Written by Lidia Molina-Whyte
Summer was once TV’s sleepy season – a dark time of reruns and sports while your favourite shows took a break, often leaving you with a cliff-hanger to ponder over for weeks.
Well, no longer. This year, hard-hitters like Riviera and Chernobyl are just some of the shows that have released new seasons or launched as the temperature spikes. The best part? You can enjoy them, and a whole host of other brilliant shows, on NOW TV.
So, set up an account, pick a pass that suits you, and press play on some amazing content.
1. Chernobyl
Stream every episode
This acclaimed dramatisation of the 1986 nuclear accident in Soviet Ukraine is often hard to watch – but that’s precisely why you should. The Sky Original doesn’t shy away from the event’s grim realities, including the political forces determined to cover it up. Emily Watson, Jared Harris and Stellan Skarsgard are at the top of their game.
2. Patrick Melrose
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Based on Edward St Aubyn’s semi-autobiographical novels, this BAFTA-winning Sky Original tackles everything from addiction and child abuse to aristocracy and class privilege – and that’s just the first episode. Benedict Cumberbatch is superb as the charmingly self-aware and definitely self-destructive Melrose, navigating his highs and comedowns with impressive skill.
3. Riviera
Stream every episode
“Behind every great fortune there is a great crime.” French writer Balzac’s words fit this Sky Original like a bloodied Chanel glove. Season 1 introduced us to the dark underworld of the glittery Cote D’Azur, and season 2 will expose even more of its dirty secrets. Starring Julia Stiles, it’s a lavishly filmed, deeply mysterious watch.
4. Black Monday
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For a show that focuses on the lead-up to the worst stock market crash in the history of Wall Street, Black Monday is surprisingly upbeat. Set in the 80s, as evidenced by the flamboyant getups donned by knucklehead traders Mo Monroe (Don Cheadle) and Dawn Darcy (Regina Hall), it will blow your perm off.