Salem

In 17th century Massachusetts, Salem rewrites the familiar witch trial story by treating superstition as a living, dangerous force. The series centers on Mary Sibley, a woman with hidden power in the town, and John Alden, a returning soldier whose loyalties complicate matters. As accusations spread, political ambition, religious fervor and secret pacts push neighbors into violent conflict, while actual witchcraft works behind the scenes, shaping fear and desire. Rather than presenting the trials as only legal or social events, the show mixes period detail with supernatural plotting. Personal loyalties and hidden ties blur who can be trusted.

Salem premiered in 2014, created by Brannon Braga and Adam Simon. The series mixes period sets with genre effects, featuring Janet Montgomery, Shane West, Seth Gabel, Tamzin Merchant and Ashley Madekwe, and aired on cable television.

Critics and viewers gave mixed to positive marks, the series holding a user vote average of 7.282/10 from 365 votes. Reviewers noted its dark tone and themes of religious hypocrisy, power struggles, gender and the way fear is weaponized in a closed community. Some praised its look, others noted liberties.

By reimagining Salem's history as literal witchcraft, the show sparked renewed popular interest in the period and in supernatural takes on history. It developed a committed fanbase, inspired cosplay and online discussion, and influenced later genre portrayals of early America and witchcraft. It helped spur renewed interest in witch-themed TV.

Salem didn't capture major industry awards, but it did draw attention within horror and fantasy circles for production design and makeup. Its strong central performances, especially Janet Montgomery's, were often pointed to by fans and genre commentators even without high-profile trophy wins. Fans praised its makeup and costumes.