Matt Roush’s Top 10 Broadcast TV Shows of 2021
Too often ignored in year’s-end lists (and in awards nominations) are the gems that still keep us tuning into the broadcast networks.
While CBS’ new hit Ghosts made his overall Top 10, senior critic Matt Roush compiles a list of 10 more broadcast series and specials that helped define the 2021 TV year, from the final season of Brooklyn Nine-Nine to the long-running Blue Bloods and the revival of The Wonder Years.
The Wonder Years (ABC)
This warm reimagining of the nostalgic comedy transports us to a very different region of the 1960s: the Deep South, reminding us that coming-of-age stories are universal.
This Is Us (NBC)
The Pearsons aren’t going away until 2022, but we’ve already got separation anxiety. TV’s first family of emotional turmoil has lost none of its ability to surprise — and jerk tears.
All Creatures Great and Small (PBS)
James Herriot’s animal stories never get old. We’re newly charmed by the latest Masterpiece adaptation, featuring Diana Rigg in one of her last roles as an eccentric dog owner.
Mom (CBS)
Christy (Anna Faris) left too soon, but “grateful alcoholic” Bonnie (Allison Janney) had support to the end from her friends in one of the great testaments to comic sisterhood.
The Good Doctor (ABC)
Though autistic surgeon Shaun Murphy (Freddie Highmore) has found love, he’s still just one crisis away from a breakdown in TV’s most inventive and wrenching medical drama.
Clarice (CBS)
This intense Silence of the Lambs sequel, starring a compelling Rebecca Breeds as vulnerable Clarice Starling, deserved more than one season. No wonder so much of the good stuff is going to streaming.
Brooklyn Nine-Nine (NBC)
ith one last caper, the wacky precinct that stole our hearts and tickled our funny bones signed off after eight seasons on two networks. As Jake would say: Noice.
Blue Bloods (CBS)
There’s something to be said for consistency. A stalwart on Fridays for 12 seasons, Blue Bloods never fails to satisfy with its blend of police and family drama.
Muhammad Ali (PBS)
Ken Burns’ majestic four-night portrait of the legendary and controversial boxer captured this celebrated figure in all of his bravado and complexity. A knockout.
Ordinary Joe (NBC)
Is this anything-but-ordinary drama trying too hard, following a man (James Wolk) on three different life paths? At least it’s trying. We’re still intrigued.
