It’s that time of year when the networks are hoping viewers will flock in droves to their new shows. As these new series get underway over the next few weeks, it can be tough to decide which shows to check out. Time is limited, after all. And this fall the main broadcast networks are debuting 23 new series. So let us help you out. After analyzing the preview buzz, SpoilerTV pilot ratings and social media following, we break down the top 10 most anticipated network shows of the new fall season. Happy viewing!
1. GOTHAM
The DC comic origin story offers a new take on the city known for Batman. But this version’s hero isn’t Bruce Wayne – it’s Detective James Gordon before he became police commissioner. In fact, he’s the rookie detective who investigates the murder of Bruce Wayne’s parents. The premise is unique and, most of all, fun. The internal and external fight to retain Gordon’s moral compass in the midst of widespread corruption offers intriguing story. And Ben McKenzie displays an earnest strength and determination that makes him the perfect choice for Gordon. Plus, it’s exciting to watch all the young up-and-coming villains before they become Penguin, Catwoman, Poison Ivy and The Riddler. Jada Pinkett Smith also devilishly captivates with new character Fish Mooney. This series has the most Twitter followers of any new network shows. At the time of this article, “Gotham” was leading SpoilerTV’s poll: “Which new show can’t you wait to watch?”
2. THE FLASH
“The Flash” pilot was screened at San Diego’s Comic-Con to a very enthusiastic audience reception. The “Arrow” spin-off follows crime scene investigator Barry Allen who, after being struck by lightning following a particle accelerator explosion, awakens from a coma with the power of super speed. Partnering with S.T.A.R. labs, the fastest man alive dedicates his life to protecting the innocent. This new CW series is bound to be a hit. It already has a following from “Arrow” fans, not to mention comic enthusiasts. Even before the premiere, lead actor Grant Gustin has been receiving kudos for infusing the character with heart, charm, intelligence and humor. The show boasts state-of-the-art special effects and a promising blend of action and backstory. The show’s Facebook page has over a million likes.
3. HOW TO GET AWAY WITH MURDER
Shonda Rhimes’ newest series is billed as a “sexy, suspense-driven legal thriller” centering on power, sex, lies and murder. And no one does sexy and smart like Shonda Rhimes (“Grey’s Anatomy,” “Scandal”). Plus, Oscar nominee Viola Davis brings an intensity to the lead role. Her character – Professor Annalise Keating – has no qualms about beating the system and skirting the law. She’s manipulative, seductive, mysterious and even dangerous. While her students test their moral limits to win her approval, we also love that the plot gets complicated when they find themselves needing her help. The series boasts almost half a million Facebook likes – the most of any non-comic related show. This series is a definite can’t-miss in our book.
4. CONSTANTINE
Based on the popular DC Comics series “Hellblazer,” this show centers around seasoned demon hunter John Constantine, who tries to rid the world of demons and fight a new evil rising in the shadows. Like other comic-based shows, “Constantine” already has a built-in audience; those who love the comics will tune in to see how the stories and characters translate to the small screen. “Constantine’s” director has said he intends for the series to be as dark and scary as possible. While this type of show isn’t for everyone, fans are eager: The show has the most Facebook likes of any new fall series – almost two million! While the SpoilerTV team rated “The Flash” and “Gotham” pilots higher than “Constantine’s,” our team still felt it had great action, decent scares and good lighter moments. Another plus: executive producer David S. Goyer has worked on two comic-based films before - “Man of Steel” and “The Dark Knight Rises.”
5. GRACEPOINT
This 10-episode mystery event series stars David Tennant and Emmy award winning "Breaking Bad" actress Anna Gunn as detectives investigating the tragic death of a young boy in a small town. The series promises mystery, drama and intrigue. Someone amongst the characters you meet committed the murder so anyone and everyone is a suspect – friends and relatives included. Viewers will inevitably question what every character could be hiding and who is capable of the crime. The stellar cast also includes Nick Nolte and “American Hustle’s” Michael Peña. The original British version of the show (“Broadchurch”) was a critically acclaimed hit and by all accounts the American version will be, too. The original series’ creator serves as executive producer and wrote the premiere episode, and Tennant is reprising his “Broadchurch” role. This pilot received the highest SpoilerTV rating of all new shows – a 9.5 out of 10.
6. RED BAND SOCIETY
The time is ripe for a new young adult drama – and this one may be different than you might expect. The coming-of-age series focuses on a group of radically different high school kids who are thrown together in a hospital setting and become friends. With an irreverent, witty tone, the series strays from the dreary and depressing and instead focuses on the uplifting, fun times the kids have as they band together and try to beat the system. Of course, they are fighting tough health battles, but they have each other’s backs. Oscar winner Octavia Spencer adds to the cast as a tough but caring nurse, yet it’s really the young unknown actors who carry the show. Part comedy, part drama, this Steven Spielberg-produced show could potentially become the new “Breakfast Club” of a younger generation.
7. SCORPION
“Scorpion” is CBS’s most promoted show. The network has been working hard to raise this series’ profile – and they may have good reason. The show is getting great early buzz. One of the top four rated SpoilerTV pilots, our reviewers deemed it fast-paced and engaging with interesting characters. The pilot is filled with car chases and high-octane plane scenes. The series follows an eccentric genius who surrounds himself with other geniuses who don’t fit in anywhere. They want to make a difference and get their chance when a government agent enlists their help to stop high-tech threats. If you think the premise sounds far-fetched, consider this: the story is based on a real-life person who’s involved with production. Each week brings a new high-stakes problem to solve.
8. STATE OF AFFAIRS
Katherine Heigl makes her return to TV in the political drama “State of Affairs.” With the actresses’ highly-publicized and often-critiqued comments in the past, she’s become somewhat of a love-to-hate figure. So many will be tuning in to see how she fares in this NBC series. Can she hold her own? She doesn’t have to carry the load herself. Heigl’s CIA analyst character counsels the President of the United States, played by Alfre Woodard, so she’s in good company. The female-led series will be up against political dramas like “Scandal,” “Homeland,” “House of Cards” and newcomer “Madam Secretary,” so it has a lot of competition. While the latter slightly beat out “State of Affairs” in our SpoilerTV pilot ratings, with Heigl at the helm the anticipation on this one is building. We’re going to have to wait for the results, though. The series doesn’t debut until mid-November.
9. STALKER
Maggie Q and Golden Globe winner Dylan McDermott are a big draw for CBS’s “Stalker.” The two play detectives investigating stalking incidents for the LAPD. His character has had a questionable past while hers is driven by a traumatic experience as a victim. The psychological thriller may be a procedural, but its creepy, scary tone offers some unique thrills in that genre. The topic is timely and enthralling and the two main characters have an interesting, contentious relationship. Executive producer Kevin Williamson is also no stranger to this genre. He wrote the “Scream” films, created “The Following” and developed the “Vampire Diaries.”
10. FOREVER
ABC’s early release of the pilot episode of “Forever” seems to have garnered momentum for the supernatural series. Viewers who may not have watched it amongst a crowded fall lineup were drawn in – and found themselves really enjoying the show. Our recent SpoilerTV poll found it in the top six shows people can’t wait to watch. Ioan Gruffudd plays New York City’s medical examiner who looks great for 200 years old. That’s because every time he dies, he comes back at age 35. Gruffudd’s character is charming and likeable, the flashbacks are fun and the premise offers lots of potential for future stories. Plus, the tone resembles that of ABC’s popular “Castle.” The early release hasn’t taken anything away from viewers since the show’s premiere week will feature two episodes: the pilot and a second episode the following night in its regular time slot.
Do you agree with our Top 10 list? Which new shows are you most excited to watch? Let us know in your comments below.
