As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, it's time to curl up on the couch with a warm blanket and dive into the best new fall TV shows 2020 has to offer. This year's lineup is filled with compelling dramas, hilarious comedies, and thrilling mysteries that are sure to keep you glued to your screen. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you navigate the new season's must-watch TV shows.
Premiere Dates and Platforms
Before we dive into the shows themselves, let's take a look at when and where you can catch these new series. The fall TV season kicks off in late September and runs through November, with new episodes premiering weekly. You'll find these shows on a variety of platforms, including broadcast networks (CBS, NBC, ABC, FOX), cable channels (HBO, Showtime, Starz), and streaming services (Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video).
| Show | Premiere Date | Platform |
|---|---|---|
| The Good Lord Bird | 10/04/2020 | Showtime |
| The Flight Attendant | 11/26/2020 | HBO Max |
| The Great | 01/10/2021 | Hulu |
| Lovecraft Country | 08/16/2020 | HBO |
| Ted Lasso | 08/14/2020 | Apple TV+ |
Drama: The New Must-Watch Series
This fall, drama lovers are in for a treat with a slate of new shows that tackle everything from historical events to contemporary issues. Here are some of the most anticipated dramas of the season:

- The Good Lord Bird (Showtime, 10/04/2020): Based on the award-winning novel by James McBride, this limited series follows the true story of abolitionist John Brown (Ethan Hawke) and his raid on Harpers Ferry. The show offers a unique perspective on the events leading up to the Civil War and features a standout performance by Hawke.
- The Great (Hulu, 01/10/2021): This satirical drama tells the story of Catherine the Great (Elle Fanning), the young German princess who married the Emperor of Russia and went on to become one of the most powerful women in history. With its witty dialogue and stunning production design, The Great is a must-watch for fans of historical dramas with a twist.
- Lovecraft Country (HBO, 08/16/2020): From the producers of Jordan Peele's Get Out and Us comes this chilling blend of horror, mystery, and social commentary. Set in the 1950s, the series follows Atticus Freeman (Jonathan Majors) as he travels across the country in search of his missing father, encountering both supernatural horrors and the very real terrors of racism. With its compelling storytelling and stunning visuals, Lovecraft Country is a standout addition to the fall TV lineup.
Comedy: Laughing Through the Chaos
In a year that's been filled with uncertainty and stress, there's nothing like a good laugh to lift your spirits. This fall, there are plenty of new comedies to choose from, whether you're in the mood for a workplace sitcom, a family comedy, or a hilarious take on the apocalypse. Here are some of the best new comedies of the season:
- Ted Lasso (Apple TV+, 08/14/2020): This fish-out-of-water comedy follows an American football coach (Jason Sudeikis) who is hired to lead a British soccer team, despite having no experience in the sport. With its heartwarming humor and endearing characters, Ted Lasso is a feel-good comedy that's perfect for anyone looking for a pick-me-up.
- The Flight Attendant (HBO Max, 11/26/2020): Starring Kaley Cuoco as a flight attendant with a penchant for partying, this dark comedy follows Cassie as she wakes up in a Dubai hotel room next to a dead body and has no memory of what happened. As she tries to piece together the events of the previous night, Cassie must navigate a web of international intrigue and her own personal demons. With its clever humor and unexpected twists, The Flight Attendant is a must-watch for fans of comedic mysteries.
From historical dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, there's something for everyone in this year's fall TV lineup. So grab your remote, get comfortable, and get ready to enjoy the best new fall TV shows 2020 has to offer.