With Ghosts Delayed on CBS, Watch This Spirited Comedy Instead - The Messenger
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Fall TV Swap: With ‘Ghosts’ Delayed on CBS, Watch This Spirited Comedy Instead

Many fall TV favorites have been impacted by the Hollywood strikes, so the Messenger is offering up some enticing alternatives in the meantime

Ghosts US and Ghost UKBertrand Calmeau/CBS; CBS Entertainment

This fall, popular sitcom Ghosts will not be appearing on the CBS lineup — at least not yet.

Due to the ongoing SAG-AFTRA and WGA strikes, in which both the actors and writers unions are demanding fair wages when it comes to streaming and proper safeguards against the use of artificial intelligence, most scripted shows aren't returning at their regularly scheduled time.

That, unfortunately, includes the third season of CBS's Ghosts. Season 2 ended on quite the cliffhanger, and the show was originally due to return on imminently. But now, Ghosts' fate is tied to the dual strikes, and the show won't be back on the air until things are resolved.

However, it's not all ghastly news. While viewers patiently wait for their favorite shows to come back, The Messenger has compiled a list of worthy alternatives.

If you like Ghosts, watch Ghosts

OK, let us explain.

The American version of Ghosts, which premiered on CBS in 2021, is actually an adaptation of a British version, which premiered on BBC One in 2019.

The adaptation has the same exact plot as the original — a married couple inherit a crumbling mansion that happens to be inhabited by, you guessed it, ghosts! — and is highlighted by quick, witty humor from its expansive ensemble cast.

In other words: If you're a fan of the CBS version, odds are high that you'll also fall in love with its predecessor.

The humor takes on a more distinctly British tone, and the ghosts themselves are different characters, partly due to the locale (there aren't many dead Vikings in New York, or Native Americans in Surrey). But despite these differences, the shows remain the same in spirit.

Where to watch Ghosts (UK)

In the absence of the U.S. version, CBS will be airing episodes of the British version of Ghosts beginning Nov. 17. If you can't wait that long, the first three seasons are available to stream on Max.

More shows like Ghosts

If the U.K. version of Ghosts doesn't suck you in, maybe one of these other recommendations will spook your curiosity:

  • Forever: So, you like the afterlife? Maya Rudolph and Fred Armisen star in this hilarious existential comedy about what it means to be truly linked, well, forever. Where to watch: Its one and only season is available on Prime Video.
  • The Good Place: If you like a little philosophy mixed in with your comedy, we've got the show for you! Come for the laughs and ethics lessons, stay for Manny Jacinto's cheekbones. Where to watch: All four seasons are available to stream on Netflix.
  • Good Omens: Based on the British novel of the same name, Good Omens stars Michael Sheen and David Tennant as representatives of Heaven and Hell in the face of looming Armageddon. If that's not enough to get you to watch, Frances McDormand voices God in Season 1. Where to watch: Both seasons are available on Prime Video.

More fall TV 2023 viewing guides

Ghosts isn't returning to broadcast this fall, but here's what shows are on the CBS fall 2023 lineup.

For other ideas on what to watch, check out our complete fall 2023 TV premiere dates schedule.

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