BREAK OUT THE POPCORN

Here’s all you need to know about the best series coming to a screen near you!

YCompiled by JANE VORSTER AY, winter is here! The colder weather offers TV addicts even more of an excuse to never leave the couch. We’ve sorted through all the schedules to help you figure out what to watch – from the latest binge-worthy series to all the new, must-watch documentaries, reality shows and sporting fixtures. Some of the series have already begun on DStv, but if you have Explora you can use the Catch Up function to get up to speed.

13 REASONS WHY (Netflix)

Based on the bestselling teen novel, this thought-provoking series focuses on the suicide of 17-year-old Hannah Baker (Katherine Langford). Just before her death Hannah recorded 13 tapes, each one dedicated to a different person whom she believed contributed to her decision to kill herself. A boy who had a crush on her is determined to weave it all together. The show has divided viewers: critics say it sensationalises suicide but fans reckon it sheds light on a sensitive subject. Kate Walsh co-stars as Hannah’s mom.

THIS IS US (M-Net, DStv channel 101)

If you have fond memories of shows like Thirtysomething and Brothers & Sisters you’ll love this series. It starts with all the main

TAKEN (M-Net, DStv channel 101)

This action-packed series is based on the movie trilogy starring Liam Neeson, about special intelligence operative Bryan Mills who finds revenge is the best way to overcome personal tragedy.

The TV series follows a similar approach to the movies except that the main character, played by Clive Standen (36), is 30 years younger – so we get to find out about his fascinating back story. S Thursdays at 20:30. characters celebrating their 36th birthdays on the same day, so although they lead very different lives they’re all linked.

With clever scripting and a cast that includes Milo Ventimiglia, Mandy Moore, Sterling K Brown, Chrissy Metz and Gerald McRaney, this was one of the most talked-about shows on American TV last year. Season 2 isn’t even yet out and it’s already been renewed for a third, so don’t miss it.

SFrom 29 May at 19:30.

DEAR WHITE PEOPLE (Netflix)

Based on the 2014 satirical film of the same name, Dear White People follows Samantha White (Logan Browning), an arts student at an American college rife with racial tension.

The movie was criticised for being too preachy in its attempts to educate white people about racism, but the TV series has been winning praise for its more nuanced approach. Each episode focuses on a particular student, their back story and how it affects their involvement in events taking place on campus.

THE YOUNG POPE (Showmax)

This much-anticipated series sees Jude Law cast as Pius XIII, the first American Pope. He’s also the youngest person to ever assume the role of pontiff and has his work cut out for him navigating the power struggles in the Vatican. Those who put him in power thought he could be controlled but they were wrong . . . With the help of Sister Mary (Diane Keaton), the nun who raised him, Pius stamps his mark on the job – but it soon becomes clear the devilishly handsome pope isn’t nearly as pious as people think.