In the aftermath of Cassius Clay's defeat of Sonny Liston in 1964, the boxer meets with Malcolm X, Sam Cooke and Jim Brown to change the course of history in the segregated South.

After a devastating loss of a member of his family and a nervous breakdown, Randall decides to change all their lives by making some bold decisions in order to honour the legacies of his father(s). Kate finally decides to pursue a career in singing, supported by her fiancé Toby, which will put their relationship to the test. Meanwhile, Kevin is reunited with his first love Sophie and about to become a huge movie star, until the ghosts of his past catch up with him. Turns out that "The Big Three" depend on Jack and Rebecca - in more ways than they allow themselves to admit it.

In season 8 the Gallaghers are finally on an upswing! Frank tries to become a contributing member of society, Fiona finds success as a landlord, Lip struggles to stay sober, Ian takes up a cause, and Debbie tries life as a working single mom.

Shaun Murphy, a young autistic surgeon with savant syndrome, relocates from a quiet country life to join a prestigious hospital's surgical unit. Unable to personally connect with those around him, Shaun uses his extraordinary medical gifts to save lives and challenge the skepticism of his colleagues.