From dystopian drama to Silicon Valley satire, a wave of buzzy new series — and a few big finales — arrives all at once.
Television
75 years ago, a viral TV moment ignited America’s obsession with the Mafia
Crooked contracts, bribery, shady characters. In 1951, millions tuned in to watch the Kefauver organized crime hearings, showing the power of television.
From Jesus to Jurassic Park: This year’s Super Bowl ads are playing it safe
Early Super Bowl spots show advertisers want lots of buzz but not controversy.
Isiah Whitlock Jr., actor from ‘The Wire,’ ‘Veep’ and Spike Lee films, dies at 71
Actor Isiah Whitlock Jr. has died at age 71. Whitlock played the corrupt state Sen. Clay Davis on “The Wire.” He also appeared in several Spike Lee films, including “25th Hour” and “BlacKkKlansman.”
The best TV to catch up on over the Thanksgiving weekend
It’s impossible to keep up with TV options. These shows are worth catching up on — or revisiting.
‘Broadcasting’ has its roots in agriculture. Here’s how it made its way into media
The word ‘broadcasting’ dates back centuries, and originally described a method of sowing seeds. But it took on a new meaning with the rise of radio in the 1920s.
What to watch this fall: Here are 12 TV shows we’re looking forward to
The coming months will bring new seasons of Stranger Things and Slow Horses, a mysterious new science fiction series from Apple TV+, and a new Ken Burns documentary about the American Revolution.
Nerd! How the word popularized by Dr. Seuss went from geeky insult to mainstream
Nerd has been part of our lexicon for three-quarters of a century, its geeky meaning embodied by some of the most recognizable characters in film and TV, but its origin story is a bit murky.
Jenny Han is an expert in embarrassment
Jenny Han feels close to her teen self, which explains why her books and their adaptations connect with teen audiences. She spoke with Rachel about the potency of shame and what she’s selfish about.
The Spirit Tunnel is unapologetic celebrity worship — and extremely fun
Celebrity guests on The Jennifer Hudson Show — Michelle Obama, Usher, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Tina Knowles to name a few — have all caught a ride through this viral backstage ritual.


