TV shows have been entertaining audiences for over a century, providing an escape from reality and transporting viewers to different worlds and experiences. Over the years, countless TV shows have captured our hearts and imaginations, leaving us wanting longer after the credits have rolled. In this article, we explore the “best TV shows of all time,” handpicked for their exceptional storytelling, captivating characters, and impactful cultural significance. Whether you’re a lifelong TV aficionado or just starting your journey into the world of television, you won’t want to miss this list of iconic shows.
From crime dramas to comedies, science fiction to fantasy, this list has something for everyone. Take a trip down memory lane with classic shows like “The Twilight Zone” or explore new worlds with modern favorites like “Game of Thrones.” Each show on this list has made its mark on the TV landscape, leaving a lasting impression on viewers and shaping the way we consume television today. So what are you waiting for? Click on each TV show to learn more about its history, characters, and why it’s considered one of the best of all time.
A crime drama series about a New Jersey-based Italian-American mobster Tony Soprano and his complicated relationship with his family and the criminal organization he leads. Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas, character studies, or simply want to experience one of the greatest television shows of all time, “The Sopranos” is definitely worth checking out.
“The Sopranos” is a crime drama series that was created by David Chase and aired on HBO from 1999 to 2007. Set in New Jersey, the show revolves around Tony Soprano, an Italian-American mobster and family man who is struggling to balance his criminal organization and personal life. Tony seeks help from a therapist to deal with anxiety attacks and the stress of being a mob boss, which provides a unique and insightful perspective into the life of a criminal.
The show is renowned for its complex characters, intricate storytelling, and fearless tackling of sensitive and controversial topics, such as mental health and the American Dream. The Sopranos also broke new ground in the way television was produced, with long-form storytelling, multi-layered characters, and a cinematic feel that paved the way for the golden age of television.
As for streaming services, “The Sopranos” can be streamed on the following platforms:
- HBO Max: The show is available on HBO’s streaming service, where subscribers can watch all episodes of the series.
- Amazon Prime Video: Prime members can purchase individual episodes or full seasons of the series for streaming. (Buy Sopranos on Amazon Prime)
- Google Play: Google Play offers the series for purchase or rental.
- iTunes: The show is available for purchase on iTunes.
“The Wire” is a crime drama series that was created by David Simon and aired on HBO from 2002 to 2008. Set in Baltimore, Maryland, the show offers a realistic and unflinching look at the city’s drug trade, the police force, and city politics. Each season of the show focuses on a different aspect of the city, such as the drug trade, the port, the schools, and the press, and follows a large ensemble cast of characters, including drug dealers, police officers, politicians, and others.
The Wire is known for its complex and interweaving narratives, its deep character development, and its realistic and nuanced portrayal of urban life and the American criminal justice system. The show has received widespread critical acclaim and is considered one of the greatest television dramas of all time.
As for streaming services, “The Wire” can be streamed on the following platforms:
- HBO Max: The show is available on HBO’s streaming service, where subscribers can watch all episodes of the series.
- Amazon Prime Video: Prime members can purchase individual episodes or full seasons of the series for streaming. (Buy The Wire on Amazon Prime)
- Google Play: Google Play offers the series for purchase or rental.
- iTunes: The show is available for purchase on iTunes.
If you’re a fan of crime dramas, social commentary, or simply want to experience one of the most influential television shows of the 21st century, “The Wire” is definitely worth checking out.
“Breaking Bad” is a crime drama series that aired on AMC from 2008 to 2013, created by Vince Gilligan. The show follows Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who, after being diagnosed with cancer, turns to cooking and selling meth to secure his family’s financial future. Along the way, Walter transforms from a meek and unassuming teacher to a ruthless and calculating criminal, leading to a downward spiral of crime and violence.
The show is widely regarded as one of the best television dramas of all time, praised for its tight writing, complex characters, and intense storytelling. “Breaking Bad” masterfully balances intense action with moments of dark comedy, delivering a thrilling and unforgettable viewing experience.
If you’re looking to stream “Breaking Bad,” you’re in luck! The show can be found on the following platforms:
- Netflix: All episodes of the series are available for streaming on Netflix.
- AMC: The network that originally aired the show offers episodes for purchase on its website.
- Google Play: Google Play offers the series for purchase or rental.
- iTunes: The show is available for purchase on iTunes.
Don’t miss out on one of the most highly acclaimed and addictively thrilling TV shows of all time. “Breaking Bad” is a must-watch for fans of crime dramas, character studies, or simply great television. So sit back, grab some popcorn, and get ready for a wild ride!
“The Simpsons” is a legendary American animated sitcom that first aired on Fox in 1989. Created by Matt Groening, the show follows the Simpson family – Homer, Marge, Bart, Lisa, and Maggie – as they navigate the ups and downs of life in the fictional town of Springfield. Over the years, “The Simpsons” has become one of the most beloved and iconic TV shows of all time, known for its sharp humor, social commentary, and colorful cast of characters.
The show has been praised for its clever writing, memorable catchphrases, and enduring cultural impact. It’s a true television classic that has stood the test of time and continues to be a fan favorite to this day.
If you’re looking to catch up on or revisit “The Simpsons,” you’re in luck! The show is available for streaming on the following platforms:
- Disney+: All episodes of the series are available for streaming on Disney+.
- Hulu: “The Simpsons” is available for streaming on Hulu, along with a large selection of other popular TV shows and movies.
- Fox: Episodes can be purchased for streaming on the Fox website.
- Google Play: Google Play offers the series for purchase or rental.
- iTunes: The show is available for purchase on iTunes.
Whether you’re a long-time fan or a newcomer to “The Simpsons,” now is the perfect time to dive into this classic TV show. Get ready for laughter, satire, and endless quotable moments, as you join the Simpson family on their wacky adventures. So, grab a cold Duff beer, and let’s get started!
“Friends” is a beloved American sitcom that first aired on NBC in 1994 and ran for ten seasons. The show follows a tight-knit group of friends – Rachel, Ross, Monica, Chandler, Joey, and Phoebe – as they navigate the ups and downs of life in New York City. With its witty writing, relatable characters, and charming humor, “Friends” quickly became one of the most popular TV shows of all time.
Over the years, “Friends” has become a cultural touchstone, known for its memorable catchphrases, iconic fashion, and enduring popularity. It’s a feel-good show that’s guaranteed to put a smile on your face and a song in your heart.
If you’re looking to re-watch or discover “Friends” for the first time, you’re in luck! The show is available for streaming on the following platforms:
- Netflix: All episodes of the series are available for streaming on Netflix.
- Hulu: “Friends” is available for streaming on Hulu, along with a large selection of other popular TV shows and movies.
- HBO Max: “Friends” is available for streaming on HBO Max.
- Google Play: Google Play offers the series for purchase or rental.
- iTunes: The show is available for purchase on iTunes.
So, grab some popcorn, get comfortable, and join the gang as they navigate love, friendship, and life in the big city. “Friends” is a feel-good show that will have you laughing, crying, and feeling all the feels. Trust us, you won’t regret it!
“Game of Thrones” is an epic fantasy drama series that first aired on HBO in 2011 and ran for eight seasons. Based on the “A Song of Ice and Fire” novels by George R. R. Martin, the show takes place in the mythical world of Westeros, where seven noble families fight for control of the Iron Throne. With its rich world-building, complex characters, and intricate political intrigue, “Game of Thrones” quickly became one of the most popular and acclaimed TV shows of all time.
From the war for the Iron Throne to the rise of the Night King, “Game of Thrones” delivers a thrilling and immersive experience, filled with twists, turns, and unexpected moments that will keep you on the edge of your seat. With its stunning visuals, memorable soundtrack, and exceptional acting, this show is a true feast for the eyes and ears.
If you’re looking to relive the epic journey or discover “Game of Thrones” for the first time, you’re in luck! The show is available for streaming on the following platforms:
- HBO: “Game of Thrones” is available for streaming on HBO, along with a large selection of other popular TV shows and movies.
- Hulu: “Game of Thrones” is available for streaming on Hulu, along with a large selection of other popular TV shows and movies.
- HBO Max: “Game of Thrones” is available for streaming on HBO Max.
- Google Play: Google Play offers the series for purchase or rental.
- iTunes: The show is available for purchase on iTunes.
So, grab a bowl of dragon’s eggs, put on your Valyrian steel, and get ready to enter the world of Westeros. “Game of Thrones” is an epic journey that will have you cheering for your favorite characters, cursing the villains, and feeling all the feels. Don’t miss out on one of the most exciting and captivating TV shows of all time!
“The Twilight Zone” is a legendary science fiction and horror TV show that first aired in 1959. The show is a collection of stories that explore strange and unusual events, from parallel universes to time travel, from mind-bending twists to supernatural occurrences. “The Twilight Zone” is often considered one of the greatest TV shows of all time, thanks to its thought-provoking storylines, its sharp social commentary, and its ability to entertain, scare, and educate its viewers.
Each episode of “The Twilight Zone” is a standalone story, but the show is tied together by its recurring themes of morality, justice, and the unknown. The show’s unique blend of science fiction and horror, combined with its memorable twists and turns, has made it a classic of television and a must-watch for fans of the genre.
If you’re looking to enter the Twilight Zone and experience the show for yourself, you’re in luck! “The Twilight Zone” is available for streaming on the following platforms:
- CBS All Access: “The Twilight Zone” is available for streaming on CBS All Access, along with a large selection of other popular TV shows and movies.
- Amazon Prime Video: “The Twilight Zone” is available for streaming on Amazon Prime Video, along with a large selection of other popular TV shows and movies.
- Vudu: The show is available for purchase or rental on Vudu.
So, buckle up and prepare to enter a world beyond your imagination. “The Twilight Zone” is a classic TV show that will keep you on the edge of your seat, make you think, and leave you with a newfound appreciation for the power of storytelling. Don’t miss out on one of the greatest TV shows of all time!
“The Office” is a hilarious and heartwarming TV show that first aired in 2005. The show is a mockumentary-style comedy that follows the everyday lives of the employees of the Dunder Mifflin paper company. The show is known for its quirky characters, its witty humor, and its ability to make you laugh and feel all the feels at the same time.
At the center of “The Office” is the bumbling but well-intentioned boss, Michael Scott, played by Steve Carell. Michael tries his best to lead the employees of Dunder Mifflin, but he often ends up making things worse with his cluelessness and his tendency to put his foot in his mouth. Despite his flaws, Michael is a loveable character who will make you laugh and win your heart.
In addition to Michael, “The Office” features a diverse cast of characters, including the reliable salesman Jim Halpert, the quirky receptionist Pam Beesly, the eccentric accountant Dwight Schrute, and many more. The show is a true ensemble comedy, and each character brings their own unique brand of humor to the table.
If you’re looking for a TV show that will make you laugh, touch your heart, and provide you with some of the most memorable moments in television history, “The Office” is the show for you. The show is available for streaming on the following platforms:
- Netflix: “The Office” is available for streaming on Netflix, along with a large selection of other popular TV shows and movies.
- Peacock: The show is available for streaming on Peacock, along with a large selection of other popular TV shows and movies.
- Microsoft Store: “The Office” is available for purchase or rental on the Microsoft Store.
So, grab your Dundies and get ready for a wild ride. “The Office” is a TV show that will make you laugh, make you feel, and leave you with a smile on your face. Don’t miss out on one of the most beloved TV shows of all time!
“The West Wing” is a classic political drama that explores the inner workings of the White House and the lives of the people who work there. The show takes us behind the scenes of the most powerful office in the world, showing us the human side of politics and the personal struggles of the people who work in the West Wing.
At the heart of the show is President Jed Bartlet (Martin Sheen), a complex and charismatic leader who is passionate about making the world a better place. He’s surrounded by a talented and dedicated staff, including his Chief of Staff Leo McGarry (John Spencer), Communications Director Toby Ziegler (Richard Schiff), and Deputy Chief of Staff Josh Lyman (Bradley Whitford). Together, they work tirelessly to advance the President’s agenda and navigate the treacherous waters of Washington politics.
“The West Wing” is a show that will make you laugh, make you cry, and make you feel. It’s a show that will inspire you, challenge you, and leave you with a sense of hope. Whether you’re a fan of politics, a fan of drama, or just a fan of good TV, “The West Wing” is the show for you.
The show is available for streaming on the following platforms:
- Netflix: “The West Wing” is available for streaming on Netflix, along with a large selection of other popular TV shows and movies.
- Hulu: The show is available for streaming on Hulu, along with a large selection of other popular TV shows and movies.
- Prime Video: “The West Wing” is available for streaming on Prime Video, along with a large selection of other popular TV shows and movies.
So, if you’re looking for a TV show that will make you laugh, make you cry, and make you feel, “The West Wing” is the show for you. Don’t miss out on one of the most inspiring and thought-provoking political dramas of all time!
“Black Mirror” is a dark, thought-provoking, and often frightening TV show that explores the impact of technology on our lives. Each episode of “Black Mirror” is a standalone story, exploring a different aspect of technology and its relationship with humanity.
From robots that can control our minds to social media apps that can ruin our lives, “Black Mirror” uses science fiction to hold a mirror up to our world, showing us the good, the bad, and the ugly of technology. The show is known for its suspenseful storytelling, its twists and turns, and its hauntingly beautiful visuals.
“Black Mirror” is a TV show that will make you question the world around you and leave you thinking long after the credits have rolled. It’s a show that will challenge your beliefs, make you feel, and leave you with a sense of unease. If you’re looking for a TV show that will keep you on the edge of your seat and make you think, “Black Mirror” is the show for you.
The show is available for streaming on the following platforms:
- Netflix: “Black Mirror” is available for streaming on Netflix, along with a large selection of other popular TV shows and movies.
- Hulu: The show is available for streaming on Hulu, along with a large selection of other popular TV shows and movies.
- Prime Video: “Black Mirror” is available for streaming on Prime Video, along with a large selection of other popular TV shows and movies.
So, if you’re looking for a TV show that will keep you on the edge of your seat, make you think, and leave you with a sense of unease, “Black Mirror” is the show for you. Don’t miss out on one of the most thought-provoking and hauntingly beautiful TV shows of all time!
Best TV Shows of recent decades
1980s:
- The Twilight Zone (1959-1964)
- Cheers (1982-1993)
- Hill Street Blues (1981-1987)
1990s:
- Seinfeld (1989-1998)
- The Simpsons (1989-present)
- The X-Files (1993-2002)
2000s:
- The Sopranos (1999-2007)
- Friends (1994-2004)
- The Wire (2002-2008)
2010s:
- Breaking Bad (2008-2013)
- Game of Thrones (2011-2019)
- The Office (US) (2005-2013)
- Mad Men (2007-2015)
These are some of the most widely-acclaimed TV shows of each decade, but there are many others that are equally deserving of recognition.
What Criteria to Consider for the Best TV shows
- Storyline: A strong, well-written, and engaging storyline is essential for a TV show to be considered as the best. The storyline should be original, unpredictable, and keep the audience hooked.
- Characters: Complex, multi-dimensional, and relatable characters are key to making a TV show great. The characters should be well-written and acted, and the audience should feel invested in their journeys and struggles.
- Production Value: A high-quality production with good cinematography, sound design, and special effects can make a TV show stand out. A well-produced show will immerse the audience in the world of the show and enhance their viewing experience.
- Relevance: A TV show that deals with current issues, challenges societal norms, and tackles controversial topics can be considered one of the best. A TV show that reflects the world we live in, and has something important to say, will resonate with audiences and be remembered for years to come.
- Longevity: A TV show that has stood the test of time and has a lasting impact on audiences and pop culture is considered one of the best. A TV show that has been popular for many years and continues to be relevant and watched is a testament to its quality and relevance.
- Emotional Impact: A TV show that elicits a strong emotional response from its audience, whether it be laughter, tears, or suspense, is considered one of the best. A TV show that connects with its audience on an emotional level and stays with them long after the credits roll is a truly great show.
- Cultural Significance: A TV show that becomes a cultural phenomenon and has a significant impact on popular culture is considered one of the best. A TV show that defines a generation inspires memes and merchandise, and has a lasting impact on popular culture is a testament to its greatness.
