The networks, cable stations and streaming services have been beefing up their respective summer lineups in recent years. And while old standbys like True Blood may be out the door, this summer there’s a ton of programming that still deserves your attention. We’ve culled through the 2015 summer TV premiere schedule, looking through all the new and critically acclaimed shows to bring you a look at the programs we feel represent the summer's best. After a lot of careful thought, some rowdy debates and plenty of passionate speeches, we’ve put together a list of the 5 shows you have to be watching this summer.
Mr. Robot
Premiere Date: Wednesday, June 24
Where Is It Airing?: USA
Initially premiering at SXSW, USA’s new drama Mr. Robot managed to take the critical world by storm, and it’s no wonder. The pilot is one of the sharpest and most intriguing we’ve seen, with an excellent performance by lead Rami Malek. It pops up in the schedule this week, so tune in and give USA’s bid for higher stakes TV a shot.
Wayward Pines
Premiere Date: Thursday, May 14
Where Is It Airing?: Fox
Wayward Pines was an early addition to the summer lineup, hitting the schedule back in May. M. Night Shyamalan directed the pilot as well as executive produced the twisted series, which stars a ton of incredible actors, including Matt Dillon, Terrence Howard, Juliette Lewis, Shannyn Sossaman, Carla Gugino, Toby Joes and Melissa Leo. If you’ve missed the drama so far, it isn’t too late. All of the first five full episodes are available to watch on Fox’s site, and other outlets, like Hulu, can also help you to catch up on the series. There’s a new episode airing on Thursday, so hop to it!
Wet Hot American Summer
Premiere Date: Friday, July 17
Where Is It Airing?: Netflix
The Wet Hot American Summer movie has built a niche fanbase over the years, and while we don’t expect Wet Hot American Summer to be the most popular hit of the summer, all factors indicate the Netflix comedy should be great. The original cast is back, and we’re not talking just a few people, we’re talking all of the original cast, including the likes of Bradley Cooper and Amy Poehler, not to mention newbies Chris Pine, Kristen Wiig and Jon Hamm. Bingewatch to your heart’s content, starting next month.
Fear The Walking Dead
Premiere Date: August 2015
Where Is It Airing?: AMC
Despite having a ridiculous title, we’re pretty excited about The Walking Dead spinoff Fear The Walking Dead. AMC has kept quite a few details about the spinoff under wraps, but we’ve still learned some interesting tidbits about the upcoming series, including the fact that it will be set in Los Angeles and will look at the dawn of the walkers in a different manner.
Ballers
Premiere Date:Sunday, June 21
Where Is It Airing?: HBO
Ballers is another summer program that has already hit the schedule, but this one just premiered on Sunday, so you haven’t missed much, yet. The new series stars Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson as a former NFL player who is now getting into the world of money management. With its Miami setting, it’s a slightly more dazzling Entourage, and it features a pretty great cast (Yeah, I’ll defend my love for Rob Corddry). Catch up with it on On Demand, or via HBO Go and HBO Now, today.
Other Honorable Mentions:
The Strain Season 2, FX
Zoo, CBS
Humans, AMC
