12 Must-Watch TV Shows Premiering in April 2024
Television enthusiasts, get ready! April 2024 is shaping up to be a thrilling month for entertainment. With a fresh mix of returning favorites and intriguing new series, the TV lineup promises something for everyone—drama lovers, comedy aficionados, crime buffs, and fantasy fans alike. Whether you’re ready to fall in love with a new cult classic or return to a long-awaited sequel, this month’s releases offer plenty of reasons to renew your subscriptions. Here’s a closer look at the 12 TV shows you won’t want to miss this April.
1. Ripley (Netflix – April 4)
The psychological thriller Ripley, based on Patricia Highsmith’s bestselling novels, features Andrew Scott as the elusive and mysterious Tom Ripley. This sleek, slow-burning series dives into themes of identity, deception, and obsession, brought to life with sumptuous cinematography. Netflix continues its streak of brilliantly adapted thrillers with this high-stakes drama set in 1960s Italy.
2. Parish (AMC – April 7)
Starring Giancarlo Esposito, best known for his role in Breaking Bad and Better Call Saul, Parish is a gripping crime drama that follows a family man pulled back into the violent underworld he tried to leave behind. Set against the gritty backdrop of New Orleans, this show blends action, suspense, and soul-searching drama.
3. Fallout (Prime Video – April 12)
Gamers rejoice! Fallout, the long-anticipated TV adaptation of the popular video game franchise, arrives mid-April. Set in a post-apocalyptic America, the show promises an epic story filled with mutants, vault dwellers, and the remnants of a shattered world. Prime Video has put serious effort into the production, with Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy (of Westworld fame) at the helm.
4. The Sympathizer (HBO – April 14)
Based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning novel by Viet Thanh Nguyen, The Sympathizer stars Robert Downey Jr. in multiple roles and follows a double agent embedded in an anti-communist community in 1970s Los Angeles. Directed by acclaimed filmmaker Park Chan-wook, expect a mix of espionage, satire, and stunning cinematography in this cultural and political thriller.
5. Under the Bridge (Hulu – April 17)
Under the Bridge is a true crime series based on the best-selling book by Rebecca Godfrey. The show delves into the disturbing murder of a teenage girl in British Columbia. With a star-studded cast including Riley Keough and Lily Gladstone, the series promises to be both haunting and empathetic, exploring themes of youth, violence, and justice.
6. Franklin (Apple TV+ – April 12)
Michael Douglas stars as Benjamin Franklin in this sweeping historical drama. Franklin explores the statesman’s time in France securing support for the American Revolution. Lavish European settings and political intrigue come together as Apple TV+ continues its trend of high-caliber period pieces.
7. Dead Boy Detectives (Netflix – April 25)
From the mind of Neil Gaiman and set in the Sandman universe, Dead Boy Detectives combines supernatural detective work with teen mystery adventure. Following two deceased boys who solve paranormal cases on Earth, the series combines gothic fantasy, quirky humor, and dark suspense.
8. The Jinx – Part Two (HBO – April 21)
Nearly a decade after the groundbreaking true crime series The Jinx captivated audiences, Part Two sheds new light on the case of Robert Durst. With fresh interviews and newly unearthed footage, the follow-up seeks to tie up lingering threads and delve deeper into the enigmatic and chilling life of the real estate heir.
9. Star Trek: Discovery – Season 5 (Paramount+ – April 4)
Returning to wrap up its final season, Star Trek: Discovery continues to push the boundaries of sci-fi storytelling. Season 5 promises galactic exploration, high-stakes diplomacy, and character-defining arcs. Expect emotional goodbyes, epic space battles, and grounded storytelling that resonates with Trekkies around the world.
10. Doctor Who – Season 14 (Disney+ – April 2024)
The long-running British sci-fi series Doctor Who introduces Ncuti Gatwa as the next Doctor, marking a bold new era for the franchise. Disney+ brings new production values and global reach to the show, while honoring its mysterious, time-traveling legacy. Hints of fresh storylines and returning villains make this season an exciting jump-on point for new and long-time fans alike.
11. The Veil (Hulu – April 30)
Spy drama fans will not want to miss The Veil, starring Elisabeth Moss (of The Handmaid’s Tale). This international thriller spans across two continents and follows the tangled path of a female spy harboring dangerous secrets. With high tension and political intrigue, this series is set to become one of April’s sleeper hits.
12. Shōgun (FX/Hulu – Ongoing)
Though it premiered in February, FX’s high-budget historical saga Shōgun continues to air through April and remains one of the season’s must-watch TV events. Based on the classic novel by James Clavell, the series beautifully explores feudal Japan, featuring complex characters, intricate political feuds, and stunning visuals that rival cinematic blockbusters.
What’s Driving This April’s Lineup?
April 2024’s television slate is proving that we are truly in a golden age of storytelling. We’re seeing streaming giants investing heavily in original programming, driven by the demand for diverse and intricate storylines. From gritty true crime to high-concept sci-fi, audiences are gravitating toward series that challenge norms and expand traditional genres. It’s also a notable month for prestige actors like Robert Downey Jr., Michael Douglas, and Elisabeth Moss, all heading to the small screen in roles that promise depth and nuance.
The Streaming Wars Continue
With Netflix, Prime Video, HBO, Apple TV+, and Hulu all debuting flagship series in April, the competition for audience attention is more intense than ever. This benefits viewers, who now have access to an incredibly wide range of high-quality programming. Unique concepts like Dead Boy Detectives and genre juggernauts like Fallout reflect the innovative risk-taking these platforms are embracing.
Final Thoughts
Don’t miss the chance to shake up your watchlist this spring. With so many compelling shows set to premiere in April 2024, there’s truly no shortage of excellent content to enjoy. Whether you’re seeking action, introspection, historical depth, or fantastical worlds, this month’s lineup is proof that today’s TV landscape is more diverse and dynamic than ever.
So grab your remote, popcorn, and maybe even a blanket—because April is about to deliver a binge-worthy storm of entertainment.
