‘Sheer genius’: your best TV of 2026 so far | Television

Tales (Netflix)

I really liked Legends. It was gritty, dramatic and a little funny, with a 90s vibe. The acting was top notch, especially Johnny Harris (as Eddie McKee), who gave another fine, characterful performance. Although fictional, it brought due attention to the mysterious work of Customs kept secret for so long. I would have watched it just once if I hadn’t woken up the next day! And we got to see Thatcher’s resignation speech, which is always fun. Edie, 47, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK

Bombs (Netflix)

The Boroughs is complex, creative and unpredictable, with great acting, diverse characters and real relationships. My partner and I love sci-fi and comedies that are funny and raunchy that are willing to cross the lines of authority to do the right thing. This is a real winner. Mary, 78, retired, librarian, Eugene, Oregon, US

Criminal Record (Apple TV)

Criminal Record is a high quality police report. This is a top program and the players are at the top of their game. Cush Jumbo is Peter Capaldi make perfect enemies: they believe that justice must be achieved through justice, and they believe that the consequences are all, even if innocent people are hurt along the way. The second series focuses on a right-wing activist named Cosmo, played brilliantly by Dustin Demri-Burns, and his weekly podcast to promote anti-immigrant sentiment. The police, Jumbo and Capaldi use the mole to get into shenanigans and try to stop the criminals. It’s all very complicated and complicated. I recommend this and the first series. Paul, 62, nurse, Manchester, UK

DTF St Louis (HBO Max)

DTF St Louis was very interesting, very interesting and had a deep, intimate and painful relationship between the two men, played to perfection by Jason Bateman and David Harbour. A non-linear, highly visual design constantly plays with the imagination and undermines your credibility. A good show. Nadia, 55, self-employed teacher, Enfield, UK

Minor Prophets (BBC Two and iPlayer)

The minor prophets were perfect. Uniquely British, laser-like in his modern day visuals and he did it very well. An honest show to entertain a tough crowd. Rich, retired, Weston-super-Mare, UK

Tip Toe (Channel 4)

For the genius, it should be Tip Toe, written by a genius Russell T Davieswhich gives us full attention to the anger of working people, rights and discrimination. David Morrissey and Alan Cumming are exceptional as the warring neighbours. Tip Toe is meant to be shaken, an uncomfortable look, but a reminder to all of us how dangerous hatred and lack of understanding of other people can be. It is very important. Liz, research manager, London

Your Friends & Neighbors (Apple TV)

It’s one of those rare shows that manages to be smart, smart, funny and honest all at the same time. The writing is sharp, with characters that look believable and complex rather than abstract. Each episode seems to show a different part of the story, keeping you interested without relying on cheap plot twists. Most notable is the tension between drama and comedy. These stories explore wealth, relationships and personal desires with a sarcastic edge that often had me laughing out loud, while also providing moments of real crisis and emotion. The gameplay is excellent across the board, bringing depth and beauty to even the most flawed characters. Raymond, works as a car inspector, Cumbria, UK

Children (BBC One and iPlayer)

It’s not often that television touches on the subject of miscarriage, but babies can do it with kindness and compassion while adding a touch of humor. Siobhán Cullen and Paapa Essiedu are fascinated by a young couple who are struggling with their desperate attempts to conceive. In addition to this, the program tackled masculinity and bad fatherhood through the skin of Dave, who was brilliantly played by Jack Bannon. It took some great stories that made it difficult, but for me it was a very slow series. Esther, retired, Bristol, UK

The Pitt (HBO Max)

I was waiting patiently The Pitt arrived on UK screens, and it was well worth the wait. It’s magical to find such a well-written show with your favorite insightful characters (Dr Abbott! Santos! Robby!). A refreshing departure from the usual medical drama, it’s a bit of a call-room intervention and a lot more about worker health and US health care issues. It continues to catch and surprise every week without resorting to tiredness and schmaltz. A very proud watch. Claire, 50, PA, Manchester, UK