As someone who’s always on the lookout for new TV series, I’ve been loving the new releases of 2024, particularly from the British babes. These shows are fairly new, or at least newly available to US audiences. One thing I’ve always noticed about British cinema is, they don’t shy away from casting Darkskin actresses in lead Black roles, which is refreshing compared to the ‘paper bag’ American media. Now, these British shows deliver on all fronts: fun, thrills, romance, danger, comedy, and more! Let’s get into it.
Latest Releases
1. Champion (Netflix)
‘Champion’ is a British/Jamaican series that follows the Champion family, just as a sibling rivalry begins. Bosco Champion is one of the hottest artists in the UK music scene, but when his little sister Vita takes the spotlight, conflict arises and the drama is never-ending. We’re shown just how quickly relationships can fall apart, complicated family dynamics, and the importance of mental health. From raps to romance, ‘Champion’ is definitely binge-worthy. P.S. the music bangs! (Sometimes…)
You can watch ‘Champion’ on Netflix.
2. Three Little Birds (BritBox)
‘Three Little Birds’ is a miniseries that depicts the ‘Windrush’, where thousands of Jamaicans immigrated to Britain in the 1950s, per the British governments invite. However, the reaction from British citizens was far from welcoming, the pushback was blatant. NOW, for those who are nervous about watching potential ‘Black trauma’, I hear you, I try to stay away from challenging watches myself, but I genuinely enjoyed this series. There are troubling moments, but the complex characters and immersive storyline are worthwhile— I mean I was literally giggling and kicking my feet at the romance! It’s not all bad days, ‘Three Little Birds’ is a fascinating show with tons of special elements, my fingers are crossed for a second season.
You can watch ‘Three Little Birds’ on Prime Video with a BritBox subscription. (they offer a 7-day free trial)
3. Domino Day (BBC)
‘Domino Day’ revolves around Domino, a powerful young witch who’s tormented by her insatiable craving to feed on the life force of men. Sounds insane, right? It wasn’t always so intense, but now her job, relationships, and well-being are all pushed to the side to feed this urge. Domino led most of her life believing she was the only witch, so she’s not familiar with Covens, the Council, or their rules. This show has been compared to the likes of ‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ and ‘Charmed’, but besides the supernaturalness of it all, I think it has its own vibe, one I personally loved. I binged this show in a single day, the thrilling twists and suspense kept me glued to the screen—it’s fantastic.
If you’re lucky, you can watch ‘Domino Day’ on BBC Three and iPlayer. It’s not currently available to US residents, not legitimately anyway. ARRGH, I wish there was a way around that…! ;)
4. Dreaming Whilst Black (Showtime)
‘Dreaming Whilst Black’ is a comedy series that follows Kwabena, a young British Jamaican filmmaker, as he ditches his office job to pursue his dreams as a creative. Through his journey navigating independent filmmaking in London, the series shows the countless challenges he encounters, while also being a hilarious watch. ‘Dreaming Whilst Black’ is truly a gem, and I’m glad it’s been renewed for a second season.
‘Dreaming Whilst Black’ is currently streaming on Showtime/Paramount+.
5. Boarders (BBC)
‘Boarders’ follows five talented students from inner-city London who earn scholarships to St. Gilberts, a prestigious boarding school. Notably, the scholarships were primarily an attempt to rehabilitate the school’s image after its reputation had taken a hit. This coming-of-age drama takes us on a comedic (and possibly triggering) adventure as the new students tackle culture shock, attempting to fit in with a bunch of privileged rich kids. I will say, I wish there was a more equal gender ratio with two Black girls, or even three. Either way, I’ll definitely be tuned into this exciting series.
‘Boarders’ is currently streaming on BBC Three and iPlayer, and is set to release on Tubi March 8th.
These new shows are so exciting, I hope there’s a lot more where that came from for the rest of 2024, internationally speaking!
