Television · 2021
Streaming Dominance and Global Television Breakouts
In 2021, television shifted dramatically as global streaming hits captured worldwide audiences and prestige limited series defined cultural conversations. Streaming platforms solidified their dominance, delivering blockbuster pop-culture moments directly into living rooms.
- Netflix | South Korea | Sept 2021
Squid Game
Hwang Dong-hyuk's dystopian South Korean thriller became an unprecedented global phenomenon, turning children's playground games into a high-stakes critique of economic inequality.
- Disney+ | USA | Jan 2021
WandaVision
Marvel Studios launched its television slate with an inventive, genre-bending homage to classic American sitcoms that explored grief through superhero mythology.
- CBS | Special | March 2021
Oprah with Meghan and Harry
Over seventeen million American viewers tuned in for Oprah Winfrey's bombshell interview with the Duke and Duchess of Sussex detailing their decision to step back from royal duties.
- HBO | USA | July 2021
The White Lotus
Mike White's razor-sharp social satire exposed the toxic privilege and neuroses of wealthy guests and overworked staff at an exclusive Hawaiian resort.
- HBO | USA | April 2021
Mare of Easttown
Kate Winslet delivered a critically acclaimed performance as a weary Pennsylvania detective investigating a local murder while coping with personal tragedy.
- Hulu | USA | Aug 2021
Only Murders in the Building
Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez paired up in a delightful mystery comedy about three true-crime podcast fans investigating a death in their apartment building.
- Netflix | Animation | Nov 2021
Arcane
Based on League of Legends, Fortiche and Riot Games delivered a breathtakingly animated steampunk drama praised for its nuanced storytelling and stunning art style.
- HBO Max | Special | May 2021
Friends: The Reunion
The original six stars of the iconic sitcom gathered on Stage 24 for an unscripted retrospective special that sparked immense international nostalgia.
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