Best UK TV Series Of 2023: Must-Watch Shows

Hey guys! Ready to dive into the awesome world of British television from 2023? This year was jam-packed with incredible dramas, comedies, and thrillers that kept us all glued to our screens. So, grab your tea and biscuits, and let’s explore some of the best UK TV series that 2023 had to offer. You definitely don't want to miss these!

Top Drama Series of 2023

When it comes to top drama series, the UK really knows how to deliver. In 2023, we saw a plethora of compelling stories that explored complex characters and gripping plots. One standout was "The Inheritance," a series that delves into the murky secrets of a seemingly perfect family after the unexpected death of their patriarch. The show masterfully peels back the layers of each character, revealing hidden motives and long-held resentments. The cast delivered stellar performances, bringing depth and nuance to their roles, making it a truly captivating watch. Another notable mention is "Boiling Point," a high-stakes drama that plunges viewers into the intense pressure cooker of a restaurant kitchen. Stephen Graham's performance is nothing short of phenomenal, portraying a chef struggling to keep his personal and professional life from spiraling out of control. The series is shot with a relentless energy, mirroring the chaotic environment of the kitchen, making it a visceral and immersive experience. For those who enjoy historical dramas, "The Diplomat" offered a fresh perspective on international relations, blending political intrigue with personal drama. The series follows a newly appointed US ambassador as she navigates the treacherous waters of British politics, uncovering conspiracies and forming unlikely alliances. The sharp writing and strong performances made it a standout in the genre. These dramas not only entertained but also provided insightful commentary on society, family dynamics, and the human condition, solidifying the UK's reputation for producing high-quality television. The intricate narratives and compelling characters are what set these shows apart, making them must-watch series for any drama enthusiast.

Hilarious Comedy Series in 2023

Need a good laugh? The hilarious comedy series scene in the UK during 2023 was absolutely brilliant! "Extraordinary" was a standout, offering a fresh and quirky take on superhero tropes. Imagine a world where everyone gets a superpower… except you. That's Jen's reality, and her hilarious journey to find her own power is both relatable and outrageously funny. The writing is sharp, and the characters are incredibly endearing, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves a good laugh. Then there’s "Dreaming Whilst Black," which offers a witty and insightful look at the experiences of a young Black filmmaker navigating the predominantly white media industry. The show tackles serious issues with humor and heart, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking. The performances are fantastic, and the writing is consistently clever and engaging. For those who enjoy mockumentaries, "Platonic" delivered plenty of laughs with its relatable portrayal of adult friendships. The series follows two childhood friends as they reconnect after a long hiatus, navigating the ups and downs of their evolving relationship. The chemistry between the leads is undeniable, and the comedic timing is spot-on. These comedies showcased the UK's ability to blend humor with insightful social commentary, creating shows that are not only funny but also deeply resonant. Whether you're in the mood for superhero spoofs, workplace satires, or heartfelt explorations of friendship, the UK comedy scene in 2023 had something for everyone. The clever writing and relatable characters are what made these shows so memorable and enjoyable.

Thrilling Crime Series of 2023

If you're a fan of suspense and intrigue, the thrilling crime series that aired in the UK in 2023 were sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. "Payback" was a standout, delivering a gripping story of money laundering, crime, and personal redemption. The series follows a woman who becomes entangled in a dangerous criminal network after the death of her husband, forcing her to make impossible choices to protect her family. The plot twists and turns are expertly crafted, and the performances are top-notch, making it a must-watch for crime thriller fans. Then there’s "Blue Lights," which offers a gritty and realistic look at the lives of rookie police officers in Belfast. The series pulls no punches in depicting the challenges and dangers faced by those on the front lines, delivering a raw and authentic portrayal of law enforcement. The characters are complex and relatable, and the storylines are both suspenseful and emotionally resonant. For those who enjoy psychological thrillers, "The Woman in the Wall" was a standout, exploring the dark history of Ireland's Magdalene Laundries. The series follows a woman haunted by her past, as she investigates the disappearance of a former inmate. The atmosphere is chilling, and the performances are haunting, making it a truly unforgettable viewing experience. These crime series showcased the UK's ability to create suspenseful and thought-provoking television, blending intricate plots with compelling characters. Whether you're in the mood for high-stakes action, gritty realism, or psychological suspense, the UK crime scene in 2023 had something for everyone. The expertly crafted storylines and strong performances are what made these shows so captivating and memorable.

Best Mini-Series to Binge in 2023

For those who love a complete story wrapped up in a few episodes, the best mini-series from the UK in 2023 offered some fantastic options for binge-watching. "The Sixth Commandment" stood out with its poignant and sensitive portrayal of a real-life crime. The series explores the complex relationship between a charismatic churchwarden and his vulnerable neighbor, leading to a shocking act of manipulation and murder. The performances are incredibly powerful, and the storytelling is both gripping and deeply moving. Another notable mention is "Nolly," which celebrates the life and career of Noele Gordon, one of the most iconic figures in British television. The series is a warm and affectionate tribute to a trailblazing actress, capturing the glamour and drama of the television industry in the 1960s and 70s. The performances are delightful, and the writing is witty and engaging. For those who enjoy historical dramas, "Without Sin" offered a compelling story of forgiveness and redemption. The series follows a mother who is contacted by the man convicted of killing her daughter, leading her on a journey to uncover the truth. The plot twists and turns are expertly crafted, and the performances are emotionally resonant. These mini-series showcased the UK's ability to tell complete and compelling stories in a concise format, delivering maximum impact in a limited number of episodes. Whether you're in the mood for true crime, biographical drama, or historical fiction, the UK mini-series scene in 2023 had something for everyone. The strong performances and expertly crafted storylines are what made these shows so binge-worthy and memorable.

Underrated Gems from 2023

Let's not forget about the underrated gems that might have flown under the radar but are definitely worth checking out. "Am I Being Unreasonable?" is a dark comedy that blends humor with suspense. The series follows a woman grappling with grief and paranoia, as she becomes entangled in a web of secrets and lies. The writing is sharp, and the performances are captivating. Then there’s "Ralph & Katie," a spin-off of "The A Word," which follows a young couple with Down syndrome as they navigate the ups and downs of married life. The series is heartwarming and uplifting, offering a positive and inclusive portrayal of disability. For those who enjoy science fiction, "Before We Die" is a remake of a Swedish series that delivers a thrilling crime drama with a unique twist. The series follows a detective who discovers that her son is involved in a dangerous criminal organization, forcing her to make impossible choices. These shows may not have received as much attention as some of the bigger hits, but they are all well-crafted and offer something unique and engaging. They showcase the breadth and depth of talent in the UK television industry, proving that there's always something new and exciting to discover. Don't miss out on these hidden treasures from 2023 – you might just find your new favorite show!

So, there you have it – a rundown of some of the best UK TV series from 2023. From gripping dramas to hilarious comedies and thrilling crime series, there was something for everyone. Make sure to add these shows to your watch list, and get ready for some serious binge-watching! Happy viewing, folks!