Los Angeles is experiencing a vibrant television renaissance in 2023, with an impressive array of shows captivating audiences. The year’s first half featured standout series like “Severance” and “The White Lotus,” alongside intriguing newcomers such as “The Pitt” and “Dying for Sex.” This trend promises to continue into the summer, offering both beloved returning favorites and exciting new content across various genres—perfect for those looking for heartfelt laughs and engrossing stories.
Here’s a look at some of the highly anticipated shows making their debut:
**’Pee-wee as Himself’** (HBO, May 23) – This two-part posthumous documentary about Paul Reubens emphasizes his cultural contribution while revealing personal struggles and triumphs. Reubens’s reflections and decades of artistic work highlight the impact Pee-wee had on American culture.
**’And Just Like That …’** Season 3 (Max, May 29) – Fans of the “Sex and the City” revival can expect fresh twists and familiar faces as the series explores summer adventures for Carrie and her friends in New York City, with added complexities in their personal lives.
**’Walking With Dinosaurs’** (PBS, June 16) – A reimagining of the beloved original series, this documentary promises to bring new insights into prehistoric life with cutting-edge CGI and engaging narratives.
**’The Gilded Age’** Season 3 (HBO, June 22) – Set in 1880s Manhattan, this period drama, known for its lavish production and historical depth, continues to explore the lives and societal ambitions of its characters, led by an impressive ensemble cast.
**’Ironheart’** (Disney+, June 24) – Following Riri Williams, a young engineering prodigy introduced in “Black Panther: Wakanda Forever,” this series is poised to showcase her detective and superhero skills in a new narrative arc.
**’It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia’** Season 17 (FXX, July 9) – Celebrating its 20th anniversary, this season promises not just humor, but also an interesting crossover episode with “Abbott Elementary,” merging comedic worlds and exploring contemporary themes.
**’Dexter: Resurrection’** (Paramount+ with Showtime, July 11) – Despite the shocking conclusion of “Dexter: New Blood,” the iconic character returns from the brink, raising questions about survival and familial bonds, with fan-favorite actors reprising their roles.
**’Chief of War’** (Apple TV+, Aug. 1) – Showcasing the history of Native Hawaiians, this series, led by Jason Momoa, seeks to enrich cultural representation in media by telling the story of a warrior attempting to unify the islands in the 18th century.
**’Wednesday’** Season 2, Part 1 (Netflix, Aug. 6) – The beloved gothic character is back with new adventures at Nevermore Academy, alongside family members, promising a blend of supernatural intrigue and dark humor.
This summer’s television lineup showcases diversity in storytelling, genres, and representation. As audiences tune in, they can expect a mix of nostalgia and fresh perspectives, making it an ideal window for escapism and entertainment. It’s clear that as we move through the season, there will be something for every viewer, reaffirming the power of storytelling in uniting us through shared experiences.