Contrary to popular belief, Paramount+ is not the Taylor Sheridan network. While the Mayor of Kingstown creator undoubtedly drives ratings with his roster of shows, there are plenty of other programs to watch this weekend.

Our three picks did not originate on Paramount+. Instead, they air on networks under the Paramount brand, including Showtime and MTV. One of the Showtime shows is a crime drama featuring a seven-time Emmy Award winner. The other is a comedy starring an actor best known for his work on The X-Files. Finally, the MTV show is a legendary reality program that has surpassed 40 seasons.

3

The Challenge

Admittedly, reality TV is my weakness. I never ventured into the waters of The Bachelor or Andy Cohen’s empire at Bravo. I’ve seen Love Is Blind and The Amazing Race, but neither are in my weekly lineup of shows. The one reality show I watch religiously is The Challenge, a reality competition show on MTV.

When MTV first developed The Challenge, its purpose was to showcase stars from The Real World and Road Rules in an athletic competition combining brains with brawn. Now, the show has pulled cast members from Love Island, Big Brother, and Are You the One? into the competition. The best comparison is Survivor, a game that tests physical strength, mental fortitude, and social politicking. Where The Challenge differentiates itself from Survivor is the cast. The Challenge contestants are insane in the best way. You know immediately which contestants want to win and which ones want to party. It’s an entertaining mix of cutthroat personalities, lovable idiots, and psychotic competitors.

Hosted by T.J. Lavin, The Challenge recently aired its 41st season, Vets & New Threats. The show will return for a 42nd season, which is expected to film this year. If you’re an original fan, check out The Challenge spin-offs, The Challenge: All Stars and The Challenge: USA. Don’t be surprised when you find yourself cheering for Johnny Bananas or CT by the end of your binge.

2

Californication

For our purposes, this entry for Californication involves the Showtime TV show, not the hit song from the Red Hot Chili Peppers. Before 2007, David Duchovny was known by most audiences as FBI Special Agent Fox Mulder from The X-Files. That probably hasn’t changed for some viewers, but Duchovny made a strong case for Hank Moody in Californication as his second-greatest character.

Hank Moody is an acclaimed author with a rock star’s mentality. When he’s not writing books, Hank loves to drink, party, and sleep around. The only things keeping Hank steady are his on-and-off-again partner, Karen (Natascha McElhone), and his daughter, Becca (Madeleine Martin). Right when Hank’s life is about to turn a corner, he suffers multiple setbacks. When he’s not making a complete fool of himself, Hank spends most of his time with his best friend and agent, Charlie (Evan Handler), and Charlie’s wife, Marcy (Pamela Adlon).

For some viewers, the uncouth behavior, vulgar language, and risqué humor will be a turnoff. What I see is a story about an insecure guy trying his hardest not to mess up in front of the two most important women in his life. Add in some memorable characters, and you have a winning comedy.

Release Date

2007 – 2014-00-00

Network

Showtime

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1

Your Honor

Speaking of actors associated with one role, Bryan Cranston joined the Mount Rushmore of TV performances with his portrayal of Walter White in Breaking Bad. Walter White is up there with Tony Soprano and Don Draper in terms of recognition and acclaim. It’s a testament to Cranston’s acting ability that he could shed his Walter White image and carve out another special performance in Your Honor.

Michael Desiato (Cranston) is an esteemed New Orleans judge living with his 17-year-old son, Adam (Hunter Doohan). One year prior, Michael’s wife was murdered, which leads to a disconnect between Michael and Adam. While many shows spend episodes on exposition, Your Honor gets right to the point within the first 10 minutes of the pilot. Adam accidentally runs over and kills the son of an influential crime boss. Instead of turning himself in, Adam confesses the murder to Michael. Knowing the criminal organization would retaliate, Michael works to cover up the crime and divert the blame elsewhere.

Michael Desiato does have some Walter White inside of him. Both men will do whatever it takes to protect their loved ones. This is their justification for breaking the law. Cranston’s committed performance is the reason to tune in for the 20 episodes. He clearly has an affinity for complex characters, and he might be the best actor working on television.

Paramount+ has a stacked library of other shows to stream, including Landman, MobLand, and Star Trek: Starfleet Academy. Use our recommendations as a starting point for your streaming selections.

Subscription with ads

Yes, $8/month

Simultaneous streams

3

Live TV

Select live sports (NFL on CBS & UEFA Champions League)

Price

Starting at $8/month or $60/year

If you enjoy CBS offerings, you’ll want to subscribe to Paramount+. You get access to hit shows like Star Trek and Yellowstone, as well as a variety of SHOWTIME content.