Top 10 TV Programs of 2019-2020

There's no denying that this is a cynical time in America. And as is often said, life imitates art (and vice versa). It seems appropriate then, that this year's most memorable TV programs confronted the terror of America's sociopolitical makeup throughout several of the medium's genres. From sci-fi dystopias to alternate histories which resonate uncomfortably with the present day, audiences were unable to ignore the glaring flaws in the supposed "land of the free." It wasn't all doom and gloom, however, with several standout comedies airing successful seasons. But as the Top 10 Programs listed below will show, the drama series and limited series proved to be most compelling.

1. The Plot Against America (HBO)
2. Watchmen (HBO)
3. Unbelievable (Netflix)
4. Mrs. America (FX/Hulu)
5. Normal People (Hulu)
6. GLOW (Netflix)
7. Better Call Saul (AMC)
8. Ramy (Hulu)
9. The Handmaid's Tale (Hulu)
10. Mindhunter (Netflix)

Honorable Mention: Pose

Top 10 Acting Performances of 2019-2020 TV

Best Casting: Big Little Lies, Mrs. America, The Good Place

In a prime showcase of how the TV industry is slowly beginning to reflect the diversity of society, this past season saw several incredible performances from underrepresented minorities. From Indya Moore's authentic, wrenching embodiment of a trans woman's desire to achieve her dreams, to Ramy Youssef's challenging and complex exploration of Muslim-American life, these fresh voices impacted the TV landscape for the better. Meanwhile, several veterans continued to show why the small screen continues to be a fertile playground for our finest actors. As we await the announcement of this year's Emmy nominees, here are my picks for the 10 most outstanding performances of the season:

1. Merritt Wever, Unbelievable
2. Regina King,Watchmen
3. Cate Blanchett, Mrs. America
4. Kaitlyn Dever, Unbelievable
5. Paul Mescal, Normal People
6. Indya Moore, Pose
7. Elisabeth Moss, The Handmaid's Tale
8. Hugh Jackman. Bad Education
9. Ramy Youssef, Ramy
10. Thomas Middleditch, Silicon Valley