From The Abandons to Fallout, discover nine must-watch TV shows this December. Find your next binge-worthy series across all major streaming platforms. Read now.
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From The Abandons to Fallout: Nine of the Best TV Shows to Watch This December
December brings cold weather, holiday gatherings, and precious downtime perfect for exceptional television. Whether you’re seeking post-apocalyptic adventures, gripping westerns, or compelling dramas, this month’s lineup delivers something for everyone. Here are nine must-watch shows that deserve your attention this December.
The Month’s Best Television Awaits
The streaming wars have blessed viewers with an embarrassment of riches. December 2024 offers outstanding options across every major platform and genre.
From highly anticipated new releases to beloved returning favorites, this month rewards viewers willing to explore beyond their usual choices. Cozy up with these nine exceptional series.
1. The Abandons
Netflix’s ambitious western drama has arrived with stunning visuals and a compelling frontier narrative. The series explores survival, community, and moral complexity in the unforgiving American West.
Why watch The Abandons:
| Strength | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cinematography | Breathtaking landscape photography |
| Cast | Impressive ensemble performances |
| Storytelling | Slow-burn tension building |
| Themes | Relevant exploration of justice and belonging |
The show rewards patient viewers with layered character development and surprising narrative turns. Western fans and drama enthusiasts alike will find much to appreciate.
2. Fallout
The video game adaptation continues generating buzz months after its debut. Those who haven’t yet experienced this post-apocalyptic masterpiece should prioritize it immediately.
What makes Fallout exceptional:
- Faithful adaptation of beloved game franchise
- Perfect blend of dark humor and genuine drama
- Outstanding production design and world-building
- Compelling characters across multiple storylines
- Balances fan service with newcomer accessibility
The series proves that video game adaptations can achieve artistic excellence. Its unique tone distinguishes it from other post-apocalyptic offerings.
3. Slow Horses
The British spy thriller returns with another season of gripping espionage. Gary Oldman’s disgraced MI5 agent leads a team of intelligence misfits through dangerous operations.
Slow Horses appeal:
| Element | Excellence |
|---|---|
| Lead performance | Oldman delivers masterclass acting |
| Writing | Sharp, intelligent plotting |
| Pacing | Tense without feeling rushed |
| Supporting cast | Every character fully realized |
This series represents peak prestige television. Viewers seeking smart, mature storytelling will find satisfaction here.
4. Squid Game Season 2
The global phenomenon returns with new games and higher stakes. The Korean thriller that captivated worldwide audiences continues its deadly competition.
What to expect:
- New contestants facing lethal challenges
- Expanded mythology and world-building
- Returning characters with evolved arcs
- Fresh games designed for maximum tension
- Social commentary woven throughout
The original season became Netflix’s most-watched series ever. This follow-up carries enormous expectations that early reviews suggest it meets.
5. Landman
Taylor Sheridan’s latest drama explores the Texas oil industry through interconnected characters navigating boom-and-bust economics. The Yellowstone creator brings his signature style to new territory.
Landman strengths include:
- Billy Bob Thornton leading stellar cast
- Authentic portrayal of oil industry culture
- Complex characters without clear heroes
- Beautiful Texas landscape cinematography
- Timely exploration of energy economics
Sheridan’s track record suggests viewers can expect quality. His distinctive voice translates well to this industrial setting.
6. Black Doves
Keira Knightley stars in this spy thriller set during London’s Christmas season. The series blends espionage tension with holiday atmosphere for unique viewing.
Why Black Doves works:
| Aspect | Execution |
|---|---|
| Setting | Festive backdrop contrasts dark content |
| Star power | Knightley delivers compelling lead performance |
| Tone | Balances action with emotional depth |
| Visually | Gorgeous London holiday cinematography |
The Christmas setting makes this particularly appropriate December viewing. Action and emotion combine effectively.
7. The Madness
Colman Domingo stars in this conspiracy thriller about a media pundit drawn into dangerous intrigue. The series showcases one of television’s most compelling current actors.
The Madness highlights:
- Domingo’s commanding screen presence
- Timely media and politics themes
- Twisting conspiracy narrative
- Strong supporting performances
- Thought-provoking social commentary
Viewers who appreciate intelligent thrillers with something to say will find much to enjoy. Domingo alone justifies watching.
8. Creature Commandos
The DC animated series brings obscure comic characters to vivid life. James Gunn’s influence shapes this adult-oriented superhero offering.
What distinguishes Creature Commandos:
- Mature storytelling unusual for superhero content
- Obscure characters given fresh treatment
- Animation allows ambitious visual storytelling
- Dark humor throughout
- Connected to broader DC universe plans
Animation fans and superhero enthusiasts will appreciate this distinctive approach. The series proves animation isn’t just for children.
9. Doctor Who Christmas Special
The beloved British science fiction institution delivers its annual holiday episode. This year’s special promises adventure, heart, and seasonal cheer.
Doctor Who holiday tradition:
| Element | Expectation |
|---|---|
| Festive themes | Christmas integrated into storytelling |
| Standalone story | Accessible to casual viewers |
| Emotional moments | Heartwarming balanced with excitement |
| Visual spectacle | Special effects showcase |
The Christmas special represents a perfect holiday viewing tradition. Families can enjoy together regardless of series knowledge.
Building Your December Watchlist
With so many excellent options, strategic viewing helps maximize limited time. Consider organizing by mood and occasion.
Viewing suggestions:
- Solo evenings — The Abandons, Slow Horses, The Madness
- Couple viewing — Black Doves, Fallout, Landman
- Family gatherings — Doctor Who, Creature Commandos
- Binge sessions — Squid Game, Fallout complete series
Mixing genres prevents fatigue and keeps viewing fresh. December offers enough variety for every mood.
Streaming Platform Guide
These shows span multiple streaming services. Knowing where to find each helps planning.
Platform breakdown:
| Show | Platform |
|---|---|
| The Abandons | Netflix |
| Fallout | Prime Video |
| Slow Horses | Apple TV+ |
| Squid Game | Netflix |
| Landman | Paramount+ |
| Black Doves | Netflix |
| The Madness | Netflix |
| Creature Commandos | Max |
| Doctor Who | Disney+ |
Some viewers may need multiple subscriptions for complete access. Consider which shows matter most when choosing platforms.
FAQs
What is the best new TV show to watch this December?
The Abandons and Squid Game Season 2 represent the month’s most anticipated new releases. Both offer different experiences—western drama versus thriller competition—so choice depends on personal preferences. Both have generated significant buzz heading into December.
Where can I watch Fallout the TV series?
Fallout streams exclusively on Prime Video. The complete first season is available for viewing. An Amazon Prime subscription provides access to this critically acclaimed video game adaptation along with other Prime Video content.
Is Squid Game Season 2 worth watching?
Early reviews suggest Squid Game Season 2 meets the high expectations set by the global phenomenon original. The new season introduces fresh games and characters while continuing storylines from season one. Fans of the original should find satisfaction.
What TV shows are good for family holiday viewing?
Doctor Who’s Christmas Special offers family-friendly holiday entertainment accessible to all ages. Creature Commandos works for families with older children comfortable with animated action. Other shows on this list contain mature content more suitable for adult viewers.
How many streaming services do I need for these shows?
The nine recommended shows span five different streaming platforms: Netflix, Prime Video, Apple TV+, Paramount+, Max, and Disney+. Viewers can prioritize based on which shows interest them most rather than subscribing to all services simultaneously.
Conclusion
December 2024 delivers exceptional television across every genre and platform. From the frontier drama of The Abandons to the post-apocalyptic world of Fallout, quality options abound for every taste.
These nine shows represent the month’s best viewing opportunities. Whether seeking solo entertainment or family gathering programming, this list offers worthy options.
Grab your favorite blanket, prepare your preferred snacks, and settle in for outstanding December television.
Follow our entertainment coverage for more streaming recommendations. Share your December viewing plans in the comments below.