We watched a lot of TV in 2024. And lucky for you, we were glued to our flat screens taking in a lot of exceptional shows and movies that were filmed and set in The Windy City.
We can say proudly that Chicago has always provided the perfect backdrop for compelling television, and this year was no exception. From heartfelt dramas to pulse-pounding thrillers, Chicago continued to dominate our screens with its gritty, vibrant storytelling.
Here are the year’s standout moments in Chicago TV:
The Bear – “Napkins” (Season 3, Episode 6)
Few episodes of The Bear have resonated as deeply as “Napkins,” the standout of Season 3. Directed by cast member Ayo Edebiri, this episode dives into Tina’s (Liza Colón-Zayas) backstory, offering a poignant glimpse into her struggles during the Great Recession and her journey to finding a home at The Beef.
Critics hailed the episode’s emotional depth and strong narrative, cementing it as one of the series’ finest hours. Tina’s story, told with tenderness and grit, gave viewers an unforgettable reminder of the human spirit’s resilience.
The Chi – Season 6 Finale
The explosive season finale of The Chi saw three pivotal characters bid farewell in dramatic fashion. Otis “Douda” Perry (Curtiss Cook) met his end at the hands of his former henchman, Nuck (Cortez Smith), while Rob’s (Iman Shumpert) defiance led to a shocking death that shook fans. Meanwhile, Nina (Tyla Abercrumbie) left the city with her girlfriend LaPorsha, a bittersweet departure that closed a chapter on long-standing relationships.
These moments, fueled by power struggles and betrayals, gave the series one of its most unforgettable episodes.
Somebody Somewhere – A Poignant Farewell
HBO’s Somebody Somewhere ended its beautiful three-season run this December, leaving fans with a heartfelt goodbye. Produced in Chicago, the series was a celebration of found family and personal growth. The finale, featuring a stirring rendition of Miley Cyrus’s The Climb, encapsulated the show’s humor, humanity, and emotional resonance. Led by Bridget Everett’s remarkable performance, Somebody Somewhere reminded us of the importance of connection and self-worth.
Christmas on the Ranch – A Holiday Hit
Released on Hulu this November, Christmas on the Ranch brought holiday charm to Chicago audiences. The romantic drama quickly climbed Hulu’s Top 15 lists and earned a spot on Tom’s Guide’s Best Christmas Movies of 2024. With its heartfelt story, stunning visuals, and cozy vibes, the film has become a new seasonal favorite for those craving something fresh and heartwarming.
Dark Matter – A Thrilling Ride
Apple TV+’s Dark Matter kept viewers on the edge of their seats with its mind-bending sci-fi storytelling. Starring Joel Edgerton and Jennifer Connelly, this adaptation of Blake Crouch’s novel became one of the most talked-about shows of the year. Renewed for a second season, the series brought Chicago’s skyline into a dystopian future while delivering top-notch performances and nail-biting suspense.
Chicago Med – “Trust Fall” (Season 10, Episode 13)
“Trust Fall” proved to be the high point of Chicago Med in 2024, with a gripping medical case centered around Dr. Hannah Asher. Tackling an undiagnosed condition during a patient’s pregnancy, the episode was praised for its emotional stakes and character development. It’s no wonder this installment holds the season’s highest ratings on IMDb.
Chicago P.D. – “Blood Bleeds Blue” (Season 12, Episode 9)
Chicago P.D. delivered a gut-wrenching episode in “Blood Bleeds Blue.” The introduction—and sudden death—of Emily Martel left fans reeling, especially as her chemistry with Adam Ruzek hinted at a promising future. The tragedy, paired with Ruzek’s heart-wrenching reaction, solidified this episode as one of the series’ most emotionally impactful.
Chicago Fire – “Through the Skin” (Season 13, Episode 7)
With its mix of high stakes and humor, “Through the Skin” became a fan-favorite Chicago Fire episode. Violet Mikami’s decision to risk her career to deliver a baby tugged at heartstrings, while Cruz’s quest to retrieve his stolen bike brought some much-needed levity. This balance of drama and camaraderie exemplified why Chicago Fire remains a cornerstone of the One Chicago universe.
Presumed Innocent – Apple TV+’s Legal Drama
David E. Kelley’s Presumed Innocent, based on Scott Turow’s 1987 novel, brought a gripping legal thriller to Apple TV+. Starring Jake Gyllenhaal as Rusty Sabich, the series explored the complex fallout of a murder investigation that implicates the protagonist. With its Chicago roots and Kelley’s deft storytelling, the show reimagined a familiar tale with a fresh, compelling perspective.
From groundbreaking episodes to beloved series finales, 2024 reminded us why Chicago remains a hub for some of the best television out there. Whether it’s exploring deeply human stories or delivering jaw-dropping twists, the city’s influence on TV is as strong as ever.
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