Top 10 new sci-fi and fantasy shows of 2022: House of the Dragon and more

1. House of the Dragon

Game of Thrones featured a lot of tragic deaths, but perhaps the most traumatizing one for fans of the show was the death of rationality, which was killed off unexpectedly in the final season. Season 8 broke many hearts, especially of those who grew to love and support Daenerys Targaryen over the years, which is why fans were rightfully skeptical when HBO announced the prequel series House of the Dragon. Would this be another disappointment or a renewal of the franchise?

It was the latter. Thanks to a grimly powerful story, excellent production values and memorable performances from the likes of Emma D’Arcy, Olivia Cooke, Paddy Considine, and Matt Smith, House of the Dragon became one of the highest-rated and most-loved shows of 2022. For bonus points, D’Arcy’s sound bite about loving ‘Negroni Sbagliato with Prosecco in it” went viral on social media.

Adapted from George R.R. Martin’s book Fire & Blood, House of the Dragon is about how House Targaryen falls from glory thanks to a series of betrayals, miscommunications, and finally war. It’s gripping and the dragons are great.

Honorary Mention: Star Wars: Obi-Wan Kenobi

Despite its over-reliance on nostalgia, Obi-Wan Kenobi tugged at the heartstrings of Star Wars fanatics, especially those who swear by their love for the prequels. They were happy simply to see Ewan McGregor and Hayden Christensen share a screen for the first time since their historic lightsaber battle in Revenge of the Sith.

Seeing Obi-Wan finally accept that his “friend was truly dead” brought tears to the eyes of many fans. It also ties into A New Hope, where Kenobi is seen talking about Anakin like he doesn’t exist anymore. Vivien Lyra Blair’s feisty performance as a young Leia Organa was a fun surprise.

How many of these shows have you watched and which ones are still waiting on your watchlist? Let us know in the comments!

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