Breaking Bad
Premieres July 15, on AMC
This is the best drama on television. So, yes, it's probably my most anticipated show of the summer and the year (and every year). With the death of Gus, we have yet to establish a villain for the new season; but we know that Walt and Jesse have plenty of reasons to become each other's mortal enemies, this time for real. I love their relationship and especially their friendship - their genuine love for each other and the loyalty they've managed between them. But the tension is so high, like a horrible, secret-ridden father-son relationship. Walt is so selfish that he's even convinced that everything he does is either for Jesse or his family, despite his actions being dictated mainly by personal survival instinct and a strong aversion to cowardice. "Heisenberg" is the alter-ego he's always wanted to be, and it wasn't until he faced death (cancer) that he could finally bring him out, or create him out of nothing. As for Jesse - he is so filled with anger that I don't see any real salvation for him; I think he'll continue to deteriorate, especially with "friends" like Walt. What I hope is that he'll meet someone who will make him happy. He's in love with Andrea and her baby boy, but that also doesn't seem to be going anywhere safe.
God, I care so much about these characters, it's ridiculous. But it's what makes the show so damn thrilling. Last season gave us some beautifully-shot episodes. I expect more of that but also hope for a steady level of intensity and consistency in quality and character development.
Louie
Premieres June 28, on FX
This is the smartest, best-directed comedy on television. When I'm not laughing hard at some hilarious line, gesture, or situation; I'm totally engaged by the dialogue or directing. It's a brilliant series, like nothing else on television. Louis C.K. is simply one of the funniest people in the biz (his standup is amazing, for example), but he's also proven to be quite a talent behind the camera and at writing alternative sitcoms. I loved his short-lived HBO comedy Lucky Louie, which took place mainly in a cramped apartment that his character shares with his wife and daughter or the playground or diner where he spends time with his daughter and male friends. Anyway, I'll relish every episode.
True Blood
Premieres June 10, on HBO
HBO's vampire fantasy show is still, after four seasons, pretty damn entertaining. It's not as juicy or exciting as in early seasons, but Sookie is still there, being sexy, kicking ass, and delivering some funny lines. She's not alone; brother Jason is hilarious as ever, sometimes-lover Bill remains grinning somewhere, and the irresistible Eric hasn't left her side, forever drawing her in. Cousins Tara and Lafayette continue to find their way - him in witchcraft and her, it seems, in lesbianism and complaining. He's still one of my favorites, and Anna Paquin remains one of the gee darnest cutest things on television.
Wilfred
Premieres June 28, on FX
FX is good at comedy, and Wilfred is no exception. Last year's first season was a mixed bag, but it mostly won me over. Elijah Wood and Jason Gann make a wonderful pair, and the writing is just very funny.
Suits
Premieres June 14, on USA
I liked Suits. I didn't expect much from a USA series, but this is solid entertainment. It's a good mix of predictable drama, memorable characters, pretty faces, convincing situations, and witty dialogue.
The Newsroom
Premieres June 24, on HBO
Even though I might not stick with it, I'll be sure to watch the pilot of Aaron Sorkin's new comedy series, this time on HBO.