Every New Netflix Original Series Premiering in 2020

“Messiah”

Release Date: January 1

Number of Episodes: 10

Talent: Michelle Monahan, Mehdi Dehbi, John Ortiz, Phillip Baker Hall

The latest from religious executive producer Mark Burnett and Roma Downey, “Messiah” examines how the modern world would respond to a Middle Eastern man whose followers are proclaiming him to be Jesus Christ. Throughout the series’ 10-episodes a CIA officer, played by Michelle Monaghan, will investigate his claims. Created by Michael Petronie, who wrote the scripts for “The Dangerous Lives of Altar Boys” and “The Rite,” “Messiah” took some flack after the nation of Jordan asked Netflix not to stream it in the country. 

“Spinning Out”

Release Date: January 1

Number of Episodes: 10

Talent: Kaya Scodelario, Willow Shields, Evan Roderick, January Jones

Developed in 2018 by Samantha Stratton and Lara Olsen, the show followed competitive figure skater Kat (Scodelario) as she tries to get back on the ice after a fall. The series received decent reviews, with many critics calling it a guilty pleasure watch. Netflix didn’t seem to find much value in the show though, canceling it a little over a month after it initially premiered. 

“The Circle”

Release Date: January 1

Number of Episodes: 12

Talent: Michelle Buteau

Netflix went hard on bringing the game show back, this year more than ever. Their first out of the gate is “The Circle,” a series that blends elements of “Catfish” with “Big Brother” and a healthy dose of the “Black Mirror” episode “Nosedive.” Originally premiering in Britain, contestants live in isolated apartments, communicating via a social media app. Each participant has the opportunity to either present their online selves authentically or outright lie, all in the hopes of being ranked as an influencer; those who rank low on the totem pole get blocked. The winner gets $100,000. Despite “Catfish” creator Nev Schulman’s critique that the series lets people profit off hiding who they are, “The Circle” has developed a huge following on (where else?) social media.

“Go! Go! Cory Carson”

Release Date: January 4

Number of Episodes: 8

Based on the VTech line of toys, “Go! Go! Cory Carson” is one of many shows coming in 2020 aimed at preschoolers. With executive producers associated with Disney’s “Wall-E,” “Ratatouille,” “Finding Dory” and Nickelodeon’s “Wonder Pets”, this should be an instant crowd pleaser for the smallest of watchers. Cory Carson is a car living in the neighborhood of Bumperton Hills with his family. Individual episodes look at making friends and identifying different elements of your neighborhood. Don’t blame us if this show inspires your kids to demand VTech toys!

“Cheer”

Release Date: January 8

Number of Episodes: 6

Talent: Monica Aldama, Gabi Butler, Jerry Harris, Lexi Brumback

From the group that brought Netflix audiences the compelling sports documentary series “Last Chance U,” “Cheer” follows the nationally ranked Navarro College Bulldogs cheerleading squad as they train to compete in the national tournament. “Cheer” is a bit of a phenomenon as it attracted not just those lovers of “Bring It On” but also fans of Netflix’s other sports series. With an unflinching camera that documents every successfully completed stunt as well as every painful fall, “Cheer” did a lot to show the competitive spirit and athleticism of a sport often perceived as having none. 

“AJ and the Queen”

Release Date: January 10

Number of Episodes: 10

Talent: RuPaul Charles, Izzy G, Michael-Leon Wooley, Tia Carrere

“AJ and the Queen” is a story of misfits. Legendary drag performer RuPaul plays Ruby Red, who travels the country performing in nightclubs. When she meets a tough-talking orphan named AJ (Izzy G), the two band together to create an unlikely family. The series is co-created by lead RuPaul Charles as well as “Sex in the City” helmer Michael Patrick King and has an incredible roster of guest stars, from Broadway superstar Laura Bell Bundy to actresses like Mary Kay Place and Lorraine Bracco. 

“Giri/Haji”

Release Date: January 10

Number of Episodes: 8

Talent: Takehiro Hira, Kelly Macdonald, Yosuke Kubozuka, Will Sharpe

A Tokyo detective (Hira) travels to London in search of the brother he presumed was murdered. Along the way he gets mixed up with the Yakuza and a Tokyo gang war. “Giri/Haji” was commissioned by the BBC in 2017 and premiered in 2018 alongside other popular BBC dramas like “Mrs. Wilson” and “A Very English Scandal” before transitioning to Netflix for its international debut. 

“Jamtara – Sabka Number Ayega”

Release Date: January 10

Number of Episodes: 10

Talent: Amit Sial, Dibyendu Bhattacharya, Aksha Pardasany

Inspired by true events, “Jamtara – Sabka Number Ayega” looks at the relationship between two cousins living in India. They get involved in a phishing scam and believe they have the world at their feet. As we all know, things aren’t as easy as they seem. This series out of Netflix India has received solid reviews, blending true crime with cultural examination. 

“Medical Police”

Release Date: January 10

Number of Episodes: 10

Talent: Erinn Hayes, Rob Huebel

Hayes and Huebel star as two doctors stationed in Brazil who stumble upon a virus that threatens to destroy civilization. They’re soon commissioned into being secret agents who discover a conspiracy that ties back to the virus. Blending elements of action-adventure, paranoia thrillers, and dark comedy this could only come from the team who created the cult classic “Children’s Hospital.”

Our Review: That continuous element of surprise comes from seeing when “Medical Police” picks and chooses its moments of subversion. In that way, it’s the ultimate win-win. If you get to watch Lola and Owen rough up a suspect or parachute out of a tumbling aircraft, the groundwork has been laid so that it doesn’t feel like they’re doing it half-heartedly. But if the scope gets too big or if it’s just easier to laugh off some connecting thread or some piece of missing equipment, few people are better at selling that with a smirk than Hayes and Huebel. It’s less “I can’t believe they’re doing this!” and more “I can’t believe they’re doing this!” May all thinly established premises have such capable comic minds keeping them afloat. –Steve Greene

“The Healing Powers of Dude”

Release Date: January 13

Number of Episodes: 8

Talent: Jace Chapman, Larisa Oleynik, Steve Zahn, Tom Everett Scott

Netflix has dabbled in series focused on social anxiety and neurological disorders, such as their 2017 coming-of-age drama “Atypical.” Continuing in that trend is “The Healing Powers of Dude.” Jace Chapman stars as Noah Ferris, a homeschooled boy with social anxiety who wants to attend a regular middle school. Hoping to make the transition as easy as possible Noah gets an emotional support animal named Dude (voiced by Steve Zahn). The blend of inner dog thoughts and typical teen issues has given the show an audience. And, it’s also a reunion for ‘90s kids as it stars former “Secret World of Alex Mack” star, Larisa Oleynik, as Noah’s mom! 

“Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts”

Release Date: January 14

Number of Episodes: 10

This collaboration between DreamWorks Animation Television and the South Korean Mir studios has resulted in a colorful and vibrant story with a deep mythology. “Kipo and the Age of Wonderbeasts” follows 13-year-old Kipo Oak as she enters a post-apocalyptic wasteland filled with sentient mutant animals (known as “mutes”) in search of her missing father. The series has garnered a lot of attention from animation fans who have compared it to other DreamWorks and Netflix animated offers such as “She-Ra and the Princesses of Power,” “Gravity Falls” and “Steven Universe.” 

“Ares”

Release Date: January 17

Number of Episodes: 8

Talent: Jade Olieberg, Tobias Kersloot, Lisa Smit, Robin Boissevain

This Dutch-based horror series focuses on two best friends inducted into a secret society known as Ares. But with the wealth and privilege that comes from inclusion also comes the horror that the members of Ares might be involved in demonic activity that ties back into the Netherlands’ past. Netflix loves their secret society series. They already have “The Order,” “The Society,” and the docu-series “The Family.” But if you’re a fan of the growing genre of movies discussing how the wealthy have maintained their power over the centuries (hint, not by anything good apparently), this is for you.

“The Ghose Bride”

Release Date: January 23

Number of Episodes: 6

Talent: Huang Pei-jia, Wu Kang-jen, Ludi Lin, Kuang Tian

Based on the book by Malaysian author Yangsze Choo, “The Ghost Bride” is set in 1890s Colonial Malacca (modern-day Malaysia) and tells the story of Li Lan (Pei-jia). Li Lan is tasked with being the “ghost bride” to the deceased son of the powerful Lim family. But as Li Lan enmeshes herself into the world of the Lim’s, she starts to wonder if there’s more going. This murder mystery will captivate anyone who loves the likes of “Miss Fisher’s Mysteries” or other foreign costume dramas like “Cable Girls.” 

“October Faction”

Release Date: January 23

Number of Episodes: 10

Talent: Tamara Taylor, J.C. Mackenzie, Stephen McHattie, Wendy Crewson

Monster hunters Fred and Deloris Allen (Mackenzie and Taylor) live with their children in a small-town in upstate New York. With their identities hidden from everyone, including their kids, it’s hoped that the family can maintain a semblance of normality. Unfortunately, their town holds its own secrets, causing Mom and Dad to reevaluate their secrets. The series’ monster of the week format is perfect for “Supernatural” fans or those who have read the Steve Niles and Damien Worm comic of the same name. 

“The Goop Lab”

Release Date: January 24

Number of Episodes: 6

Talent: Gwyneth Paltrow, Elise Loehen

In 2008 actress Gwyneth Paltrow founded the lifestyle and wellness brand, goop. The site immediately came under fire, and has continued to do so, for promoting candles, supplements, and other techniques that tout themselves as cure-alls for all manner of illnesses with little foundation in medical fact. But that didn’t stop Netflix from giving Paltrow and her fellow “goopers” a 6-episode series where audiences go behind-the-scenes of what happens in the infamous goop lab. Every episode sees the cast doing all manner of strange things, whether that’s jumping in ice-cold water to cure anxiety or consulting psychic mediums to tune into their own clairvoyance. The series has drawn ire for being the modern-day equivalent of a snake-oil salesman — but audiences have been too fascinated to turn away.

“Rise of Empires: Ottoman”

Release Date: January 24

Number of Episodes: 6

Talent: Cem Yiğit Üzümoğlu, Tommaso Basili, Tuba Büyüküstün

This Turkish-based historical drama recounts the rise of the Ottoman Empire, which dominated most of the early world for 600 years, and the fall of the famous Constantinople. The series seek to show the Turkish perspective on the Ottomans and how the legendary empire spread Islam throughout Asia Minor and South East Europe.

“Next in Fashion”

Release Date: January 29

Number of Episodes: 10

Talent: Tan France, Alexa Chung

In the fashion (pun totally intended) of Bravo’s successful “Project Runway,” “Next in Fashion” sees 18 burgeoning designers compete to show off their best-dressed looks. Every episode sees the contestants style to fit different historical themes or aesthetics with the winner getting $250,000 and the opportunity to debut their collection with the prestigious Net-a-Porter. Not only has the series drawn in fashion fans but it’s also been praised for its weekly themes, giving audiences impromptu history lessons on the development of fashion design. 

“Omniscient”

Release Date: January 29

Number of Episodes: 6

Talent: Carla Salle, Sandra Corveloni, Jonathan Haagensen

A techno-thriller in the vein of Steven Spielberg’s “Minority Report,” this series takes place in a future where drones document everything 24/7. With no sense of privacy, crime is practically at a zero. That is until Nina (Salle) discovers a murder that has slipped past the system. 

“What the Love! With Karan Johar”

Release Date: January 30

Number of Episodes: 7

Talent: Karan Johar

Produced by BBC Studios India, “What the Love! With Karan Johar” is a dating show aimed at millennials. The successful Bollywood actor and host brings together people searching for true love and instills them with confidence and other elements to create long-lasting romance. With the influx of dating shows on Netflix, it seems like most of us need all the tips we can get. 

“Ragnarok”

Release Date: January 31

Number of Episodes: 6

Talent: David Stakston, Jonas Strand Gravli, Herman Tømmeraas, Theresa Frostad Eggesbø

Not to be confused with Taika Waititi’s take on the Norse legend, “Ragnarok” is a coming-of-age drama set in the fictitious Norwegian town of Edda. The arrival of climate change causes the residents to tap into a host of powers they’ve been hiding. Part “Inconvenient Truth”-esque metaphor mixed with Norse mythology, the series’ reviews have been kind while comparing it to “Twilight.” Whatever gets kids interested in discussing global warming! 

“The Pharmacist”

Release Date: February 5

Number of Episodes: 4

After losing his son, small-town pharmacist Dan Schneider became committed to bringing the killer to justice. What became more troubling, though, was the rise of OxyContin prescriptions Schneider was seeing. Realizing the trend of opioid addiction before the nation did, Schneider turned to helping people combat the growing crisis. The opioid crisis has been in the public eye for awhile, but “The Pharmacist” casts its focus tighter to showcase how long it’s been developing. Directors Julia Willoughby Nason and Jennifer Furst proved their bonafides with the equally heart-wrenching documentaries on Kalief Browder and Travyon Martin, so if you’re ready to cry and spark a revolution, this is a must-watch.

“Locke & Key”

Release Date: February 7

Number of Episodes: 10

Talent: Darby Stanchfield, Jackson Robert Scott, Connor Jessup, Emilia Jones

This adaptation of the popular comic book about three children trying to solve the mystery of their murdered father while living in his shadowy house full of keys has been in development since 2010 when FOX commissioned a pilot. Said pilot only made it as far as 2011 Comic-Con audiences, failing to make it to series. Then, in 2014, Universal announced plans for a trilogy of films which never materialized. A Hulu series was ordered in 2017 but after that was scrapped and Netflix picked it up the original directors and cast were changed, leaving us with the show we have now. At least fans will get something for all their years of waiting. 

Our Review: It’s just a shame that some of the more compelling parts of the series get drowned out by the surrounding pandering creative decisions. A labyrinthine hall of mirrors loses its impact when the only other thing trying to build a sense of discomfort is an on-the-nose series of music cues. One of those mind palace sequences is lessened when it’s clear that it’s just mimicking “The Good Place” house style palette. Rather than lean into the wonder of a truly new world, “Locke & Key” is cobbled together from component parts of others. –Steve Greene

“Love Is Blind”

Release Date: February 13

Number of Episodes: 9

Talent: Nick Lachey, Vanessa Lachey

If you’ve already binged “The Circle” and “What the Love,” or if you need more reality and less dating advice, then you need to make time for Twitter’s newest talking point, “Love Is Blind.” Hosted by the Lacheys, this reality dating show sees a group of contestants go on dates with each other. The caveat? They aren’t allowed to see. Only when they find someone they’re willing to get engaged to can they first lay eyes on each other and, as they plan their wedding, answer the question of whether love is really blind. Though no marriages have happened yet, the series has gained a huge following on social media with many calling it the next generation of “The Bachelor.” 

“The Expanding World of Ashley Garcia”

Release Date: February 17

Number of Episodes: 8

Talent: Paulina Chavez, Conor Husting, Bella Podaras, Reed Horstmann

Fifteen-year-old robotics genius and rocket scientist Ashley Garcia (Chavez) gets the opportunity of a lifetime when she’s hired by NASA. In order to work there Ashley must travel across the country to Florida to live with her fun-loving uncle. “The Expanding Universe of Ashley Garcia” is another great example of media focusing their stories on young girls in STEM careers. Between this and the Disney+ series “Diary of a Future President” it’s a great time to inspire girls to go out there and show off their intelligence. Now if Netflix could better advertise this and head off critiques by those having trouble watching the series.

“Sprectros”

Release Date: February 20

Number of Episodes: 8

Talent: Danilo Mesquita, Enzo Barone, Claudia Okuno, Pedro Caravalho

“Spectros” director Douglas Petrie knows how to blend the fantastic, the supernatural and the melodramatic. He’s worked on the likes of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Angel,” and (appropriately enough) “Fantastic Four”, and “Spectros” holds a lot in common with them. A group of Japanese teens living in Brazil find themselves drawn into a bizarre reality where the dead come back to life and the sins of their past threaten to haunt them, literally. 

“Gentefied”

Release Date: February 21

Number of Episodes: 10

Talent: Joaquin Cosio, J.J. Soria, Karrie Martin, Carlos Santos

Chicano writers Marvin Limus and Linda Yvette Chavez’s “Gentefied” is shaking up Netflix with its honest, humorous, and forthright portrayal of three Mexican-American cousins chasing the American Dream while simultaneously dealing with the encroachment of gentrification. 

Our Review: The family drama and central characters are compelling enough, but “Gentefied” really struts its stuff in two bottle episodes. These standalone episodes are a remnant of the web series, which told each episode through the eyes of seven different characters. From a mariachi player sleeping in a van with his son to Ana’s garment worker mother who has to hold her bladder until the next bathroom break, the bottle episodes have the twin effect of expanding the show’s world while allowing the space to explore heftier topics. It’s a lot to pull off in a comedy while also staying focused on the central storyline, but “Gentefied” passes with flying colors. –Jude Dry

“The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez”

Release Date: February 26

Number of Episodes: 6

In 2017 documentarian Brian Knappenberger debuted the film “Nobody Speak: Trials of the Free Press,” documenting the downfall of the popular Gawker media site in the wake of wrestler Hulk Hogan’s lawsuit against them. Knappenberger next casts his eye to the death of 8-year-old Gabriel Fernandez, murdered by his mother and her boyfriend in the wake of on-going abuse. If “The Trials of Gabriel Fernandez” is as incisive as “Nobody Speak” odds are you’ll be both emotional and galvanized. 

“I Am Not Okay With This”

Release Date: February 26

Number of Episodes: 7

Talent: Sophia Lillis, Sofia Bryant, Wyatt Oleff, Kathleen Rose Perkins

Based on the 2017 graphic novel by Charles Forsman and overseen by Jonathan Entwistle of “The End of the F***ing World,” “I Am Not Okay With This” follows “It” star Sophia Lillis as Sydney Novak. Sydney isn’t just dealing with the regular teenage girl stuff — though she is, amid a lot of other things going on in her life. She also has to combat mysterious new powers that make her a bit of a superhero. The series looks to draw from several of the established Netflix series that already deal with superhuman teenagers, particularly girls. (It also looks heavily inspired by Stephen King’s “Carrie” because women with powers can never seem to have good things.) Either way, this looks to fill the superhero itch you’re still scratching post-”Endgame.”

“Followers”

Release Date: February 27

Number of Episodes: 9

Talent: Miki Nakatani, Elaiza Ikeda, Mari Natsuki, Yuka Itaya

From innovative director of “No Longer Human,” Mika Ninagawa, “Followers” is described as an original series that showcases her “unique approach to filming with dreamlike vivid colors [and a] distinct and vibrant aesthetic.” The series focuses on two women living in Tokyo, one a fashion photographer and another an aspiring actress, and how their lives interweave with each other. If the first stills released have given us any indication, this Japanese import looks to be utterly gorgeous. 

“Queen Sono”

Release Date: February 28

Number of Episodes: 6

Talent: Pearl Thusi, Vuyo Dabula, Sechaba Morojele, Chi Mhende

There aren’t a lot of countries Netflix hasn’t enlisted shows from, but “Queen Sono” is unique for the streaming service as it’s the first from the country of Africa. This “Jason Bourne”-esque spy drama followers Queen Sono (Thusi), a South African operative dealing with her own personal issues as well as stopping crime. We don’t have many female spy thrillers on television these days; “Alias” left a big hole to fill. “Queen Sono” looks to have plenty of action, suspense, and beautiful costumes to keep us occupied, not to mention how it seeks to showcase African filmmaking and the country at large.

“Feel Good”

Release Date: March 19

Talent: Mae Martin, Charlotte Ritchie, Lisa Kudrow, Adrian Lukis, Sophie Thompson

Stand-up comic Mae Martin has bared her soul in numerous comedy specials and radio dramas in England and now the Canadian actress is transitioning to Netflix. “Feel Good” is a semi-autobiographical look at Martin’s life, following her character Mae as she embarks on a new relationship with the presumably heterosexual George (Ritchie) and deals with her own addictions. Martin might look familiar to audiences if you watch IFC’s “Baroness von Sketch Show” so no doubt her comic sensibilities will shine brightly here. 

“Self Made: Inspired By the Life of Madam C.J. Walker”

Release Date: March 20

Number of Episodes: 4

Talent: Octavia Spencer, Blair Underwood, Tiffany Haddish, Carmen Ejogo, Bill Bellamy

Creator Nicole Jefferson Asher brings us one of Netflix’s most prestigious limited series for this year. “Self Made: Inspired By the Memoirs of Madam C.J. Walker” is partially based on Walker’s great-great-granddaughter’s book, “On Her Own Ground” and follows Walker, played by Spencer, as she revolutionizes the Black haircare industry. Walker has cultivated a career of strong character roles and while the Oscars were criticized this year for the lack of Black nominees, Spencer looks to be going for Emmy and Golden Globes’ gold with this one. The series also has three of the four episodes directed by “Eve’s Bayou” and “Harriet” helmer, Kasi Lemmons, if you need more clout. 

“Tiger King: Murder, Mayhem, and Madness”

Release Date: March 20

Similar to Netflix’s other audacious crime docu-series like “Evil Genius” and “Wild, Wild Country” comes “Tiger King.” This documentary is based on a story so crazy you almost won’t believe it. Two big cat enthusiasts, Carol Baskin and Joe Exotic (yep, that’s his name) were locked in a long-standing feud. A feud so intense that Exotic hired a hitman to kill Baskin. Suffice it to say the story gets crazier from there and you won’t want to miss a minute. Come for the footage of tigers and other furry friends with sharp teeth, stay for Joe Exotic’s hair. 

“The Letter for the King”

Release Date: March 20

Number of Episodes: 6

Talent: Amir Wilson, Gijs Blom, Ruby Serkis

This 6-episode fantasy series is based off the Dutch book of the same name and tells of a knight in training (Wilson) wrapped up in an ancient prophecy regarding a hero who will restore peace to the land and an eponymous letter to the King. The series is being written by Will Davies of “How to Train Your Dragon” fame so it should get the time period right. First photos of the series look to draw comparisons to “The Witcher,” albeit this is aimed at a younger audience.

“Hollywood”

Release Date: May 1

Talent: Darren Criss, Patti LuPone, Dylan McDermott, Jim Parsons, Maude Apatow

Ryan Murphy has so many series under his belt it’s amazing he has time to sleep. This year alone he has the upcoming “American Crime Story: Impeachment” documenting the Monica Lewinsky scandal. He’s working with Ewan McGregor on a biopic series on acclaimed fashion designer Halston and he has another season of “American Horror Story.” On top of all that, he’s working to develop shows with Netflix. “Hollywood” is looking to be Murphy’s biggest and gaudiest series yet, looking at the early days of filmmaking and the lovers and dreamers brought into it. Think of it as “The Artist” or “La La Land,” albeit with way more snark and bite. Murphy certainly needs audiences to gravitate to this on Netflix. Last year’s “The Politician” didn’t see a lot of love from Murphy fans and his “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” prequel, “Ratched” is still in development. If this has the history and sheen as “Feud: Bette and Joan” did it might be a fun feast for the eyes.

“Space Force”

Release Date: Spring 2020

Number of Episodes: 10

Talent: Steve Carell, John Malkovich, Diana Silvers, Ben Schwartz, Noah Emmerich, Jimmy O. Yang

No, we aren’t talking about President Trump’s Space Force though it might be safe to say this Netflix workplace comedy was inspired by it. The show follows a group of people having to formulate this sixth branch of the government and hilarity will ensue. “Space Force” sounds like “The Office” in space, even though the series is said to focus on people on Earth. Regardless, the series has quite a pedigree. Creator Greg Daniels spearheaded the American “Office” and “Parks and Recreation,” and has worked on animated classics like “The Simpsons” and “King of the Hill.” As for Carell, this is his first comedy series since the end of “The Office.” No pressure there.

“The Eddy”

Release Date: Spring 2020

Number of Episodes: 8

Talent: Andre Holland, Amandla Stenberg, Joanna Kulig, Alexis Manenti

Holland plays Elliot Udo, co-owner of the struggling Parisian jazz club, The Eddy. To add to his list of complications, his business partner has secrets that threaten to ruin everything and Elliot’s troubled daughter Julie (Stenberg) unexpectedly arrives in the city. Jazz clubs, personal problems, yep, sounds like a Damien Chazelle project. This is the “La La Land” director’s first foray into television after a two-year absence after his feature film “First Man.” Songwriter Glen Ballard and composer Randy Kerber will compose original songs for the production that you’ll no doubt be humming. 

“Cursed”

Release Date: Spring 2020

Number of Episodes: 10

Talent: Katherine Langford, Devon Terrell, Ella Prebble, Florence Hunt, Gustaf Skarsgård

“Cursed” was greenlit before the success that was “The Witcher” but coming out in its wake will quickly draw comparisons and these projects couldn’t be more different. Based on Tom Wheeler and Frank Miller’s graphic novel, “Cursed” is a revised take on the Arthurian legends you know, telling the story of Nimue (Langford), a teenage heroine in Medieval times who is prophesied to be the tragic Lady in the Lake. She teams up with humble merchant Arthur (Terrell) to find the wizard Merlin (Skarsgård). This one is a tough sell as it has to both appeal to teens who enjoyed Langford in “13 Reasons Why” as well as “Witcher” fans. I’d say it also has to appease those who only listen to the Arthurian legends as told by “Monty Python and the Holy Grail.”

“#blackexcellence”

Release Date: Spring 2020

Talent: Rashida Jones, Kenya Barris, Iman Benson, Scarlet Spencer, Justin Claiborne, Genneya Walton

“Black-ish” creator Kenya Barris moves from behind the camera to in front of it for his first Netflix series. Not much is known about the plot short of it focusing on how Barris views relationships, race, culture, and parenting. This is definitely a gamble for Barris, not only as it takes him away from the comfort of a network but also by having him star. Barris isn’t known for being an actor, having just two acting credits to his name, one of which is playing himself. Either way, we get more Rashida Jones in our life and that’s always a reason to celebrate.

“Jupiter’s Legacy”

Release Date: Summer 2020

Number of Episodes: 8

Talent: Josh Duhamel, Leslie Bibb, Ben Daniels, Elena Kampouris, Mike Wade, Matt Lanter, Tenika Davis, Andrew Horton

Based on the Frank Miller comic of the same name, this is the first of several adaptations the streaming service hopes to work on with Miller. Similar to “Watchmen,” “Jupiter’s Legacy” showcases the origin of superheroes starting in the 1930s. Duhamel and Bibb play Sheldon and Grace Sampson, two of the most powerful heroes in the world and members of the superhero organization The Union. As they step back their children aim to live up to their legacy, but obviously the road isn’t easy. It sounds like “The Incredibles” and “The Fantastic Four” got thrown in together, but odds are this is going to be a typical dark and gritty Miller vehicle. Steven S. DeKnight of “Daredevil” fame directed the pilot and while he left over creative differences, the series certainly appears to want to get serious comic lovers on-board.

“Ratched”

Release Date: September 2020

Number of Episodes: 9

Talent: Sarah Paulson, Cynthia Nixon, Sharon Stone, Charlie Carver, Finn Wittrock, Judy Davis, Jon Jon Brione

Ryan Murphy returns with a series that ponders the question of just who Nurse Ratched really was. The villainess of Ken Kesey’s novel and Milos Forman’s adaptation of “One Flew Over the Cuckoo’s Nest” finally gets to have her story told. The series is already greenlit for two seasons of nine episodes apiece and was part of a pretty heavy bidding war, with both Hulu and Apple also interested in the project. Murphy returns with leading lady Sarah Paulson in the title role, no doubt going for some serious awards buzz. If Murphy can get buzz for both this and “Hollywood” he could position himself as Netflix’s golden boy. And we’ll have to wonder what beloved, yet shadowy, literary figure he’ll tackle next. 

“The Haunting of Bly Manor”

Release Date: Fall 2020

Talent: Victoria Pedretti, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Henry Thomas, Kate Siegel, Catherine Parker, Amelie Smith, Benjamin Ainsworth, T’Nia Miller, Rahul Kohli, Amelia Eve

After the smash success of Mike Flanagan’s “The Haunting of Hill House,” audiences have been clamoring for his follow-up. Though technically a whole new standalone series, “The Haunting of Bly Manor” draws heavily on the preceding series by bringing together the original cast to play new characters. Where audiences engaged with Shirley Jackson’s story and its cast of characters, here Flanagan takes on Henry James’ seminal ghost story, “The Turn of the Screw” along with several other James stories thrown in. Victoria Pedretti will play the governess of two mysterious children, while Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Kate Siegel, and Henry Thomas will all return as well. Flanagan’s become our new horror maestro and while his theatrical feature “Doctor Sleep” was criminally underseen last year, odds are this new series might spark new interest in Flanagan’s projects. 

“Bridgerton”

Release Date: 2020

Talent: Julie Andrews, Phoebe Dynevor, Regé-Jean Page, Bessie Carter, Sabrina Bartlett, Claudia Jessie, Harriet Cains, Jonathan Bailey, Nicola Coughlan, Luke Thompson

If “Bridgerton” isn’t on your list of most anticipated series of 2020 you need to rectify that now. The first series as part of Shonda Rhimes’ estimated $100 million dollar Netflix deal, this is a period piece based on the series of novels by our modern Jane Austen equivalent, Julia Quinn. A Regency-era period piece, the series will follow the eight Bridgerton children as they navigate life, love, societal expectations and all manner of snootiness. What makes the series so fascinating is its use of colorblind casting. No offense to Jane Austen, but her novels have always lended themselves to being pretty much an exclusively white domain. (Hat tip to “Sanditon” for including a character of color.) On top of that, the series also nabbed Mary Poppins herself, Julie Andrews, in a key voiceover role. 

“The Baby-Sitters Club”

Release Date: 2020

Talent: Mark Feuerstein, Alicia Silverstone

If you’re a girl of a certain age you lived, ate, and breathed all things “Baby-Sitters Club.” The story of five pre-teen babysitters living in Connecticut who start a business and deal with all manner of problems, both personal and professional, attracted so many fans there were nationwide fanclubs. The series was first adapted into a television series for HBO in 1990 (that has a theme song that still slaps) as well as a popular movie made in 1995. This new Netflix series looks to bring “The Baby-Sitters Club” in for a new generation, one where most common childcare issues can probably be solved by using Google. Right now we don’t know who will be playing the eponymous babysitters, but we do know ‘90s darling Alicia Silverstone will play lead character Kristy Thomas’ mom. This could be a serious rival to Disney+ if done right.

“Selena: The Series”

Release Date: 2020

Number of Episodes: 6

Talent: Christian Serratos, Gabriel Chavarria, Ricardo Chavira, Saidy Lopez, Julio Macias, Jesse Posey, Juan Martinez, Paul Rodriguez

It’s remarkable considering what a powerful Tejano singer Selena remains in 2020 that a series only just started in development last year. “Selena: The Series” will chart the rise of Selena Quintanilla Perez from her start as a child living in Texas and touring the Tejano music scene before becoming one of the few female performers to find success in the genre and eventually cross over into English. Sadly, her life was tragically cut short at the age of 23. Most audiences know of the Jennifer Lopez-starring movie from 1997 but this series, created with the help of the singer’s family, looks to narrow that timeframe and look at the development of a woman who broke barriers. Netflix has focused heavily on Latino audiences with their programming of late and this could be a series to not only get that group, but expand out into a wider audience if advertised properly. 

“Never Have I Ever”

Release Date: 2020

Talent: Poorna Jagannathan, Sendhil Ramamurthy, Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Richa Shukla, John McEnroe (narrator)

Mindy Kaling moves to Netflix with another series, this one a semi-autobiographical story based on the actress and author’s own childhood. Starring newcomer Ramakrishnan, “Never Have I Ever” is about Devi, an overachieving Indian American teenage girl who has to deal with her own personal issues as well as cultural distinctions with her immigrant parents. The series is high-stakes for Kaling, who has worked at nearly every streaming service so far. Her recent redo of “Four Weddings and a Funeral” didn’t spark interest over on Hulu, and though there was early awards buzz for her Amazon-led feature film “Late Night,” the box office returns didn’t reflect that. Hopefully, by returning to her roots and talking about herself Kaling will see better success.

“Away”

Release Date: 2020

Number of Episodes: 10

Talent: Hilary Swank, Josh Charles, Ato Essandoh, Talitha Eliana Bateman, Vivian Wu, Ray Panthaki, Mark Ivanir

In contrast to the humor of “Space Force” we have the deep, personal drama of “Away,” a series focusing on the lives of the men and women who commit themselves to deep-space, interstellar travel. Hilary Swank stars as Emma Green, an American astronaut chosen to lead an international crew on the first mission to Mars. The problem is she must deal with her husband (Charles) and daughter (Bateman) being away from her for a year…or longer. The series has big talent behind it, being spearheaded by “The Path” showrunner Jessica Goldberg. Matt Reeves, Jason Katims, and Ed Zwick are also on the team as executive producers, with Zwick directing the pilot, so look for this one to have some heavy emotional conflict.

“The Midnight Gospel”

Release Date: 2020

What little is known about Duncan Trussell and Pendleton Ward’s new animated series “The Midnight Gospel” extends to a premise. Clancy is a spacecaster (assuming that’s a podcaster in space) with a multiverse simulator that’s malfunctioning. He decides to leave his home and interview those living on dying planets. Adding a bit of metatextual humor is the fact that interview clips from Trussell’s actual podcast, “The Duncan Trussell Family Hour” will be used in the series. There’s no word on anything beyond this, including voice cast and it’s believed the series won’t even debut this year, but we’re hopeful it’s inclusion on this list will serve to will it into being.

“The Iliza Shlesinger Sketch Show”

Release Date: 2020

Number of Episodes: 6

Talent: Iliza Shlesinger

If you haven’t heard of “Last Comic Standing” star Iliza Shlesinger, Netflix is your one-stop shop as it is the home to all five of her stand-up comedy specials going back to 2012. Now, in the wake of sketch show successes like “I Think You Should Leave With Tim Robinson” and “Astronomy Club”, it’s time for Shlesinger to give it a try. Working with Comedy Central’s Kim Gamble, Shlesinger’s series is said to contain a “secret world filled with absurd characters” and insights into “the female experience.” This sounds like a take-off of “Inside Amy Schumer” and if Shlesinger can capture the magic that series initially had, this could be a new hilarious entry for everyone to watch and quote.

“Grand Army”

Release Date: 2020

Talent: Odessa A’zion, Amir Bageria, Odley Jean, Maliq Johnson, Amalia Yoo

Katie Capiello’s 2013 play “Slut” looks to be getting the Netflix treatment this year and will no doubt spark all manner of thinkpieces in a post-“Euphoria” world. The play follows a 16-year-old girl who is sexually assaulted by three of her friends. Capiello, who is acting as showrunner of this series with “House of Card’s” Beau Willimon on the writing staff, looks to expand that plotline out to center on five students at a Brooklyn high school balancing their own personal desires with grander issues of growing up. Teenagers are a hot commodity in television right now, and if this series can conjure up serious emotions with its rape culture plotline alongside the gritty version of teens we’re seeing today, this could be an instant classic.