TV shows have become a big part of our lives. We love to watch them for hours on end. This is called binge-watching. The best TV shows of the decade are perfect for binge-watching because they keep you hooked from start to finish.
You might wonder which shows are worth your time. There are so many to choose from. Some are funny, some are serious, and others are full of action.
The top 15 shows of the decade offer something for everyone. They have great stories, excellent actors, and high-quality production.
1. Breaking Bad
Breaking Bad is a TV show you can’t miss. It follows Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who turns to making meth after a cancer diagnosis. The show aired from 2008 to 2013 and became a huge hit.
Bryan Cranston performs Walter White, performing significantly as the character changes. Aaron Paul co-stars as Jesse Pinkman, Walter’s former student and partner in crime.
The story gets more intense with each episode. You’ll see Walter go from a mild-mannered teacher to a dangerous drug kingpin. The show tackles tough topics like morality, family, and the consequences of choices.
Breaking Bad is known for its tight writing and unexpected plot twists. It keeps you guessing what will happen next. The show also has great cinematography that captures the stark beauty of New Mexico.
You’ll find Breaking Bad on many “best TV shows” lists. It won multiple Emmy Awards and is often called one of the most excellent series ever made. If you haven’t watched it, now’s the time to start binging.
2. Game of Thrones
Game of Thrones took the TV world by storm. This fantasy epic captivated audiences for eight seasons. It’s no surprise it tops many lists of binge-worthy shows.
The series is based on George R.R. Martin’s novels. It’s set in the fictional world of Westeros. You’ll follow noble families as they fight for control of the Iron Throne.
Game of Thrones is known for its complex characters and shocking plot twists. You never know who might die next. The show keeps you on the edge of your seat.
The production values are incredible. You’ll see stunning landscapes, epic battles, and fearsome dragons. The attention to detail in costumes and sets is remarkable.
The cast is outstanding. You’ll find it hard to forget performances by actors like Peter Dinklage and Emilia Clarke. Their portrayals bring the characters to life.
Game of Thrones has won numerous awards, including many Emmys. It’s praised for its storytelling and visual effects. The show’s cultural impact is undeniable.
You can stream all seasons now. Be prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions. Game of Thrones is truly a TV experience like no other.
3. Stranger Things
Stranger Things took the world by storm when it debuted in 2016. This Netflix original series blends 1980s nostalgia with supernatural thrills. Set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, it follows a group of kids who encounter otherworldly forces and secret government experiments.
The show’s young cast delivers impressive performances that capture the essence of childhood friendship and adventure. Millie Bobby Brown stands out as Eleven, a girl with psychokinetic abilities who escapes from a mysterious lab.
Stranger Things pays homage to classic 80s movies and pop culture. Throughout the series, you’ll spot references to films like E.T., The Goonies, and Stand By Me. The synth-heavy soundtrack and period-accurate set design further enhance the nostalgic atmosphere.
As the seasons progress, the stakes increase and the supernatural threats become more terrifying. The show balances its sci-fi horror elements with heartwarming moments and character development. You’ll find yourself invested in the fates of Hawkins’ residents as they face increasingly dangerous situations.
With its blend of genres and compelling storytelling, Stranger Things has become a cultural phenomenon. It’s sparked renewed interest in 80s fashion, music, and entertainment. The series continues to captivate audiences with each new season, making it a must-watch for fans of science fiction and coming-of-age stories.
4. Fleabag
Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s “Fleabag” is a TV gem you can’t miss. This British comedy-drama follows a witty, troubled woman navigating life in London.
The show’s unique style sets it apart. Waller-Bridge’s character often breaks the fourth wall, speaking directly to you. This creates an intimate connection between you and the main character.
“Fleabag” tackles tough topics with humor and honesty. It explores family relationships, grief, and love authentically and relatable.
The cast is top-notch. Olivia Colman shines as the main character’s godmother. Andrew Scott’s portrayal of the “Hot Priest” in season two became an instant fan favorite.
Critics and audiences alike praised “Fleabag”. It won numerous awards, including Emmys and Golden Globes. The show’s impact on TV comedy is undeniable.
With just two short seasons, “Fleabag” leaves you wanting more. Its tight storytelling and memorable characters make it perfect for binge-watching. You’ll laugh, cry, and feel various emotions throughout this series.
If you’re looking for a fresh, bold TV show, give “Fleabag” a try. Its mix of humor and heart makes it a standout of the decade.
5. The Mandalorian
The Mandalorian took the TV world by storm when it debuted in 2019. In the Star Wars universe, this space Western follows a lone bounty hunter on thrilling adventures.
You’ll be captivated by the stunning visuals and action-packed storylines. The show’s familiar Star Wars elements and fresh characters keep things exciting.
At the heart of The Mandalorian is the adorable “Child,” nicknamed Baby Yoda by fans. This little green creature steals every scene and adds heart to the series.
Pedro Pascal shines as the titular Mandalorian. His performance brings depth to the masked hero, making you root for him at every turn.
Each episode feels like a mini-movie with high production values and cinematic scope. Combining practical effects and cutting-edge technology creates a rich, lived-in world.
Star Wars fans will love the callbacks and lore sprinkled throughout. But even if you’re new to the franchise, The Mandalorian’s standalone story is easy to follow.
The show’s episodic structure makes it perfect for binge-watching. You can quickly lose yourself in this galaxy far, far away for hours on end.
With its mix of action, drama, and unexpected humor, The Mandalorian has broad appeal. It’s no wonder the series quickly became a cultural phenomenon and must-watch TV.
6. The Crown
“The Crown” is a must-watch show that brings royal history to life. This Netflix series follows Queen Elizabeth II’s reign from the 1940s to modern times.
Claire Foy and Olivia Colman shine as the Queen in different eras. Their performances capture her strength and struggle as she leads the British monarchy.
The show’s attention to detail is impressive. From the costumes to the sets, everything looks authentic. You’ll feel like you’re right there in Buckingham Palace.
“The Crown” doesn’t shy away from tough topics. It covers royal scandals, political crises, and family drama. You’ll see a new side to events you thought you knew.
Each season focuses on a different period. This keeps the story fresh and exciting. You’ll learn about key moments in British history along the way.
The supporting cast is just as good as the leads—John Lithgow as Winston Churchill and Gillian Anderson as Margaret Thatcher are standouts.
“The Crown” is more than just a history lesson. It’s a gripping drama about power, duty, and family. You’ll find yourself hooked from the first episode.
7. Better Call Saul
Better Call Saul has earned its place among the best TV shows of the decade. This Breaking Bad prequel follows the transformation of Jimmy McGill into the sleazy lawyer Saul Goodman.
The show’s writing is top-notch, with clever plot twists and deep character development. You’ll find yourself invested in Jimmy’s journey, rooting for him even as he makes questionable choices.
Bob Odenkirk shines as the lead, bringing humor and pathos to his role. The supporting cast is equally strong, especially Rhea Seehorn as Kim Wexler.
Better Call Saul balances drama with dark comedy, creating a unique tone. It explores themes of morality, ambition, and the consequences of our actions.
The show’s pacing may be slower than Breaking Bad, but it rewards patient viewers. Each season builds on the last, with tension steadily increasing.
Visually, Better Call Saul is stunning. The cinematography captures the stark beauty of Albuquerque, mirroring the characters’ inner landscapes.
Fans rank seasons 5 and 6 particularly highly. These later seasons ramp up the stakes as Jimmy fully embraces his Saul Goodman persona.
If you enjoy complex characters and moral ambiguity, you’ll love Better Call Saul. It’s a masterclass in storytelling that stands on its own merits.
8. Mindhunter
Mindhunter stands out as one of Netflix’s best dramas. This crime series takes you deep into the minds of serial killers. It’s based on actual events from the early days of FBI profiling.
The show follows two FBI agents as they interview notorious criminals. Their goal? To understand how these killers think. This knowledge helps them solve ongoing cases.
Mindhunter’s attention to detail is impressive. The 1970s setting feels authentic. The actors bring complex characters to life. You’ll find yourself drawn into their world.
What makes Mindhunter unique is its focus on psychology. It’s not just about catching bad guys. It’s about figuring out why they do what they do. This approach sets it apart from other crime shows.
The series doesn’t shy away from dark topics. It can be intense at times. But it’s constantly gripping. You’ll want to keep watching to see what happens next.
Mindhunter has earned praise from critics and viewers alike. It’s been called “mesmerizing” and “ambitious.” If you like crime dramas with depth, this show is for you.
9. The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel takes you back to 1950s New York City. This Emmy-winning comedy follows Miriam “Midge” Maisel, a housewife who finds her calling in stand-up comedy.
Rachel Brosnahan shines as Midge, bringing wit and charm to every scene. The show’s clever writing and beautiful costumes transport you to a bygone era.
You’ll laugh along with Midge as she navigates the male-dominated comedy world. Her journey from homemaker to performer is both funny and inspiring.
The supporting cast adds depth to the story. Alex Borstein plays Susie, Midge’s manager, with perfect comedic timing. Their partnership forms the heart of the show.
Each episode offers a mix of humor and heart. You’ll root for Midge as she faces challenges on and off stage. The show’s blend of comedy and drama keeps you hooked from start to finish.
10. Chernobyl
Chornobyl gripped viewers with its intense portrayal of the 1986 nuclear disaster. This mini-series showed the catastrophe’s human cost and the heroism of those who responded.
You’ll be drawn in by the show’s attention to detail. The sets and costumes transport you to 1980s Soviet Ukraine. The acting is top-notch, with standout performances from Jared Harris and Stellan Skarsgård.
Chornobyl doesn’t shy away from the horror of radiation poisoning. You’ll see graphic depictions of its effects on the human body. But these scenes serve a purpose, showing the real dangers workers and residents face.
The show also explores the political aftermath. You’ll witness how Soviet officials tried to cover up the disaster’s extent. This adds a layer of tension to an already gripping story.
While only five episodes long, Chornobyl packs a powerful punch. You’ll find yourself thinking about it long after the final credits roll. Its blend of historical accuracy and dramatic storytelling makes it a must-watch.
11. Succession
“Succession” is a gripping TV drama you won’t want to miss. It follows the Roy family, owners of a global media empire. The show dives into their power struggles and family conflicts.
The sharp writing and complex characters will hook you. Each episode is filled with witty dialogue and unexpected twists. The acting is top-notch, with standout performances from the entire cast.
The show explores themes of wealth, power, and family loyalty. You’ll find yourself fascinated and repelled by the Roys’ cutthroat world. Their lavish lifestyle is a stark contrast to their dysfunctional relationships.
“Succession” has earned critical acclaim and numerous awards. It’s known for its dark humor and biting satire of the ultra-rich. The show’s attention to detail in portraying this elite world is impressive.
You’ll appreciate how each season builds on the last, raising the stakes. The characters’ motivations become more complex as the series progresses. It’s a show that rewards close attention and multiple viewings.
12. The Witcher
The Witcher burst onto Netflix in 2019, quickly becoming a must-watch fantasy series. Based on Polish author Andrzej Sapkowski’s books, it follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter with supernatural abilities.
Henry Cavill’s portrayal of Geralt captivates viewers with his brooding intensity and dry wit. The show’s complex characters and intricate plot keep you hooked from episode to episode.
The Witcher’s world is rich with magic, political intrigue, and fearsome creatures. You’ll immerse yourself in its dark, gritty atmosphere, eagerly anticipating each new twist.
The series’ non-linear storytelling adds an extra layer of intrigue. As you piece together the timeline, you’ll discover how the characters’ paths intertwine across different periods.
With its high production values, The Witcher delivers stunning visuals and epic battle scenes. The show’s action, drama, and humor make it perfect for binge-watching. You’ll find yourself racing through episodes, eager to uncover more of this captivating fantasy world.
13. Ozark
Ozark grabs you from the start and doesn’t let go. This crime drama follows the Byrde family as they get tangled up with dangerous drug cartels. You’ll be on the edge of your seat, watching them navigate treacherous waters.
Jason Bateman and Laura Linney shine as Marty and Wendy Byrde. Their performances bring depth to characters making impossible choices. The show’s dark tone and stunning visuals of the Ozarks create an atmosphere thick with tension.
Money laundering schemes and local criminal enterprises keep the plot twisting. You never know who to trust as alliances shift. The writing is sharp, with each episode building to shocking revelations.
Julia Garner steals scenes as Ruth Langmore, a scrappy local drawn into the Byrdes’ world. Her character growth over the seasons is a highlight. The entire cast brings their A-game, making even minor characters memorable.
Ozark doesn’t shy away from moral gray areas. You’ll find yourself questioning right and wrong along with the characters. The show explores how ordinary people can be pushed to extremes when survival is on the line.
14. Black Mirror
Black Mirror is a mind-bending TV series that will make you think twice about technology. Each episode tells a different story, exploring the dark side of our digital world.
The show tackles social media, virtual reality, and artificial intelligence topics. It paints a scary picture of where society might be headed if we’re not careful.
You’ll find yourself hooked by the clever writing and surprising twists. Some of the best episodes include “San Junipero” and “USS Callister.”
Black Mirror doesn’t shy away from tough questions. It asks you to consider how tech shapes your life and relationships.
The series features top-notch acting from both well-known stars and fresh faces. You’ll see familiar actors like Jon Hamm and Miley Cyrus in unfamiliar roles.
Each episode feels like a short film, with high production values and gripping storylines. You can watch them in any order, making it perfect for binge-watching.
Black Mirror has won many awards for its innovative storytelling. It pushes the boundaries of what TV can do, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
15. The Handmaid’s Tale
The Handmaid’s Tale took TV by storm when it premiered in 2017. This chilling adaptation of Margaret Atwood’s novel imagines a dystopian America where women have lost their rights.
You’ll be gripped by Elisabeth Moss’s powerful performance as June, a woman fighting to survive in the oppressive regime of Gilead. The show’s striking visual style and tense atmosphere pull you into its disturbing world.
Each episode reveals more about how this nightmarish society came to be. You’ll find yourself thinking about the story long after watching.
The series tackles complex themes like reproductive rights, authoritarianism, and resistance. It sparks meaningful conversations while delivering edge-of-your-seat drama.
Supporting performances from actors like Ann Dowd and Yvonne Strahovski add depth to the complex characters. You’ll be fascinated by how they navigate moral gray areas.
The Handmaid’s Tale pushes boundaries in its portrayal of a dark future. Its impact on pop culture and political discourse makes it a defining show of the decade.
Cultural Impact
The best TV shows of the decade changed how we watch and think about television. They shaped storytelling and influenced popular culture in significant ways.
Influence on Modern TV
These top shows set new standards for quality and creativity. They pushed networks and streaming services to take more risks. You saw more complex characters and bold storylines. Shows like “Game of Thrones” and “Stranger Things” became global phenomena.
They sparked endless online discussions and theories. Fans eagerly waited for new episodes each week. Binge-watching became the norm as streaming platforms released full seasons at once.
These hits also boosted budgets for TV production. The line between TV and movies blurred. A-list movie stars began taking TV roles more often.
Shift in Storytelling Styles
The best shows of the decade changed how stories are told on TV. Long-form storytelling became popular. Plot arcs stretched across full seasons or even multiple seasons.
You saw more diverse voices and perspectives on screen. Shows tackled challenging social issues head-on. Anthology series like “Black Mirror” offered a new format for creative storytelling.
Nonlinear narratives became common. Shows like “Westworld” played with timelines to keep viewers guessing. The “slow burn” approach built tension over many episodes.
Limited series grew in popularity. They told complete stories in just 6-10 episodes. This format attracted top talent and critical acclaim.
Major Themes and Trends
TV shows have pushed boundaries and explored new storytelling approaches in the past decade. They’ve brought fresh perspectives and strong characters to screens worldwide.
Diverse Storytelling
TV shows now reflect a more comprehensive range of experiences and backgrounds. “Stranger Things” appeals to viewers of all ages and genders. It mixes 80s nostalgia with sci-fi elements that keep audiences hooked.
Shows like “Downton Abbey” and “The Mandalorian” cater to different tastes. “Downton Abbey” attracts more female viewers with its period drama setting. “The Mandalorian” draws more male viewers with its space western action.
This variety lets you find shows that match your interests. It also exposes you to new perspectives and cultures you might not see otherwise.
Rise of Strong Female Leads
Many popular shows now feature complex, powerful women characters. “Lucifer” has gained a strong female following, partly due to its well-developed women roles.
Shows like “The Handmaid’s Tale” and “Killing Eve” put women at the center of their stories. These characters face tough challenges and make difficult choices.
You’ll see women as heroes, villains, and everything in between. They’re not just side characters or love interests anymore. These roles give actresses more chances to showcase their talents and connect with viewers.
Takeaways
the past decade has seen a remarkable evolution in television, bringing forth some of the most compelling, innovative, and culturally impactful shows ever created. These 15 shows, from the intense drama of Breaking Bad to the fantastical world of Game of Thrones, have entertained millions and set new standards for storytelling and production quality.
They’ve reshaped TV consumption, encouraging binge-watching and fostering global fan communities.
These series have also pushed the boundaries of what television can achieve, offering diverse narratives, strong female leads, and complex characters that challenge the status quo.
Whether you’re into fantasy, crime dramas, or dark comedies, there’s something on this list for everyone. As we look forward to the next decade of television, these shows will undoubtedly be remembered as defining pieces of modern entertainment, leaving an indelible mark on both the medium and the audiences who have come to love them.
