Summer is no longer when television is relegated to reruns and television programs destined to be forgotten. The major networks and cable channels are pulling out the stops with new series this summer. Here’s a lineup of some of the most anticipated new series.
New Comedies
Ballers, HBO, premiered June 21
Created by Steve Levinson and starring Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, Ballers follows the life of Spencer Strasmore, a retired athlete who tries to reinvent himself. The dramedy has gotten attention from reviewers and Johnson has gotten high marks for his performance.
UnReal, Lifetime, premiered June 1
UnReal is a black comedy that takes a behind-the-scenes look at the making of a fictional reality dating show “Everlasting.” The new Lifetime show stars Shiri Appleby and Constance Zimmer who try to manufacture drama for the set, while dealing with off camera crises. Despite the show being fictional, Hollywood critics say the show has truth to it.
Clipped, TBS, premiered June 16
Clipped is a new comedy series about the employees of a Charlestown, Massachusetts, barbershop. The twist of the show is that they are co-workers that went to high school together, but ran in completely different crowds.
New Dramas
Mr. Robot, USA network, premiered June 24
USA premiered Mr. Robot, a drama centering on underground hackers, and the first episode received critical acclaim. Some reviewers have already proclaimed the drama to be the best show of the summer.
The story through through a reclusive computer security expert, Elliot, played by Rami Malek. Elliot becomes chosen for a mysterious mission that involves hacking into the computers of world’s largest conglomerate. A unnamed man, dubbed by Elliot as Mr. Robot, played by Christian Slater, leads Elliot’s journey into cyber sabotage.
Proof, TNT, premiered June 16
Proof is a new supernatural drama following the adventures of Carolyn Tyler (played by Jennifer Beals), who is an analytical surgeon haunted by a tragic loss in her life. Tech billionaire Ivan Turing (played by Matthew Modine) convinces the doctor to investigate the mystery of life beyond death.
Complications, USA, premiered June 18
Complications centers around Dr. John Ellison (Jason O’Mara), a disillusioned ER doctor whose life is thrown in turmoil when he saves the life of a young boy who was victim to a drive-by shooting and also shoots and kills the attacker. Ellis then must deal with being event at the center of a brewing gang war in the neighborhood.
