The Crown To Queen Charlotte: 5 Loved On-Screen Families Of 2023

From chilling gothic horror dramas to heartwarming romances, the year 2023 showcased an impressive range of narratives that explored the multifaceted nature of familial relationships. As we reflect on the standout TV families of the year, each holds a special place, contributing its distinctive flavour to the small screen. These favourites have not only entertained but also provided a lens through which audiences could connect with the complexities and nuances of family life in ways both familiar and novel.

Here are some of my favourite TV families of 2023:

The Fall of the House of Usher (Netflix)

Mike Flanagan's  The Fall of the House of Usher emerged as a gripping gothic horror drama on Netflix, captivating audiences with its eerie atmosphere and psychological depth. Released on October 12, 2023, the miniseries is a modern adaptation of Edgar Allan Poe's 1839 story. It follows two ruthless siblings determined to build a family dynasty, only to witness their heirs meet mysterious and tragic fates. Carla Gugino, Bruce Greenwood, and Mary McDonnell deliver stellar performances in a series that seamlessly blends horror, gothic fiction, drama, and thriller elements.

The crumbling walls of the Usher house serve as a metaphor for the unravelling psyche of Roderick Usher, providing a rich source for psychological analysis. In a year filled with dystopian and horror narratives, The Fall of the House of Usher stands out as a haunting exploration of family dynamics.

Rain Dogs (HBO)

HBO's Rain Dogs takes a unique approach to the portrayal of women who have suffered abuse, deviating from traditional victim or revenge story arcs. Daisy May Cooper's character, Costello, is a smart, funny, and deeply flawed woman navigating survival and motherhood. The series challenges societal assumptions about abuse, highlighting the complexity of Costello's character. Rain Dogs explores unconventional family structures, emphasising that a family can take various forms beyond the traditional mother-father-child dynamic. In its crucifixion of assumptions, Rain Dogs stands out as a compelling and thought-provoking show, navigating the intricacies of dysfunctional families.

The Crown (Netflix)

The sixth and final season of The Crown unfolded in two parts on Netflix in 2023, providing a fitting conclusion to the saga of Queen Elizabeth II. Released on November 16, 2023 (Part 1) and December 14, 2023 (Part 2), the series explores the political rivalries, romances, and significant events that shaped Britain in the second half of the 20th century. A beautiful representation of the English Royal Family, The Crown remains a cult favourite for 2023, offering a compelling and nuanced portrayal of the complexities within the monarchy.

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story (Netflix)

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story, a prequel spin-off of the hit historical fiction-romance series Bridgerton, premiered on May 4, 2023. This visually stunning series, loosely based on the rise of Charlotte of Mecklenburg-Strelitz, explores the complexities of love, mental health, and societal expectations. Corey Mylchreest and India Ria Amarteifio deliver exceptional performances, portraying the struggles and triumphs of King George and Queen Charlotte. The series beautifully depicts their love story, as well as the relationships between other characters, offering a nuanced exploration of societal norms and the pursuit of equality. Queen Charlotte emerges as a masterpiece with its romantic and magical storytelling.

The Summer I Turned Pretty (Amazon Prime)

Jenny Han's teen romance novel comes to life in the TV series The Summer I Turned Pretty, streaming exclusively on Amazon Prime Video since June 17, 2022. This American coming-of-age romantic drama revolves around a love triangle involving Belly and two brothers, Conrad and Jeremiah. The series delves into the complexities of family dynamics, portraying relatable and imperfect families. Jackie Chung and Rachel Blanchard shine in their roles as mothers, representing themes of grief and resilience. Amidst the love triangle trope that gripped Gen Z in 2023, The Summer I Turned Pretty offers a glimpse into the messiness of American families.

In 2023, television continued to be a diverse medium, offering a range of family narratives that resonated with audiences across genres and themes. From horror to romance to historical drama, these TV families contributed to a year filled with memorable storytelling.