Everybody loves a good TV show. They are great for relaxing, and for binge watching. They make us laugh, they make us cry, they make us feel like we are part of the story. It is no surprise that there are so many great TV shows out there, and that new ones come out every year.
Some of these TV shows have been on for decades, while others have only been on for a few years, and so many more are yet to start. Many TV series are adapted from books or movies, and some are original ideas for shows. Some are based on real life events, while others are completely fictional.
Not only that, but because there is so much content out there, the popular ones are always changing. So, we at InQuiror.com have taken it upon ourselves to rank 50 of the best TV shows of all time, from classics to recent hits.
Best TV shows
- 50. Orange Is the New Black
- 49. Fleabag
- 48. The Simpsons
- 47. The X-Files
- 46. The Witcher
- 45. The Walking Dead
- 44. Squid Game
- 43. House of Cards
- 42. Star Trek: The Original Series
- 41. Money Heist
- 40. Arrested Development
- 39. M*A*S*H
- 38. Fargo
- 37. Seinfeld
- 36. Mr. Robot
- 35. Westworld
- 34. Lost
- 33. Vikings
- 32. Dexter
- 31. Narcos
- 30. The Handmaid’s Tale
- 29. Black Mirror
- 28. True Detective
- 27. The Boys
- 26. Twin Peaks
- 25. Deadwood
- 24. Star Trek: The Next Generation
- 23. Arcane
- 22. The West Wing
- 21. Peaky Blinders
- 20. The Twilight Zone (1959)
- 19. The Mandalorian
- 18. Stranger Things
- 17. Mindhunter
- 16. The Queen's Gambit
- 15. Friends
- 14. Dark
- 13. Mad Men
- 12. Sherlock
- 11. Firefly
- 10. Rick and Morty
- 9. The Office (US)
- 8. Avatar: The Last Airbender
- 7. Band of Brothers
- 6. Chernobyl
- 5. Game of Thrones
- 4. Better Call Saul
- 3. The Sopranos
- 2. The Wire
- 1. Breaking Bad
50. Orange Is the New Black
- Release Date: July 11, 2013 – July 26, 2019
- Number of Seasons: 7
- Number of Episodes: 91
'Orange Is the New Black' is a comedy-drama series created by Jenji Kohan, based on Piper Kerman's memoir of the same name.
The series revolves around Piper Chapman, a woman in her thirties who is sentenced to fifteen months in prison after being convicted of a decade-old crime of transporting drug money for her girlfriend at the time, Alex Vause.
The series is set in the fictional Litchfield Penitentiary and follows the lives of the inmates as they deal with the challenges of prison life.
'Orange Is the New Black' has been praised for its accurate and realistic portrayal of prison life, as well as its exploration of the social and political issues surrounding the American criminal justice system.
The series has been nominated for numerous awards, including 17 Primetime Emmy Awards, and has won four.
49. Fleabag
- Release Date: July 21, 2016 – April 8, 2019
- Number of Series: 2
- Number of Episodes: 12
'Fleabag' is a British comedy-drama TV show created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge. The series is set in London and follows the life of Fleabag (Waller-Bridge), a young woman trying to come to terms with the death of her best friend, and struggling to deal with her complicated relationships with her family and friends.
The series is known for its frank and often explicit portrayal of sex and relationships, as well as its sharp wit and dark humor.
'Fleabag' is a smart, funny, and moving series that is sure to leave you wanting more.
48. The Simpsons
- Release Date: December 17, 1989 – present
- Number of Seasons: 33
- Number of Episodes: 728
The Simpson family, including Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie, are the main characters of this long-running animated comedy series, which began in 1989 and is still going strong. 'The Simpsons' is set in the fictional town of Springfield and satirizes American culture, society, and television.
'The Simpsons' is one of the most successful television shows of all time and has won many awards, including 35 Emmy Awards and 2 Peabody Award. It is also the longest-running American sitcom, the longest-running American animated program, and in 2009, it surpassed 'Gunsmoke' as the longest-running American primetime, scripted television series.
Although the series has been criticized for the decline in quality in recent years, it is still one of the most popular shows on television, and its influence can be seen in many other shows.
47. The X-Files
- Release Date: September 10, 1993 – May 19, 2002 and January 24, 2016 – March 21, 2018
- Number of Seasons: 11
- Number of Episodes: 218
'The X-Files' is an American science fiction TV show created by Chris Carter and starring David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson as FBI agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully, who investigate paranormal cases, known as "X-Files".
The series was original broadcast on the Fox network from 1993 to 2002 and, after a break of 14 years, it was revived in 2016 for a 10th season, and a 11th and finale season in 2018.
'The X-Files' is one of the most popular and influential TV shows of all time. It has been praised for its writing, acting, and direction, and has won numerous awards, including 5 Golden Globes and 16 Emmy Awards.
46. The Witcher
- Release Date: December 20, 2019 – present
- Number of Seasons: 2
- Number of Episodes: 16
Based on the book series of the same name by Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski, 'The Witcher' is a fantasy drama TV series that premiered on Netflix in December 2019.
The series stars Henry Cavill as Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter who struggles to find his place in a world where people often prove more wicked than beasts.
The show also stars Anya Chalotra as Yennefer of Vengerberg, a powerful sorceress, and Freya Allan as Ciri, the princess of Cintra who is destined to have a great and terrible role to play in the world.
'The Witcher' is a visually stunning show that features excellent acting, captivating story-telling and action-packed scenes.
The series has been a huge success for Netflix, with over 76 million viewers watching the show in the first month after its release.
It has also been praised by critics, with many calling it one of the best new shows of 2019.
'The Witcher' is definitely a show that fantasy and drama fans will want to check out, and it is definitely one of the best TV shows ever made.
45. The Walking Dead
- Release Date: October 31, 2010 – November 20, 2022
- Number of Seasons: 11
- Number of Episodes: 177
'The Walking Dead' is a post-apocalyptic horror television series based on the comic book series of the same name by Robert Kirkman, Tony Moore and Charlie Adlard. The series stars Andrew Lincoln as Rick Grimes, a sheriff's deputy who becomes the leader of a group of survivors from a zombie apocalypse. The group struggles to survive in a world overrun by zombies, commonly referred to as "walkers", as well as by other groups of survivors who are often more dangerous than the walkers themselves.
With a strong ensemble cast that includes Andrew Lincoln, Norman Reedus, Lauren Cohan, Chandler Riggs, Danai Gurira, Melissa McBride and Jeffrey Dean Morgan, 'The Walking Dead' is a gripping and suspenseful series that has kept viewers hooked for 11 seasons.
The series has been praised for its strong character development, intense and graphic violence, and its ability to make viewers care about its characters.
'The Walking Dead' is one of the most popular and successful shows on television, and it’s easy to see why. The show is suspenseful, action-packed and emotional, and it has a huge and loyal following.
44. Squid Game
- Release Date: September 17, 2021 – present
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 9
'Squid Game' is a South Korean survival drama TV show created by Hwang Dong-hyuk and released on Netflix.
The series follow Seong Gi-hun who is in debt after spending his money on gambling. He is then invited to play a series of deadly children's games for a chance at winning a large cash prize against 455 others players. However, if a player loses, they die, and their death adds to the prize money.
'Squid Game' is one of the great phenomena to be remembered from Netflix in 2021, and possibly beyond. the series has grown with word-of-mouth and has become a hit on the platform, thanks to an intense and surprising plot, and a strong social message.
43. House of Cards
- Release Date: February 1, 2013 – November 2, 2018
- Number of Seasons: 6
- Number of Episodes: 73
An American political drama television series created by Beau Willimon, 'House of Cards' is set in Washington D.C. and is based on the novel of the same name by Michael Dobbs.
The series stars Kevin Spacey as Frank Underwood, a ruthless and cunning politician who will stop at nothing to ascend the ranks of power in Washington, and Robin Wright as his equally ambitious wife Claire.
'House of Cards' is a fascinating look at the dark side of American politics, and Spacey and Wright give brilliant performances as the manipulative and power-hungry couple.
The show was a huge success when it premiered in 2013, and it went on to win several awards, including 2 Golden Globe Awards and 7 Primetime Emmy Awards.
Although it came to an abrupt end after Spacey was accused of sexual assault, 'House of Cards' is still one of the best political dramas ever made.
42. Star Trek: The Original Series
- Release Date: September 8, 1966 – June 3, 1969
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 79
'Star Trek: The Original Series' is the first 'Star Trek' television series, created by Gene Roddenberry and starring William Shatner as Captain James T. Kirk, Leonard Nimoy as First Officer Spock and DeForest Kelley as Dr. Leonard "Bones" McCoy.
The series is set in the 23rd century and follows the adventures of the Starship Enterprise, a starship of the United Federation of Planets, as it explores the Milky Way galaxy and encounters various alien species.
'Star Trek: The Original Series' is widely regarded as one of the most influential television shows of all time, spawning a huge franchise that includes several subsequent television series, movies, books, comics and more.
The series has been praised for its progressive social messages and its positive portrayal of interracial and interspecies relationships. It has also been criticized for its sometimes campy style and its reliance on stock footage.
Regardless of its flaws, 'Star Trek: The Original Series' is a classic that has stood the test of time, and it remains one of the best TV series of all time.
41. Money Heist
- Release Date: May 2, 2017 – December 3, 2021
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 41
Created by Álex Pina, 'Money Heist' (originally titled 'La Casa de Papel') is a Spanish TV show that first aired on Antena 3 in 2017 and later on Netflix.
The show follows a group of criminals who are brought together by a mysterious man known as "The Professor" to carry out the biggest heist in history: robbing the Royal Mint of Spain.
Over the course of the show, the group must deal with internal strife as well as the police, who are hot on their heels.
'Money Heist' is a thrilling, edge-of-your-seat series that will have you hooked from the very first episode. The characters are compelling and the plot is unpredictable, making for a truly captivating watch.
The series has been a huge success, both in Spain and internationally, and has won several awards, including the prestigious International Emmy Award for Best Drama Series.
40. Arrested Development
- Release Date: November 2, 2003 – February 10, 2006 and May 26, 2013 – March 15, 2019
- Number of Seasons: 5
- Number of Episodes: 84
'Arrested Development' is a hilarious sitcom about the dysfunctional Bluth family, who were once wealthy but are now broke.
The sitcom follows the family's exploits as they try to get back on their feet, and it is told through the perspective of the family's youngest son, Michael Bluth.
The show also features an all-star cast that includes Jason Bateman, Portia de Rossi, Will Arnett, Michael Cera, Alia Shawkat, Tony Hale, David Cross, Jeffrey Tambor, and Jessica Walter.
'Arrested Development' is one of the most clever and original comedies on television, and it has been praised for its clever writing and intelligent humor.
The series has won numerous awards, including 6 Primetime Emmy Awards.
39. M*A*S*H
- Release Date: September 17, 1972 – February 28, 1983
- Number of Seasons: 11
- Number of Episodes: 256
'M*A*S*H' is a classic American television series that aired on CBS from 1972 to 1983. The show follows a team of doctors and nurses stationed at a mobile army surgical hospital during the Korean War.
The series was created by Larry Gelbart and was based on the 1968 novel "MASH: A Novel About Three Army Doctors" by Richard Hooker.
It is notable for its dark humor and satire, which was often critical of the politics of the war.
The show also dealt with serious topics such as the futility of war and the toll it takes on the human soul.
'M*A*S*H' was an instant hit with viewers and became one of the most popular television shows of all time. It was praised for its humor, drama and social commentary, and won numerous awards, including 14 Emmy Awards out of over 100 nominations.
38. Fargo
- Release Date: April 15, 2014 – present
- Number of Seasons: 4
- Number of Episodes: 41
'Fargo' is a television series that aired on FX since 2014. The series is a crime drama with a black comedy slant that follows the lives of characters in the American Midwest as they deal with various crimes.
'Fargo' was created by Noah Hawley and is based on the 1996 film of the same name by the Coen brothers. The Coen brothers served as executive producers on the series alongside Hawley.
The series starred a different ensemble cast each season, and each season tell a different story in a different location and era.
'Fargo' has been praised for its dark humor, interesting characters, and twists and turns. It has been nominated for several awards, including Emmys and Golden Globes.
37. Seinfeld
- Release Date: July 5, 1989 – May 14, 1998
- Number of Seasons: 9
- Number of Episodes: 180
'Seinfeld' is an American TV sitcom that ran for nine seasons on NBC, from 1989 to 1998. It was created by Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld, with the latter starring as a fictionalized version of himself.
Set predominantly in an apartment building in Manhattan's Upper West Side in New York City, the show features a handful of Jerry's friends and acquaintances, including best friend George Costanza (Jason Alexander), former girlfriend Elaine Benes (Julia Louis-Dreyfus), and neighbor Cosmo Kramer (Michael Richards).
'Seinfeld' is often described as being "a show about nothing", as many of its episodes are about the minutiae of daily life. The show's humor often revolves around Jerry's awkward encounters and social faux pas, George's various schemes and attempts at manipulation, Elaine's erratic behavior and various boyfriends, and Kramer's antics. Other plot lines revolve around the characters' romantic entanglements and rivalries, their troubles with their respective parents, and their individual quirks.
Critics and television historians consider 'Seinfeld' to be one of the greatest and most influential sitcoms of all time. The show has also won a number of awards, including 10 Emmy Awards, 3 Golden Globe Awards, and a Peabody Award.
36. Mr. Robot
- Release Date: June 24, 2015 – December 22, 2019
- Number of Seasons: 4
- Number of Episodes: 45
'Mr. Robot' is a drama thriller TV series created by Sam Esmail in 2015 and aired on USA Network, and it's among the best series that released in recent years.
The series follows the story of Elliot Alderson (Rami Malek), a young cybersecurity engineer who suffers from social anxiety and depression. Elliot is recruited by an enigmatic anarchist known as "Mr. Robot" to join a group of hackers called "fsociety" with the goal of taking down the corrupt conglomerate E Corp.
The series is a masterful commentary on our society's dependence on technology and the dangers of letting corporations have too much control, and has been praised for its writing, acting, direction, and its accurate portrayal of hacking.
'Mr. Robot' is an unforgettable TV show that is sure to leave a lasting impression on viewers.
35. Westworld
- Release Date: October 2, 2016 – present
- Number of Seasons: 4
- Number of Episodes: 36
'Westworld' is a science fiction television series that premiered on HBO in 2016. The show is based on the 1973 film of the same name, which was written and directed by Michael Crichton.
The series is set in the fictional Westworld, a Western-themed amusement park populated by android hosts. The park is designed for wealthy humans to fulfill their every desire, but things start to go wrong when the hosts begin to become sentient and rebel against their creators.
The TV show stars Anthony Hopkins, Evan Rachel Wood, Ed Harris, Jeffrey Wright, James Marsden, Thandie Newton and Sidse Babett Knudsen.
'Westworld' is a complex and fascinating show that explores the nature of consciousness and the meaning of humanity. The show has been praised for its acting, writing, direction, and visual effects.
It has won numerous awards, including 9 Primetime Emmy Awards, and has been nominated for several others.
34. Lost
- Release Date: September 22, 2004 – May 23, 2010
- Number of Seasons: 6
- Number of Episodes: 121
'Lost' is a drama television series that tells the story of the survivors of the crash of the Oceanic Airlines flight 815, which was en route from Sydney to Los Angeles.
The survivors are stranded on a remote island, where they must band together in order to survive.
However, the island is home to many mysteries, and the survivors must deal with dangerous creatures, as well as a malevolent force that seems to be manipulating events on the island.
'Lost' is a show that is full of twists and turns, and it is one of the most addictive shows on television. The characters are well-developed, and the plot is always moving forward.
33. Vikings
- Release Date: February 21, 2005 – July 19, 2008
- Number of Seasons: 6
- Number of Episodes: 89
The history of the Vikings is a fascinating and often brutal one. It's a story that has been told many times, but never quite like this. 'Vikings' is a television series that tells the story of Ragnar Lothbrok, a Viking warrior and farmer who rises up to become a famous Norse leader. The show is full of action, adventure, and drama, and it's one of the best television series of all time.
'Vikings' is a show that is not afraid to show the brutal side of Viking life. There are fights, blood, and gore galore. But, it's also a show that is full of heart. The characters are rich and complex, and the story is engaging and exciting. It's a show that will keep you on the edge of your seat, and it's one that you won't want to miss.
If you're looking for a great TV show to watch, then you need to check out 'Vikings'. It's one of the best shows on television, and it's a must-see for anyone who loves a good story.
32. Dexter
- Release Date: October 1, 2006 – September 22, 2013
- Number of Seasons: 8
- Number of Episodes: 96
'Dexter' is a TV series aired on Showtime from 2006 to 2013 and follows the life of Dexter Morgan, a bloodstain pattern analyst for the Miami police department by day, and a serial killer who only kills other murderers by night. The series was based on the novel 'Darkly Dreaming Dexter' by Jeff Lindsay.
This series has received several awards, such as the Golden Globe, the Emmy, and the Screen Actors Guild Awards. In addition, the TV series has also received many nominations making it one of the best crime television series of all time.
'Dexter' offers a unique and thrilling story, as viewers follow the life of Dexter, a man who acts as a vigilante. At the same time, they witness how Dexter struggles to deal with his dark past and the secret he keeps in his heart, a secret that is far darker than what one might imagine.
In short, 'Dexter' is a TV show that will keep viewers entertained for hours and one of the greatest television series ever.
31. Narcos
- Release Date: August 28, 2015 – September 1, 2017
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 30
'Narcos' is a crime drama television series created and produced by Chris Brancato, Carlo Bernard and Doug Miro that chronicles the life of Pablo Escobar, the most powerful and notorious drug lord of the 1980s, and the DEA agents who pursued him.
The series stars Wagner Moura as Escobar, Boyd Holbrook and Pedro Pascal as the DEA agents Steve Murphy and Javier Peña.
'Narcos' has been praised for its accurate depiction of the events surrounding Escobar's reign, and Moura's performance as the drug lord has been singled out as one of the best of the series.
The show has received numerous awards and nominations, including two Golden Globe nominations and three Primetime Emmy nominations.
'Narcos' is a gritty and realistic portrayal of the war on drugs, and it’s one of the best TV shows of the past few years.
30. The Handmaid’s Tale
- Release Date: April 26, 2017 – present
- Number of Seasons: 4
- Number of Episodes: 46
"The Handmaid's Tale" is a dystopian drama series that aired on Hulu in 2017. The series is based on the 1985 novel of the same name by Margaret Atwood.
The series is set in the near-future in the Republic of Gilead, a theocratic dictatorship that has overthrown the United States government. The story follows the handmaids, who are forced into sexual servitude in order to bear children for the elite families of the regime.
The series has been praised for its exploration of themes of women's rights and oppression. It has won several awards, including the Golden Globe Award for Best Television Series - Drama, and the Emmy Award for Outstanding Drama Series.
"The Handmaid's Tale" is a powerful and timely drama that is essential viewing in today's world.
29. Black Mirror
- Release Date: February 21, 2005 – July 19, 2008
- Number of Series: 5
- Number of Episodes: 22
'Black Mirror' is a sci-fi anthology series that explores the dark side of technology. Each episode is a standalone story, but they all have a common theme of how technology can have a negative impact on our lives.
'Black Mirror' is one of the most thought-provoking shows on TV. It makes you question how reliant we are on technology and whether or not it is really making our lives better. The show is also very well-written and acted. It has won several awards, including six Emmy Awards.
The series is considered one of the best television series of all time. It is unique in its examination of modern society and the potential dangers of technology.
28. True Detective
- Release Date: January 12, 2014 – present
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 24
'True Detective' is an anthology crime drama TV series created and written by Nic Pizzolatto for HBO.
The first season of the series is set in Louisiana and follows two detectives, Rust Cohle (Matthew McConaughey) and Martin Hart (Woody Harrelson), who are tasked with investigating the murder of a prostitute, Dora Lange.
The second season is set in California and follows three detectives, Ray Velcoro (Colin Farrell), Ani Bezzerides (Rachel McAdams), and Paul Woodrugh (Taylor Kitsch), who are investigating the murder of city manager Ben Caspere.
The third season is set in Arkansas and follows two detectives, Wayne Hays (Mahershala Ali) and Roland West (Stephen Dorff), who are investigating the murder of two children in a small town.
'True Detective' is a dark and atmospheric series that explores the human condition and the darker side of human nature. The series is visually stunning, and the performances of the cast are outstanding.
27. The Boys
- Release Date: July 26, 2019 – present
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 24
'The Boys' is an American superhero television series based on the comic book of the same name by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson and developed by Eric Kripke for Amazon Prime Video.
It is set in a world where superpowered people are recognized as heroes by the general public and owned by powerful corporation Vought International, who markets and monetizes them.
The series follows the titular "Boys", a vigilante group, who set out to take down the corrupt superhero group, known as "The Seven", who abuse their powers.
'The Boys' is one of the best TV shows of all time because of its unique take on the superhero genre. The show is dark, violent, and often funny, and it features a great cast, including Karl Urban, Jack Quaid, Antony Starr, Erin Moriarty, and Chace Crawford.
26. Twin Peaks
- Release Date: April 8, 1990 – June 10, 1991 and May 21, 2017 – September 3, 2017
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 48
'Twin Peaks' is an American mystery drama television series created by Mark Frost and David Lynch, which originally aired on the ABC network.
The series follows the murder investigation of high school student Laura Palmer in the small town of Twin Peaks, Washington, and the surrounding mystery that goes beyond the case.
The show was very popular when it aired, but was cancelled after two seasons due to declining ratings.
However, 'Twin Peaks' has been praised by critics for its originality, atmosphere, and surreal humor, and is considered one of the best television series of all time. The series got revived for a third season on 2017 with most of the original cast returning to reprise thier roles.
25. Deadwood
- Release Date: March 21, 2004 – August 27, 2006
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 36
'Deadwood' is a Western television series that aired on HBO from 2004 to 2006. The show was created by David Milch, and starred Timothy Olyphant as Seth Bullock, the sheriff of Deadwood, South Dakota in the late 19th century.
The series is set in the 1870s in the Black Hills town of Deadwood, South Dakota. The town is a lawless place, full of criminals and outcasts, and is ruled by the ruthless Al Swearengen (played by Ian McShane).
'Deadwood' is considered one of the best TV shows of all time because of its complex and fascinating characters, its gritty and realistic portrayal of the Old West, and its smart and witty writing.
The series won eight Emmy Awards, including Best Drama Series, and one Golden Globe Award.
24. Star Trek: The Next Generation
- Release Date: September 28, 1987 – May 23, 1994
- Number of Seasons: 7
- Number of Episodes: 178
'Star Trek: The Next Generation' is an American science fiction television series and a part of the Star Trek franchise. The show is set in the nearby future of the 24th century and follows the adventures of the crew of the starship USS Enterprise-D.
The show was incredibly popular during its seven-season run, and is often cited as one of the best sci-fi series of all time. The show's success led to the creation of several spin-off series, including Deep Space Nine, Voyager, and Enterprise.
'Star Trek: The Next Generation' is notable for its strong ensemble cast, complex and thought-provoking storylines, and for its depiction of a future in which humans and aliens work together for the common good.
If you're a fan of sci-fi, or simply looking for a great television series to watch, 'Star Trek: The Next Generation' is definitely worth checking out.
23. Arcane
- Release Date: November 6, 2021 – present
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 9
'Arcane' is a Netflix animated series created by Christian Linke and Alex Yee. It is set in the world of Runeterra and focuses on the rivalry between the city-states of Piltover and Zaun, and the families and friends that caught in the middle. 'Arcane' brings to life the relationships that shape some of the famous 'League of Legends' champions, such as Vi, Jinx, Caitlyn, Jayce and Viktor.
'Arcane' is one of the best animated TV shows and an excellent one with something for everyone. Whether you're a casual viewer or a diehard League of Legends fan, you're sure to enjoy it.
22. The West Wing
- Release Date: September 22, 1999 – May 14, 2006
- Number of Seasons: 7
- Number of Episodes: 154
'The West Wing' is a television series that originally aired on NBC from 1999 to 2006. The series is set in the West Wing of the White House, and follows the fictional administration of President Josiah Bartlet and his senior staff.
The series was created by Aaron Sorkin, and won multiple Emmy and Golden Globe Awards during its seven-season run, winning 22 Primetime Emmy Awards, and 4 Golden Globes. It is widely considered to be one of the best TV shows of all time, and has been praised for its realistic portrayal of the inner workings of the American government.
'The West Wing' was well known for its complex political drama and among the best drama television series. It also featured many memorable characters and actors, such as Martin Sheen, Allison Janney, Bradley Whitford, Rob Lowe, and Dulé Hill.
21. Peaky Blinders
- Release Date: September 12, 2013 - April 3, 2022
- Number of Series: 6
- Number of Episodes: 36
'Peaky Blinders' is a British crime drama series created and produced by Steven Knight. The series revolves around the Shelby family from Birmingham, England, who make their fortune in the illegal and legal industries, and their attempts to maintain their empire.
Tommy Shelby (Cillian Murphy) is the leader of the family, who tries to maintain law and order in Birmingham, which, due to the presence of gangsters, is a challenge by itself.
In this series, we are presented with the dark world of organized crime, where the only rule, in order to survive, is to never break with your alliances.
'Peaky Blinders' is, without a doubt, one of the best TV series of all time, as it presents a dark world, with characters that, despite belonging to different social classes, are very well drawn.
20. The Twilight Zone (1959)
- Release Date: October 2, 1959 – June 19, 1964
- Number of Seasons: 5
- Number of Episodes: 156
'The Twilight Zone' is one of the most iconic and influential television series of all time. The show debuted in 1959 and ran for five seasons on CBS. It was created by Rod Serling, who also served as the show's primary writer.
This anthology TV show was known for its twist endings, which often left viewers feeling unsettled. The show tackled a wide range of topics, including racism, war, and mental illness. Despite its serious themes, the show was also frequently funny, and it remains highly influential to this day.
'The Twilight Zone' has been praised by critics and audiences alike, and it is frequently cited as one of the greatest television shows of all time. It is a timeless classic that is sure to send a chill down your spine.
19. The Mandalorian
- Release Date: November 12, 2019 – present
- Number of Seasons: 2
- Number of Episodes: 16
'The Mandalorian' is a space western television series created by Jon Favreau and released on Disney+. It is set in the Star Wars universe five years after the events of Return of the Jedi and follows a lone bounty hunter on the run to protect "The Child".
The series has been praised for its writing, directing, acting, cinematography, and production values. It is one of the most expensive television series ever made, with an estimated budget of $15 million per episode.
'The Mandalorian' has been hailed as a return to form for the Star Wars franchise, with many calling it the best thing to come out of the franchise since The Empire Strikes Back.
18. Stranger Things
- Release Date: July 15, 2016 – present
- Number of Seasons: 4
- Number of Episodes: 34
'Stranger Things' is a supernatural horror series set in the 1980s. The show follows the disappearance of a young boy, and the subsequent search for him by his mother, Joyce, and his friends, Nancy, Mike, and Dustin. The search leads them to uncover a secret government experiment involving the supernatural.
'Stranger Things' is a love letter to the 1980s. The show is filled with references to pop culture from that decade. The show's creators, the Duffer Brothers, did an amazing job of capturing the feel of the 1980s.
The show has been praised for its acting, writing, directing, and overall atmosphere. It has nominated for and won several awards, including winning seven Primetime Emmy Awards out of 51 nominations, four Golden Globe Awards nominations, and three Grammy Awards nominations.
'Stranger Things' is a must-watch for fans of horror and science fiction. It is a well-crafted show that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
17. Mindhunter
- Release Date: October 13, 2017 – August 16, 2019
- Number of Seasons: 2
- Number of Episodes: 19
'Mindhunter' is an American crime drama that aired on Netflix. The show was created by Joe Penhall, and stars Jonathan Groff and Holt McCallany as FBI agents in the Behavioral Science Unit (BSU), an agency that studies the behavior of serial killers and criminal offenders.
The show is set in late 1970s, and follows agents Holden Ford (Groff) and Bill Tench (McCallany) as they try to figure out why serial murders are suddenly on the rise. They are assigned to interview imprisoned serial killers in order to gain insight into their crimes, and eventually become fluent in the psychology of serial killers and how they operate.
The series attempts to show viewers the crimes and lives of real-life serial killers, including Edmund Kemper (Cameron Britton), Jerry Brudos (Happy Anderson), and Montie Rissell (Sam Strike).
'Mindhunter' debuted on Netflix on October 13, 2017. It has been received positively by critics, and is considered to be one of the best shows on Netflix.
16. The Queen's Gambit
- Release Date: October 23, 2020
- Number of Episodes: 7
"The Queen's Gambit" is a Netflix series released in 2020. It tells the story of Beth Harmon (Anya Taylor-Joy), a young chess prodigy in the 1950s. The series follows Beth as she navigates the male-dominated world of competitive chess, while also struggling with addiction and personal demons.
"The Queen's Gambit" is more than just a sports drama; it's a character study of a complex and damaged young woman. Beth is an outsider in a male-dominated world, and the series does a great job of exploring the personal and professional challenges she faces.
The show is truly a masterpiece, with beautiful period sets and costumes. The chess sequences are expertly executed and really capture the tension and excitement of the game.
"The Queen's Gambit" is an absorbing and thought-provoking series that will appeal to fans of smart, well-written dramas. It's a must-watch for anyone who loves a good underdog story.
15. Friends
- Release Date: September 22, 1994 – May 6, 2004
- Number of Seasons: 10
- Number of Episodes: 236
'Friends' is an American sitcom created by David Crane and Marta Kauffman, starring Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry and David Schwimmer.
The sitcom follows six friends living in Manhattan, New York and revolves around the everyday lives of the characters.
It aired on the NBC television network from 1994 to 2004, making it one of the most popular and longest-running sitcoms of all time.
'Friends' is one of the best comedy television series ever, winning six Primetime Emmy Awards during its run, and was nominated for countless others.
14. Dark
- Release Date: December 1, 2017 – June 27, 2020
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 26
'Dark' is one of the best TV shows of all time because of its unique premise. The German science fiction thriller show is set in multiple time periods, between 1888 and 2053, and follows the lives of four families in a small German town where the disappearance of two young children exposes the relationships among them.
What makes 'Dark' so captivating is that it's not just a sci-fi or mystery show, but a complex drama that explores the human condition. The characters are richly developed and the plot is twisty and unpredictable.
The show is visually stunning, with a moody, atmospheric aesthetic that adds to the sense of unease and suspense. The soundtrack is also excellent, featuring a mix of eerie classical music and modern pop songs.
'Dark' is a must-watch for fans of mind-bending television. It's a slow-burner that rewards patience and close attention, and will leave you thinking about its mysteries long after the credits roll.
13. Mad Men
- Release Date: July 19, 2007 – May 17, 2015
- Number of Seasons: 7
- Number of Episodes: 92
Created by Matthew Weiner and broadcast on AMC, the series 'Mad Men' focuses on the lives of advertising executives in the 1960s, when the advertising industry was starting to boom.
The series is set in the 1960s and follows the fictional advertising agency Sterling Cooper & Partners and its employees, who work in the competitive and ego-driven world of advertising in New York City.
'Mad Men' is one of the most acclaimed television series of all time, winning numerous awards, including 16 Emmys and 5 Golden Globes.
The series is notable for its historical accuracy, its exploration of the human condition, and its depiction of the changing social norms of the United States in the 1960s.
If you're looking for a smart, sophisticated, and well-written TV series, 'Mad Men' is definitely one of the best.
12. Sherlock
- Release Date: July 25, 2010 – January 15, 2017
- Number of Series: 4
- Number of Episodes: 13
Based on the novels written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, the British TV show 'Sherlock' follows the adventures of the eponymous detective, Sherlock Holmes, and his sidekick Doctor John Watson, solving crimes in the city of London.
The series focuses on an intellectual and eccentric detective who is a master of observation and deduction, and who is able to unravel even the most complex of cases. His partner Doctor Watson is a war veteran with a fascination for science, and the series follows them as they solve cases together.
The show stars Benedict Cumberbatch as the brilliant and eccentric detective, and Martin Freeman as his sidekick. Their chemistry with one another is outstanding, and viewers are captivated by the clever cases and wonderfully detailed settings of the programme.
'Sherlock' is undoubtedly one of the best TV series ever. It is a brilliantly written and executed show that is full of clever plot twists and masterful acting. It is a show that is sure to captivate viewers from the very beginning and keep them enthralled until the very end.
11. Firefly
- Release Date: September 20, 2002 – December 20, 2002
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 14
'Firefly' is a sci-fi western television series that follows the crew of the spaceship Serenity as they travel across the galaxy. The show was created by Joss Whedon and starred Nathan Fillion, Gina Torres, Alan Tudyk, Morena Baccarin, Adam Baldwin, Jewel Staite, Sean Maher, Summer Glau, and Ron Glass.
The series is set in the year 2517 AD after Earth had been used up and humans had colonized other planets and moons throughout the solar system. The story follows Captain Malcolm "Mal" Reynolds (played by Nathan Fillion) as he leads his crew aboard the spaceship Serenity through various adventures while evading capture from Alliance forces.
Although 'Firefly' only aired for one season, it quickly gained a devoted following. The show was canceled by Fox after only 11 of the 14 episodes had aired, but the remaining three episodes were later released on DVD.
'Firefly' is a great show for anyone who enjoys space adventures or westerns. The characters are all well-developed and the stories are exciting and well-written. If you're looking for a new show to watch, 'Firefly' is definitely worth checking out.
10. Rick and Morty
- Release Date: December 2, 2013 – present
- Number of Seasons: 5
- Number of Episodes: 51
A television series by Justin Roiland and Dan Harmon, 'Rick and Morty' follows the adventures of a mad scientist Rick Sanchez and his dim-witted grandson Morty Smith.
The series combines the sci-fi, horror, and comedy genres, and is an outstanding example of genre mixing.
'Rick and Morty' is a hilarious and irreverent TV show that pokes fun at everything from pop culture to politics. The show has a large and passionate fanbase, and it has been praised for its clever writing and inventive storylines.
The series has been a great success, winning several awards and becoming one of the most watched shows on Adult Swim.
Certainly one of the best comedy series in recent years, 'Rick and Morty' is proof that comedy can be clever, but can also be funny.
9. The Office (US)
- Release Date: March 24, 2005 – May 16, 2013
- Number of Seasons: 9
- Number of Episodes: 201
'The Office' is an American television series that aired on NBC and revolves around the daily lives of office employees in the Scranton branch of the fictitious paper distribution company Dunder Mifflin, and is narrated by a documentary crew.
The series, starring Steve Carell, John Krasinski, Jenna Fischer, Rainn Wilson, B.J. Novak, and many others, revolves around the daily lives of the employees at Dunder Mifflin in Scranton, Pennsylvania.
The TV show also deals with several social aspects of the workplace, including interpersonal relationships, inappropriate behavior, romance, a hierarchical organization, as well as generational conflict.
'The Office', with 9 seasons, won numerous awards, including a Golden Globes, 5 Primetime Emmy Awards, 2 Screen Actors Guild Awards, and a Peabody Award.
8. Avatar: The Last Airbender
- Release Date: February 21, 2005 – July 19, 2008
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 61
'Avatar: The Last Airbender' is an American animated television series created by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko and aired on Nickelodeon.
The series is set in a world where some people have the ability to control one of the four elements: water, earth, fire, or air.
The story revolves around the Avatar, the only person who can control all four elements, and his quest to save the world from the evil Fire Nation.
'Avatar: The Last Airbender' is a great series for both kids and adults, as it has a well-written story and great characters.
7. Band of Brothers
- Release Date: September 9, 2001 – November 4, 2001
- Number of Episodes: 10
'Band of Brothers' is a 10-part miniseries produced by HBO and based on the book of the same name by historian and journalist Stephen E. Ambrose.
The series follows the story of "Easy Company" of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, from their training in Georgia in 1942 to the end of World War II.
'Band of Brothers' is an excellent series that tells the story of World War II from the perspective of the soldiers who fought in it. It is one of the best historical drama television series ever, it's very well made with great acting and attention to detail.
6. Chernobyl
- Release Date: May 6, 2019 – June 3, 2019
- Number of Episodes: 5
The HBO series 'Chernobyl' is, without a doubt, the best miniseries ever. The miniseries, produced and written by Craig Mazin, tells the story of the 1986 nuclear disaster in Chernobyl, Ukraine, in a very realistic and objective way, without forgetting the human factor.
The series stars Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgård and Emily Watson, among others.
'Chernobyl' is a journey through time that shows us the worst nuclear disaster in history, as well as the brave acts of the people who fought to mitigate its effects and save lives.
5. Game of Thrones
- Release Date: April 17, 2011 – May 19, 2019
- Number of Seasons: 8
- Number of Episodes: 73
An adaptation of the novel series "A Song of Ice and Fire", written by George R.R. Martin, the television series 'Game of Thrones' premiered in 2011 by HBO and quickly became a global phenomenon and one of the most successful television productions of all time.
The series is set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos and interweaves several plot lines with a large ensemble cast.
The first storyline follows the members of several noble houses in a civil war for the Iron Throne of the Seven Kingdoms; the second chronicles the attempts of the last heir of the realm's deposed dynasty to reclaim the throne; the third storyline follows the Night's Watch, a brotherhood sworn to protect the realm, which is constantly monitored by the threat of wildlings who live beyond The Wall to the north; and finally, there is the story of Daenerys Targaryen, the last scion of the realm's former ruling dynasty, who was exiled to Essos during the civil war and is raising an army to conquer Westeros and take the Iron Throne.
Featuring a stellar cast that includes Sean Bean, Lena Headey, Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau and Peter Dinklage, among others, 'Game of Thrones' is a spectacular show that has won numerous awards, including 59 Primetime Emmy Awards, the most by a drama series.
No other show has been as popular or as talked-about as 'Game of Thrones' in recent years. The fantasy series has captured the imaginations of viewers around the world, and its intricate plotlines and memorable characters have made it one of the most addictive shows on television.
There’s no denying that 'Game of Thrones' is a phenomenon, and it’s definitely one of the best TV shows of all time.
4. Better Call Saul
- Release Date: February 8, 2015 – August 15, 2022
- Number of Seasons: 6
- Number of Episodes: 63
Produced by AMC Studios and broadcasted by AMC since 2015, this series, starring Bob Odenkirk as the con-man turned small-time lawyer Jimmy McGill, is set six years before the events of Breaking Bad and follows McGill's transformation into criminal lawyer Saul Goodman, who defends drug lords, petty criminals, and murderers.
'Better Call Saul' is a TV series that keeps you on your toes. It's one of the best TV shows ever made. The transformation and evolution of the main character is amazing to watch, and it's one of the few TV shows that really rewards the watchers for the attention they pay to the show, since each episode is almost like a short movie.
3. The Sopranos
- Release Date: January 10, 1999 – June 10, 2007
- Number of Seasons: 6
- Number of Episodes: 86
'The Sopranos' is an American crime drama TV series created by David Chase for HBO and revolves around the Italian-American mobster Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini), who tries to live a normal life as a New Jersey associate of the DiMeo Crime Family, and the problems that his family and the criminal organization he belongs to generate.
The Mafia is a pervasive presence throughout the series, which, in addition, has important elements of drama and comedy.
The mixture of these two genres, added to the excellent script, the star-studded cast, and the masterful direction of the series, makes 'The Sopranos' the best mafia television series ever.
2. The Wire
- Release Date: June 2, 2002 – March 9, 2008
- Number of Seasons: 5
- Number of Episodes: 60
The TV series 'The Wire', created by David Simon, focuses on the city of Baltimore, Maryland and revolves around the daily lives and work of police officers, journalists, politicians, drug dealers, and criminals.
The setting of the series is realistic, as it tries to portray the reality of the city, highlighting the problems faced by the inhabitants, who are immersed in misery and crime, due to the conditions in which the city is immersed.
The characters are the axis around which the series revolves, including the detectives Jimmy McNulty (Dominic West), the lieutenant Cedric Daniels (Lance Reddick), the drug kingpin Avon Barksdale (Wood Harris), and the deputy commissioner of police William Rawls (John Doman).
A series that avoids stereotypes and focuses on building characters, 'The Wire', with five seasons, is one of the most complete series of all time.
1. Breaking Bad
- Release Date: January 20, 2008 – September 29, 2013
- Number of Seasons: 5
- Number of Episodes: 62
'Breaking Bad' is a neo-western crime drama television series created and produced by Vince Gilligan. The show originally aired on the AMC network and set in the city of Albuquerque, New Mexico, and tells the story of Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a high school chemistry teacher diagnosed with lung cancer.
When Walter is told that he only has two years left to live, he decides to use the knowledge he has in physics and chemistry to manufacture and sell methamphetamine, in order to make money for his family.
Parallel to Walter's story, the series also tells the stories of Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul), a former student of Walter, who is a drug addict and has problems to support his family.
The series is a critical darling, and it's won numerous awards, including 16 Emmys and 2 Golden Globes.
'Breaking Bad' is, without a doubt, the best television shows of all time, as it does not only present a very interesting plot, but does so with very well drawn characters and situations.
