Top 10 HBO Shows Of 2022: A Year In Review

Hey everyone! 2022 was a massive year for HBO, wasn't it? Filled with dragons, drama, and some seriously captivating stories, it was a year that kept us glued to our screens. Picking just ten shows from such a strong lineup is a tough gig, but hey, someone's gotta do it! So, grab your popcorn, and let's dive into my picks for the top 10 HBO shows of 2022. I'll be breaking down why these shows stood out, what made them so binge-worthy, and why you should definitely check them out if you haven't already. Let's get started, shall we?

1. House of the Dragon: Reigniting the Fire

Alright, guys, let's kick things off with the behemoth that dominated much of the year: House of the Dragon. As a prequel to the iconic Game of Thrones, this series had massive shoes to fill, and I think it did a damn good job. Set centuries before the events of Game of Thrones, House of the Dragon delves into the history of House Targaryen. We get to witness the rise and fall of this powerful family, their internal conflicts, and of course, plenty of dragons! The visuals are absolutely stunning, the acting is top-notch, and the political intrigue is as gripping as ever. What really sets House of the Dragon apart is its ability to build suspense. The show masterfully sets up the pieces for a long and bloody conflict, known to fans of the books as the Dance of the Dragons. This is a story about power, legacy, and the devastating consequences of ambition. House of the Dragon successfully captures the essence of what made Game of Thrones so successful, with a fresh story and captivating characters. From the very first episode, House of the Dragon sets the stage for a compelling saga. The show benefits from its focus on fewer characters, allowing for deeper exploration of their motivations and relationships. The performances are remarkable, with particular praise for the actors portraying the central figures, like Rhaenyra Targaryen and Daemon Targaryen. The costumes, sets, and special effects are all superb, creating a truly immersive viewing experience. If you're a fan of fantasy, politics, and a bit of fire and blood, House of the Dragon is an absolute must-watch. Even if you're not into the whole fantasy thing, the character dynamics and the struggle for power are universally appealing. So, if you missed out on this one, seriously, get on it! You won't regret it.

2. The White Lotus (Season 2): Paradise Lost, Again

Next up, we have The White Lotus, which returned for its second season with a brand-new setting and a fresh batch of guests. This anthology series is a masterclass in dark comedy and social commentary. The second season, set in Sicily, follows a group of wealthy vacationers as they navigate their relationships, secrets, and the inevitable drama that unfolds at the luxurious White Lotus resort. What makes The White Lotus so compelling is its ability to create tension and suspense. You know something bad is going to happen, but you're constantly guessing who and how. The writing is razor-sharp, the acting is superb, and the show's exploration of class, privilege, and human behavior is fascinating. The series excels at portraying the hypocrisy and absurdities of the wealthy. The setting in Sicily adds a layer of cultural richness, and the cinematography is absolutely gorgeous. The characters are flawed, complex, and often unlikeable, but that's what makes them so interesting. Each episode reveals more about the characters' hidden desires and insecurities, building up to a dramatic climax. The White Lotus is a show that stays with you long after the credits roll. If you enjoy smart, witty writing and a bit of social critique, this one's for you. The White Lotus really digs into the intricacies of human relationships, showcasing both the beauty and the ugliness that can exist. The show never shies away from exploring complex issues, and it does so with a great deal of style and finesse. You'll find yourself laughing, cringing, and maybe even recognizing a bit of yourself in the characters. It is a show you will want to rewatch to catch all the subtle details. Trust me on this one.

3. Barry (Season 3): Dark Comedy at Its Finest

Barry, created by and starring Bill Hader, continues to be one of the most unique and inventive shows on television. A dark comedy about a hitman who dreams of becoming an actor, Barry is both hilarious and deeply moving. Season 3 takes the show to even darker places, with Barry struggling to reconcile his violent past with his desire for a normal life. The show masterfully blends comedy and drama, often in the same scene. The writing is sharp, the direction is superb, and the performances are outstanding, particularly from Bill Hader, who delivers a career-defining performance. Barry is not just a comedy; it's a character study that explores themes of violence, guilt, and redemption. Each episode is meticulously crafted, with brilliant comedic timing and moments of genuine emotional depth. The supporting cast is equally strong, with memorable performances from actors like Henry Winkler and Sarah Goldberg. Season 3 in particular delves into the psychological toll that Barry's actions have taken on him, and the show doesn't shy away from the consequences. Barry also uses its unique premise to comment on the entertainment industry and the absurdity of fame. This is a show that will make you laugh, cringe, and think, all at the same time. This is a great choice if you are looking for a show with depth. If you appreciate shows that push boundaries, you'll love Barry. It's a testament to how television can be both entertaining and thought-provoking.

4. Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty: A Slam Dunk

For sports fans, Winning Time is a must-watch. This series chronicles the Los Angeles Lakers' legendary Showtime era. It's a fast-paced, stylish, and often outrageous look at the team's rise to prominence in the 1980s. The show is known for its energetic style, dynamic editing, and fantastic performances. The cast brings the larger-than-life characters of the Lakers to life. The series combines historical accuracy with a bit of fictional flair to create a captivating drama. Winning Time dives into the personalities and rivalries that defined an era. You'll get to know the key players, from Magic Johnson to Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, and see how they revolutionized basketball. The show is not just about basketball; it's about ambition, fame, and the pursuit of greatness. The show has a very high production value. The costumes, sets, and music transport you back to the vibrant 1980s. Winning Time isn't just for basketball fans; it's a compelling story of success and the price of that success. It's a fun and informative show. It's also great for understanding the business side of sports. If you enjoy sports dramas and historical narratives, you should definitely check this out!

5. Euphoria (Season 2): Teen Drama, Elevated

Euphoria is another show that kept us hooked in 2022. This series explores the lives of a group of teenagers as they navigate love, loss, addiction, and identity. The show is known for its raw and unflinching portrayal of teen life, its stunning visuals, and its powerful performances. Euphoria doesn't shy away from difficult topics, and it offers a realistic portrayal of the struggles that young people face. The second season ramps up the drama and explores the characters' relationships and struggles with even more intensity. The acting is phenomenal, and the show's stylistic choices, from the cinematography to the music, create a unique and immersive viewing experience. The show explores themes of mental health, sexuality, and self-discovery. The characters are complex and relatable, and you'll find yourself invested in their stories. Euphoria is a show that stays with you long after the credits roll. If you're looking for a show that's both visually stunning and emotionally resonant, this is a must-see. Euphoria is bold and unflinching. It's a show that will challenge you and make you think. It's not always easy to watch, but it's always worth it.

6. Peacemaker: Superhero Antics and Heart

Who knew a character from The Suicide Squad could get his own series and be so darn entertaining? Peacemaker, created by James Gunn, is a superhero show that's full of action, humor, and surprisingly, heart. The show follows the titular character as he teams up with a group of misfits to save the world. Peacemaker is hilarious, action-packed, and full of quirky characters that you can't help but love. The show's sense of humor is spot-on, and the action sequences are some of the best on television. John Cena is fantastic in the lead role, bringing a mix of bravado and vulnerability to the character. The show also explores themes of redemption and personal growth. The show's supporting cast is equally great. Peacemaker proves that superhero stories can be both fun and meaningful. The show's irreverent humor and action sequences are balanced by moments of genuine heart and emotional depth. If you're looking for a superhero show that's different from the rest, give Peacemaker a try. This show really captures the essence of what makes James Gunn's style so unique. You'll be laughing one minute and feeling something the next.

7. And Just Like That...: A Sex and the City Revival

And Just Like That... is the sequel series to Sex and the City, bringing back Carrie, Miranda, and Charlotte as they navigate life in their 50s. The show explores new themes, from aging to grief. Although it had some mixed reviews, it was still a major talking point in 2022. The show is a nostalgic return to the world of Sex and the City, while also addressing some of the changes and challenges that come with getting older. The show attempts to capture the essence of the original series while also reflecting the changing times. The performances of Sarah Jessica Parker, Cynthia Nixon, and Kristin Davis are still enjoyable. The show also introduces new characters and storylines that keep things fresh. It's a show that has its heart in the right place, and it provides a comforting dose of nostalgia for fans of the original. And Just Like That... may not be perfect, but it's a show that continues to spark conversation and provide a glimpse into the lives of these beloved characters. If you are a fan of the original, it's worth checking out, even just to see what the gang is up to now.

8. Hacks (Season 2): Comedy Gold

Hacks continues to be one of the funniest and most clever shows on television. The show follows the relationship between a legendary Las Vegas comedian (Jean Smart) and her young, sardonic writer (Hannah Einbinder). Hacks is witty, sharp, and full of memorable characters. The second season sees Deborah Vance and Ava hit the road, which leads to new adventures and challenges. Jean Smart delivers a masterclass in comedic timing, and Hannah Einbinder is a perfect foil. The show's writing is phenomenal, and it offers insightful commentary on the entertainment industry and the dynamics between generations. Hacks also tackles some serious issues. The series blends humor and heart. It's a show that will make you laugh out loud and leave you feeling good. If you're looking for a consistently funny and well-written comedy, Hacks is a must-watch. Hacks continues to be funny and clever in every episode. It's a show that consistently delivers the goods.

9. Industry (Season 2): High-Stakes Finance Drama

Industry is a fast-paced drama about a group of young graduates trying to make their mark in the world of high finance. Season 2 takes the drama to the next level, with the characters facing even greater challenges and risks. The show is known for its realistic portrayal of the world of finance, its compelling characters, and its stylish visuals. Industry offers a gritty and compelling look at the cutthroat world of finance. It's a show that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The show has a very immersive feel, and it is a fascinating dive into the world of high finance. The characters are ambitious and flawed. If you like shows that are both smart and stylish, then Industry is a great choice. It gives you a peek into a world that is usually kept behind closed doors.

10. Station Eleven: Post-Apocalyptic Beauty

Finally, we have Station Eleven, a miniseries that offers a unique take on the post-apocalyptic genre. The show follows survivors of a devastating flu pandemic. Station Eleven is beautiful, haunting, and deeply moving. It explores themes of loss, survival, and the importance of art and human connection. The show is filled with gorgeous visuals and powerful performances. Station Eleven is a show that will stay with you long after the credits roll. The show's focus on art and community sets it apart from other post-apocalyptic stories. It's a show that celebrates the resilience of the human spirit. If you're looking for something that is both thought-provoking and emotionally resonant, Station Eleven is a great pick. It's a show that celebrates the best of humanity, even in the darkest of times.

Honorable Mentions

Of course, there were plenty of other great shows on HBO in 2022. Here are a few honorable mentions:

• The Gilded Age: A period drama set in 1880s New York. Filled with beautiful costumes and compelling stories, great to have it on.
• Somebody Somewhere: A heartwarming comedy-drama that provides a look at finding your place in the world.

Final Thoughts

So there you have it, my picks for the top 10 HBO shows of 2022! It was a great year for the network, with a diverse range of shows that offered something for everyone. I'm already looking forward to seeing what HBO has in store for us in the coming years. What were your favorite HBO shows of 2022? Let me know in the comments! Thanks for reading, and happy viewing!