Brightcast/MovieStillsDBAs television continues to evolve, captivating audiences with its diverse storytelling and compelling characters, fans continue to evaluate and compare the quality of TV shows. Over the past 25 years, a myriad of outstanding series have graced our screens, leaving an indelible mark on popular culture. From groundbreaking dramas to uproarious comedies, these shows have resonated with viewers, earning high praise. As we celebrate the best of television from the last quarter-century, let’s delve into the top 25 TV shows according to fan ratings on Rotten Tomatoes:
25. Sherlock (2010)
Yaut/MovieStillsDBThere have been several spin-offs emanating from the Sherlock Holmes stories written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. However, there hasn’t been one nearly as successful or well-done as this version. Sherlock only ran for 13 episodes — yet won three Emmy Awards largely based upon brilliant writing, storytelling and acting. Benedict Cumberbatch really broke out as a megastar from this performance, and it led to him starring as a lead in several box office hits (The Imitation Game, Doctor Strange, The Power of the Dog).
24. The Bear (2022)
Jeremy Allen White may have gained notoriety in Shameless, but he became a household name as Carmy Berzatto, the renowned chef who finds himself managing his late brother’s sandwich shop in his hometown of Chicago. This talented cast also includes Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ayo Edebiri, Lionel Boyce, Liza Colón-Zayas, Abby Elliott, and Matty Matheson. With all episodes of its first season released on June 23, 2022, and a second season following a year later, the show has gained widespread acclaim for its exceptional writing, directing, acting, and production values.
The Bear received ten Emmy nominations, winning Outstanding Comedy Series and securing acting victories for White, Moss-Bachrach, and Edebiri. Additionally, it clinched four Golden Globe Awards, including Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy in 2024, and acting accolades for White and Edebiri. Such recognition solidifies The Bear as a standout in the realm of television, with anticipation building for its forthcoming seasons.
23. How I Met Your Mother (2005)
Happy_Evil_Dude/MovieStillsDBHow I Met Your Mother was beloved by all when it aired on CBS from 2005 to 2014 and is still rewatched by many today. The show’s narrative is framed by the protagonist, Ted Mosby (played by Josh Radnor), recounting to his children the story of how he met their mother, with each episode detailing various misadventures and relationships leading up to the eventual revelation. The cast includes Neil Patrick Harris as the legendary womanizer Barney Stinson, Cobie Smulders as the independent Robin Scherbatsky, Jason Segel as Ted’s best friend Marshall Eriksen, and Alyson Hannigan as Marshall’s wife, Lily Aldrin.
Known for its witty humor, heartfelt moments, and innovative storytelling, How I Met Your Mother received critical acclaim including numerous award wins and nominations (Primetime Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards amongst others). It remains a fan favorite, with its legacy cemented as one of the most iconic and enduring sitcoms of the 21st century.
22. The Walking Dead (2010)
Simba95/MovieStillsDBThere will always be a place in entertainment for zombies. Whether they appear on television, in theaters, or video games, zombies will forever be utilized. So, it should come as no surprise that The Walking Dead became one of the biggest shows of the 2010s. Based on a comic book series of the same name, the show follows a group of people who have survived a zombie apocalypse. Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln) is the central figure for much of the series. Some of the people trying to survive alongside Rick are Daryl, Maggie, Carol, Michonne, Carl and Glenn. If you can handle blood and guts, you will have a good time watching this zombie epic.
21. The Mandalorian (2019)
MePrDB/MovieStillsDBJon Favreau creates magic, and the Mandalorian is no exception. Set in the expansive Star Wars universe, the series follows the titular character, a lone bounty hunter known simply as the Mandalorian, exceptionally portrayed by Pedro Pascal. The show takes viewers on an epic journey across the galaxy as the Mandalorian navigates various adventures, encounters intriguing characters, and forms an unlikely bond with a mysterious Force-sensitive child known as Grogu, or “baby Yoda” by fans. Since its debut in 2019, The Mandalorian has garnered widespread acclaim for its captivating storytelling, stunning visual effects, and immersive world-building.
The series has been praised for its innovative use of technology, including the groundbreaking use of StageCraft technology for virtual production. The Mandalorian has received numerous award nominations, including Primetime Emmy Awards and Critics’ Choice Television Awards, winning several in categories such as Outstanding Special Visual Effects, Outstanding Stunt Coordination, and Outstanding Music Composition. Mando is likely the best Star Wars content created since the original trilogy.
20. Band Of Brothers (2001)
jeffw616/MovieStillsDBBand of Brothers is an American war drama miniseries created by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, based on the book of the same name by historian Stephen E. Ambrose. The series aired on HBO in 2001 and follows Easy Company, part of the 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division, from their training at Camp Toccoa in Georgia to their participation in some of the most critical battles of World War II, including Operation Overlord and the Battle of the Bulge.
Band of Brothers is renowned for its authenticity portraying real-life soldiers and officers who served in Easy Company, offering a compelling and intimate portrayal of the harrowing experiences faced by the men during the war. The series received widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards, including Emmy Awards for Outstanding Miniseries and acting nominations for several cast members. It remains a seminal work in the genre of war dramas, revered by audiences and critics alike for its emotional depth, historical accuracy, and tribute to the bravery and sacrifices of those who served in World War II.
19. The Boys (2019)
yassi/MovieStillsDBEric Kripke gives us a wild new take on superheroes. The Boys, based on the comic book of the same name by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson, premiered on Amazon Prime Video in 2019 and offers a dark, new satirical take on the superhero genre. Set in a world where superheroes are revered as celebrities and corporate assets, The Boys follows a group of vigilantes led by Billy Butcher, portrayed by Karl Urban, as they seek to expose the corrupt and often violent behavior of the so-called “Supes.” The incredible cast features Jack Quaid, Antony Starr, Erin Moriarty, and Chace Crawford, among others, portraying both the heroes and the flawed individuals who oppose them.
The Boys is known for its gritty realism, subversive themes, and intense action sequences, challenging traditional notions of heroism and exploring complex moral dilemmas. The series has received widespread acclaim for its sharp writing, compelling characters, and biting social commentary. It has been praised for its thought-provoking exploration of power dynamics, celebrity culture, and the consequences of unchecked authority. You can’t help but cheer for the underdog Billy Butcher.
18. The Last Of Us (2023)
Nico/MovieStillsDBThe video game genre has a bad history of failing in its movie and television adaptations, but there has been some gold recently. The Last of Us is based on the critically acclaimed video game of the same name developed by Naughty Dog. Created by Craig Mazin and Neil Druckmann, who also wrote and directed the video game, the series is set in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a deadly fungal infection that has decimated humanity. The story follows Joel, a hardened survivor, portrayed by Pedro Pascal, who is tasked with escorting a young girl named Ellie, played by Bella Ramsey, across the treacherous landscape to a group known as the Fireflies, who may hold the key to a cure.
The show is prized for its faithful adaptation of the beloved video game, known for its gripping narrative, rich character development, and emotional depth. The series draws you in with the rough, rugged survivor Joel who ends up caring for the spunky and humorous Ellie who was born during the time of this apocalypse. Fans are anxiously awaiting season 2.
17. Peaky Blinders (2013)
Yaut/MovieStillsDBTalk about a show that has it all. Action, violence, love, drama, twists and turns, and possibly the most intriguing family in television history. Peaky Blinders is a British period crime drama television series created by Steven Knight. Set in post-World War I Birmingham, England, the show follows the exploits of the Shelby crime family, led by the enigmatic and ambitious Tommy Shelby, played by Cillian Murphy. The series delves into the power struggles, intrigue, and violence that define the Shelby family’s rise to prominence in the criminal underworld, as they navigate the political and social landscape of early 20th-century Britain.
The ensemble cast includes Helen McCrory, Paul Anderson, Joe Cole, and Tom Hardy, among others, delivering powerful performances that breathe life into the complex characters populating the world of Peaky Blinders. Known for its stylish cinematography, evocative soundtrack, and sharp dialogue, the series has received numerous award nominations, including BAFTA Television Awards and Critics’ Choice Television Awards, earning accolades for its outstanding writing, direction, and acting. With its gritty realism, fans find themselves truly a part of this difficult time.
16. Avatar: The Last Airbender (2009)
Pinkgirllx/MovieStillsDBThe perfect show doesn’t exi–. That 100% fan rating is warranted. Avatar: The Last Airbender is an American animated television series created by Michael Dante DiMartino and Bryan Konietzko. Set in a world where certain people, known as “benders,” have the ability to manipulate the elements of water, earth, fire, and air, the show follows the journey of Aang, the last surviving Airbender and the titular Avatar. Aang embarks on a quest to master all four elements and bring balance to the world, accompanied by his friends Katara, Sokka, and Toph among others.
The series is celebrated for its rich mythology, intricate world-building, and incredible character arcs, as well as its exploration of themes such as friendship, identity, and the consequences of war. ATLA received widespread acclaim winning numerous awards, including Annie Awards and Primetime Emmy Awards, recognizing its outstanding writing, voice acting, and animation. With its timeless appeal and enduring legacy, ATLA remains a beloved classic, cherished by fans of all ages for its imaginative storytelling and profound messages of hope and redemption.
15. Parks And Recreation (2009)
Chris Haston/NBCParks and Recreation is an American mockumentary-style sitcom created by Greg Daniels and Michael Schur. Set in the fictional town of Pawnee, Indiana, the series follows the daily operations of the Parks and Recreation Department and its quirky employees as they navigate the challenges of local government bureaucracy. The show’s ensemble cast includes Amy Poehler as the relentlessly optimistic Leslie Knope, Rashida Jones as the pragmatic Ann Perkins, Nick Offerman as the stoic libertarian Ron Swanson, and Chris Pratt as the lovable goofball Andy Dwyer, among others. Parks and Rec is celebrated for its sharp writing, endearing characters, and witty humor, as well as its heartfelt exploration of friendship, community, and the absurdities of small-town politics.
14. Mad Men (2007)
bilbo/MovieStillsDBMad Men is one hell of a show. Set in the early 1960s, Don Draper (Jon Hamm) is a talented ad executive who is fighting to stay at the top of the mountain as it pertains to his New York ad firm. Hamm plays the role to perfection. Draper is a chain-smoking, alcoholic executive who struggles to come to grips with his shortcomings and his wild past. The great Elisabeth Moss plays the role of Peggy Olson — a woman who goes from being Draper’s secretary to a copywriter. Mad Men is strengthened by its excellent cast, which also includes January Jones, Christina Hendricks, Kiernan Shipka, Jared Harris, and John Slattery.
13. Ted Lasso (2020)
mitchellgreen/MovieStillsDBWarm. Hopeful. Wholesome. Comforting. Ted Lasso is the television equivalent of a warm bath.
Jason Sudeikis and his team have taken a fairly one-note commercial for the Premier League and developed it into Apple TV+’s first smash hit. It’s a charming sports show that isn’t at all about sports. Ted Lasso (the show and the character) is unrelenting in its kindness, and its lack of cynicism is genuinely refreshing. There are still lessons to be learned and challenges to overcome, but even when things get low everything still carries an inherent niceness that is quite appealing. The series has won several accolades, including multiple Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Comedy Series and Outstanding Lead Actor in a Comedy Series for Jason Sudeikis.
12. The Big Bang Theory (2007)
Sonja Flemming/CBS via Getty ImagesWho saw this one coming? While The Big Bang Theory definitely has a cult following, the sitcom checking in at No. 12 (let alone making this list at all) is a bit of a shocker. In the show, two California-based physicists work and live together. It is evident from the very start that the two men are a bit eccentric. However, Leonard (Johnny Galecki) and Sheldon (Jim Parsons) — the latter won four Emmys for Best Actor — will come to realize that there is more to life than work. When a woman named Penny (Kaley Cuoco) moves across the hall from the friends, the pair start looking at life differently. The dynamic between the three (and two other close friends) resonated with viewers. The Big Bang Theory enjoyed a 12-season run which spanned 12 years and 279 episodes.
11. Chernobyl (2019)
Yaut/MovieStillsDBThe British-American historical drama television miniseries created by Craig Mazin dramatizes the events surrounding the Chernobyl nuclear disaster of April 1986 and its aftermath. Led by a stellar ensemble cast including Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgård, and Emily Watson, Chernobyl meticulously reconstructs the harrowing events of the disaster and the subsequent efforts to contain its catastrophic consequences. The series is celebrated for its meticulous attention to detail, haunting atmosphere, and gripping storytelling, offering a visceral and emotionally resonant portrayal of one of the greatest man-made disasters in history.
Chernobyl won multiple accolades, including Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Limited Series and Outstanding Directing for a Limited Series, Movie, or Dramatic Special. With its powerful performances, chilling realism, and unflinching exploration of the human cost of technological failure, Chernobyl stands as a testament to the enduring impact of one of the darkest chapters of the 20th century.
10. Dark (2017)
Yaut/MovieStillsDBIt is hard to think of a better Sci-Fi created in the last 20 years. Dark is a German science fiction thriller television series created by Baran bo Odar and Jantje Friese. Set in the fictional German town of Winden, the series explores the interconnected lives of four families as they uncover a complex web of secrets spanning multiple generations. The show’s intricate plot weaves together themes of time travel, fate, and the cyclical nature of human existence, creating a mind-bending narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The ensemble cast includes Louis Hofmann, Lisa Vicari, and Oliver Masucci, among others, delivering compelling performances that bring the show’s richly drawn characters to life. Dark is praised for its atmospheric cinematography, intricate storytelling, and philosophical depth, offering a thought-provoking exploration of the nature of time and the consequences of our actions.
9. LOST (2004)
Rolsskk/MovieStillsDBThroughout the history of television, there may not be a more impactful pilot than LOST‘s September 22, 2004 debut. In the early moments of the pilot, viewers are brought to a seemingly idyllic beach. However, the beach is actually the scene of a horrifying plane crash. That episode set the tone for a series that is often considered one of the best of all-time. The survivors of Oceanic Flight 815 were pushed to the brink by many forces — including some supernatural events. The action was fun, the storytelling was brilliant (and confusing at times), and the cast was spectacular. Locke, Hurley, Kate, Sawyer, Jack, Sayid, Ben…there were so many fantastic characters that kept viewers coming back week after week.
8. Succession (2018)
michaella92/MovieStillsDBTalk about character depth. Arguments about your favorite and least favorite Roy will likely continue forever. Succession is an American satirical comedy-drama television series created by Jesse Armstrong. The show follows the dysfunctional Roy family, owners of a global media conglomerate, as they jockey for power and control over their father’s company, Waystar Royco. Led by a stellar ensemble cast including Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook, and Kieran Culkin Succession delves into the cutthroat world of corporate politics, exploring themes of family dynamics, wealth, and ambition. The series is celebrated for its sharp writing, complex characters, and biting humor, offering a scathing critique of the elite and the lengths they will go to maintain their power and privilege. Succession has received widespread critical acclaim, earning numerous award nominations, including Primetime Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards.
7. The Wire (2002)
Carlito/MovieStillsDBThe Wire was a transcendent program in more ways than one. Created by David Simon, the show itself was the result of a real-life police reporter and a homicide detective getting together to craft multiple narratives based upon their experiences in the unforgiving city of Baltimore. Each of the show’s five seasons highlighted a different issue within the city’s limits — including failing school systems, political corruption, and the drug trade. Somehow, the show never won an Emmy and only received two nominations. Regardless, the show will stand the test of time due to its storytelling and performances by the likes of Dominic West, Lance Reddick, Wendell Pierce, Domenick Lombardozzi, Idris Elba, and the late Michael K. Williams.
6. Better Call Saul (2015)
Yaut/MovieStillsDBBreaking Bad was incredible, so when a prequel was announced, fans were rightfully hesitant. But Better Call Saul, also created by Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould, has nailed it. The show follows the transformation of Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer struggling to make ends meet, into the morally compromised and flamboyant criminal lawyer Saul Goodman. Bob Odenkirk stars as Jimmy McGill/Saul Goodman, delivering a nuanced and captivating performance that showcases the character’s evolution over time.
The series also features standout performances from Jonathan Banks as Mike Ehrmantraut, Rhea Seehorn as Kim Wexler, and Giancarlo Esposito as Gus Fring, among others. Better Call Saul offers a deeper exploration of the Breaking Bad universe and sheds light on the origins of some of its most iconic characters. The series has received widespread critical acclaim, winning several accolades, including Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series for Bob Odenkirk. Better Call Saul is the prequel fans deserved.
5. Stranger Things (2016)
Rami545/MovieStillsDBBy the time Stranger Things‘ story comes to an end, the show may rank a lot higher on this list. Created by the Duffer Brothers for streaming giant Netflix, Stranger Things is a story about friendship, destruction, and horror. Set in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, the series follows a group of friends — Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown), Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin, Caleb, Will, Max, Nancy, Steve, Jonathan, Jim and Joyce (Winona Ryder) — as they deal with a supernatural nightmare. Watching the group try to best a Demogorgon will never get old.
4. The Office (2005)
Paul Drinkwater/NBCU Photo Bank/NBCUniversal via Getty ImagesBased on the British version of the same show, Ricky Gervais brought his highly inventive mockumentary concept across the pond to the States. As fate would have it, The Office quickly turned into a juggernaut of a show — particularly on streaming services in the aftermath of its original run from 2005-2013. The eclectic personalities in this ensemble cast work brilliantly with one another. Steve Carell, John Krasinski, Jenna Fischer, Rainn Wilson, Brian Baumgartner, and Leslie David Baker — to name a few — helped form a legendary show.
3. The Sopranos (1999)
Anthony Neste/Getty ImagesIn our opinion, there may not be any shows that are better than The Sopranos. Creator David Chase should be thanked on a regular basis for bringing us this masterpiece. Revolving around Tony Soprano (the late James Gandolfini), the series dives into the difficulties Soprano faces while trying to balance his life at home with his responsibilities as a high-ranking mob boss. The fantastic writing and production is topped only by the stellar cast.
In addition to Gandolfini’s epic performance, the show was boosted by the likes of Edie Falco (Carmela Soprano), Lorraine Bracco (Dr. Melfi), Michael Imperioli (Christopher), Steven Van Zandt (Silvio), Tony Sirico (Paulie ‘Walnuts’) and Dominic Chianese (Junior Soprano). Gandolfini and Falco won three Emmys for Best Actor and Best Actress, respectively — and the show won 21 overall.
2. Game of Thrones (2011)
Yaut/MovieStillsDBThere’s no other way to put it: Game of Thrones was a global phenomenon during its 73-episode run (over the span of eight seasons). Based on the novels penned by George R.R. Martin, this series was arguably the biggest thing to happen to the realm of fantasy since the Harry Potter series (and before that, anything written/evolving from J.R.R. Tolkien content). The depth of this series was virtually unlike any before it — not to mention the stunning visuals, thrilling storylines, and the ‘shock value’ it brought. In the social media age, this show was debated at a level unlike anything else. Over eight seasons, Game of Thrones won a whopping 59 Emmy Awards. As a result of its success, a handful of spinoff series are on the way. First up, House of the Dragon (which debuted in 2022).
1. Breaking Bad (2008)
GLOWWORM/MovieStillsDBWhat could possibly go wrong when a cancer-stricken high school science teacher (Bryan Cranston) decides to start cooking crystal meth? Everything. A husband and father, Walter White turns to cooking meth in order to make some extra cash before cancer takes him away from his family. However, WW’s desire to make some money turns into an addiction when he comes to understand the power that comes with his success in the business. With his DEA Agent brother-in-law trying to dismantle the meth ring, WW’s actions become even more precarious. Aaron Paul, Giancarlo Esposito and Bob Odenkirk are outstanding in their roles, as well. This is a show that will keep you on the edge of your seat from Episode 1 until the closing shot of the series. Endings are hard, but this incredible series was mapped out and perfect from start to finish.
