Get ready for a TV binge like no other this week—because nothing says 'New Year's Eve' quite like epic finales and eerie premieres that might just haunt your dreams!
Hello and welcome to What's On, our friendly weekly guide to the standout shows and movies gracing your screens. We're diving into the highlights from Sunday, December 28, through Saturday, January 3. Remember, all timings are set to Eastern time, so grab your remote and settle in for some quality entertainment. And here's where it gets really exciting: with major series wrapping up and fresh thrills kicking off, this week could reshape how you view your favorite binge-watching habits. But don't worry if you're new to these titles—we'll break it down simply so everyone can follow along.
First up, let's talk premieres that kick things off with a bang. On AMC+ and Shudder, tune in for the miniseries premiere of Wolf on Tuesday at 3 a.m. This gripping six-part British thriller, inspired by Mo Hayder's novels, follows Detective Inspector Jack Caffery (played by Ukweli Roach), a cop wrestling with his inner demons—think deep psychological struggles that mirror real-life detectives in crime stories. Caffery fixates on his neighbor, convinced she's responsible for killing his 10-year-old brother back in the 1990s. But the plot twists further when his personal vendetta intersects with a rich family's ordeal during a terrifying home invasion. Joining the stellar cast are Sacha Dhawan, Iwan Rheon, and Sian Reese-Williams, adding layers of suspense that keep you guessing. For beginners dipping into thrillers, this is a great example of how personal trauma can fuel a detective's drive, much like in classics such as True Detective.
Speaking of epic conclusions, Netflix delivers the series finale of Stranger Things on Wednesday at 8 p.m.—and oh boy, it's going out with a supersized bang. After eight years and five seasons of battling interdimensional monsters, the Hawkins crew (led by Eleven, portrayed by Millie Bobby Brown) faces off against the ominous Vecna (Jamie Campbell Bower) in a two-hour-plus extravaganza. It's packed with enough time to resolve dangling plot threads and deliver that ultimate showdown. This is the part most people miss: is this finale truly satisfying, or does it leave fans craving more? Check out The A.V. Club’s recap on Wednesday for all the deets.
On Hulu, catch Together on Wednesday at 3 a.m., a body-horror film debut from director Michael Shanks. It stars real-life couple Dave Franco and Alison Brie as a married duo who relocate to a rural paradise—only for things to spiral into nightmare territory when an unexplained phenomenon begins merging their bodies in grotesque ways. If you're into horror with a domestic twist, this one explores themes of intimacy gone wrong, similar to films like The Fly but with a modern, couple-focused spin. For a deeper dive, head over to The A.V. Club’s review here (https://www.avclub.com/together-review).
Netflix keeps the mystery rolling with the miniseries premiere of Run Away on Thursday at 3 a.m. Adapted from Harlan Coben's work, it features James Nesbitt as an unremarkable father whose life flips upside down when his daughter (Ellie de Lange) disappears from home. His frantic hunt plunges him into a shadowy criminal world and a homicide probe. Rounding out the ensemble are familiar faces like Ruth Jones from Gavin & Stacey (https://www.avclub.com/gavin-and-stacey-finale-christmas-bbc-sitcom), Minnie Driver, and Alfred Enoch. Think of it as a thrilling reminder that even ordinary family dramas can lead to extraordinary dangers—perfect for fans of Coben's edge-of-your-seat storytelling.
Now, for our “Can’t miss recap” section: Don't forget to revisit Fallout on Prime Video, Wednesday at 3 a.m.—catch up with our detailed recap right here (https://www.avclub.com/fallout-recap-season-2-episode-2).
And for more arrivals to add to your watchlist: Maine Cabin Masters premieres its twelfth season on Magnolia Network, Monday at 9 p.m.—a reality show where experts renovate rustic cabins, blending craftsmanship with heartwarming stories. Shetland kicks off season 10 on BritBox, Thursday at 12 a.m., continuing its detective drama in the stunning Scottish islands. RuPaul’s Drag Race returns with season 18 on MTV, Friday at 8 p.m., showcasing fabulous queens competing in iconic challenges. Finally, Land Of Sin launches its first season on Netflix, Friday at 3 a.m., diving into adult-themed adventures that might raise eyebrows—here's where it gets controversial, as some viewers debate whether these shows push boundaries too far or celebrate freedom.
Wrapping up the week with shows signing off: Bob’s Burgers airs its midseason finale on Fox, Sunday at 9:30 p.m., leaving us hungry for more of the Belcher family's animated antics. Robin Hood concludes season one on MGM+, Sunday at 10 p.m., with Sherwood's outlaw crew in action. Mayor Of Kingstown ends its fourth season on Paramount+, Monday at 3 a.m., exploring gritty underworld politics. And It’s Florida, Man wraps season two on HBO, Friday at 10 p.m., highlighting the Sunshine State's wildest stories.
There you have it—a packed week of television that promises thrills, chills, and heartfelt goodbyes. But here's a thought-provoking question: Do you think finales like Stranger Things truly honor the series' legacy, or do they sometimes disappoint by trying to please everyone? And on a more divisive note, should shows like Land Of Sin be celebrated for their boldness, or criticized for potentially glamorizing risky lifestyles? We'd love to hear your take in the comments—agree, disagree, or share your own predictions. Happy watching!
