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28 New and Returning Shows to Watch on PBS and PBS’ Masterpiece in 2023

The 2023 PBS and MASTERPIECE schedules for new and returning dramas.

2023 is here, meaning the new PBS season is also here, with epic period dramas, mysteries, romances, and more, to look forward to this year. From season 3 of Miss Scarlet and the Duke and All Creatures Great and SmallCall the Midwife, to the final seasons of Sanditon and Endeavour, PBS has exciting new seasons and brand-new dramas now available or coming soon.

new and returning shows on pbs and pbs masterpiece 2023 featured

WINTER/SPRING 2023 ANNOUNCEMENTS

According to a PBS press release, “PBS continues to bring dramas that appeal to the entire family, from mysteries like MISS SCARLET AND THE DUKE ON MASTERPIECE and VIENNA BLOOD to coming-of-age stories like SANDITON ON MASTERPIECE and LA OTRA MIRADA. This season’s lineup of period dramas is our most extensive to date, with hours of captivating storytelling from January to May,” says Maria Bruno Ruiz, Vice President of Program Scheduling at PBS.

“Not only do we have returning seasons of our most anticipated dramas, but we also have two new premieres that audiences are sure to fall in love with: TOM JONES ON MASTERPIECE and MARIE ANTOINETTE. Both bring incredible new talent to PBS. I can’t wait for audiences to watch!”

SUMMER 2023 ANNOUNCEMENTS

As for summer content on PBS, expect to see the new series RIDLEY, the final season of ENDEAVOUR ON MASTERPIECEGRANTCHESTER, Season 8, and the new mystery, D.I. RAY. PBS Passport has extra content to enjoy as well!

Vice President of Program Content Strategy and Scheduling at PBS, Maria Bruno Ruiz, adds that they “are excited to welcome new stories and faces to the PBS primetime lineup and it is a bittersweet moment having to say goodbye to the much-loved series ENDEAVOUR ON MASTERPIECE…PBS continues to be a destination for best-in-class stories that showcase intriguing mysteries, heartfelt connections, and most of all, drama!”

FALL 2023 ANNOUNCEMENTS

PBS recently released its premieres for the Fall season. Throughout September and October of 2023, “PBS will premiere new episodes of six returning drama series, including the long-awaited return of WORLD ON FIRE SEASON 2 ON MASTERPIECE, starring Jonah Hauer-King (The Little Mermaid, Little Women) in a story of bravery and resilience; along with season premieres of UNFORGOTTEN, VAN DER VALK and ANNIKA from MASTERPIECE.

In addition, romance, glamour, and beautiful scenery are in store when guests check back into HOTEL PORTOFINO for Season 2 and intriguing mysteries are unraveled in the Season 2 return of PROFESSOR T.

PBS will also debut LITTLE BIRD, a new primetime drama about an Indigenous woman’s journey to find her birth family, in honor of Native American Heritage Month.”

Maria Bruno Ruiz, Vice President of Program Content Strategy and Scheduling at PBS, shares that they “are excited to have such a robust primetime lineup this fall with the return of some of our most popular dramas.”

And that they are “very proud to bring American viewers the premiere of LITTLE BIRD, an incredibly powerful story that is not only engaging but shines light on ‘The Sixties Scoop,’ a tragic time in history when Native children were forcibly removed from their families by the Canadian government in the 1960s.” 

RELATED: 100+ Best Period Dramas on Amazon Prime to Watch

It sounds like PBS has a fantastic lineup for the autumn season.

As an avid watcher of everything MASTERPIECE, this is one audience member who can’t wait to watch the new period dramas and other excellent returning dramas.

Will Miss Scarlet ever admit her feelings for Detective Inspector “Duke” Wellington? Will the wedding in All Creatures Great and Small go off without any obstacles? And will Morse finally reveal his feelings for Joan in Endeavour? Plus, who will Charlotte end up with in Sanditon?

All these questions will be answered and more in the latest seasons airing on MASTERPIECE, PBS, and PBS Passport.

I list the new, notable, and upcoming dramas in airdate order so all the other PBS aficionados know when to tune in!

All new and returning dramas will also be available to stream on the day of broadcast on PBS.org and the PBS app. You can also watch if you’re subscribed to PBS Passport.

Editorial Note: This list of PBS shows in 2023 will be regularly updated by us here at The Silver Petticoat Review throughout the year with new titles and premiere information.

The list includes PBS series in 2023 and PBS Masterpiece shows you can watch on PBS, the PBS app, and PBS Passport. Dates and availability are subject to change at any time. This post was originally published on January 5, 2023, and has been updated and re-published for August 2023.


WINTER/SPRING SCHEDULE: NEW AND RETURNING SHOWS ON PBS AND PBS’ MASTERPIECE IN 2023 TO WATCH

All Creatures Great and Small Season 3
James Herriot (Nicholas Ralph) & Helen Alderson (Rachel Shenton) in All Creatures Great and Small. Credit: Courtesy of Helen Williams (C) Playground Entertainment

LA OTRA MIRADA SEASON 2 

La Otra Mirada still season 2
Credit: Courtesy of RTVE/BOOMERANG TV FICCIÓN

Premiere Date: Aired Jan. 5-Feb. 23, 2023. Now on PBS Passport.

Season Two Official Synopsis: “Teresa returns to school after being found innocent of her father’s murder. Her struggles, though, are far from over, as she deals with new secrets and new threats to the Academy. From Walter Presents, in Spanish with English subtitles.”

Why You Should Tune In: Tune in if you like soapy Spanish period dramas!

Content Note: Episodes range between TV-14 and TV-MA.

LOVE, INEVITABLY – WALTER PRESENTS

Premiere Date: January 5, 2023. Available to stream on PBS Passport.

Official Synopsis“Love, Inevitably” is about an incredible and sudden love, made up of reality and imagination. It is the story of Candela and Massimo, a dancer from Seville and an entrepreneur from Rome, two complete opposites, two parallels who can’t help but meet. From Walter Presents, in Spanish with English subtitles.”

Why You Should Tune In: Watch if you’re a fan of Spanish dramas and rom-coms!

Content Note: TV-MA.

MISS SCARLET AND THE DUKE SEASON 3 ON MASTERPIECE 

Miss Scarlet and the Duke Season 3 publicity still
Stuart Martin as William “The Duke” Wellington and Kate Phillips as Eliza Scarlet. Credit: Courtesy of Element 8 Entertainment and MASTERPIECE Photographer: Sergej Radovic

Premiere Date: Broadcast Premiered Sundays, Jan. 8-Feb. 12, 2023, 8 p.m. ET. Season 3 is also available to binge on PBS Passport.

Season 3 Official Synopsis: “Eliza finds herself in fresh and surprising mysteries, ranging from a disappearing magician to police corruption, as she struggles to build her detective agency.

Growing competition from a rival agency creates new problems, and all the while she is still juggling her relationship with Inspector William Wellington, the Duke. But she has a new challenge on that front: a beautiful woman from her childhood has caught the Duke’s eye.”

Why You Should Tune In: Season three of Miss Scarlet and the Duke is just as good as previous seasons.

While the mysteries are great, tune in for the slow-burn romance between the main leads. The chemistry is top-notch, and the character development is fantastic.

Season 4 of Miss Scarlet and the Duke returns in 2024.

Content Note: Episodes range between TV-PG and TV-14.

ALL CREATURES GREAT AND SMALL SEASON 3 ON MASTERPIECE 

All Creatures Great and Small Season 3 cast photo
James Herriot (Nicholas Ralph), Helen Alderson (Rachel Shenton), Tristan Farnon (Callum Woodhouse). Top Line: Siegfried Farnon (Samuel West), Mrs Hall (Anna Madeley). Credit: Courtesy of (C) Playground Entertainment.

Premiere Date: Premiered Sunday, January 8, and continued until February 19, 2023, 9 p.m. ET. Available on Passport.

Season 3 Official Synopsis: “James Herriot and crew deal with sick animals, eccentric farmers, courtship and strict government mandates in a new season of the series that won the hearts of millions of fans.

Change is the order of the day as professional and emotional relationships mature in the rural Yorkshire veterinary practice immortalized by author James Herriot’s charming stories.

Themes for Season 3 include new partnerships, ghosts from the past and doing one’s duty—and, of course, doing right by the animals.”

Why You Should Tune In: For the wedding, of course! But also for the laughs, the characters, and the drama. Most importantly, All Creatures Great and Small is a heartwarming period drama that makes you feel good.

Content Note: TV-PG.

VIENNA BLOOD SEASON 3

Vienna Blood Season 3 promo photo
Oskar and Max consider a case in central Vienna. Film 8. [Actors – left to right Juergen Maurer & Matthew Beard]. Credit: Courtesy of Petro Domenigg – © 2022 Endor Productions / MR Film

Premiere Date: Premiered Sundays, Jan. 8-Feb. 12, 2023, 10 p.m. ET. Available on Passport.

Season 3 Official Synopsis: “VIENNA BLOOD returns for a third season of diabolical new cases for Dr. Max Liebermann and Detective Inspector Oskar Rheinhardt to solve.

Set in 1900s Vienna — a hotbed of philosophy, science and art, where cultures clash and ideas collide in the city’s grand cafes and opera houses.

Season 3 finds Max and Oskar once again thrust into the dark underbelly of glittering Viennese society, with episodes set in a luxury fashion house, the Chinese antiquities trade and the budding world of cinema.”

Why You Should Tune In: What I love about this period mystery is the 1900s Vienna setting! So, watch for the culture and atmosphere but stay for intriguing new mysteries.

Content Note: TV-14.

OUR MIRACLE YEARS – WALTER PRESENTS

Premiere Date: March 16, 2023. Available to stream on PBS Passport.

Official Synopsis“Follow three sisters of an industrialist family in post-war Germany. In a politically, morally and economically destroyed country, these young women reinvent themselves and set the course for their future. From “Walter Presents,” in German with English subtitles.”

Why You Should Tune In: If you love historical dramas, foreign dramas, and the WWII setting, check this one out.

Content Note: TV-MA.

CALL THE MIDWIFE SEASON 12

Call the Midwife promo photo
Nurse Phyllis Crane (LINDA BASSETT), Nurse Trixie (HELEN GEORGE), and Nurse Lucille Anderson (LEONIE ELLIOTT). Credit: Courtesy of Neil Street Productions

Premiere Date: Aired Sundays, March 19 –May 7, 2023, 8 p.m. ET.

Season 12 Official Synopsis: “It’s 1968, and the nuns and nurses from Nonnatus House return for more midwifery and family life. The midwives welcome a new nun, Sister Veronica, and tension in Poplar arises following the effects of Enoch Powell’s “Rivers of Blood” speech.”

Why You Should Tune In: After 12 seasons, Call the Midwife still consistently puts out quality entertainment year after year. And it’s always fun seeing what Nonnatus House is up to next! It’s one of our favorite shows – and likely a favorite of many other loyal viewers.

Content Note: Episodes range between TV-PG and TV-14.

SANDITON SEASON 3 ON MASTERPIECE

Charlotte and fiance in Sanditon Season 3 First Look photo
Rose Williams as Charlotte Heywood with her fiancé, Ralph Starling, played by Cai Brigden. Photo Courtesy of PBS.

Premiere Date: Premiered Sundays, March 19-April 23, 2023, 9 p.m. ET. Available on Passport. 

Season 3 Official Synopsis: “The third and final season returns viewers to the seaside resort of Sanditon for the conclusion of Charlotte and Georgiana’s stories. Drama, laughter and romance are all in store for the ensemble of new and returning characters.”

Why You Should Tune In: I plan to tune in for the show’s much-deserved ending! Who will Charlotte end up with at the end?

I’m okay if she ends up with none of the men from last season and Stringer returns for a surprise ending. Dreams aside, Sanditon fans rallied together for closure, and that’s what the final season will bring.

I look forward to romance and laughter in this underrated period drama series.

Update: See our spoilery review and discussion of Sanditon, Season 3.

Content Note: TV-PG

MARIE ANTOINETTE

Marie Antoinette on PBS in 2023
Emilia Schüle (Marie Antoinette). Credit: Courtesy of © Caroline Dubois – Capa Drama / Banijay Studios France / Les Gens / Canal+.

Premiere Date: Aired Sundays, March 19-May 7, 2023, 10 p.m. ET. Available on Passport.

Official Synopsis: “Marie Antoinette (Emilia Schüle, Berlin Dance School) is just a teenager when she leaves Austria to marry the Dauphin of France (Louis Cunningham, Bridgerton).

When she arrives at Versailles, she must obey the numerous and complex rules of the French court. The princess quickly suffers from not being able to live her life the way she wants, while her mother, the Empress of Austria, (Tony nominee Marthe Keller) keeps pushing her to continue the Bourbon line and thus secure the alliance between the two countries.

However, faced with Louis’ avoidant and solitary character, the mission turns out to be more complicated than expected.”

Why You Should Tune In: Marie Antoinette is a fascinating person from history. And thankfully, Marie Antoinette is a high-quality series with gorgeous costumes and excellent actors.

Content Note: Episodes range between TV-14 and TV-MA.

BEFORE WE DIE, SEASON 2

Lesley Sharpe in Before We Die
Hannah (Lesley Sharp). Credit: Courtesy of Sofie Gheysens

Premiere Date: April 10, 2023, on Passport.

Official Synopsis: “Detective Inspector Hannah Laing and crime matriarch Dubravka Mimica, two mothers on opposite sides of the law, both lost sons in season one. Hannah’s son fell in love with Bianca Mimica and fled overseas while Dubravka’s son is missing presumed dead. While Dubravka seeks revenge, Hannah must finish the job her son started and expose the Mimica gang.”

Season 2, Episode 1 Synopsis: “Hannah and Billy try to uncover the leak at Police HQ which resulted in the deaths of several of their colleagues. When Hannah’s obsession concerns her boss, she and Billy pursue their own “unofficial” investigation. Christian and Bianca find that their hideout isn’t as safe as it seems. Under pressure to move her cocaine, Dubravka meets with an intermediary who makes her a tempting offer.”

Why You Should Tune In: The series is a remake, but it’s still worth watching for Lesley Sharp.

Content Note: TV-MA.

SEASIDE HOTEL, SEASON 6 – WALTER PRESENTS

Seaside Hotel Poster
Seaside Hotel. Credit: Courtesy of TV2 / Danmark

Premiere Date: Season six premiered on April 27, 2023, on PBS. New episodes aired weekly. All seasons up through nine are available on PBS Passport to stream.

Official Synopsis“At Andersen’s Seaside Hotel by the North Sea dunes, meet the chambermaid Fie, the merchant’s daughter Amanda, and the local fisherman Morten, whose fates are intertwined, as they seek to emancipate themselves from the plans other people have made on their behalf. From Walter Presents, in Danish with English subtitles.”

Season 6, Episode 1 Synopsis: “The regulars are back to escape their troubles. Amanda is struggling to keep her small film company alive and Weyse is suffering from stage fright.”

Why You Should Tune In: The Danish period drama is perfect for Downton Abbey and Agatha Christie fans. 

Content Note: Episodes range between TV-PG and TV-MA.

TOM JONES ON MASTERPIECE

Key Art Tom Jones 2022
Tom Jones on PBS. Solly McLeod as Tom Jones and Sophie Wilde as Sophia Western. Credit: Courtesy of Mammoth Screen and MASTERPIECE.

Premiere Date: Aired Sundays, April 30 – May 21, 2023, at 9 p.m. ET on PBS. It is available on Passport.

Official Synopsis: “One of the greatest novels in the English language comes to MASTERPIECE in a four-part adaptation of Henry Fielding’s Tom Jones, giving a new twist to the tale of a young man’s love for a wealthy heiress.

Solly McLeod stars as Tom, with Sophie Wilde as Sophia, the heroine and Hannah Waddingham as the iconic temptress Lady Bellaston.

The stellar cast also includes James Fleet, Shirley Henderson, Alun Armstrong, Pearl Mackie, and a torrent of other talent, bringing mid-18th-century England to life in all its passion and prejudice, luxury and loose morals.”

Why You Should Tune In: MASTERPIECE excels at sharing excellent adaptations of classic novels. With a phenomenal cast and written by Gwyneth Hughes (Vanity FairMiss Austen Regrets), Tom Jones is an epic new romantic period drama to watch again and again! It’s a fun satire with award-worthy performances.

Content Note: TV-14.

TRAILER FOR WINTER/SPRING MASTERPIECE 2023 PREVIEW

Watch the above preview for a sneak peek at some new and returning period dramas. Fans of romantic period dramas are in for some swoony moments!


SUMMER 2023 PBS SCHEDULE


THE BANK HACKER – WALTER PRESENTS

Premiere Date: June 2, 2023, on PBS. You can now stream it on PBS Passport.

Official Synopsis: “After two years in prison, professional con man Alidor Van Praet needs to rebuild the fortune the police seized from him. When he discovers 20-year-old Jeremy Peeters’ hacking skills, he knows this shy kid is the key to making it happen. But as the heist unfolds and events take an unexpected turn, who is really in control? From Walter Presents, in Flemish with English subtitles.”

Why You Should Tune In: Tune in for an entertaining story. The Bank Hacker is perfect for viewers who love heist films like Ocean’s Eleven.

Content Note: TV-MA.

THE BOLEYNS: A SCANDALOUS FAMILY 

Anne Boleyn with mask from docudrama
Anne Boleyn (Rafaëlle Cohen) with a gold mask. Credit: Courtesy of Mackenzie Quicke/BBC Studios

Premiere Date: June 4, 2023. You can now stream it on PBS Passport.

Official Synopsis: “Explore an epic three-part series that charts the rise and fall of the Boleyn family.”

Why You Should Tune In: This docudrama will intrigue period drama enthusiasts. 

Content Note: TV-PG.

LUCY WORSLEY’S ROYAL MYTHS AND SECRETS 

Lucy Worsley as Queen Anne.
Lucy Worsley as Queen Anne. Credit: Courtesy of PBS

Premiere Date: June 4, 2023. It is available to stream on PBS Passport.

Official Synopsis: “Lucy Worsley travels across Britain and Europe visiting the incredible locations where Royal history was made. In beautiful palaces and castles and on dramatic battlefields she investigates how Royal history is a mixture of facts, exaggeration, manipulation and mythology.”

Why You Should Tune In: Lucy Worsley always brings the entertainment factor to history lessons. She’s a pure delight.

Content Note: TV-PG.

LOVE AND SACRIFICE, SEASON 2

Premiere Date: June 9, 2023. It is now available to stream on PBS Passport.

Official Synopsis: “Set against the striking backdrop of the Carrara marble quarries, this is the story of Brando and his revolt to improve working conditions across Italy. Will love blind him from his mission, or embolden him to push further? From Walter Presents, in Italian with English subtitles.”

Season 2, Episode 1 Synopsis: “Brando gets news that he’s recovering well, but an unexpected visitor throws him off-course.”

Why You Should Tune In: This Italian romantic period drama is a hidden gem.

Content Note: TV-MA.

LUCY WORSLEY’S ROYAL PHOTO ALBUM 

Premiere Date: June 11, 2023. It is available to stream on PBS Passport.

Official Synopsis: “Explore how the royal family has shaped their image with photography, from Queen Victoria to Princess Diana to Prince Harry. From official portraits to tabloid snapshots, the camera has been the Crown’s confidante, messenger — and nemesis.”

Why You Should Tune In: More Lucy Worsley is always a good thing!

Content Note: TV-PG.

RIDLEY, SEASON 1

Premiere Date: Sunday, June 18 – July 23, 8 p.m. ET. The entire series is already available on Passport.

Official Synopsis: “Retired Detective Inspector (D.I.) Alex Ridley is called back to advise on a complex and compelling murder case by his replacement and former protégé, D.I. Carol Farman. Carol is keen to access Ridley’s unique insight into crime-solving, which served them so well in the past, but the investigation takes a dark and unexpected twist. Created by Paul Matthew Thompson, this thought-provoking original series is inspired by real-life retired detectives re-joining police forces in consultancy roles.”

Why You Should Tune In: Ridley is another strong British crime drama with an excellent cast. 

Content Note: TV-14.

ENDEAVOUR, SEASON 9 (THE FINAL SEASON), ON MASTERPIECE MYSTERY

Roger Allam and Shaun Evans in final season of Endeavour
Roger Allam as Fred Thursday and Shaun Evans as Endeavour Morse. Credit: Courtesy of Mammoth Screen and MASTERPIECE

Premiere Date: Sunday, June 18 – July 2, 9 p.m. ET. The final season is now available on Passport.

Official Synopsis: “The spinoff series inspired by Inspector Morse comes to a brilliant end as Shaun Evans as the young Morse and Roger Allam as his superior officer face intriguing new crimes including an unsolved case linked to the past. With characters from former seasons popping up in a grand finale, Morse must resolve his professional and romantic future.”

Why You Should Tune In: Endeavour is one of the best British mysteries and period dramas ever made. With an intellectual and artistic quality mixed with brilliant characterization, you won’t want to miss the conclusion of this standout drama.

Shaun Evans Behind the scenes of Endeavour
Shaun Evans stars as Inspector Endeavour Morse. Credit: Courtesy of Courtesy of Mammoth Screen and MASTERPIECE.

After watching the final season, watch the behind-the-scenes special: Morse and The Last Endeavour: A Masterpiece Mystery Special!

Content Note: TV-14.

GRANTCHESTER ON MASTERPIECE, SEASON 8

Tom Brittney as Will Davenport and Robson Green as Geordie Keating in Grantchester, Season 8.
Tom Brittney as Will Davenport and Robson Green as Geordie Keating. Credit: Courtesy of MASTERPIECE

Premiere Date: Sunday, July 9, 9 p.m. ET on PBS and Passport.

Official Synopsis: “GRANTCHESTER returns with Will happily married to Bonnie, and Geordie and Cathy content in their rebuilt relationship. But an accident and shocking announcements threaten the stability and happiness found by Grantchester’s vicar and police detective duo. Exploring faith, forgiveness, and redemption, this explosive season of GRANTCHESTER tests the limits of Will and Geordie.”

Why You Should Tune In: Grantchester continues to be top-notch entertainment with compelling mysteries and characters.

Content Note: TV-14.

DI RAY, SEASON 1

DI Ray promo image
D.I. RAY premieres Sundays, July 9-30, 2023, 10:00–11:00 p.m. ET. Credit: Courtesy of © HTM (DI RAY) Ltd. 2022

Premiere Date: Sundays, July 9-30, 2023, 10:00–11:00 p.m. ET. Season 1 is already on Passport to stream.

Official Synopsis: “When D.I. Rachita Ray, a British-Asian police officer new to homicide, is assigned to investigate the suspected honor killing of a young Muslim man, she quickly realizes the suspects can’t be guilty. The evidence against the two brothers from a British Hindu family is flimsy at best.

Her attempts at conveying this to her superiors and colleagues are ignored. Hidden biases and a keenness to wrap the case up mean no one is listening to her until her probing leads the team to a much more sinister crime.

In this four-part drama, D.I. Ray goes on a journey that sees her uncover a complex web of deceit within organized crime while laying bare the wounds deep within herself that she has spent a lifetime ignoring.”

Why You Should Tune In: Parminder Nagra from Bend it Like Beckham and ER stars in this better-than-expected British crime series. She’s always fantastic!

Content Note: TV-MA.


FALL 2023 PBS SCHEDULE


PROFESSOR T, SEASON 2

Ben Miller as Professor T in a classroom setting.
Ben Miller as Professor T. Courtesy of Sofie Gheysens/Eagle Eye Drama

Premiere Date: Sunday, September 3, 8 p.m. ET on PBS and Passport.

Official Synopsis: “Professor Jasper Tempest and the team untangle a series of knotty crimes ranging from an unexplained fire in a student block to the mystery of an entire family found dead in their home.

Meanwhile, Professor T is dominated and perplexed by the women in his life, from his mother to the love of his life, Christina, and his new therapist, Dr. Helena.”

Why You Should Tune In: Ben Miller stars in this intriguing drama full of mystery!

UNFORGOTTEN ON MASTERPIECE, SEASON 5

Unforgotten Season 5 promo image with DCI Jess James (SINÉAD KEENAN) & DI Sunny Khan (SANJEEV BHASKAR).
DCI Jess James (SINÉAD KEENAN) & DI Sunny Khan (SANJEEV BHASKAR). Credit: Courtesy of (C) Mainstreet Productions

Premiere Date: Sunday, September 3, 9 p.m. ET on PBS and Passport.

Official Synopsis: “DCI Jessica “Jess” James joins DI Sunny Khan to investigate the discovery of human remains in a newly renovated antique home in West London.

The ghost of much-loved former colleague Cassie Stuart looms large over the team and Jess knows there will be big shoes for her to fill. Sunny’s grief puts a strain on his relationship with fiancée Sal.”

Why You Should Tune In: While it won’t be the same without Nicola Walker, Unforgotten is sure to return with a new compelling mystery to untangle.

VAN DER VALK ON MASTERPIECE, SEASON 3

Marc Warren as Commissaris Piet Van der Valk with water and a boat behind him.
Marc Warren as Commissaris Piet Van der Valk. Credit: Courtesy of MASTERPIECE

Premiere Date: Sunday, September 3, 10 p.m. ET on PBS and Passport.

Official Synopsis: “For Piet Van der Valk, it’s a new day and a new dawn as he welcomes two new sergeants to the team, the hotshot but impulsive Eddie Suleman and the technical whiz Citra Li.”

Why You Should Tune In: Marc Warren stars in this underrated crime drama.

LITTLE BIRD

Little Bird promo image with Darla Contois and Lisa Edelstein standing in a field close together.
Esther (Darla Contois), Golda (Lisa Edelstein). Credit: Courtesy of Steve Ackerman.

Premiere Date: Thursday, October 12, 9 p.m. ET (check local listings) on PBS and Passport.

Official Synopsis: “Bezhig Little Bird was adopted into a Jewish family at the age of five, being stripped of her identity and becoming Esther Rosenblum.

Now in her 20s, Bezhig longs for the family she lost and to fill in the missing pieces. Her quest lands her in the Canadian prairies where she discovers that she was one of the generation of children forcibly apprehended by the Canadian government through a policy, later coined the 60s Scoop.”

Why You Should Tune In: The six-part series sounds like it will be an emotional, compelling ride.

HOTEL PORTOFINO, SEASON 2

Bella in Hotel Portofino Season 2 walking down a street and smiling. She's dressed in 1920s fashion.
Bella Ainsworth – HOTEL PORTOFINO (Season 2) “Returns.” Credit: Courtesy of Eagle Eye Drama Ltd

Premiere Date: Sunday, October 15, 8 p.m. ET on PBS and Passport.

Official Synopsis: “Season 2 begins in the summer of 1927 as Bella is still devoting her energy to Hotel Portofino. Aside from her hotel duties, Bella is concerned for her children — Lucian, whose marriage to Rose might be facing trouble, and Alice, who needs a break from her hotel responsibilities.

Bella’s husband, Cecil, has not been seen since returning to England at the end of the previous summer. With Cecil’s unannounced return to Portofino, the messy private lives of her children, and an imminent visit from a travel guide that could make or break the hotel’s future, Bella has her work cut out to keep all the plates spinning.”

Why You Should Tune In: Gorgeous locations, fantastic actors, and beautiful costumes. Check out our review of Hotel Portofino, Season 1 for more reasons why you should tune into the newer series!

WORLD ON FIRE ON MASTERPIECE, SEASON 2

Jonah Hauer-King as Harry in MASTERPIECE’s “World on Fire,” Season 2.
Jonah Hauer-King as Harry in MASTERPIECE’s “World on Fire,” Season 2. Credit: Courtesy of Courtesy of Mammoth Screen and MASTERPIECE

Premiere Date: Season 2 premieres on PBS and Passport on Sunday, October 15, 2023, 9/8c.

Official Synopsis: “World on Fire is an adrenalized, emotionally gripping World War II drama that follows the intertwining fates of ordinary people across five countries as they grapple with the effects of war on their everyday lives.

When the series returns, we’ll join our characters in October 1940, when lone pilots were sent to destroy German bombers as the Northern Blitz began. Audiences will be taken from the streets of Britain into occupied France, Nazi Germany, and to the sands of the North African desert.”

Why You Should Tune In: After years of waiting, the much-anticipated season 2 of World on Fire is finally coming!

With breakout star Jonah Hauer-King from The Little Mermaid and award-winning actress Lesley Manville returning, it’s hard to imagine it won’t be worth the wait.

ANNIKA ON MASTERPIECE, SEASON 2

Premiere Date: Sunday, Oct. 15, 10 p.m. ET on PBS and Passport.

Official Synopsis: “Annika (Nicola Walker, UNFORGOTTEN ON MASTERPIECE) and the team return to solve more murders that wash up from Scotland’s waters. Annika shares her wry insights on the crimes while raising her teen daughter, Morgan.”

Why You Should Tune In: Nicola Walker. Enough said!


COMING SOON (DATES TBA)


  • Moonflower Murders – This mystery drama has been pushed to 2024.
  • Nolly – Will likely air in 2024 now.

Want a head start on new and returning shows to watch on PBS and MASTERPIECE in 2024? Check out our latest article: Miss Scarlet and the Duke and All Creatures Great and Small Season 4 Release Dates Announced.

New and Returning Shows to Watch on PBS and PBS’ Masterpiece in 2023

What new and returning shows on PBS in 2023 do you plan to watch? Do you have a favorite or a new one you’re thrilled about this year? Let us know in the comments below.


The featured image for PBS Masterpiece 2023 Schedule/New Shows on PBS: Shaun Evans as Endeavour Morse. Credit: Courtesy of Mammoth Screen and MASTERPIECE; Kate Phillips as Eliza Scarlet in Miss Scarlet and the Duke. Photo Credit: Courtesy of Element 8 Entertainment and MASTERPIECE Photographer: Sergej Radovic; Charlotte Heywood (ROSE WILLIAMS) in Sanditon. Credit: Courtesy of Joss Barratt (C) Red Planet (Sanditon 2) Ltd; Jonah Hauer-King as Harry in MASTERPIECE’s “World on Fire”, Season 2. Credit: Courtesy of Courtesy of Mammoth Screen and MASTERPIECE.


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28 New and Returning Shows to Watch on PBS and PBS’ Masterpiece in 2023 pinterest image showing the title and a collage of PBS dramas.

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By on August 31st, 2023

About Autumn Topping

In second grade, Autumn wrote her first story, “The Spinach Monster,” and hasn't stopped writing since. Intrigued by the tales her grandmother told of vampires, witches, and ghosts as a girl, she's always been drawn to the fantastic. Later, Autumn studied English and Creative Writing (continuing her love for classic literature and everything old-fashioned) and graduated with an MA in Children’s Literature and an MS in Library & Information Science from Simmons College. Currently, she co-runs this lovely site and works as a YA Librarian.

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46 thoughts on “28 New and Returning Shows to Watch on PBS and PBS’ Masterpiece in 2023”

  1. Where is the FINAL season of Seaside Hotel?? It has been playing in Europe. You have shown over and over all the seasons but the last one for 1945! Ww are all waiting!!!

  2. I am trying to find out what happened to Magpie Mysteries and there was another program about a DI and I can’t remember his name. We like most of what is on PBS. It is one of our “go-to channels”.

  3. When will seasons 2 and 3 be available of the Italian series “The Good Apprentice “ be available?

  4. I believe Sanditon has lacking audience because this classic was under finished and we don’t want made up seasons not by the aurhor. Otherwise i love most. Especiallt midwives and All Creatures & Vienna Blood. I have not warmed up to Miss Scarlett actress but like the show and the Duke is handsome. I like Moses and the house keeper and the rookie inspector.

  5. Is there a Season 2 of “All Heart” the Italian hospital drama in Turin in the 19t0’s?

    • I sure hope there will be additional seasons of All Heart beyond Season 1 as I just watched Season 1 in the past couple days and it left you hanging at the last episode of Season 1 but I’ve not been able to find any information about whether there will be additional seasons and I’ve looked everywhere online.

  6. Would like to see more italian series as a continuation like Paradiso delle Donne. Season 4,5,6,7. Hearts (Cuori) season 1 eposides 9 to 15, 2 and 3. Also any other good series in Italian would be greatly appreciated.
    Thank you

  7. I love the reviews of why we should watch various shows. I have watched most of them. “Seaside Hotel, Season 9” and “Sanditon 3” were my favorites. Please continue with the upcoming shows!

  8. I have been disappointed in the number of repeats of series and member favorites starting in late 2020 and in 2023. Also, even new shows are repeated 2 and 3 times a week, seemingly to just fill the time slots. What has happened to the program line up? I have contributed fora number of years and wonder why this is happening. Love PBS shows, series, etc…
    I thought PBS was funded with some government money and public money. Am I wrong? I really hope you can offer more shows in the near future

  9. There are supposed to be 5 seasons of “Love &
    Sacrifice”.
    When will we see season 3,4, and 5.
    It is a beautiful Italian series on Walter Presents.
    Thank you.
    Lee

    • I agree. leaving us hanging after season 2 is cruel. We want to see the drama to it’s end of season 5. Please air seasons 3,4,5 as Mary-Lee mentioned above. Treating passport members to only part of the series is not professional and turns people off to PBS.

        • Just finished watching season 4 of Love and Sacrifice. What a tear-jerker… an emotional roller coaster for sure. I’m pretty sure the reason they show only one season a year (of most of these series) is to make people renew their membership to watch the rest of the series. It’s definitely a financial tactic…. We probably won’t see season five until 2025……

  10. Would love to see Vera, Seaside Hotel (Did I miss a few seasons? Who did Amanda marry? Where is Fie? I liked her character. Bertha & Leslie are now adults. What happened in between childhood & becoming adults? How did their father die?). I guess I missed a lot.
    Looking forward to Miss Scarlet & the Duke, Annika, Magpies, Ridley, DI Ray, Press, Hotel Portofino & any other new detective or serial type dramas. Well done PBS!!!

  11. Haven’t seen mention of Frankie Drake, Majorca Files, Miss Fisher. Would love to see them again!

  12. Bring back Midsummer Murders. Shakespeare and Hathaway, Father Brown, all are great stories and good humor. Doc Matin was awesome but you left out 4 or 5 different series

  13. I would like you show Jane Austin classic again. Like pride and prejudice, sense and sensibility and persuasion

  14. Watched a series but unfortunately forgot the name. Season 1 appeared twice in the last couple of years but did not continue. It was about a widows family unhappy with her new husband. He was pushed over a railing on the 2nd floor of a beach house by his new wife’s son and landed on the sand. He woke up in the hospital, and that ended the series. It never came back. It has been three years but it never came
    back. Will it ever?

  15. I would loveto see Season 3 of “The Good Apprentice” on PBS Passport. I know that it was made, but seemsunavailable anywhere on streaming services or on DVD. The first two seasons were great!

  16. Just finished watching season 4 of Love and Sacrifice. What a tear-jerker… an emotional roller coaster for sure. I’m pretty sure the reason they show only one season a year (of most of these series) is to make people renew their membership to watch the rest of the series. It’s definitely a financial tactic…. We probably won’t see season five until 2025……

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