5 buzzed-about TV shows to binge-watch before fall
Yes, “fall TV” is a fading concept since networks and streaming companies roll out tons of programming year-round. Still, Labor Day weekend kicks off a brief, glorious dead zone between when summer shows wrap up and fall shows debut.
Here are five new easily bingeable and buzzy shows that you may have missed the first time around — and some debut their second seasons soon:
'Empire' (Fox)
Where to watch: Fox is running a marathon of Season 1 on Labor Day that starts at noon and airs through 11 p.m. Also: iTunes, Hulu Plus, Amazon and On Demand.
No. of episodes: 12
When Season 1 aired: Spring 2015
Premise: Musical drama starring Terrence Howard and Taraji P. Henson as exes who run a massive hip-hop empire. We could tell you everything that happens with their dysfunctional family, but you probably wouldn't believe it.
Why watch? Seriously, to see everything that happens with their family and business. Added bonus: The music is great. Plus, it shattered ratings records earlier this year. Everyone's going to be talking about it once Season 2 debuts Sept. 23, and Henson is a front-runner for the Emmy for best actress in a drama.
'Catastrophe' (Amazon)
Where to watch: Amazon Prime, though you can watch the first episode for free.
No. of episodes: 6
When Season 1 aired: Released June 19
Premise: Dark comedy about a Boston advertising executive (Rob Delaney) who hooks up with an Irish woman (Sharon Horgan) on a business trip in London. She gets pregnant; he moves in with her; complications ensue.
Why watch? At least once a week this summer, someone asked me “Are you watching 'Catastrophe?'” Finally, on a recent weeknight, I caved — and was immediately hooked. The best part is each episode is only about 25 minutes. That means it takes less than three hours to watch an entire show in that new, fascinating genre of romantic comedies about imperfect people who actually don't have hearts of gold.
'Mr. Robot' (USA)
Where to watch: On Demand, iTunes
No. of episodes: 10
When Season 1 aired: Summer 2015
Premise: Drama centered on a vigilante hacker (Rami Malek) who gets involved in an underground hacking group with a mysterious leader (Christian Slater).
Why watch? It was the unexpected breakout hit of the summer (Christian Slater, no longer a show-killer!) and was just renewed for a second season. Critics love it. The series finale just aired this past week, so if you watch now, there's a better chance of not running into spoilers.
'You're the Worst' (FX)
Where to watch: Hulu, On Demand, iTunes
No. of episodes: 10
When Season 1 aired: Summer 2014
Premise: Comedy about two permanently single, selfish, late-20/early 30-somethings Gretchen and Jimmy (Aya Cash and Chris Geere) who hook up at a wedding and then attempt a “real” relationship.
Why watch? Even though it sounds like a “Catastrophe”-type rom-com, the program evolved into more of an ensemble series. The writing is sharp, and supporting characters Edgar (Desmin Borges) and Lindsay (Kether Donohue) slowly steal the show.
'UnREAL' (Lifetime)
Where to watch: iTunes
No. of episodes: 10
When Season 1 aired: Spring 2015
Premise: An embattled reality TV producer (Shiri Appleby) goes back to work on a dating competition show that led to her humiliating public breakdown — but is quickly swept right back into the dark and mysterious world of reality television.
Why watch? To finally shut up everyone who asks if you've seen “UnREAL” yet? Really, dig into this absorbing series that explores what actually goes on during the manipulative behind-the-scenes of shows like “The Bachelor.” Sure, the creators (one a former “Bachelor” producer) say it's all fiction, but you know there are elements of real life. And honestly, anything Chris Harrison hates this much is definitely worth watching.