Top TV Shows of 2024

Hi. I haven't had the opportunity to watch quality TV shows in 2024 to create a solid Top 5 ranking. The only notable series I've managed to catch is season two of House of the Dragon, and unfortunately, it didn’t resonate with me. I've also indulged in reality TV trash on Netflix, such as Love is Blind, The Ultimatum, The Circle, and Perfect Match. I'm also currently engrossed in MTV's The Challenge, which has become a regular part of my viewing routine. I'm a creature of habit. That being said, I recently decided to dive back into a nostalgic favorite from my past: One Tree Hill. I’m currently stuck at the beginning of season 6, just as I anticipated I would be. It feels like that’s where I hit pause the last time I watched it, and my ultimate goal this time is to make it through all 9 seasons without interruption.

Re-watching One Tree Hill has taken me on a major nostalgia trip, reminding me of my younger days and prompting me to revisit the soundtrack from Friends with Benefits. I had completely forgotten how much I adored certain songs from that era, such as "Everybody's Changing" by Keane, which perfectly captures that feeling of longing and change, "The Mixed Tape" by Jack's Mannequin, which always brings a smile to my face, and "For Blue Skies" by Strays Don't Sleep, which evokes such an emotional response from me. All these songs remind me of my high school days. It truly felt like I was living in my indie rock phase back then. And I can’t believe I almost forgot about Haley's heartfelt song "Halo!" It holds such a special place in my heart.

While watching the series, I had also forgotten about Peyton's iconic angel of death costume, which has sparked thoughts of wanting to cosplay as her for Halloween. However, I can’t shake the feeling that I might be too old for that now. LOL. As I watch, I can’t help but reflect on the trauma that One Tree Hill has inflicted on me. It's incredible how many harrowing events occur in the first five seasons, particularly with Peyton’s character. It’s almost overwhelming to think about all the challenges and traumas she faces throughout the series—why did so many awful things happen to her?!

An excerpt from my journal back in July:

I told myself, "Let me watch an episode of One Tree Hill after a long day of work..."

OH, MY F*CKING GOD... KEITH DIES THIS SEASON! How could I have thought he lived happily ever after with Karen and Lucas when I'd seen the episode before?! My memory sucks.

Don't mind me. I'm just re-traumatizing myself, rewatching One Tree Hill for the first time.

LOL. I think I sobbed that night. I can't believe I had blacked out such a pivotal moment in One Tree Hill's history. This show makes me so emotional, but I will persevere and finish seasons 6-9 in 2025!