Standout TV Fiction Moments of 2025: Squid Game Finale to Pluribus Hit

2025 delivered several standout moments in television fiction, including the finale of the Korean series *Squid Game*, the debut of *Dept. Q*, and the surprise hit *Pluribus*.

The second season of *Squid Game* brought the story to a close. The series, which depicts a deadly game where the powerful exploit the vulnerable, remained a viewer favourite despite not matching the global phenomenon of its 2021 debut.

Netflix's British adaptation *Dept. Q* earned widespread buzz through quality alone, despite limited promotion. Matthew Goode delivers a standout performance in this take on Danish author Jussi Adler-Olsen's novels, which delve into humanity's darker side while offering glimmers of hope.

*The Pitt* quickly established itself as one of television's strongest offerings. Led by Noah Wyle reprising a doctor role akin to his iconic John Carter from *ER*, the real-time medical drama has won over critics and audiences alike. It returns to HBO Max on 8 January.

In science fiction, the second season of *Andor* placed Diego Luna back as rebel Cassian Andor in the Star Wars universe. The tone grew darker as the plot edged closer to *Rogue One*, widely regarded as the finest spin-off from George Lucas's core galactic saga.

Also in the fantasy genre, *Pluribus* premiered on Apple TV+ on 7 November. Created by Vince Gilligan, the series refreshingly probes questions of identity and life's meaning through sharp black humour.