AMC Networks, Apple TV+, Hallmark Channel, and Lifetime showcased new and returning series at the Television Critics Association’s Winter Press Tour.
This past week, celebrated series such as The Walking Dead, The Way Home, and The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy welcomed several engaging panels with the stars and creatives behind them. Meanwhile, many new series were shown off to generate excitement for what’s to come, some starring Kristen Wiig, Giancarlo Esposito, and Eva Longoria.
There’s lots to look forward to in the weeks and months ahead. So, let’s jump into the noteworthy details, starting with Apple TV+.
APPLE TV+
Historical Dramas
One thing is for sure this season: Apple TV+ is in its history era.
One series that you really need to put at the top of your queue is The New Look. And good news – you don’t have to wait too long. On Feb. 14, the series will share the shocking story of how fashion icon Christian Dior (Ben Mendelson) and his contemporaries, such as Coco Chanel (Juliette Binoche), navigated the horrors of World War II and launched modern fashion. Also starring John Malkovich, Maisie Williams, and Glenn Close, prepare yourself for a fascinating historical lesson and deep exploration of humanity and creativity during a time of survival. Watch the trailer below!
Joining The New Look on the more serious side of history are Michael Douglas’s Ben Franklin series, aptly titled Franklin (Apr. 12), and the conspiracy thriller Manhunt (Mar. 15). Franklin will center on the power of words during a secret mission involving the titular historical figure and his grandson (Honey Boy’s Noah Jupe) traveling to France to help America win its independence. Manhunt stars Tobias Menzies and Anthony Boyle, and it’s about the hunt for John Wilkes Booth in the aftermath of Abraham Lincoln’s assassination. Manhunt’s trailer can be watched below.
Comedic High Jinks
Anyone love Drunk History, The Princess Bride, Our Flag Means Death (RIP), or Monty Python and the Holy Grail? Perhaps you should try The Completely Made-Up Adventures of Dick Turpin (Mar. 1) on for size. It stars and is executive produced by The Mighty Boosh and The Great British Baking Show’s Noel Fielding. Dick Turpin follows the wild journey of a reluctant leader of highway robbers in the 18th century. So, expect a healthy dose of charm, funny lines, and absolute silliness. Trailer below!
Kristen Wiig, Ricky Martin, and Carol Burnett, you say? Yes, this new series seemingly has the goods. Palm Royale (Mar. 20) is set during the powder keg year of 1969, so expect many hip outfits, cars, and tunes. It’s centered on an outsider (Wiig) fighting for her chance to belong to Palm Beach’s elite club Palm Beach. (Think of the pool episode of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia when the gang gets rejected by a country club.) A Ryan Murphy and Desperate Housewives vibe is going on here.
Season two arrives for both Loot (Apr. 3) and The Reluctant Traveler with Eugene Levy (Mar. 8). Loot has a ball poking fun at the wealthy (Maya Rudolph for the win), while The Reluctant Traveler documents the Schitt’s Creek star’s European stops (well balanced with comedy and tear-jerking moments).
Psychological Space
Also arriving very soon is Constellation (Feb. 21), a psychological thriller about an astronaut (Noomi Rapace) who returns to Earth after a space disaster. There’s popcorn-flavored action, tear-filled drama, and plenty of darkness to drive your curiosity. It’s cerebral and entertaining and features some talents to pay attention to – including Jonathan Banks, James D’Arcy, and William Catlett. Watch our interview with D’Arcy and Catlett below! More interviews to come.
Check back later this week for more TCA coverage, such as what’s coming down the pike from AMC Networks, Lifetime, and Hallmark Channel.
