From Hitmen to Family Power Struggles: 8 HBO Shows Nearly Perfect, Ranked
A Mystery Without Easy Answers
The Leftovers begins when two percent of the world’s population vanishes without warning or explanation. Three years later, police chief Kevin Garvey, played by Justin Theroux, tries to hold his community together as his wife Laurie, played by Amy Brenneman, joins the silent Guilty Remnant.
Carrie Coon plays Nora Durst, who lost her husband and children in the Departure. The second season moves to Jarden, Texas, where no one disappeared; the third ends in Australia with a quiet, hopeful finish. The show’s creators are Damon Lindelof and Tom Perrotta, whose novel inspired the series.
Political Insults With Staying Power
Veep follows Vice President Selina Meyer, played by Julia Louis-Dreyfus, as she discovers how limited her power is. Created by Armando Iannucci, the comedy is known for rapid, profane insults and the loyalty of Gary, her aide, played by Tony Hale.
A Hitman Finds the Stage
Barry Berkman, played by Bill Hader, is a former Marine and hitman who follows a target to an acting class in Los Angeles. He discovers an interest in acting and forms ties with teacher Gene Cousineau, played by Henry Winkler, and classmate Sally, played by Sarah Goldberg.
Key points
- The list ranks eight HBO shows from the writer’s last recommendation to the first.
- The Leftovers centers on a sudden disappearance affecting two percent of the world’s population.
- Veep ran for seven seasons, with David Mandel taking over after season four.
- Logan Roy dies in the third episode of Succession’s final season.