It’s May, and that means all of your favorite prime time shows are winding down their seasons for the summer hiatus. But the heat of summer doesn’t have to mean a cool-down for your television remote. Here are five shows I’ll be watching this summer:
So You Think You Can Dance (May 28, 8 p.m. EDT on Fox)
There’s a reason this is the first reality show I have mentioned here — I am generally not a fan. But there is something so earnest and electric about this dance competition show, because it’s not interested in making tabloid-ready stars. It’s interested in showcasing truly amazing dancers and choreographers. Even if you’re not a dance fan, there is a ton to appreciate about the artistry here — from the music choices to the costume and set design to the never-ending enthusiasm of the teens and 20-somethings who contort and leap in mind-blowing ways. Give it a shot, America.
Mistresses (June 2, 10 p.m. EDT on ABC)
I’ve said before that soapy drama starring Alyssa Milano was one of my guilty pleasure shows, and I expect it to return in all its steamy, melodramatic glory this summer. Pour yourself some wine and settle in for more paternity tests, car crashes, illicit affairs!
Welcome To Sweden (July 10, 9 p.m. on NBC)
courtesy of NBC
Written by and starring Greg Poehler, brother to the incredibly talented Amy Poehler of Parks and Recreation, Welcome To Sweden is the only debut show on this list. If the star’s family pedigree weren’t enough, there’s also the adorable premise, based on Poehler’s own real-life experience of quitting his job in the U.S. to move to Sweden for the woman he loves. The fish-out-of-water story is supported by some very fun guest stars, including Will Ferrell, as seen in this trailer:
Orange Is The New Black (June 6 on Netflix)
Everybody you know is watching this. You should be too. Yes, it’s that good. Go catch up on Season 1 and let’s talk.
True Blood (June 22, 9 p.m. EDT on HBO)
This is here mostly for nostalgia’s sake, as I used to really enjoy True Blood, but I’m not sure why I’m still watching it. It has taken a turn for the beyond crazy and somewhat nonsensical in recent years, but several of the supporting characters are still quite fun to watch. This is the final season, so I’ll be tuning in mostly to say goodbye to characters I used to love.
Watch this! 