Although we’re sad to see the sun set on summer, a part of us secretly can’t wait to cozy up on the couch and dive back into the world of primetime TV. From the reinstatement of beloved small-screen stars to a fresh set of cliff-hanging plot twists, see the new and returning series we’re anticipating most this fall—and be sure to mark your calendars for their big premieres.
Photo: Jeffrey R. Staab/CBS
New Shows
“Late Show with Stephen Colbert”
Political satirist Stephen Colbert is taking over for David Letterman, who retired his decades-long stint in the spring. Judging from “The Colbert Report,” which always got us interested in current affairs, we can’t wait to see Colbert’s spin on late night news. Already on his roster of big-name guest stars: Scarlett Johansson, George Clooney and Kendrick Lamar. (Premieres Tuesday, September 8 at 11:35pm on CBS)
Photo: NBC Universal
“Best Time Ever with Neil Patrick Harris”
Now that he’s wrapped his stint as Barney Stinson on “How I Met Your Mother,” Neil Patick Harris is to take on other small-screen endeavors—like headlining his very own variety show. Based on the British series “Ant & Dec’s Saturday Night Takeaway,” anything goes in this hour-long extravaganza, boasting comedy skits, games, stunts, appearances from famous friends and much more. (Premieres Tuesday, September 15 at 10pm on NBC)
Photo: Michael Parmelee/CBS
“Limitless”
In addition to reprising his role as Eddie Mora in this action-packed thriller—a spin-off of the 2011 feature film by the same name—Bradley Cooper also serves as its executive producer. His “American Sniper” co-star Jake McDorman stars as Brian Finch alongside “Dexter”s’ Jennifer Carpenter. (Premieres Tuesday, September 22 at 10pm on CBS)
Photo: Steve Dietl/FOX
“Scream Queens”
“Glee” may have graduated last season, but the new kids on producer Ryan Murphy’s latest campus are a solid following act. However, this comedic sorority storyline has a macabre twist: mystery and horror—plus leading ladies clad in Chanel. The star-studded cast includes Emma Roberts, Ariana Grande, Nick Jonas, Jamie Lee Curtis and even “Glee” alum Lea Michele. (Premieres Tuesday, September 22 at 8pm on FOX)
Photo: Fred Hayes/ABC
“Blood & Oil”
“Gossip Girl” alum Chace Crawford is making his return to the small screen, trading his pretty, city-boy charm for a more-rugged demeanor—and promising plenty of eye candy in the process. Set in the gorgeous North Dakota landscape, this series, which follows a couple looking to cash in on the state’s oil boom, has a “Dallas”-like feel and is loaded with equal parts action and romance. (Premieres Sunday, September 27 at 9pm on ABC)
Photo: Darren Michaels/CBS
“Supergirl”
Superheroes have been taking over the small screen for awhile now, but we’re thrilled to see the males take a backseat in this new series. In addition to the inevitable girl-power inspiration, we’re also eager to see the chic working wardrobe donned by Superman’s cousin (played by Melissa Benoist) when she’s on the clock and downplaying her super powers a la Clark Kent. The series also stars Calista Flockhart as well as “True Blood”s’ Brit Morgan. (Premieres Monday, October 26 at 8:30pm on CBS)
Photo: Eric McCandless/ABC
“Wicked City”
One of our favorite bad boys, “Gossip Girl”s’ Ed Westwick, is back in action—only this time he’s a bonafide bad boy: a serial killer in Hollywood during the ’80s. This new murder mystery centers around L.A.’s rock ‘n’ roll club scene, meaning you can expect to see a plethora of festive (albeit questionable) fashions from the era—many of which are sported by ‘Parenthood’s’ Erika Christensen, who co-stars as Westwick’s love interest and almost-victim. (Premieres Tuesday, October 27 at 10pm on ABC)
Photo: Frederick M. Brown/Getty Images Entertainment
“Master of None”
Dating in today’s tech-savvy world can be tough. Just ask comedian and “Parks and Recreation” alum Aziz Ansari, who wrote extensively on the topic in his hilarious debut book, Modern Romance. Netflix is turning his findings and stand-up skits into a structure-free comedy series, which Claire Danes is set to appear in. (Available to stream November 6th on Netflix)
Returning Series
Photo: Monty Brinton/CBS
“The Big Bang Theory,” Season 9
We last left Penny and Leonard jetting off to Vegas to elope, but we’re hoping the slight hesitation offers an opportunity for Kaley Cuoco-Sweeting’s character to don a more traditional wedding gown at some point this season. We’re also holding out hope that Sheldon and Amy will reunite and plan a wedding of their own. (Premieres Monday, September 21 at 8pm on CBS)
Photo: ABC
“Nashville,” Season 4
For the show’s fourth season, country music’s leading ladies’ family lives are taking center stage. While Juliette Barnes (Hayden Panettiere) is a new mom juggling her old ways, Rayna James (Connie Britton) is fearing for Deacon’s life in the hospital. Despite their off-stage commitments, we can’t wait to see them return to the spotlight this season—not to mention the indie up-and-comers trailing behind them. (Premieres Wednesday, September 23 at 10pm on ABC)
Photo: FOX
“Empire,” Season 2
Last season, we were blown away by Luscious’ entertainment empire and all of the drama (and celebrity guest stars) that follow his and Cookie’s glamorous lifestyle. This season, there will be plenty more plot twists to indulge in, including appearances by Marisa Tomei, Kelly Rowland, Alicia Keys, Ludacris, Alex Rodriguez and Lenny Kravitz. (Premieres Wednesday, September 23 at 9 pm on FOX)
Photo: Craig Sjodin/ABC
“How to Get Away with Murder,” Season 2
Although we were left with a mysterious death, expect to get wrapped up in a new mystery that will unfold this season—undoubtedly along with the kind of nail-biting plot twists that creator Shonda Rhimes is known for. In the wardrobe department, we can’t wait to follow the staff and students. (Premieres Thursday, September 24 at 10pm on ABC)
Photo: Nicole Wilder/ABC
“Scandal,” Season 5
Jake is gone, and Fitz is (finally!) in Olivia’s arms. How does happily ever after look on Ms. Pope? Flawless, we’re sure. Still, we’re more than prepared for the drama that is sure to follow Kerry Washington’s character and her gladiators this season. After last season’s launch of The Limited’s capsule collection inspired by her on-screen wardrobe, we can only hope Pope will continue incorporating more affordable fashions into her coveted closet. (Premieres Thursday, September 24 at 9pm on ABC)
Photo: Fox
“Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” Season 3
Our favorite detectives return for more shenanigans. In addition to nonstop laughs and stylish spins on law enforcement uniforms, there will be some tension, as we left Amy (Melissa Fumero) and Jake (Andy Samberg) navigating their office relationship after their first kiss last season. (Premieres Sunday, September 27 at 8:30pm on FOX)
Photo: Justin Stephens/CBS
“The Good Wife,” Season 7
Climbing the ladder in both the legal and political worlds, Alicia Florrick (played by Julianna Margulies) always inspires us with her on-point, professional attire. In addition to her flawless wardrobe, this season welcomes “Grey’s Anatomy”s’ Jeffrey Dean Morgan, offering up yet another challenge to her complicated life in and out of the office. (Premieres Sunday, September 27 at 9pm on CBS)
Photo: Tyler Shields/ABC
“Once Upon a Time,” Season 5
While the child inside us can’t wait to rejoin the live-action world of Disney fairytales, our adult selves are ready for the return of those fantastical outfits, re-imagined for everyday life. This season will welcome King Arthur, Camelot and the Knights of the Round Table, who will be introduced to “Brave”s’ Merida. Meanwhile, Emma is at risk of becoming the Dark Swan eternally. (Premieres Sunday, September 27 at 8pm on ABC)
Photo: Stephan Rabold/Showtime
“Homeland,” Season 5
This season, Carrie (Claire Danes) takes on Berlin, alongside some new faces—including a new love interest—and the surprising return of some familiar ones, which is sure to spark a tense love triangle. The political thriller picks up two years after where we last left Ms. Mathison, so you want want to re-watch last reason to help bring you up to date. (Premieres Sunday, October 4 on Showtime)
Photo: Fox
“American Horror Story: Hotel,” Season 5
It’s a new era for “American Horror Story”—one that includes Lady Gaga. In addition to some of our favorite familiar faces, including Kathy Bates and Chloë Sevigny, the pop star and “New Girl”s’ Max Greenfield join the creepy cast and are sure to deliver some nightmare-inducing performances. (Premieres Wednesday, October 7 at 10pm on FX)
Photo: Patrick Wymore/The CW
“Jane the Virgin,” Season 2
Gina Rodriguez stole our hearts (not to mention a number of Best New Actress nods) in the first season, and we can’t wait to watch her telenovela-inspired adventure continue, especially as she takes on motherhood—and wedding planning. While she nailed her easy-breezy, colorful maternity style, we’re especially excited to see her in step into her new-mom shoes. (Premieres Monday, October 12 at 9pm on The CW)