Here are the 8 must-watch August shows

August is often a slow TV month, and the ongoing actors and writers strikes has forced some networks to shuffle their schedules.

Even the 2023 Emmys have even been postponed, possibly until early next year. 

Nevertheless, amidst the chaos, the show must go on, and there are still many TV offerings on tap for the sultry long days of summer

From a new prestige TV mystery series to a star-studded cooking show, an LGBT rom-com and a new reality dating series, August offers something for viewers of all ages.

Here’s your handy guide.

“The Lost Flowers of Alice Hart”

Sigourney Weaver stars in a family drama miniseries based on a book of the same name. The story arc spans decades and follows an orphaned girl (Alicia Debnam-Carey, “Fear the Walking Dead”) with a troubled past who must move in with her grandmother, who lives on a flower farm. 

Premieres: Aug. 4 on Prime Video. 

“Painkiller”

This drama stars Uzo Aduba, Matthew Broderick and Taylor Kitsch. It’s a scripted limited series based on the real origins and aftermath of the opioid crisis — and especially on the people related to the invention of OxyContin and the Sackler family.

Premieres: Aug. 10 on Netflix. 

“Red White & Royal Blue”

This movie is based on a bestselling novel of the same name. It’s a gay rom-com about a British Prince (Nicholas Galitzine) who falls in love with the American President’s (Uma Thurman) son, Alex (Taylor Zakhar Perez) — generating a variety of international scandals. 

Premiere date: Aug. 11 on Prime Video. 

“Men in Kilts: A Road Trip with Sam and Graham”

The first season of this reality travel series followed “Outlander” stars Sam Heughan and Graham McTavish as they explored their native Scotland through a road trip. This season season sees the duo exploring New Zealand. 

Premiere date: Aug. 11 on Starz (9:30 p.m.). 

“Kings Of BBQ” 

In this reality food series, Anthony Anderson and Cedric the Entertainer journey across America to discover the best techniques, flavors and traditions in barbeque cooking. 

Premiere date: Aug. 12 on A&E ( 9 p.m.) 

“The Love Experiment”

A reality dating series meant to imitate the experience of dating apps. It will follow three single best friends as they enter a “hall” of 24 eligible men and realize that having so many choices is harder than it looks.

Premiere date: Aug. 15 on MTV (10 p.m.) 

“Snoopy Presents: One-of-a-Kind Marcie”

In the newest addition to the Peanuts world featuring Charlie Brown, Snoopy, and the gang, this animated special follows introverted Marcie, (Peppermint Patty’s friend, voiced by Arianna McDonald) as she is unexpectedly elected class president. 

Premiere date: Aug. 18 on AppleTV+.

“The Winter King”

This historical drama is a re-telling of the King Arthur legend, set in the fifth century, long before Britain was united. It’s about Arthur Pendragon (Iain De Caestecker, “Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D”)  as he evolves from outcast to warrior and legendary leader. 

Premiere date: Aug. 20 on MGM+ (9 p.m.)