Favorite New Shows of 2025

Oh hey, look, it's December. That means it's time to look back at my favorite new shows of 2025. As always, it's not huge because time is, you know, limited, and there are just too many shows to watch.

The Paper

Do sequels or reboots to TV shows work? Well, it depends, doesn't it? Some don't, some do, and in this case, obviously because I've included it here, I think The Paper does. And one of the main reasons for that is that it's really only sequel/reboot-adjacent. It's not really, it just has one character that carries over from The Office, Oscar, and a completely new cast of characters otherwise. The standout is definitely Sabrina Impacciatore as Esmeralda, she is absolutely hilarious, and while she is supposed to be annoying (and is, sometimes), she so embodies the role that you can't help but laugh. 

Outlander: Blood of My Blood

Oh look, this isn't a sequel/reboot, but a prequel, and honestly, I usually hate prequels, because you already kind of know where things are going to end up. But, in this case, we don't know a lot of the details, and since the OG Outlander left Scotland, it just hasn't felt quite like the same show. So, getting to go back and be in the Scottish Highlands again with some star-crossed love? That helps. But it's also, actually, pretty good, which I was not expecting. 

Stick

If you're looking for a feel good show with a lot of heart, then Stick is something you should check out. I'm not a golf person, and I still enjoyed the show, so if that is a deterrent for you, don't let it be. It's honestly way more about the relationships than the golf, but sports, as always, give a nice structure and something to root for throughout, so it doesn't hurt that it's got that going too. A standout in this one is Mariana Treviño - another funny, feisty woman.

The Chair Company

Okay, what do you even say about this show? It's kinda thrilling, kinda funny, and kinda weird. Tim Robinson is always kinda funny and kinda weird, but adding in the thriller element actually really works for his brand of humor. There's something that puts you on edge with each episode, yet you're laughing at the same time. It's an engaging combo!

Honorable Mentions: The Studio (only seen the pilot episode, but seems like something I will like all the way through), Pluribus (am caught up on, but not sure where it's going long term)

Any new shows you loved that I should check out? Let me know in the comments!

Past Years:

2024 | 2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011

Favorite New Shows of 2024

There have been quite a few new shows that debuted in 2024 that I've wanted to watch, but I haven't had a chance to watch all of them quite yet. In the meantime, here are my favorites that I have had a chance to watch so far.

Shogun

I honestly wasn't expecting to like this as much as I have. It's very well done, with great acting along with all of the amazing visuals and storytelling. Yes, you have to read subtitles, but if that's the only thing holding you back, don't let it. 

Star Wars: Skeleton Crew

Skeleton Crew is, in a word, fun. Most of the recent Star Wars TV shows have been very serious, which makes this one a breath of fresh air. The kids are really the stars here, even though this image clearly focuses on Jude Law. Although it still has a number of episodes left to go, it's safe to say it should stay enjoyable throughout.

Ted

I fully did not expect to like Ted AT ALL. I am not a fan of the original Ted movies, and expected the humor to be overly juvenile. However, after watching The Orville (also a Seth MacFarlane show) I thought, well, maybe.... and honestly, it's pretty funny. I enjoy the parents more than anything - Alanna Ubach in particular is hilarious.

Shows I want to watch but haven't had a chance to yet: Nobody Wants This, A Man on the Inside, The Penguin, Agatha All Along

Any new shows you loved that I should check out? Let me know in the comments!

Past Years:

2023 | 2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011

Favorite New Shows of 2023

Well, I already wrote about my favorite new books read in 2023, so now it's time for my other annual list - my favorite new TV shows of 2023! Unlike the books list, which is all about what books I've read, this list only includes those shows that debuted in 2023. Sometimes I'll make a little addendum at the end of those shows I would've included on previous years' lists if I didn't get around to them until later, but that's few and far between it seems.

Anyway! Enough blathering on about nothing, let's get on with it. My favorite new TV shows this year are...

Jury Duty

Jury Duty was a complete surprise this year! I had not heard of it at all, really, until someone mentioned it. Once I started watching it, I didn't want to stop. It's hilarious and super engaging, and if you haven't watched it yet, you really should. 

The Diplomat

Keri Russell is back in The Diplomat, a series that normally I wouldn't think would be my cup of tea. But this one is really well done from both a character perspective and a plot perspective. A bit fish out of water mixed with political intrigue, the show has a great cast and will definitely leave you wanting season two.

Ahsoka

While there have been a number of Star Wars themed live action TV series on Disney+ in the past few years, Ahsoka is the only one I have actually enjoyed and looked forward to each episode. It felt the most Star Wars-y of all of the shows so far, if that makes sense. Plus, actual light saber battles and stuff, which, let's be honest, we all want more of. It was meant to be a limited series, but the ending really left things open, so who knows where things will go now.

Percy Jackson and the Olympians

Although only three episodes are available so far of Percy Jackson and the Olympians, this TV version of the book series is already superior to the film series that came out some years ago. The only thing that is holding this back thus far, for me, is that I don't feel a ton of chemistry between the trio. Otherwise, though, it's well shot and the story moves along at a brisk and engaging pace. If you liked the books or are looking for something with Harry Potter-ish vibes, give this one a go.

That '90s Show

Now I'm sure some people didn't like this update to That '70s Show, but honestly I really enjoyed it. It's light-hearted and fun, and has all of the '90s nostalgia. Would it work without Kitty and Red? Probably not, but the kids are coming into their own and the end of the season did set up some interesting drama to come.

A Murder at the End of the World

Who doesn't love a murder mystery set in a remote location? This series comes from creators

Zal Batmanglij and Brit Marling, who also created the show The OA. Their stuff is usually a little out there in some way, though I would say this is probably their most mainstream creation to date. Did I figure out most of the mystery's answers? Maybe. But with it being a complete story in seven episodes, that was okay. It was created as a standalone miniseries, but there has been speculation there could be a season two. Would it be as effective since this mystery was so personal for the lead character? That's the question.

Shows I want to watch but haven't had a chance to yet: Lessons in Chemistry, Gen V

Any new shows you loved that I should check out? Let me know in the comments!

Past Years:

2022 | 2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011

Favorite New Shows of 2022

Boy, there are a lot of shows that exist in the world these days. Lots of shows that debut and then don't get renewed, or you only find out about them after they've been on for a couple of seasons. But there have been quite a few this year that I watched and highly enjoyed, with a number of them being a complete surprise as I had no idea what they were beforehand. 

So let's get on with it, my list of my favorite new TV shows watched this year...

Severance

By far the best show of the year, Severance is both funny and dramatic, and features a very interesting concept at its core. It's full of tension, and the finale will leave you wanting more. Hopefully the next season can keep up the quality.

Wolf Like Me

I didn't know much about this show going into it, but figured it was worth checking out with the lead cast at its core. It draws you in pretty quickly, and while the concept might seem weird or goofy, it's done in a way that resonates well. What is strange, though, is why Isla Fisher is made to be American when the show takes place in Australia and she could just use her native accent. But, whatever!

I Love That For You

This show really has it all, from an awesome cast, to a compelling story, to a great sense of humor, and more. Vanessa Bayer is great as the lead character - and what's even more interesting is that it is partially based on her own life. If you're looking for a new comedy to watch, give this one a go.

House of the Dragon

I wanted to feel excited about House of the Dragon, but definitely felt a bit trepidatious based on how Game of Thrones ended. That said, the show has been delivering so far. It was a bit jarring to have some of the main actors change partway through the first season, but the story itself has continued to be compelling throughout, even if the characters themselves aren't very likable. Can they keep up the momentum? Let's hope.

The Rehearsal

If you've never seen Nathan Fielder's Nathan For You, then you would probably go into The Rehearsal with a very different mindset. Nathan has a certain quality about him where you can't tell what's real and what's fake, and a sense of humor that likely not everyone would understand. While you may think the show is going to be a certain thing based on the first episode, it really changes and develops over the first few episodes into something else entirely. How much is scripted and how much isn't? That's part of the fun of watching.

Iron Chef: Quest for an Iron Legend

What's this? A reality competition series on this list? Why not! This is an all-new version of Iron Chef, pitting "wannabe" chefs against Iron Chefs in different culinary battles. Some of the food is really amazing, and it's cool to see how different people take on different challenges. Definitely an easy show to binge.

Reboot

I hadn't really heard much about this show when we decided to watch the pilot. While the pilot itself is good, the show gets better as it goes, with some true laugh out loud moments along the way. The cast is awesome, with one of my unexpected favorites being Calum Worthy as Zack Jackson, a perky former child star. But the rest of the cast is great as well - Keegan Michael Key, Paul Reiser, Rachel Bloom, Judy Greer, Johnny Knoxville... Another great comedy to check out if you haven't seen it!

Love on the Spectrum US

If you were worried that the US version of the original Love on the Spectrum wouldn't be as heartwarming or engaging, worry no more. The docuseries follows autistic adults looking for love, and will have you tearing up when they do or do not find it. It's been renewed for a second season, so let's hope we get to catch up with everyone while also meeting some new people.

Any new shows you loved that I should check out? Let me know in the comments!

Past Years:
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011

Favorite New Shows of 2021

It's becoming harder and harder to stay up to date on the new TV shows that exist in the world, what with alllll of the different streaming services available. Top that off with feeling exhausted half the time and often I find I'd like to watch an old favorite rather than dive into something completely new. But, that doesn't mean I haven't watched some of the new shows that debuted this year.

So let's get on with it, my list of my favorite new TV shows watched this year...

Loki

You're going to notice quite a few different Disney+ Marvel TV shows on this list. Yes, I'm a Marvel fan. However, you will also notice one show missing, and it's true that I did not really like that one compared to the rest. The one I enjoyed the most was definitely Loki, with its twisty turny narrative and great cast. The fact that these shows also have implications for the larger MCU is also cool as that's never really been done before, at least that I'm aware of. Can't wait for the next season, whenever that may be.

Hawkeye

Apparently some people aren't big fans of Hailee Steinfeld, which was news to me as I have always enjoyed her. Here, she joins the MCU as Kate Bishop, who it looks like will be taking over the mantel as the new Hawkeye. I was never a big fan of Hawkeye in the Avengers movies, but this show has made me like him, so there you go. While it's not over yet, the show is only six episodes long, and I think it's safe to assume it won't suddenly lose my interest.

WandaVision

WandaVision is very creative, and while it was slow going at first to actually get to the story, it was definitely going somewhere and not just meandering for no reason. Though I'm not sure it really stuck the landing as well as it could have, I was nonetheless enthralled throughout and couldn't wait for each new episode. It was nice to see these characters explored more fully than in the films, and now I am looking forward to see where they go next.

Hacks

I almost didn't include this show in here because while I think it's well done, I'm not sure I really loved it, if that makes sense. I found one of the main characters a bit hard to like, and though that was part of the character's supposed "charm," it was difficult to get past sometimes. Still, Jean Smart is awesome, and if you watch it just for her alone, you will probably be mostly satisfied.

Any new shows you loved that I should check out? Let me know in the comments!

Past Years:
2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011

Favorite New Shows of 2020

It's been a year, you guys. Stuck in a quarantine of one sort or another since mid-March, you'd think I'd have watched every new TV series out there. But no, I never did succumb to the Tiger King, and honestly I don't think I ever will. That's just not my jam. 

Still, with a bevy of streaming options, there were many, many new TV shows that debuted this year, and no, I was not able to watch them all. But below are the ones I did watch and enjoy, with some bonus entries at the end for some shows that I did not see when they first debuted, but have since gobbled up this year.

Saved by the Bell

If you've known me long enough, you know I was a big fan of the original Saved by the Bell. I'd watch it in the afternoons on cable in the summers - it was on two different channels right around the same time, and boy did I get annoyed if the two channels happened to show the same episode on the same day. Anyway, I was a bit skeptical about this new version, but it's actually quite funny. It's not like the original show, which was pretty earnest, but instead much more tongue-in-cheek, with a winking sense of humor that has made me laugh out loud multiple times.

Ted Lasso

I used to not be a huge fan of Jason Sudeikis. It's true, there was just something that bugged me. But, over the years he has grown on me, and Ted Lasso was another example of him doing so. I really only wanted to check out the show after so many people kept saying how much they enjoyed it, and those people were all correct. It's funny, but not over the top, and heartwarming while also dealing with real issues. The only bad thing is it's on Apple TV+, which does not have an app on most TVs, and not owning an Apple TV makes it fairly annoying to watch on the actual TV. 

B Positive

The casting of these two in the leads of this show really sells it. If Thomas Middleditch wasn't the lead, I don't know that I would've watched it. While it is a more generic sitcom, it is one I find myself looking forward to. It's only a few episodes into its first season so far, and I'm not entirely sure where it's going long term, but the first season at least looks like it will be promising throughout.

Emily in Paris

This show is straight up ridiculous. And yet it's one you can binge very easily in half a day as all of the episodes are less than 30 minutes long. Honestly, it makes no sense that Emily would be sent to Paris at all. Let's put it this way - this show is one you put on in the background while you're doing other things. You really just have to pay attention to the French-speaking parts (unless you speak French, then et voila!), otherwise you only have to sort of pay attention, and then wonder wait who is this new guy that's now taken a romantic interest in Emily, and should I care?

Supermarket Sweep

I mean, yes, this is a game show, and it's a remake on top of that. But Leslie Jones is amazing as the host. Really, I just watch it for her reactions, and to try to guess the puzzles along with the contestants. Her delivery of every line and joke has so much energy and pizzazz, I don't know how you can't love her.

The Vow

The Vow is a docuseries, which I rarely like to watch, but it sucks you in. That being said, it really sucks you in for the first few episodes, and then takes a long, meandering route toward the ending, which is only half of an ending, because it's the first season?! Honestly, I went into this thinking it was going to be a complete story, and it's not -- plus it's overly long, really drawing things out without giving satisfying answers to some of the more burning questions. Still, I'll probably be tuning in for the second season, so... 

Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist

To be honest, I have not finished watching the whole first season of this show yet, but the few episodes that I have watched have been absolutely charming. This year, we can use all the uplifting and charming we can get, so if you enjoy a good song every now and then (you don't have to love musicals, though, trust), I would say definitely give this little gem a go. The cast is lovely and you'll be rooting for Zoey from the start.

And now for the Honorable Mentions...

(aka shows I only started watching this year but should've when they first debuted)

The Boys

Eric Kripke, the creator of The Boys, is also the creator of one of my other all-time favorite shows, Supernatural, so you'd wonder why I didn't watch this right from the start? Well, his last two shows weren't my favorite, so I wasn't sure. But then everybody started talking about The Boys during its second season, and I found out Jensen Ackles was going to be in the third season, so it was like okay fine, the universe wants me to watch this show. And thank you, universe. It's so good! Seriously, it's darkly humorous, the cast is great, and the story fires on all cylinders as well. Yes, it can be violent, but it's always got a comedic edge to it (unlike another show on Amazon, which will remain nameless). Love this show!

Star Trek: Discovery

I'm not much of a Trekkie. I've only seen some of The Next Generation, and the most recent movies, with a sprinkling of Deep Space Nine thrown in. My boyfriend and I tried watching this when it first came out, but couldn't get past the pilot episode. But once you get past those first prequel type episodes, the show gets SO, SO much better. The cast is awesome, and the show takes some great twists and turns that we didn't see coming, and just keeps that pace up in the second season. The third season is airing now on CBS All Access, and it's been renewed for a fourth as well.

Good Mythical Morning

Good Mythical Morning is technically a YouTube series -- it's not really a regular, scripted show or anything, but it is very entertaining. In particular, the episodes where they taste and rank different food items, or do blind taste tests and try to guess where they are from... basically anything involving food is usually a good time on the show. It's also been on for ages, but I only discovered it recently, and since I've been enjoying it so much this year, I figured why not include it!

Any new shows you loved that I should check out? Let me know in the comments!

Past Years:
2019 | 2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011

Favorite New Shows of 2019

Another year, another new streaming service to contend with. Yes, Disney+ entered the scene this year, but did any of its original shows make my list of annual favorites for 2019? You'll just have to read on to find out! Except that there aren't that many, because dang it's just tough to keep up.

I mean seriously, there is a LOT of content around nowadays that it's impossible for one person to watch everything, so these just happen to be what I got around to. Also, I want to give a shout out to a show that I did not watch when it first aired (and hence it does not appear on the list for the year where it should be), but have since watched almost all seasons: Outlander. Man I am INTO it.

Watchmen

Typically this type of show wouldn't necessarily be my jam, just because it's so smart and sometimes that annoys me. But honestly by the end of the season (or series?), I was hooked and looked forward to each episode. Some of that may have just been the mystery of it all - like what the heck was really going on, and how did it all connect. But connect it all did, in awesome ways. 

High School Musical: The Musical: The Series

I fully did not expect to like this show. The original TV movies are super cheesy, like Cheese McCheeserson. But, I mean, they did introduce all of us to Zac Efron, so there's that. But this show is totally in on the fact that the old movies were cheesy. It has a lot of humor while also mixing in the music in a much more realistic way. To be fair, I haven't finished the entire first season yet, but it's a lot of fun and I don't expect my opinion will change much after a couple more episodes.

The Imagineering Story

It's super interesting to see how Disneyland came to be and how things developed over the years. What Walt's vision was, versus what those who followed him ended up doing. The hits and misses, looking into the development of the various different theme parks over the years.... the show is actually pretty honest when things didn't work, which is nice since this is a Disney production after all. Definitely worth watching if you're into Disney stuff.

Want to Watch but Haven't Had a Chance Yet: The Witcher, Chernobyl 

I Wanted to Love You, But...: The Mandalorian (baby Yoda or The Child or whatever you may call it is frickin' cute and kept me watching, but the rest just didn't quite grip me like I hoped it would).

Any new shows you loved that I should check out? Let me know in the comments!

Past Years:
2018 | 2017 | 2016 | 2015 | 2014 | 2013 | 2012 | 2011

Supernatural 14x14 "Ouroboros"

As you may have noticed, I did not write up this review on Thursday night after the episode aired. I know this means it will get less hits and such, but I figure why put myself under a certain kind of pressure for a few hits. I don't love the show as much as I used to, I don't feel the urgency to watch it like I once did, so I'm going to watch and write these up by the weekend, but without a set date in mind. At least for now that is the plan. Part of this decision may stem from the fact that I was extra disappointed with the previous episode, but it's also been a long time coming.

Okay, on to this episode. Things are essentially back to normal, apart from Dean confessing to Castiel that he's not really sleeping with the effort to keep Michael at bay. But the four guys are all out on a hunt together, chasing down a dude that's killing other dudes and eating them. It turns out that said dude is a Gorgon, a la Medusa, who paralyzes his victims and uses snakes and such. Do we care about this Monster of the Week? Not really.

The important thing here is that he is able to see everyone but Castiel and Jack coming, seemingly because of their angel-ness and near-angel-ness. Which means that, with the help of Rowena's tracking spell, those two will be able to get close to this Gorgon before he spots them with his near-future visions, unlike the brothers Winchester. So, they track him down, fight a bit, Castiel gets hit with the paralyzing stuff, which works for some reason, the Gorgon tells some story about an egg that relates to Jack, basically insinuating he might be the real bad guy or some such. Blah blah, they kill him. But not before Dean gets hit on the head, which leads to the rest of the episode. Oh, and Jack uses his angel powers (the ones that will eventually drain him of his soul if he keeps doing it) to heal Castiel, who of course doesn't want him to keep doing that, etc.

They head back to the bunker, and they are unsure what to do about Dean, who is still unconscious. Because that might mean Michael can get out, right? Right. He manages to sort of escape, at least in the way that he can talk to Rowena in her mind, and get her to agree to let him in, which... whatever. Over people flip flopping between good and evil, honestly. She lets him in, kills a bunch of people in the bunker, including that Maggie girl who's been hanging around and not doing much.

But then Jack steps in. He's not having it, no sir. Despite Michael acting all cocky like Jack can't do anything to him, he uses his powers to weaken Michael, and then forces him out of Rowena. He does some stuff to his essence, and then consumes the grace that remains. Jack says he's back to himself, but I guess that's now the question for the rest of the season - is he really?

Random Thoughts:

- I mean, hopefully this is the end of the Michael storyline. It was getting stale and repetitive, for sure.

- Lately I keep thinking what shows that are forced to be over 20 episodes a season might have been if they could have been more like 10-12 instead. Man, so much unnecessary filler would be cut. I know some people like to have a show on for a while so they have something to watch every week that they like, but I'd rather it be good the whole time, you know?

Quotes:

Rowena: You, always blaming witches.
Dean: 'Cause a lot of times it's witches.

Dean: This is like an A/V club presentation.
Jack: What's an A/V club?
Castiel: It's a special group for people who do not play sports.
Dean: Yeah, he's A/V club.

Dean: I'm on a first name basis with a psycho penpal. That's...aces.

Rowena: Of course, Samuel. Until very recently, I was the villain.

Jack: I'm the son of Lucifer, I'm a hunter, and I'm a Winchester.

Previous Episode

Supernatural 14x13 "Lebanon"

My friends, I think I got myself too hyped for this episode. I was honestly really looking forward to it, but I felt kinda let down. The structure of the episode was just a bit wonky, why did they need the whole beginning with those dumb kids? They could've cut straight to them with the pearl saying it's supposed to grant your deepest wish so it wasn't 20 minutes of filler in the beginning. It seemed like there was hardly any history there even though that's what it was supposed to be about.

I don't know, maybe I'm crazy and over-analyzing. I'm sure a lot of people loved it. But okay let's get into the recap portion of things. As I mentioned, there's this whole beginning part where the guys are looking for this skull because another hunter who had it was killed and this dude took the skull and put it in his collection and... I mean, do you care? I don't care. The point is, they get a bunch of occult stuff in the Impala, then head into town (aka Lebanon), and the Impala gets stolen by a punk kid with all the stuff inside, they track it down, figure out there's a magical pearl in with the stuff.

So. Yes. They have the pearl. It grants wishes. Dean's like alrighty let's try it so I can get Michael out of my head. Well, he seems to get Michael out (though this is truthfully never fully addressed unless I completely spaced out), but he also, you know, brings his dad, John Winchester himself, there to the future. But a very specific version of the dad, from 2003, before all of the events of the show. Why would Dean want this particular version of John back? No idea. Not addressed. But he's here, and the boys tell him all about what has happened, and he's the most caring version of John we've ever seen from here on out. Not that John couldn't be caring, but you know what I mean.

Mary walks in and they're immediately kissing, and while they mack, Sam pulls Dean aside to rain on his parade about how messing with time travel is rarely a good idea. It will inevitably change things. Dean wants to ignore that, at least for now, and have a nice family dinner of Winchester Surprise that we've only heard about as of this season, but is now folklore of the family as if it were always a thing.

While Dean and Sam head out to get the ingredients, they realize that things have already started to change. Since in this version of the timeline, John disappeared in 2003, Dean never ended up going to get Sam (I mean, really? The whole reason he went to get Sam in the first place in 2005 was because John was missing. Are we supposed to believe that Dean went and got him and because they never found John, Sam went back to school in this reality? IDK, guys, IDK.). So, Sam is now some tech goofus while Dean is still hunting and also wanted by the police for many beheadings.

So, while they're out and about, they see some bright lights that could only be from an angel declaring themselves to complete strangers because that's what they do in this timeline even though the only reason they got involved in the world's affairs before was because of the whole Winchesters being special thing, but I guess because time is being messed with, it's fine, whatever. Cool, bro.  Zachariah and Castiel, now back to a version of season four Castiel, are here and declare themselves and beat up the brothers, and Sam can kill Zachariah this time, and blah blah they banish Castiel with an angel symbol thingamabob and ok, let's go back to the bunker and tell everyone the bad news that dad has to go back to his timeline, because duh.

Now there are some father-son moments between both John and Sam and John and Dean, and everyone gets to be very touchy feely and talk about stuff. John is very proud of his boys, Sam is over his old resentment toward his dad, etc. They ponder whether changing things even further back in time would be better for them, but of course they're themselves and besides, we saw what that life could be like way back in season two in one of my actual favorite episodes of the series (that's What Is and What Should Never Be, for those who haven't figured it out already), albeit without John in the picture.

Anyway, they come together and bash the pearl, and John slowly disappears back to his time. All is back to normal, or as normal as it ever has been for this Winchester crew.

Random Thoughts:

- Like Sam would ever pick up a cursed object and almost pull the string on it. Puh-lease.

- Did I miss where they called themselves Campbell before? Are we just supposed to know they go by that name in town near the bunker?

- I'm sorry, I really wanted to like this episode, I really did. I was really thinking it would be the best episode of the season. Maybe my expectations were just too high.

- I do feel bad being mostly negative anymore; you'd think I was never a fan. But this was my favorite show back in the first five seasons. I went to the first Paley Fest panel for it back in season one, you guys. It just makes me sad.

Quotes:

Dean: They always talk too much.

Dean: This is like the best worst thing that could happen. 'Cause you love serial killers, but you hate clowns.
Sam: Yeah, Dean, I get it.

Dean: I Googled me as well. A lot of beheadings.

Zachariah: Come on, Constantine.
Castiel: I don't understand that reference.
Zachariah: You wouldn't.

Dean: Would we be better off? I don't know, maybe. But I gotta be honest, I don't know who that Dean Winchester is.

John: You two, you take care of each other.
Sam: We always do.

Previous Episode

Supernatural 14x12 "Prophet and Loss"

Legit question: do any of you care about the Nick storyline, like, at all? Because I could give two hoots. But fine, I'll talk about it really quick since this episode went into it. Nick escapes from police custody at the hospital where he's being kept and goes back to his house, where he talks to the ghost of his wife. She asks him to come back or whatever, and he's like no I choose Lucifer, wherever he may be. Bleep bloop.

Okay on to the main story at hand - Sam and Dean are heading toward the ocean, I guess, with the coffin capsule thingy that has a name, I'm sure, but it's not really important. Sam is not stoked about this trip, and even less so when Dean starts apologizing for not always being there for him when they were kids, like some kind of close to death confession tour. So he drums them up a case to take on while on their way.

The case involves a kid who has taken to killing people in very biblical ways, and carving enochian script into them after their deaths. They run his name by Castiel and figure out that he was to be the next prophet after Donatello, but he shouldn't have been called yet because Donatello is technically still alive, though in a coma.

They find the evil prophet dude just in time before he kills his next victim, and are like dude, you are not hearing GAHHG tell you what to do. He gets so distraught that when he manages to get Dean's gun off of him, he shoots himself in the noggin. Well, so much for that guy. But the bigger question is, why was he called up in the first place? They figure it must be because Donatello is in some in between place, not really alive, but not really dead, and so another prophet was called up, but not called up properly. But that just means it will happen again, unless they do something about ole Donny.

They meet Castiel at the care center where Donatello is in his coma, and they're all ready to pull the plug on the guy when the doctor mentions offhand that he's been saying some odd phrases. Luckily they have video of it, how nice, and they realize that he's been speaking enochian. Which I guess means he can be healed, because Castiel does just that, bringing him back from the brink of death.  But, lest we forget, Donatello still doesn't have a soul, so all is not completely right with the world.

After all of that is over, or as over as it can be, I guess, Sam drunkenly gives Dean a piece of his mind, basically telling him that they don't give up, and he can't understand why Dean would give up so easily. He even goes so far as to punch Dean in the face! My goodness, Sam! Dean eventually agrees to let everyone try as long as possible to find another way to fix things, but also tells Sam that if worse comes to worse, he will need to go in the box.

Random Thoughts:

- Am I the only one who didn't remember that Donatello was still alive?

- Next week's 300th episode, from what little I saw of the preview that always gets cut off by my DVR, looks like a lot of fun. It's the first episode in a while that I'm looking forward to, to be honest.

- The show was just renewed for a 15th season. Holy moly. I suppose I will face the dilemma once again whether to continue on with the recaps here or not.

- Can we be done with the Nick/Lucifer storyline once and for all?

Quotes:

Dean: I never said I wasn't scared.

Dean: I don't need to get shaky on this thing.
Sam: Wouldn't be the worst thing.

Sam: So if we could not have conversations that sound like deathbed apologies, I would really appreciate it.

Dean: Does the name Tony Alvarez mean anything to you?
Castiel: Yes.
Dean: Say more.

Dean: Thinking, highly overrated.

Castiel: This is the regular him but, he doesn't have a soul.
Dean: Well, nobody's perfect.

Previous Episode -- Next Episode

Supernatural 14x10 "Nihilism"

Well, we're back from winter hiatus. Seems like it went by so fast, no? Feels like just yesterday we were seeing Michael take back over Dean in the last episode. But here we are, ready to pick back up where we left off.

Sam, Jack, and Castiel face Michael and manage to distract him enough to get him into some angel cuffs so he can't snap his fingers and make them all go poof. All while they are hearing reports from that girl, whatever her name is that's been featured this season (I wanna say Maggie?) is calling them to tell them the monsters are wrecking havoc and on their way to get them, blah blah etc etc. Luckily, Sam remembers that they always have reapers watching over them, so he calls for some help, and they get transported back to the bunker.

But now the monsters are just on their way to the bunker! They've only got so much time to figure out what to do to try to get Dean back. Michael is all ho hum I'll just wait for my monsters to come save me, while Sam decides to try that mind connector thingy to reach Dean inside wherever Michael has him buried down. He and Castiel head inside Dean's mind. While Cas is shifting through Dean's memories of all of the trauma he's been through, trying to figure out where Michael would've stashed him, Sam figures out that no, the best way to keep Dean complacent and quiet is to keep him somewhere he would like. And that's when they hear the place where Dean actually is...

Rocky's Bar, a bar Michael has invented for him run, with Pamela by his side helping him out. He's in what you might call a time loop of sorts, replaying the same thing over and over again. Sam and Cas manage to make it into this loop of his, and though it takes some doing, they eventually start to reach him by pointing out that one, Pamela got blinded, and two, she's also dead. And then Sam says the magic word, which I don't remember being a thing, but I would hope I am just forgetting that tidbit, and bang, Dean remembers everything. Michael shows up then inside the dream or whatever you want to call it, and they soon figure out that he's the same as them in there, he can't snap his fingers and kill them. They manage to team up against him and lock him away in the closet, where the closet basically represents Dean's mind.

Meanwhile, the monsters start breaking into the bunker (well, if you want to get technical, they were let in by someone who was turned), and Jack ends up using some of his angel powers to kill them all. Cas gives him a lecture about this later, because the more of the magic he uses, the more of his soul that goes away. And we all remember soulless Sam was such a hoot with his lack of morals and all.

In his room, Dean is visited by head reaper Billie, who informs him that the many books in her library describing the many different ways he could die have all changed to Michael breaking free and killing the world. Well, all of the books, but one. Which she has brought for Dean to peruse, because it always goes well when someone knows their fate. But he seems a bit flabbergasted by the book and doesn't know what to do with it. And of course we don't see what's written, because that would get rid of the tension, I guess.  So we're left wondering for the future just what's in the BOOOOK?!

Random Thoughts:

- I'll be honest, the only episode I'm looking forward to is the upcoming 300th episode which features a certain returning guest star. It will be hard to miss who this is unless you live under a rock considering this person is featured on one of the covers of Entertainment Weekly this week, but I'll refrain just in case.

- Seriously though, where did Poughkeepsie come from?

Quotes:

Dean: How can you always have a boyfriend?
Pamela: How can you only want what you can't have?
Dean: Ohh.
Pamela: Besides, you don't want me, you just like to flirt. I'm a psychic, so I kinda know.

Michael: Cool science project, I give it a solid B-.

Dean: My mind, my rules. I got him. I'm the cage.

Previous Episode -- Next Episode

Favorite New Shows of 2018

Can you believe we're already at the end of another year? Time just seems to go faster and faster with each passing one. But here we are, ready to talk about some of my favorite new TV shows of this past year. You know what else keeps happening as time has been going on? There has just been SO MUCH CONTENT that it's really hard to keep up with everything. So many streaming shows in addition to all of the regular network television, there's no way anyone can watch everything.

So below are just some of the shows I've been able to keep up with and have personally enjoyed. It doesn't even touch the surface of just how many shows there have been, and how many I still want to watch, but haven't had a chance to yet. But without further adieu, here we are...

The Neighborhood

The Neighborhood is a fairly classic sitcom - two families living next to each other that come from different backgrounds, and seeing how those backgrounds clash while they become friends. It could've been terrible, but it's actually been pretty good. It explores real issues, some that people in everyday life are probably afraid to talk about sometimes. The cast is great, they all fit their roles really well, so it's been a highlight of the year.

Magic for Humans

What Justin Willman, the magician at the center of this show, does so well is blending magic with humor. Magic for Humans isn't your typical goofy type of magic, or super serious over-the-top stunt-type things. On the show, he mostly does street magic, where he approaches strangers and does something crazy that you can't figure out. It's a lot of fun. And if you have the chance, I'd recommend checking him out live in person too, we saw his show in LA and were not disappointed!

Queer Eye

I'll just tell you right now: I never watched the original Queer Eye for the Straight Guy, so I can't make any sort of comparisons. But what I can say is that this Queer Eye is highly enjoyable. The guys are entertaining and all have very different personalities. The people they help are genuine and oftentimes need more than just help with their appearance, which they so far seem to have been able to give, as much as they can in the short time they are given with each person. Hopefully it will continue to be genuine in future episodes as well.

The Conners

True story: I refused to watch this when it was Roseanne. I begrudgingly watched one episode, and could concede that it was a good show, but I couldn't personally watch it and support someone who I so thoroughly did not believe in. So, it was nice when I felt like I could watch it again, and it's been pretty enjoyable. It features a part of America that doesn't always get a lot of screentime, which has been nice as well. It touches on contemporary political and social topics in a funny way, and honestly the acting is pretty good too, particularly Laurie Metcalf.

Honorable Mentions: The Rookie (it's fun, but kind of silly and wouldn't watch if not for Nathan Fillion), Cloak and Dagger (I like it, but haven't watched all of it still), Good Girls (similar case of enjoyed but never finished the season)

Still Unsure About: New Amsterdam (I liked the first few but haven't watched since then)

I Wanted to Like You, But You Kinda Sucked: Jack Ryan (watched the whole season, and may watch more, but did I like it? No.), Lost in Space (Straight trash nonsense, but again might try the second season just because I like the concept), Manifest (Why is it happening? WHO CARES.), Single Parents (I don't even know what to say. I like Taran Killam, give him better material.)

Any new shows you loved that I should check out? Let me know in the comments!

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