Best TV Shows of 2013

On the mystical waters of Mako Island, three real mermaids – Sirena, Nixie, and Lyla – protect the sacred Moon Pool from intruders as part of their mermaid pod. But one full moon night, their playful distraction leads to a lapse in their duties. Sixteen-year-old Zac, a human teenager, stumbles upon the Moon Pool and forms a powerful connection with the mermaids, gaining a fish tail and supernatural abilities. Now exiled from their pod, Sirena, Nixie, and Lyla must work together to reclaim their place by getting Zac's powers back and finding human legs of their own. This captivating story blends magic, friendship, and self-discovery in an unforgettable journey beneath the surface of Mako Island.

Makoto Naegi, a completely average student, is surprised to be accepted into Hope's Peak Academy, a school for uniquely talented students. But Hope's Peak holds a dark secret: graduation depends on a deadly game where students must either kill each other or become victims. This suspenseful story follows Makoto and his classmates as they struggle to survive the treacherous environment, facing betrayal and difficult choices that challenge the bonds of friendship.

Tamako lives a quiet life steeped in Japan's mochi-making traditions. Her world changes when Dera, a talking bird who claims to be a royal attendant, arrives on a mission to find a bride for his master. Dera is drawn to Tamako's kindness and chooses to stay in her neighborhood instead of continuing his search. As they spend time together, their friendship blossoms, and Dera becomes a vital part of Tamako’s life. The series explores their bond, the challenges and joys of an unlikely friendship, and the magic found in everyday connections, all set against a backdrop of tradition and community.

Dr. Ellen Sanders, a highly respected surgeon, is thrust into a terrifying ordeal involving political conspiracy. FBI Agent Duncan Carlisle kidnaps Dr. Sanders and her family, forcing her to carry out an impossible mission: assassinate the President during surgery. Carlisle believes this extreme act is necessary for the greater good, but the situation rapidly escalates. Dr. Sanders must now navigate a deadly game of deception while confronting profound moral challenges that test everything she believes in.

Kojou Akatsuki is an ordinary high school student on Itogami Island, but his life changes forever after a strange event gives him vampire-like powers. News spreads quickly about his abilities and his rumored status as the powerful fourth primogenitor – a vampire thought to be just a myth. This draws the attention of the Lion King Organization, who sends Yukina Himeragi, a young sword-shaman apprentice, to monitor Kojou and eliminate him if he becomes a danger. They're forced to team up, learning about Kojou’s powers while fighting to protect their city from growing chaos.

A young child’s disappearance shatters lives and destroys relationships. Five years on, DCI Maggie Brand spearheads a fresh inquiry, jeopardizing her own chance at happiness.

Three unlikely friends – Izayoi Sakamaki, Asuka Kudou, and You Kasukabe – are suddenly transported to a magical place called "Little Garden." They team up with the mysterious Black Rabbit and quickly realize this enchanting world is full of both peril and wonder. As they journey deeper into Little Garden, they face fantastical challenges, laugh-out-loud moments, and tempting encounters that test their limits and their bonds. In this unpredictable realm, reality and illusion become intertwined, forcing them to question everything. This thrilling adventure mixes mystery, humor, and romance, delivering a captivating story with unexpected twists that will keep viewers hooked until the very last scene.

Set against the backdrop of the 1990s, this series follows Amado Carrillo Fuentes' ascent to power, earning him the nickname "El Señor de los Cielos," or "Lord of the Skies." A shrewd and driven drug lord, he commanded the Juárez cartel with ruthless efficiency, utilizing a vast network of airplanes to smuggle drugs. His sophisticated money laundering operations, moving over $200 million through Colombia, fueled his empire and established him as a major player in the drug trade. The series offers a compelling look at the life of one of history's most powerful traffickers, revealing the complexities and consequences of wielding such immense power.

A world is consumed by war between Humans and Demons. Their greatest hero launches an attack on the Demon Queen’s castle, intending to defeat her. But instead of battle, the Queen offers an alliance, revealing that ending the war abruptly could unleash greater chaos as both sides turn against each other. Persuaded, the Hero joins forces with the Queen, embarking on a plan to secure lasting peace and prosperity for Humans and Demons.

Two comic book fanatics discover a hidden haven for the superheroes of their favorite stories. Instead of just being amazed, they're surprisingly offered jobs there. It’s a dream opportunity to help the heroes who protect us all. As they explore this secret world, facing exciting challenges and meeting incredible people, they go on an unexpected journey that tests their friendship, loyalty, and courage to do what’s right – both in the comics and in real life.

"Max Steel" is a CGI animated series that blends science fiction and comedy. Premiering on Disney XD on March 25, 2013, the show reimagines and adapts from a Mattel action figure of the same name. The series follows Max McGrath, a teenager with incredible powers, as he learns to control them with the help of his AI partner, Steel. Together, they go on exciting missions, battling dangerous enemies to save Earth. The animated style and humor make for an adventurous and entertaining experience for viewers of all ages.

It’s May Day in a close-knit town honoring ancient customs, and the annual crowning of the May Queen takes center stage—until she vanishes without a trace.

A quiet town is suddenly trapped inside a giant, invisible dome, cut off from everything outside. As the military and media gather around, the townspeople must face this unbelievable new reality. Isolated from their families, with supplies running low, and unsure of what's happening, a small group sets out to discover where the dome came from and if it will ever disappear. The story explores how a community finds strength, the power of curiosity, and the need to connect when faced with the impossible.

Yōto Yokodera, a high schooler who can't easily show how he feels, hears rumors about the legendary Stony Cat – a creature said to grant wishes. Hoping to shed his emotional barriers, he makes an offering. But when he meets Tsukiko, who wishes for privacy around her feelings, things get complicated. Yōto’s unwanted emotional mask accidentally transfers to another classmate, while Tsukiko’s ability to express emotion nearly vanishes. Now both teens face the consequences of these unexpected changes and must find a way to regain control over their true selves.

A fantasy drama transports viewers to the legendary city of Atlantis, a realm of myth and ancient history. Jason, a traveler shipwrecked in this mysterious land, seeks answers and a way home. He joins forces with Pythagoras and Hercules, two very different individuals, as they explore Atlantis' rich legends and face incredible dangers. Their quest takes them through encounters with mythical creatures like Medusa and the Minotaur, while battling the undead in thrilling life-or-death situations. As Jason and his companions journey deeper into Atlantis, they uncover secrets about the city’s past and the true nature of humanity. The story blends action, fantasy, and drama into a captivating adventure filled with wonder, courage, and friendship.

This miniseries tells the true story of Clyde Barrow, a charming criminal convicted of armed robbery who captivates Bonnie Parker, a small-town waitress yearning for something more. Drawn to Clyde's allure, Bonnie becomes entangled in a passionate and dangerous relationship fueled by crime and a desire for freedom. Together, they become infamous bank robbers, captivating the nation with their daring exploits. The series balances the thrill of their criminal life with the harsh realities and consequences. As their relationship deepens and their crimes escalate, the story explores themes of love and obsession, societal pressures, and the motivations behind choosing a life outside the law. The series offers an intimate look at these unforgettable characters, revealing their shared dreams, struggles, and ultimate downfall. It’s an immersive journey into a notorious period of American history, told through the perspective of its most famous outlaws.

Michael J. Fox is Mike Henry, a beloved New York news anchor who stepped away from his demanding career after a Parkinson's diagnosis. Five years later, with his children grown and a desire to return to work, his former boss, Harris Green, cleverly brings Mike back into the public eye – without Mike’s knowledge. This moving comedy-drama examines family, career, and health through the eyes of a well-known figure. As Mike re-enters journalism while managing his family life, viewers will connect with his journey of resilience, determination, and love. Balancing humor and heartfelt moments, the story offers a genuine and relatable look at life's unexpected changes.

Hayley Atwell stars as an impulsive rookie cop, relentlessly pursuing the killer of a teenage girl against the backdrop of defining events in British history.

Shinichi Kanou, a leading expert on "moe" – the endearing cuteness of anime – becomes a diplomatic ambassador to the magical Holy Erudanto Kingdom. This fantastical world is populated by the adorable characters Shinichi has dedicated his life to studying: elves, dragons, and more. As a devoted otaku, Shinichi finds himself overwhelmed navigating this new culture where his beloved "moe" characters are real. His role as Japan's ambassador adds complexity to his mission, exploring cultural diplomacy in a fantastical setting. The series examines how "moe" connects different worlds through Shinichi’s relationship with the Kingdom's inhabitants. The story also raises questions about why the Japanese government chose a "moe" expert for this role, blending fantasy and reality in surprising ways.

"Corazón Indomable" is a new Mexican telenovela that reimagines the classic "Marimar" from 1994. This adaptation by Nathalie Lartilleux delivers a compelling mix of romance and suspense for Televisa viewers. Ana Brenda Contreras takes over the lead role, previously played by Thalía, and Daniel Arenas becomes her romantic partner, stepping into Eduardo Capetillo's shoes. Ingrid Martz, Elizabeth Álvarez, Carlos de la Mota, and René Strickler portray the villains, heightening the drama of this emotional story.