May 2024 brings a plethora of exciting TV shows, from historical dramas to gripping thrillers and beloved series returns. Here are nine top picks:

1. Shardlake (Hulu in the US, Disney+ in the UK, Premiered 1 May)

Set in the 16th century, *Shardlake* follows Matthew Shardlake, a lawyer working for Thomas Cromwell. Arthur Hughes stars as Shardlake, navigating the dangerous politics of Henry VIII’s court while solving a murder mystery. The series, based on CJ Sansom’s novels, promises rich period detail and complex intrigue.

 2. The Tattooist of Auschwitz (Peacock in the US, Sky Atlantic in the UK, Premiered 2 May)

This series adapts Heather Morris’ novel about Lali and Gita Sokolov, who met in Auschwitz. Jonah Hauer-King and Anna Prochniak play the young couple, with Harvey Keitel portraying the older Lali. The series features Barbra Streisand’s new song “Love Will Survive,” honoring the Holocaust’s victims.

3. A Man in Full (Netflix, Premiered 2 May)

Based on Tom Wolfe’s novel, this series explores the downfall of a real estate mogul in Atlanta. Jeff Daniels leads as Charlie Croker, supported by Diane Lane and William Jackson Harper. Created by David E. Kelley and directed by Regina King and Thomas Schlamme, it blends satire with drama.

 4. Dark Matter (Apple TV+, Premieres 8 May)

Joel Edgerton stars as Jason Dessen, a physicist navigating parallel worlds. This sci-fi thriller, based on Blake Crouch’s novel, explores alternate realities and personal choices. Jennifer Connelly co-stars in this mind-bending adventure.

5. Bodkin (Netflix, Premieres 9 May)

From Barack and Michelle Obama’s production company, *Bodkin* is a dark comedy thriller about a true-crime podcaster investigating disappearances in Ireland. Will Forte stars alongside Siobhan Cullen and Robyn Carr, blending humor with mystery in picturesque settings.

6. Doctor Who (Disney+ in the US, BBC1, and BBC iPlayer in the UK, Premieres 10 May)
Ncuti Gatwa debuts as the 15th Doctor, joined by Millie Gibson as Ruby Sunday. Showrunner Russell T Davies returns, promising high-budget adventures across time and space, exploring the origins of both main characters.
7. Bridgerton(Netflix, Premieres 16 May)

Season 3 shifts focus to Penelope Featherington and her evolving romance with Colin Bridgerton. Nicola Coughlan and Luke Newton star, continuing the series’ blend of romance and Regency-era intrigue. The season releases in two parts, with the second half arriving in June.

8. The Big Cigar (Apple TV+, Premieres 17 May)

Andre Holland stars as Huey P. Newton in this dramatization of his 1974 escape to Cuba, aided by Hollywood producer Bert Schneider. Directed by Don Cheadle, the series captures the radical energy of the Black Panther Party and 70s Hollywood.

9. Eric (Netflix, Premieres 30 May)

Benedict Cumberbatch stars in this psychological thriller about a puppeteer searching for his missing son. Created by Abi Morgan, the series delves into 1980s New York, exploring themes of mental health, the AIDS crisis, and family dynamics.

These shows offer a diverse array of genres and stories, promising captivating viewing experiences throughout May.