People watch television differently than they used to. Instead of planning what to watch and then making sure to be home when a show is on, most viewers watch what they want, whenever it’s convenient. Even those taking advantage of free over-the-air TV can record with a digital video recorder to make sure they never miss a favorite episode, movie or award show. Of course, sometimes the stars align and you’re home when you’re favorite show airs live, which is great too.
Major networks, like ABC, CBS, NBC, Fox, PBS and The CW, broadcast to big cities, along with several other independent channels, which allow you to watch numerous shows on free TV with the right antenna. Here are shows airing this spring that don’t require paying for a monthly subscription.
“True Lies” on CBS
Catch the series premiere of “True Lies,” inspired by James Cameron’s action-comedy film of the same name. The show explores how Helen (Ginger Gonzaga), a language professor, uncovers her husband’s (Steve Howey) extraordinary double life as a first-class international spy and then gets hired to join his team. Watch as they embark on adventurous covert missions around the world.
“Act Your Age” on Bounce
The half-hour sitcom stars Kym Whitley, Tisha Campbell and Yvette Nicole Brown, whose characters all find themselves at personal crossroads during the prime of their lives. The three Washington D.C./Northern Virginia-area women decide the best way forward is by living together as roommates in a penthouse.
“The Voice” on NBC
Watch the season premiere of “The Voice” this spring on NBC. This 23rd season will be coach Blake Shelton’s last. Kelly Clarkson will be welcomed back along with newcomer coaches—three-time Grammy Award winner Chance the Rapper and Niall Horan of One Direction.
“Survivor” on CBS
Now in its 44th season, “Survivor” consists of 18 players vying for a $1 million prize while stranded on a beach in Fuji. This season is rumored to have an electrifying combination of big personalities and big danger. See how the players adapt to living in a jungle while dealing with sleep issues and a lack of food—not to mention the physical and mental challenges that test their will and determination.
“That’s My Jam” on NBC
NBC welcomes “That’s My Jam” back for its second season. Hosted by Jimmy Fallon, this whimsy musical variety game show will feature celebrity guests like Chloe and Halle Bailey, Nikki Glaser, Kesha, Patti LaBelle, John Stamos, Adam Lambert and more. Sing along as each episode features two teams of two celebrities playing for the charity of their choice, competing in a series of music and dance performances along with trivia-based games.
“Farmer Wants a Wife” on Fox
Can couples find true love if they’re from two totally different locations? Find out as women leave their “big city” lives to test out living on a farm and hopefully discover their future spouses. Hosted by country music star and Grammy winner Jennifer Nettles, watch as four male farmers take a group of women on dates to their farm and show them how to live like a rancher.
“Marie Antoinette” on PBS
Don’t miss the season premiere of “Marie Antoinette,” an eight-episode series that follows the teenager Maria Antonia as she travels to Versailles to marry the soon-to-be king of France. Starring Emilia Schüle and Louis Cunningham, this scripted period drama covers the American Revolution and the eventual French Revolution.
Which one of these shows is a “must-see” for you this spring?
