-19 forced shutdowns on productions of some of our favorite fall series and we were left without endings. Thankfully, studios have been busy filming (with extra safety protocols, of course) to make up for lost time. Here are some of the most anticipated TV shows for Fall 2020–and a few spoiler alerts to get excited about.
“The Undoing”
Nicole Kidman stars in HBO’s newest crime-thriller based on the popular non-fiction novel “You Should Have Known” by Jean Hanff Korelitz. Kidman plays Grace Frasher, a successful therapist living a seemingly normal life with her charming husband (played by Hugh Grant) and son. As with any good drama, the fairy tale life is cut short with a series of chilling events, unraveling our female lead and revealing disturbing truths about her husband, and her life.
Fans of “Big Little Lies,” another well-known book adaptation from HBO starring Kidman, will be interested to know that both shows share the same writer and producer–David E. Kelley.
Where to stream: HBO Max
“The Mandalorian”
Everyone’s favorite meme star, Baby Yoda, is back! In the context of the greater Star Wars universe, this Disney+ original is set five years after “Return of the Jedi.” Season 1 earned the show 15 Emmy nominations, and Season 2 promises even more action-packed adventures for Din Djarin and the Child (Baby Yoda) as they continue their journey through the galaxy.
Both Seasons 1 and 2 are available on Disney+. And best to hop on “The Mandalorian” bandwagon now, as plans for a third season say it’s here for the long run.
Where to stream: Disney +
“This Is Us”
It’s finally time to catch up with The Big Three again with one of the most anticipated TV shows of Fall 2020. If your heartstrings haven’t already been tugged by four seasons of “This Is Us”, the series follows the lives of three adult siblings and their parents. There’s family drama and romance, flash-forwards and flashbacks. This season will also reflect real issues within our current social climate, including racial injustice and the COVID-19 pandemic. Long-time fans, get ready to settle in with a box of tissues at arm’s length.
Where to stream: NBC and Peacock
“Chicago Fire”
While filming has been affected due to shutdowns from COVID-19, fans will be happy to know that the November 11 premiere is still on. NBC’s “Chicago Fire” follows the crew of firefighters at a major Chicago station, and with the conflict of constant life or death scenarios, there’s plenty of suspense paired with some juicy relationship drama.
The show comes from “Law & Order” producer Dick Wolf, so fans of the franchise will find hints of a similar sentiment in “Chicago Fire.” If this is your kind of drama, you’re in for a treat with episodes of “Chicago Med” and “Chicago P.D.” airing the same night.
Where to stream: NBC and Peacock
“The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City”
This fall the Real Housewives franchise extends to the slopes of Salt Lake City to welcome a new circle of successful women. With SLC being known for its Mormon culture, and the cast members practicing a range of beliefs, Mormonism will play an interesting role in their relationships with friends and family. Don’t worry–the trailer promises no shortage of the RHO drama and surprises we can’t seem to get enough of. Get ready for some jaw-dropping, head-shaking moments.
Where to stream: Hulu
“Grey’s Anatomy”
Ellen Pompeo is back for the 17th season. Big plans for the prior season finale, including the crossover with the show “Station 19,” were ultimately scrapped when the season was cut short due to COVID-19. Despite the shift in plans, viewers can still expect a drama-filled season.
In the season premiere, fans can expect answers to some long-awaited cliffhangers that were supposed to be resolved in the originally planned season finale. Due to safety protocols, there will less on-screen PDA than you’d expect from Grey’s, but the crew has still found a way to keep things steamy.
Where to stream: ABC and Hulu
“Law & Order: Special Victims Unit”
This veteran crime drama from Dick Wolf has returned for its 22nd season. The characters played by Mariska Hargitay and Ice T will continue to twist our stomachs in their pursuit of justice for disturbing sexual crimes in New York City. This season will also dig deeper into the issues of our current social climate, such as racial bias. After 10 years apart, we’ll even see the return of some familiar faces, setting up the scene for the premier of “Law & Order: Organized Crime” in 2021.
Since SVU has been on-air for over two decades, there’s plenty of binge-watching to be had in addition to newly aired episodes, and Hulu subscribers have access to all 21 seasons. 474 episodes is a pretty big undertaking, but anything is possible.
Where to stream: Peacock and Hulu
“The Crown”
“The Crown” follows Queen Elizabeth II’s life and reign–starting with her wedding in 1947 through to present day–and the political and personal controversies around the British Royal family. This season we’ll be introduced to new characters, like former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, played by Gillian Anderson. Fans will also finally see Princess Diana, played by Emma Corrin, and her children, Prince William and Prince Harry.
This Netflix hit has already been confirmed for a fifth season, so viewers new to “The Crown” can stream confidently knowing it’s here to stay. And if that isn’t enough draw to dig in, know that even the Queen herself has watched the first ten episodes.
Where to stream: Netflix
“For Life”
“For Life,” back for its second season, is inspired by the true story of Isaac Wright Jr. who faced a life sentence in prison for a crime he didn’t commit. The real-life Isaac Wright Jr. is the show’s producer, along with Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson who also stars in the series. In season 2, we’ll be rooting for our main character while he fights both for himself, and for other inmates who have been wrongly incarcerated.
Fans of prison and legal dramas that reflect real issues with the system, you’ll want to get caught up on season one and catch the new season.
While it may seem like activities are winding down for the rest of us, fall TV shows are making sure to give a daily dose of action and drama. And no matter your TV preference–the “wealthy women gossiping behind each other’s backs” type or the “gut-wrenching are they going to survive?!” type–there’s a slew of options to choose from this fall. All you’ll have to worry about is what snack to grab for the show.
Where to stream: ABC and Hulu
Program availability may have changed and is subject to change.
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