The 20 Best New TV Shows of 2019 (So Far)

by Jason Dietz, Metacritic Features Editor – July 2, 2019

Which newcomers on the small screen have impressed reviewers the most during the first half of the year? Above, find the highest-scoring first-year TV shows (and miniseries) debuting between January 1, 2019 and June 30, 2019. Only shows with at least 7 reviews from professional critics are included.

4 of 21 photo by Courtesy of BBC - Robert Viglasky

79 #15 (tie): Les Miserables (2019)

Airing in the U.S. as part of the PBS series Masterpiece, this six-part, non-musical adaptation of Victor Hugo's classic historical novel stars Dominic West, David Oyelowo, Lily Collins, and recent Oscar winner Olivia Colman. The BBC-produced adaptation comes from Andrew Davies (Bleak House, the original House of Cards, Mr. Selfridge), and it received positive reviews on both sides of the Atlantic, with West's performance as Jean Valjean singled out as a highlight.

“Les Misérables doesn’t mess with what works, and at six-plus hours, it has the space needed to do justice to its every incident and emotional upheaval. While a few minor elements are condensed or discarded, Davies’ script is true to Hugo’s tome in terms of basic plot particulars and rousing spirit.” —Nick Schager, The Daily Beast

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