Television in 2024 shines with compelling stories, exceptional performances, and record-breaking viewership. Below, we explore the most popular shows of the year, including the brilliant casts behind these hits.
Network Television’s Revival
1. “Matlock” (CBS)
Viewership: 13.5 million (linear and streaming combined).
Plot: A reboot of the classic legal drama, following the sharp-witted attorney Madeline Matlock as she uncovers the truth in the courtroom.
Cast:
- Kathy Bates as Madeline Matlock.
- Jason Ritter as Julian Blake, her charming investigator.
- Skye P. Marshall as Olympia Stone, a tenacious legal associate.
2. “High Potential” (ABC)
Viewership: 11 million (linear + streaming).
Plot: A single mother with an extraordinary knack for solving crimes becomes an unlikely detective.
Cast:
- Kaitlin Olson as Morgan Shepard, the unconventional crime-solver.
- Daniel Sunjata as Lt. Kyle Woods, her skeptical partner.
- Javicia Leslie as Detective Dana Parker, a supportive yet no-nonsense ally.
3. “Happy’s Place” (NBC)
Viewership: 6.5 million (linear + streaming).
Plot: A heartwarming sitcom about a quirky diner owner navigating life with her friends and family.
Cast:
- Reba McEntire as Happy Walker, the diner’s spirited owner.
- Melissa Peterman as Billie Ray, her hilariously loyal best friend.
- Rex Linn as Sam Walker, Happy’s supportive and wise partner.
Streaming Titans and Their Stellar Casts
1. “Wednesday” (Netflix)
Viewership: 252.1 million views for Season 1.
Plot: A darkly comedic coming-of-age story about Wednesday Addams’ life at Nevermore Academy.
Cast:
- Jenna Ortega as Wednesday Addams.
- Catherine Zeta-Jones as Morticia Addams.
- Gwendoline Christie as Principal Larissa Weems.
2. “Stranger Things ” (Netflix)
Viewership: 140.7 million views.
Plot: The Hawkins gang battles a new supernatural threat while grappling with personal challenges.
Cast:
- Millie Bobby Brown as Eleven.
- Finn Wolfhard as Mike Wheeler.
- Sadie Sink as Max Mayfield.
- David Harbour as Jim Hopper.
3. “DAHMER” (Netflix)
Viewership: 115.6 million views.
Plot: A chilling dramatization of the life and crimes of Jeffrey Dahmer.
Cast:
- Evan Peters as Jeffrey Dahmer.
- Richard Jenkins as Lionel Dahmer, Jeffrey’s father.
- Niecy Nash as Glenda Cleveland, his suspicious neighbor.
Historical and Event TV Casts
Some shows and broadcasts from the past remain cultural icons:
Apollo 11 Moon Landing (1969)
Cast: N/A (news coverage).
Anchored by Walter Cronkite for CBS and David Brinkley for NBC.
Super Bowl LVIII (2024)
Game: Featured the Kansas City Chiefs and Philadelphia Eagles.
Halftime Performers: Beyoncé, Bad Bunny, and Harry Styles.
Conclusion
With strong storylines and talented actors, 2024’s top shows have captivated audiences globally. From network nostalgia to streaming powerhouses, this year underscores television’s enduring impact and its ability to adapt to changing times while remaining a cornerstone of entertainment.
