A lifetime of favorite TV series
by lunaticprophet | created - 26 Jun 2011 | updated - 20 Oct 2018 | PublicMy favorite television series of the past 40+ yrs. Will eventually try to rank them, but for now it's just a list.
There are many omissions that may seem odd: Cosby Show, 24, Miami Vice, Prison Break, Murphy Brown, Ally McBeal, Arli$$, The Larry Sanders Show, All in the Family, M*A*S*H, etc.. This would be because I didn't (or sporadically) watch many of the these series (especially those from the 80s).
They either didn't appeal to me or conflicted with my schedule.
Lastly, I'd just like to comment on the fact that 4 of my top 10 and 6 of the top 12 are all PBS' series (currently, or once aired there).
This is the greatness of PBS' programming:
It is one thing to be greatly entertained, it is another to be greatly entertained AND to expand your knowledge!
That... is the most important and fulfilling entertainment of all.
UPDATE:
In the years since I started this list I've noticed a pattern of series starting off well and ending badly, sometimes VERY badly. Of course I'd noticed this before, but never realized just how prevalent it was.
Writers get bored, complacent... they get fired or leave... they lose interest in the story or just run out of ideas... for whatever reason most series usually begin to suffer from bad writing the longer they go on. I expect that... but I don't expect series to FALL INTO THE FREAKIN' ABYSS OF ABJECT RIDICUOSITY (yea, I made that word up)... but this happens more and more.. ahem... "Big Love", "Entourage", "Mad Men", "Dexter"
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1. The Wire (2002–2008)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
The Baltimore drug scene, as seen through the eyes of drug dealers and law enforcement.
Stars: Dominic West, Lance Reddick, Sonja Sohn, Wendell Pierce
Votes: 377,777
Simply the best drama ever produced for television. I've watched the entire series twice and will be watching it again in the near future.
2. Breaking Bad (2008–2013)
TV-MA | 45 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
A chemistry teacher diagnosed with inoperable lung cancer turns to manufacturing and selling methamphetamine with a former student in order to secure his family's future.
Stars: Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn, Betsy Brandt
Votes: 2,138,106
This series has evolved beautifully over the years... taking the main characters into ever deeper and deeper waters. Great acting and writing. Brilliant series!
3. Game of Thrones (2011–2019)
TV-MA | 60 min | Action, Adventure, Drama
Nine noble families fight for control over the lands of Westeros, while an ancient enemy returns after being dormant for millennia.
Stars: Emilia Clarke, Peter Dinklage, Kit Harington, Lena Headey
Votes: 2,285,969
Very good freshman season.. want to see which direction this story will go. This could end up being an excellent series or it could go straight into the crapper... the writers are walking a fine line, hope they get it right.
[update 2018: one of the top 5 dramas of all time... just a superb series!]
4. Band of Brothers (2001)
TV-MA | 59 min | Drama, History, War
The story of Easy Company of the U.S. Army 101st Airborne Division and their mission in World War II Europe, from Operation Overlord to V-J Day.
Stars: Scott Grimes, Damian Lewis, Ron Livingston, Shane Taylor
Votes: 527,652
This mini-series is second only to "Roots" (a very distant second) in the history of television. Brilliant!
5. Frontline (1983– )
TV-MA | 60 min | Documentary, News
FRONTLINE is investigative journalism that questions, explains and changes our world and American television's top long-form news and current affairs series since 1983
Stars: Will Lyman, Sarah Childress, Priyanka Boghani, Arun Rath
Votes: 2,298
The best investigative news series.... ever!
6. Deadwood (2004–2006)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama, History
A show set in the late 1800s, revolving around the characters of Deadwood, South Dakota; a town of deep corruption and crime.
Stars: Timothy Olyphant, Ian McShane, Molly Parker, Brad Dourif
Votes: 117,700
For such a short run (two seasons) this series has some of the most memorable acting and writing that any drama fan could hope for. A maddening shame that it wasn't allowed to finish its run and become one of finest series in television history.
7. American Masters (1985– )
TV-14 | 90 min | Documentary, Biography, History
Documentary series focusing on great American artists and personalities.
Stars: Martin Scorsese, Peter Bogdanovich, Tony Bennett, Dick Cavett
Votes: 1,171
The greatest artists in American history: from music to literature, painting to photography, architecture to film & stage. Incredibly interesting.
8. American Experience (1987– )
TV-PG | 120 min | Documentary, Biography, History
A series showcasing documentaries on American history.
Stars: David McCullough, David Ogden Stiers, Michael Murphy, Oliver Platt
Votes: 2,205
American History in serial form. Always interesting and informative! This is THE definitive collection of historical documentaries... too bad more television isn't this smart and educational.
9. Nova (1974– )
TV-PG | 60 min | Documentary
Science documentaries about various topics.
Stars: Jay O. Sanders, Craig Sechler, Stacy Keach, Eric Meyers
Votes: 3,098
I've been watching this show for so long, it didn't even occur to me to add it to this list... it's more like a friend than a television show.
Can't begin to describe all the things I've learned from watching NOVA... it is truly a series that, honestly, has changed my life.
This is just one example of why PBS is the most important and the ONLY necessary television network.
10. Roots (1977)
TV-14 | 74 min | Biography, Drama, History
A dramatization of author Alex Haley's family line from ancestor Kunta Kinte's enslavement to his descendants' liberation.
Stars: LeVar Burton, Robert Reed, John Amos, Louis Gossett Jr.
Votes: 18,886
Best mini-series ever aired on television. This was mind-bogglingly powerful when it aired in the 1970s.
11. Westworld (2016–2022)
TV-MA | 60 min | Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi
At the intersection of the near future and the reimagined past, waits a world in which every human appetite can be indulged without consequence.
Stars: Evan Rachel Wood, Jeffrey Wright, Ed Harris, Thandiwe Newton
Votes: 533,126
I never thought this series would be as good as it is. It is really one of the best series airing today and maybe one of the top 20 series of all time if it continues on it's present path (currently airing 3rd season as of this writing)
12. Vikings (2013–2020)
TV-MA | 45 min | Action, Adventure, Drama
Vikings transports us to the brutal and mysterious world of Ragnar Lothbrok, a Viking warrior and farmer who yearns to explore--and raid--the distant shores across the ocean.
Stars: Katheryn Winnick, Gustaf Skarsgård, Alexander Ludwig, Georgia Hirst
Votes: 583,255
One of my all time faves!
13. Connections (1978)
50 min | Documentary, History
Follow James Burke through the history of science and technology in this collection of 10 1-hour episodes, starting with "The Trigger Effect."
Stars: James Burke, Kenneth Kendall, Bruce Boa, Mark Wing-Davey
Votes: 1,434
Watch It! Feel your mind... your understanding, grow by leaps and bounds! You are now a smarter person than you were before... Guaranteed!
This is the power of James Burke!
(so much information.. you'll have to watch it multiple times to take it all in and spend years of your lifetime contemplating it to truly appreciate the meaning of it all.)
14. The Day the Universe Changed (1985)
52 min | Documentary, History
James Burke explores key moments in Western History where new knowledge in science changed the way the modern Western world thinks.
Stars: James Burke, Roger Avon, Peter Sproule, Jeff Pirie
Votes: 623
AS WITH James Burke's "CONNECTIONS":
Watch It! Feel your mind... your understanding, grow by leaps and bounds! You are now a smarter person than you were before... Guaranteed!
This is the power of James Burke!
(so much information.. you'll have to watch it multiple times to take it all in and spend years of your lifetime contemplating it to truly appreciate the meaning of it all.)
15. Chappelle's Show (2003–2006)
TV-MA | 22 min | Comedy, Music
Comedian Dave Chappelle hosts this sketch-comedy show that parodies many of the nuances of race and culture.
Stars: Dave Chappelle, Donnell Rawlings, Rudy Rush, Charlie Murphy
Votes: 71,810
Brilliantly Funny! Funniest sketch comedy series of the past 20 yrs. In the rarefied league with "Monty Python", "Kids in the Hall" and "The Carol Burnett Show"..... and the first 2-3 seasons of SNL.
16. The Deuce (2017–2019)
TV-MA | 1,583 min | Drama
A look at life in New York City during the 1970s and '80s, when porn and prostitution were rampant in Manhattan.
Stars: James Franco, Maggie Gyllenhaal, Lawrence Gilliard Jr., Margarita Levieva
Votes: 31,953
A great first season. If it continues to be this good.. it will be a great series.
17. The Fall (I) (2013–2016)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
A seemingly cold but very passionate policewoman goes head to head with a seemingly passionate father who is in fact a cold serial killer in this procedural out of Belfast. The only thing they share is their common complexity.
Stars: Gillian Anderson, Jamie Dornan, John Lynch, Aisling Franciosi
Votes: 119,711
I'm impressed! Freshman season was very good.. can't wait to see where this goes!
update 2018: was really a great series.. one of the best detective series I've ever seen.
18. Taboo (2017)
TV-MA | 60 min | Drama, Mystery, Thriller
Adventurer James Keziah Delaney returns to London during the War of 1812 to rebuild his late father's shipping empire. However, both the government and his biggest competitor want his inheritance at any cost--even murder.
Stars: Tom Hardy, David Hayman, Jonathan Pryce, Oona Chaplin
Votes: 149,103
Truly enjoyed the first season... waiting too long for the second! Can't wait to see what happens next!
19. The Bridge (2011–2018)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Mystery, Thriller
When a body is found on the bridge between Denmark and Sweden, right on the border, Danish inspector Martin Rohde and Swedish Saga Norén have to share jurisdiction and work together to find the killer.
Stars: Sofia Helin, Rafael Pettersson, Sarah Boberg, Candice van Litsenborgh
Votes: 76,848
A wonderful season! Well written and acted.
The new (2013) American version is crapoyla... THIS is the one to watch!
FYI, it's Swedish w/ subtitles.
20. True Detective (2014– )
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
Anthology series in which police investigations unearth the personal and professional secrets of those involved, both within and outside the law.
Stars: Vince Vaughn, Colin Farrell, Rachel McAdams, Taylor Kitsch
Votes: 656,894
This deserves to be on this list based on the first season alone.. if every subsequent season turns out terrible. This series will always have the first season as a "must see" classic!
21. The Tunnel (2013–2018)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
A prominent French politician is found dead on the border between the U.K. and France, and two agents must work together on behalf of their respective countries to find the murderer.
Stars: Stephen Dillane, Clémence Poésy, Cédric Vieira, Angel Coulby
Votes: 10,664
Of all the adaptions of "Bron | Broen" ("The Bridge") this is the only one that rivals the original. A great series in it's own right.
22. Hill Street Blues (1981–1987)
TV-14 | 60 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
The lives and work of the staff of an inner city police precinct.
Stars: Daniel J. Travanti, Michael Warren, Bruce Weitz, James Sikking
Votes: 10,572
This is one of those evolutionary series. Until "Hill Street Blues", dramas on tv just didn't deal much with in-depth character development. This police drama put the crimes in secondary position behind the character's lives and personal reactions. Brilliant for its time.
23. Oz (1997–2003)
TV-MA | 55 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
A series chronicling the daily activities of an unusual prison facility and its criminal inhabitants.
Stars: Ernie Hudson, J.K. Simmons, Lee Tergesen, Dean Winters
Votes: 106,716
Disturbing drama of life in prison. Great acting, writing and plot lines. This series marked an evolutionary step forward in television writing. Don't think you could have had the "Sopranos", "The Wire", "Breaking Bad", nor "Dexter" until this series broke the ice.
24. Boardwalk Empire (2010–2014)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama
An Atlantic City politician plays both sides of the law by conspiring with gangsters during the Prohibition era.
Stars: Steve Buscemi, Kelly Macdonald, Michael Shannon, Shea Whigham
Votes: 203,210
This has been a very good series from the start. Have loved the period story and set/costume designs. Hoping season two will be even better than the season one.
25. Rome (2005–2007)
TV-MA | 60 min | Action, Drama, Romance
A down-to-earth account of the lives of both illustrious and ordinary Romans set in the last days of the Roman Republic.
Stars: Kevin McKidd, Ray Stevenson, Polly Walker, Kerry Condon
Votes: 185,462
In the same vein as "Deadwood"... a great series that ended its run much too soon.
26. Ray Donovan (2013–2020)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama
Ray Donovan, a professional "fixer" for the rich and famous in Los Angeles, can make anyone's problems disappear except those created by his own family.
Stars: Liev Schreiber, Eddie Marsan, Dash Mihok, Pooch Hall
Votes: 93,569
Very good freshman season.. Jon Voight gives a helluva performance! An enjoyable ride, hope that it only gets better.
27. Mr. Robot (2015–2019)
TV-MA | 45 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
Elliot, a brilliant but unstable cyber-security engineer and vigilante hacker, becomes a key figure in a complex game of global chaos when he and his shadowy allies try to take down the corrupt corporation his company is paid to protect.
Stars: Rami Malek, Christian Slater, Carly Chaikin, Martin Wallström
Votes: 418,467
I really enjoy this series but from year to year I'm never sure how good each season will be. I don't know if it's inconsistency or my perception of what it should be...
28. Southland (2009–2013)
TV-MA | 42 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
The lives of Police Officers working for the Los Angeles Police Department.
Stars: Michael Cudlitz, Shawn Hatosy, Regina King, Ben McKenzie
Votes: 29,121
A rare gem in today's programming. It was canceled by NBC and found new life on cable. Powerful stories, great acting. Like the best police dramas... the focus is on the characters, not the crimes... and the characters are incredibly well written.
29. In Treatment (2008–2021)
TV-MA | 25 min | Drama
A psychotherapist questions his abilities and gets help by reuniting with his old therapist, whom he has not seen for ten years.
Stars: Gabriel Byrne, Uzo Aduba, Dianne Wiest, Michelle Forbes
Votes: 18,285
This was a brilliantly written series, acted beautifully.. and sometimes superbly! Sooo sad to this canceled!
30. The Killing (2011–2014)
TV-14 | 45 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
A police investigation, the saga of a grieving family, and a Seattle mayoral campaign all interlock after the body of 17-year-old Rosie Larsen is found in the trunk of a submerged car.
Stars: Mireille Enos, Joel Kinnaman, Billy Campbell, Liam James
Votes: 123,454
Beautifully done freshman season.. intense, nice twists keep you off balance. Hope they can continue on as well as first season.
31. Spartacus (2010–2013)
TV-MA | 60 min | Action, Adventure, Biography
The life of Spartacus, the gladiator who lead a rebellion against the Romans. From his time as an ally of the Romans, to his betrayal and becoming a gladiator, to the rebellion he leads and its ultimate outcome.
Stars: Andy Whitfield, Lucy Lawless, Manu Bennett, Daniel Feuerriegel
Votes: 257,117
Didn't think this series could live up to the hype... but it did! Great fun! Too bad that Andy Whitfield (Spartacus) developed cancer and had to be replaced. Not sure if series can ever recover from losing its star and taking a two year hiatus after just a single season. Fortunately, the prequel "Gods of the Arena" has helped ease the longing for more "Spartacus".
32. Hannibal (2013–2015)
TV-MA | 45 min | Crime, Drama, Horror
Explores the early relationship between renowned psychiatrist Hannibal Lecter and a young FBI criminal profiler who is haunted by his ability to empathize with serial killers.
Stars: Hugh Dancy, Mads Mikkelsen, Caroline Dhavernas, Laurence Fishburne
Votes: 276,748
I've enjoyed this series since the beginning.. well written, very well acted, beautifully shot. Mads Mikkelsen, Gillian Anderson, Hugh Dancy and Laurence Fishburne have all done an excellent job and the writers/creator deserve a big hand for creating such a wonderfully horrific portrait.
<s>They finally got rid of the overplayed "this is my design" line and that was a good idea.</s> And they kept the character mannerisms that are so identified with the movies (e.g. Gary Oldman's "Mason Verger" is recreated almost syllable by syllable by the series' Joe Anderson.. which was a smart idea as Oldman portrayal was incredibly memorable!)
I like how they've combined elements from all the books and created a storyline that is both quite familiar and yet new.
Unfortunately, it has not done well in the ratings and I think 2015 will probably be its last season
33. Homicide: Life on the Street (1993–1999)
TV-14 | 60 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
An American police procedural television series chronicling the work of a fictional version of the Baltimore Police Department's Homicide Unit.
Stars: Richard Belzer, Clark Johnson, Yaphet Kotto, Kyle Secor
Votes: 14,194
This series picked up where "Hill Street Blues" left off. Delving even more into the personal lives and motivations of its characters in a more serious tone than "Hill Street Blues".
34. The Sopranos (1999–2007)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama
New Jersey mob boss Tony Soprano deals with personal and professional issues in his home and business life that affect his mental state, leading him to seek professional psychiatric counseling.
Stars: James Gandolfini, Lorraine Bracco, Edie Falco, Michael Imperioli
Votes: 471,764
Following on the heals of "Oz", "The Sopranos" offered us a serial version of "Goodfellas". The first few seasons were great, but the series did not age well, IMO. Nonetheless, it was a fun and entertaining series and a good follow up to "Oz" and gateway to "The Wire", "Dexter", and "Breaking Bad".
35. Frasier (1993–2004)
TV-PG | 22 min | Comedy
Dr. Frasier Crane moves back to his hometown of Seattle, where he lives with his father and works as a radio psychiatrist.
Stars: Kelsey Grammer, Jane Leeves, David Hyde Pierce, Peri Gilpin
Votes: 95,513
Funny, funny, funny... Probably the best "spin-off" series in television history. Hell, it might actually be better than its parent, "Cheers".
36. Battlestar Galactica (2004–2009)
TV-14 | 45 min | Action, Adventure, Drama
When an old enemy, the Cylons, resurface and obliterate the 12 colonies, the crew of the aged Galactica protect a small civilian fleet - the last of humanity - as they journey toward the fabled 13th colony, Earth.
Stars: Edward James Olmos, Mary McDonnell, Jamie Bamber, James Callis
Votes: 175,643
Talk about a series starting off with a bang! The first few episodes of this great sci-fi series just blew me away and I was hooked! I ignored this series until it was about to air its final few episodes. Only watched because I kept seeing it at the top of so many "best of.." lists. Was able to watch the entire series in a few weeks and enjoyed it greatly. The final couple of seasons weren't as good as the first few, but it was a very satisfying series.
37. Penny Dreadful (2014–2016)
TV-MA | 60 min | Drama, Fantasy, Horror
Explorer Sir Malcolm Murray, American gunslinger Ethan Chandler, scientist Victor Frankenstein and medium Vanessa Ives unite to combat supernatural threats in Victorian London.
Stars: Josh Hartnett, Timothy Dalton, Eva Green, Reeve Carney
Votes: 131,117
It's rare that a horror tv series is really good. Penny Dreadful is that rare beast.
Very well done -- well written, acted, directed.... great sets and costumes. I can't wait for each eps and hate when it's on hiatus.
Much better than TrueBlood and American Horror Story!
38. It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia (2005– )
TV-MA | 22 min | Comedy
Five friends with big egos and small brains are the proprietors of an Irish pub in Philadelphia.
Stars: Charlie Day, Glenn Howerton, Rob McElhenney, Kaitlin Olson
Votes: 251,996
Silly, irreverent and ridiculously funny. LOL funny!
39. House of Cards (2013–2018)
TV-MA | 50 min | Drama
A Congressman works with his equally conniving wife to exact revenge on the people who betrayed him.
Stars: Kevin Spacey, Michel Gill, Robin Wright, Kate Mara
Votes: 531,045
If you're a fan of political drama and love well acted and written drama.. If you appreciate the sheer brilliance of Kevin Spacey in a role he can sink his teeth into... then THIS is the series for you!
First season was great! Can't wait to see more!
40. The Kids in the Hall (1988–2021)
TV-14 | 25 min | Comedy
The TV series of the Canadian sketch comedy troupe that, more often than not, puts bizarre, unique, and insane twists in their skits.
Stars: David Foley, Bruce McCulloch, Kevin McDonald, Mark McKinney
Votes: 11,096
After the (comedic) demise of SNL in the 80s.. here came some kids from Canada to show them how it should be done! How SNL has managed to stay on the air all these years is beyond me... every decade it has a couple of years of good stuff and a whole lot of unfunny junk.
41. The Office (2001–2003)
TV-MA | 30 min | Comedy, Drama
The story of an office that faces closure when the company decides to downsize its branches. A documentary film crew follow staff and the manager David Brent as they continue their daily lives.
Stars: Ricky Gervais, Martin Freeman, Mackenzie Crook, Lucy Davis
Votes: 123,190
This was initially a difficult series for me to like and I couldn't quite figure out why... it was funny, with very good actors, writing and characters. Then it hit me... I didn't like the lead character and that was the creators' plan! I had never watched a series in which I didn't like the main character and that was (along with the writing) the brilliance of it.
42. Seinfeld (1989–1998)
TV-PG | 22 min | Comedy
The continuing misadventures of neurotic New York City stand-up comedian Jerry Seinfeld and his equally neurotic New York City friends.
Stars: Jerry Seinfeld, Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Michael Richards, Jason Alexander
Votes: 351,713
One of, if not, the best comedy series to ever air. Definitely, one of Top 5 comedies.
43. St. Elsewhere (1982–1988)
TV-PG | 60 min | Comedy, Drama
The lives and work of the staff of St. Eligius Hospital, an old and disrespected Boston teaching hospital.
Stars: Ed Begley Jr., Howie Mandel, David Morse, Christina Pickles
Votes: 5,216
"St. Elsewhere" did for the medical drama what "Hill Street Blues" did for the police drama.... it made all that came before it moot... irrelevant.
44. Homeland (2011–2020)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
A bipolar CIA operative becomes convinced a prisoner of war has been turned by al-Qaeda and is planning to carry out a terrorist attack on American soil.
Stars: Claire Danes, Mandy Patinkin, Damian Lewis, Rupert Friend
Votes: 361,035
A truly GREAT first season... dropped down to a very good 2nd season... still falling as the 3rd season ended.
Claire Dane's performance was a true highlight in the first two seasons.. but she's become more annoying/unbelievable as the series has progressed. You could make a drinking game out of how many times her character will breakdown and cry during an eps. :)
Was once one of the best shows on TV.. now more of a 'guilty pleasure' than 'must see TV'. Having said that.. it should be watched at least for the first season (and maybe the second).
45. Barney Miller (1975–1982)
TV-PG | 30 min | Comedy, Drama
The Captain of the NYPD 12th Precinct and his staff handle the various local troubles and characters that come into the squad room.
Stars: Hal Linden, Abe Vigoda, Max Gail, Steve Landesberg
Votes: 7,378
Witty, wry, and laugh out loud funny at times. For its time... one of the best comedies.
46. The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970–1977)
TV-PG | 30 min | Comedy
The lives and trials of a young single woman and her friends, both at work and at home.
Stars: Mary Tyler Moore, Edward Asner, Gavin MacLeod, Valerie Harper
Votes: 10,177
Truly classic television. Probably one of the top five comedies of all-time. A comedic cast second to none!
47. The Carol Burnett Show (1967–1978)
TV-G | 60 min | Comedy, Family
Television show featuring skits by Carol Burnett and her comedy troupe.
Stars: Carol Burnett, Vicki Lawrence, The Ernie Flatt Dancers, Harvey Korman
Votes: 7,305
If you don't laugh until your sides hurt at this classic series, then you are, literally, dead.
48. Sex and the City (1998–2004)
TV-MA | 30 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
Four female New Yorkers gossip about their sex lives (or lack thereof) and find new ways to deal with being a woman in the late 1990s.
Stars: Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis, Cynthia Nixon
Votes: 143,040
Another guilty pleasure that I indulged in for many years. Can't really put my finger on just why I liked this series so much... sometimes LOL funny, sometimes not; beautiful styled but sometimes annoying....but I did enjoy it much.
49. Kolchak: The Night Stalker (1974–1975)
TV-PG | 51 min | Horror, Mystery, Thriller
Carl Kolchak is a reporter for a Chicago newspaper. Through more accident than design he ends up investigating homicides, many of which involve supernatural forces. Ultimately, rather than reporting on the crimes, he solves them.
Stars: Darren McGavin, Simon Oakland, Jack Grinnage, Ruth McDevitt
Votes: 6,246
How I loved this series in the 70s!!
50. Dave Allen at Large (1971–1979)
30 min | Comedy
Comedy show by Irish comedian
Stars: Dave Allen, Michael Sharvell-Martin, Jacqueline Clarke, Ronnie Brody
Votes: 397
This is one of best British comedy shows to ever hit American shores. Too bad it's been tied up in legal shenanigans for decades and hasn't been released on DVD. IF it's ever released, I'll grab it up with a quickness!
51. The Walking Dead (2010–2022)
TV-MA | 45 min | Drama, Horror, Thriller
Sheriff Deputy Rick Grimes wakes up from a coma to learn the world is in ruins and must lead a group of survivors to stay alive.
Stars: Andrew Lincoln, Norman Reedus, Melissa McBride, Lauren Cohan
Votes: 1,082,679
The freshman season was tense and well done. Can't wait to see if it can live up to that in the forthcoming seasons.
Was a fave of mine until the Negan cliff-hanger.. never watched it again after that.
52. Fringe (2008–2013)
TV-14 | 46 min | Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi
An F.B.I. agent is forced to work with an institutionalized scientist and his son in order to rationalize a brewing storm of unexplained phenomena.
Stars: Anna Torv, Joshua Jackson, John Noble, Jasika Nicole
Votes: 257,567
Excellent sci-fi series. Good stories and plot line. Always interesting for sci-fi fans.
53. Boss (2011–2012)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama
Mayor Tom Kane, diagnosed with a dementia disorder, struggles to keep his grip on power in Chicago.
Stars: Kelsey Grammer, Connie Nielsen, Hannah Ware, Jeff Hephner
Votes: 18,361
I don't really like adding freshman series to a list like this.. but there are a few that are so well done that they deserve to be on the list even if this is their only season.
After seeing the first eps of "Boss", I knew this would be a very good series. And it has more than lived up to that prediction. It has gotten better and better each eps and as the first season winds down, IMO, this series is producing the best dialog currently airing.
Kelsey Grammar is creating an unforgettable portrait and I expect him to vie with Bryan Cranston ("Breaking Bad") for the next Emmy (Lead Actor in a Drama).
Probably my fave new series of 2011 and that's impressive considering the many excellent series that have debuted this year: "The Killing", "Game of Thrones", "Homeland", "American Horror Story".
54. The Tudors (2007–2010)
TV-MA | 60 min | Drama, History, Romance
A dramatic series about the reign and marriages of King Henry VIII.
Stars: Jonathan Rhys Meyers, Henry Cavill, Anthony Brophy, James Frain
Votes: 81,238
Great acting, writing, set design, costumes and a story line that would be hard to swallow if it weren't true. Henry the VIII was... unbelievable.
55. Alfred Hitchcock Presents (1955–1962)
TV-14 | 25 min | Drama, Mystery
Series of unrelated short stories covering elements of crime, horror, drama, and comedy about people of different backgrounds committing murders, suicides, thefts, and other sorts of crime caused by certain motivations, perceived or not.
Stars: Alfred Hitchcock, Harry Tyler, John Williams, Patricia Hitchcock
Votes: 19,336
This and "Twilight Zone" were probably the best series that ever aired on tv in their era.
56. Six Feet Under (2001–2005)
TV-MA | 60 min | Comedy, Drama
A chronicle of the lives of a dysfunctional family who run an independent funeral home in Los Angeles.
Stars: Peter Krause, Michael C. Hall, Frances Conroy, Lauren Ambrose
Votes: 149,497
Quirky, innovative with fun and sometimes meaningful insights. The series finale was probably the best series finale for any series, ever.
57. Treme (2010–2013)
TV-MA | 55 min | Drama, Music
Life after Hurricane Katrina as the residents of New Orleans try to rebuild their lives, their homes, and their unique culture in the aftermath of one of the worst natural disasters in the USA.
Stars: Khandi Alexander, Rob Brown, Kim Dickens, Melissa Leo
Votes: 15,907
A well done series but definitely not for everyone. A completely character driven series. Exciting things rarely happen and when they do, all focus is placed clearly on the characters reactions.
58. 30 Rock (2006–2013)
TV-14 | 22 min | Comedy
Liz Lemon, head writer of the sketch-comedy show "TGS with Tracy Jordan", must deal with an arrogant new boss and a crazy new star while trying to run a successful television show without losing her mind.
Stars: Tina Fey, Alec Baldwin, Tracy Morgan, Jack McBrayer
Votes: 132,018
This was the best comedy series currently airing until "Modern Family" gave it a run for its money.
59. Californication (2007–2014)
TV-MA | 30 min | Comedy, Drama
A writer tries to juggle his career, his relationship with his daughter and his ex-girlfriend, as well as his appetite for beautiful women.
Stars: David Duchovny, Natascha McElhone, Evan Handler, Pamela Adlon
Votes: 188,457
Decadent and funny... a guilty pleasure.
60. Shameless (2011–2021)
TV-MA | 60 min | Comedy, Drama
A scrappy, feisty, fiercely loyal Chicago family makes no apologies.
Stars: Emmy Rossum, William H. Macy, Ethan Cutkosky, Jeremy Allen White
Votes: 285,663
When this series first aired in 2011 it was my intention to watch it but after seeing the previews I lost interest. I've always liked Macy in dark roles ("Fargo", "Boogie Nights") but falling-down drunk alcoholic father just didn't appeal to me.
This series fell completely off my radar until the third season ended. I decided to watch a few eps just to test the waters. After the 4 or 5th eps, I was hooked. Took a couple of weeks of watching 2-3 eps a night to catch up on the three seasons and what a great ride it was.
I must say though, that the final eps of season 3 felt more like a series finale than a season finale. In fact, this eps or something similar should have been saved for a series finale instead of a season ender... after watching the final two eps of season 3, I can't imagine that they can ever come up with a better series finale... a better ending to this story line.
I kinda wish that it won't return... those final eps offered the best ending I could hope for.
61. Damages (2007–2012)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
A law school graduate becomes the protégée of a successful high-stakes litigator.
Stars: Glenn Close, Rose Byrne, Tate Donovan, Zachary Booth
Votes: 31,609
Glenn Close is practically perfect in this role. Her acting alone is enough to make this a great series, but the plot lines and story arcs are very well done. Lots of twists and turns that will catch you off-guard.
62. James at 16 (1977–1978)
60 min | Drama
James, a daydreamer and photographer, must learn to cope with life as his father moves the family from Oregon to Boston, Massachusetts.
Stars: Lance Kerwin, Linden Chiles, Lynn Carlin, Kim Richards
Votes: 523
A "coming of age" series that aired as I was coming of age. The first series I'd ever seen that looked at the issues of teens growing up with more of a realistic eye. This just wasn't done on tv previously. I'll always remember this series because of that.
63. Modern Family (2009–2020)
TV-PG | 22 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
Three different, but related, families face trials and tribulations in their own uniquely comedic ways.
Stars: Ed O'Neill, Sofía Vergara, Julie Bowen, Ty Burrell
Votes: 483,908
Vies with "30 Rock" for best comedy currently airing on television.
64. The Bob Newhart Show (1972–1978)
TV-G | 30 min | Comedy
The professional and personal misadventures of a psychologist and his family, patients, friends and colleagues.
Stars: Bob Newhart, Suzanne Pleshette, Bill Daily, Marcia Wallace
Votes: 6,737
65. Married... with Children (1987–1997)
TV-PG | 22 min | Comedy
Al is the quintessential working class dad. Peggy, his wife, always wants more from him. With their children, they go through the highs and lows of ordinary life.
Stars: Ed O'Neill, Christina Applegate, Katey Sagal, Amanda Bearse
Votes: 111,151
One of the silliest, funniest series of all time. The Bundy's will forever live on as one of the most infamous families in television history.
66. Star Trek: The Next Generation (1987–1994)
TV-PG | 45 min | Action, Adventure, Drama
Set almost 100 years after Captain Kirk's 5-year mission, a new generation of Starfleet officers sets off in the U.S.S. Enterprise-D on its own mission to go where no one has gone before.
Stars: Patrick Stewart, Brent Spiner, Jonathan Frakes, LeVar Burton
Votes: 136,145
A surprisingly good series with some truly great stories/episodes. The "Borg" storyline, in itself, is one of the greatest sci-fi storylines ever.
67. Soap (1977–1981)
TV-14 | 30 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
The soap-operish antics of two families: the Campbells and the Tates.
Stars: Katherine Helmond, Rod Roddy, Richard Mulligan, Cathryn Damon
Votes: 8,284
This series seems quaint by today's standards... but for those who remember its premier and the hoopla that surrounded it, know that this series was a big deal in its day. The first openly gay character on tv was only one of the taboo issues (at that time) this comedy touched on.
68. Monty Python's Flying Circus (1969–1974)
TV-14 | 30 min | Comedy
The original surreal sketch comedy showcase for the Monty Python troupe.
Stars: Graham Chapman, John Cleese, Terry Gilliam, Eric Idle
Votes: 78,817
"When I was a little boy... a fairy prince appeared to me and told me I would be both, King and Pope! But I, I'm just a bastard..."
My cousin, my brother and I first heard this line 36+ yrs ago and I still remember it to this day. We laughed so hard, for so long, we were in tears. There was a "Monty Python" marathon on that night.. the night before our huge, annual family reunion. We stayed up all night watching "Python" and were so sore, from laughing, that we were useless the next day.
The POWER of PYTHON! A C L A S S I C SERIES!
69. 60 Minutes (1968– )
TV-PG | 60 min | Documentary, News
The classic long-running prime time TV investigative news magazine.
Stars: Andrew Rooney, Lesley Stahl, Steve Kroft, Morley Safer
Votes: 4,342
A once great series... still pretty good, but nowhere near as good as it was in the 70s-80s.
70. Taxi (1978–1983)
TV-PG | 30 min | Comedy
The staff of a New York City taxicab company go about their job while they dream of greater things.
Stars: Judd Hirsch, Jeff Conaway, Danny DeVito, Marilu Henner
Votes: 15,844
71. Cheers (1982–1993)
TV-PG | 22 min | Comedy, Drama
The regulars of the Boston bar "Cheers" share their experiences and lives with each other while drinking or working at the bar where everybody knows your name.
Stars: Ted Danson, Rhea Perlman, John Ratzenberger, George Wendt
Votes: 62,085
72. Boston Legal (2004–2008)
TV-14 | 44 min | Comedy, Crime, Drama
Boston Legal is a spin-off of the long-running David E. Kelley series The Practice (1997), following the exploits of former Practice character Alan Shore (James Spader) at the legal firm of Crane, Poole, and Schmidt.
Stars: James Spader, William Shatner, Candice Bergen, Rene Auberjonois
Votes: 50,033
Not a GREAT series, but still a very good series that I enjoyed greatly. Incredible chemistry between Spader & Shatner. It ended up being better than the series that spawned it: "The Practice"
73. The Twilight Zone (1959–1964)
TV-PG | 51 min | Drama, Fantasy, Horror
Ordinary people find themselves in extraordinarily astounding situations, which they each try to solve in a remarkable manner.
Stars: Rod Serling, Robert McCord, Jay Overholts, James Turley
Votes: 93,212
74. Dexter (2006–2013)
TV-MA | 60 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
He's smart. He's lovable. He's Dexter Morgan, America's favorite serial killer, who spends his days solving crimes and nights committing them.
Stars: Michael C. Hall, Jennifer Carpenter, David Zayas, James Remar
Votes: 766,959
A series has to be good if it can make you root for a serial killer! LOL The first two seasons were amazing! It's still a very good series.
edit: this was once one of the best shows on TV.. but the final two seasons --especially the last-- were serious disappointments!
There was only one way to end the series... if the writers did it, it would've been expected.. if they didn't do it, they would've PUNK'D out!
Well.. they PUNK'D out.. BIG TIME!
What a shame! They cheated their audience... there is no greater betrayal for loyal viewers!
75. The Shield (2002–2008)
TV-MA | 45 min | Crime, Drama, Thriller
Drama series following the lives and cases of dirty cop Vic Mackey and the corrupt LAPD unit under his command.
Stars: Michael Chiklis, Catherine Dent, Walton Goggins, Michael Jace
Votes: 88,170
Right around the time that "NYPD Blue" was, mercifully, wrapping up its series... "The Shield" appears (as did "The Wire"!!) to wild acclaim.
I thought it was a twist on "The Sopranos"... cops as bad as the mob... but "The Shield" was like no other "cop show" that had ever aired and KUDOS for that! Very good stories and plot lines, especially in the first few seasons.
The finale was not what I had hoped for... but it was a satisfying series nonetheless.
76. Taken (2002)
TV-PG | 68 min | Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi
Three families experience alien abductions over a period of five decades.
Stars: Dakota Fanning, Matt Frewer, Emily Bergl, Heather Donahue
Votes: 21,010
Very entertaining.. will have to go back and watch this again sometime.
77. ER (1994–2009)
TV-14 | 44 min | Drama, Romance
The doctors who work in the ER at the County General Hospital in Chicago grapple with ups and downs in their personal and professional lives while trying to give apt medical care to their patients.
Stars: Anthony Edwards, George Clooney, Julianna Margulies, Eriq La Salle
Votes: 67,776
A favorite of mine for many years... probably longer then it should've been. First 5-7 seasons were very good but lost too many original cast members for fans to maintain a real connection to the series.
78. NYPD Blue (1993–2005)
TV-14 | 45 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
Detectives from NYPD's 15th Precinct investigate homicides within their precinct.
Stars: Dennis Franz, Jimmy Smits, Gordon Clapp, James McDaniel
Votes: 16,343
When this series first aired, there was little doubt in my mind that I would love it... Dennis Franz assured my loyalty with his portrayal on "Hill Street Blues" years before, where he had two story arcs: first, as a crooked cop.. then a season or so later, as a hardworking, flawed cop.
In the beginning, I did love this series.. but the years were not kind. After a few years it delved into a soap opera-ish drama with Franz playing a caricature of the original character. The series carried on well beyond its prime and should've been canceled years before its finale.
79. Men of a Certain Age (2009–2011)
TV-14 | 942 min | Comedy, Drama
A group of college buddies in the throes of middle age keep their friendship going long after they've graduated.
Stars: Ray Romano, Scott Bakula, Andre Braugher, LisaGay Hamilton
Votes: 4,590
As a man of a "certain age".. I could really appreciate the point of view of this series. Nice to see a series about people my age living their lives. Well written and acted. It's been recently canceled so it goes on the "canceled too soon" list.
80. Justified (2010–2015)
TV-MA | 45 min | Action, Crime, Drama
Enforcing his own brand of justice, U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens, a strong-willed, quiet law-man haunted by his past, returns to his native town to see that justice is served to those in need.
Stars: Timothy Olyphant, Nick Searcy, Joelle Carter, Jacob Pitts
Votes: 118,804
A modern day western hosting a classic lawman. A very good series that I've enjoyed very much... w/ one caveat---
---The second season went off the rails in a wrongheaded attempt to add a romance as a central element. It was a craptastic mess that almost ruined the series.---
Fortunately, the series righted itself in season three and has been an enjoyable ride since.
S1 - 8.5
s2 - 4.5
s3-5 - 7.5
81. House of Lies (2012–2016)
TV-MA | 28 min | Comedy, Drama
Charming, fast-talking Marty Kaan and his crack team of management consultants use every dirty trick in the book to woo powerful CEOs and close huge deals in this scathing, irreverent satire of corporate America today.
Stars: Don Cheadle, Kristen Bell, Ben Schwartz, Josh Lawson
Votes: 26,384
An excellent guilty pleasure!
Fun! and well done! I look forward to every season and every eps.
8.5
82. Banshee (2013–2016)
TV-MA | 60 min | Action, Crime, Drama
An ex-con assumes the identity of a murdered sheriff in the small town of Banshee, Pennsylvania, where he has some unfinished business.
Stars: Antony Starr, Ivana Milicevic, Ulrich Thomsen, Frankie Faison
Votes: 123,630
ACTION PACKED!!
Loved the first season!
While the subsequent seasons have not been as good as the first, they have been full of excellent action and some very interesting characters..
Hoon Lee as "Job" was a brilliant revelation in S1! Unfortunately, his character has not evolved as it should have and comes off as one dimensional when viewed over the course of the multiple seasons. That's a real SHAME!
83. Rectify (2013–2016)
TV-14 | 60 min | Drama
Daniel Holden must put his life back together after serving 19 years on Georgia's Death Row before DNA evidence calls his conviction into question.
Stars: Aden Young, Abigail Spencer, J. Smith-Cameron, Adelaide Clemens
Votes: 27,653
Excellent, enlightening writing in this thoughtful drama. Well done!
84. 3rd Rock from the Sun (1996–2001)
TV-PG | 60 min | Comedy, Family, Sci-Fi
A group of aliens is sent to Earth, disguised as a human family, to experience and report life on the third planet from the sun.
Stars: John Lithgow, Jane Curtin, Kristen Johnston, French Stewart
Votes: 55,736
I did not like this series when it first aired. I thought it was just silly, over-the-top, stupidity. Years later I realized that that was the sheer brilliance of the series! John Lithgow played his role to the hilt.. with pure acting insanity! Beautifully funny.
85. Ugly Betty (2006–2010)
TV-PG | 60 min | Comedy, Drama, Romance
Smart but wholesome Betty embraces her unique appearance and independent attitude in the cutthroat world of New York fashion.
Stars: America Ferrera, Eric Mabius, Tony Plana, Ana Ortiz
Votes: 47,881
A truly guilty pleasure. Laugh out loud funny at times. Great design work (sets, costumes). Fun series.
86. Sherlock (2010–2017)
TV-14 | 90 min | Crime, Drama, Mystery
The quirky spin on Conan Doyle's iconic sleuth pitches him as a "high-functioning sociopath" in modern-day London. Assisting him in his investigations: Afghanistan War vet John Watson, who's introduced to Holmes by a mutual acquaintance.
Stars: Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Una Stubbs, Rupert Graves
Votes: 999,257
A modern take on a classic character. Jeremy Brett will always be the quintessential "Sherlock Holmes" for me. But I was pleasantly surprised by this modern version. Very good freshman season... looking forward to more.
Update: each subsequent season has been weaker than the previous
87. Fawlty Towers (1975–1979)
TV-PG | 30 min | Comedy
Hotel owner Basil Fawlty's incompetence, short fuse, and arrogance form a combination that ensures accidents and trouble are never far away.
Stars: John Cleese, Prunella Scales, Andrew Sachs, Connie Booth
Votes: 100,195
88. Pushing Daisies (2007–2009)
TV-PG | 44 min | Comedy, Drama, Fantasy
A pastry chef with the power to bring dead people back to life solves murder mysteries with his resurrected childhood sweetheart, a cynical private investigator, and a lovesick waitress.
Stars: Lee Pace, Anna Friel, Chi McBride, Jim Dale
Votes: 59,575
I really liked this series.. quirky, funny, great set design. Chi McBride was so funny in this... he stole this series. Too bad that it ended so soon.
89. Arrested Development (2003–2019)
TV-14 | 22 min | Comedy
Level-headed son Michael Bluth takes over family affairs after his father is imprisoned. But the rest of his spoiled, dysfunctional family are making his job unbearable.
Stars: Jason Bateman, Michael Cera, Portia de Rossi, Will Arnett
Votes: 324,310
90. The Saint (1962–1969)
TV-PG | 50 min | Action, Crime, Drama
Simon "The Saint" Templar, a wealthy adventurer and 20th-century Robin Hood, travels the world in his white Volvo P1800S, solving unsolvable problems and righting wrongs.
Stars: Roger Moore, Ivor Dean, Leslie Crawford, Justine Lord
Votes: 6,219
As a kid... this was like having "James Bond" in a tv series! Need I say more??
91. The Avengers (1961–1969)
TV-14 | 50 min | Action, Comedy, Crime
A quirky spy show of the adventures of eccentrically suave British Agent John Steed and his predominantly female partners.
Stars: Patrick Macnee, Diana Rigg, Honor Blackman, Linda Thorson
Votes: 8,892
When I was a kid, this was the most innovative series I could imagine (although, I didn't think in those terms then). It was a lot of fun.
92. SCTV (1976–1981)
TV-PG | 30 min | Comedy
The staff of Melonville's TV station put on programming that is unique in its own silly way.
Stars: Joe Flaherty, Eugene Levy, Andrea Martin, Dave Thomas
Votes: 2,883
At the time, I didn't think this was as funny as the original SNL... and it probably wasn't. But this was a very funny series that I appreciated more and more as I got older.
93. Night Gallery (1969–1973)
TV-PG | 50 min | Drama, Fantasy, Horror
Rod Serling presents tales of horror illustrated in various paintings.
Stars: Rod Serling, Larry Watson, Joanna Pettet, Matt Pelto
Votes: 6,186
After "Twilight Zone", this was the best thing Rod Serling created. Wickedly horrifying to me as a child. I watched a few episodes before I was ten years old and refused to watch it again for years because it scared the crap out of me and gave me terrible nightmares! LOL
94. China Beach (1988–1991)
TV-14 | 120 min | Drama, History, War
The trials of a weary nurse, her friends and colleagues in a Vietnam War field hospital.
Stars: Dana Delany, Marg Helgenberger, Brian Wimmer, Oliver Theess
Votes: 3,546
I liked this tv series... obviously, many didn't.
95. Homefront (1991–1993)
60 min | Drama, History, Romance
World War II is over and the boys from the town of River Run, Ohio, are coming home. It seems that life is slowly going back to normal, but war has changed everything and they will never be the same again.
Stars: Kyle Chandler, Sammi Davis, Ken Jenkins, Mimi Kennedy
Votes: 1,406
96. Will & Grace (1998–2020)
TV-PG | 22 min | Comedy, Romance
Gay lawyer Will and straight interior designer Grace share a New York City apartment. Their best friends are gleeful and proud gay Jack and charismatic, filthy-rich, amoral socialite Karen.
Stars: Eric McCormack, Debra Messing, Megan Mullally, Sean Hayes
Votes: 60,339
Never watched this until it was in syndication... then I became a fan.
97. Everybody Loves Raymond (1996–2005)
TV-PG | 22 min | Comedy
The comical everyday life of sports columnist Ray Barone and his dysfunctional family.
Stars: Ray Romano, Patricia Heaton, Brad Garrett, Doris Roberts
Votes: 77,200
Never watched this until it was in syndication... then I became a fan.
98. Rich Man, Poor Man (1976)
TV-PG | 63 min | Drama
An examination of the trials and tribulations of the Jordache family, from the period following World War II to the late 1960s.
Stars: Peter Strauss, Nick Nolte, Susan Blakely, Dorothy McGuire
Votes: 3,429
99. The Midnight Special (1972–1981)
90 min | Music, Talk-Show
Late night rock and pop music performances are featured.
Stars: Wolfman Jack, Helen Reddy, Donna Summer, Gladys Knight
Votes: 381
A rock concert every week! Need I say more....?
100. Family Guy (1999– )
TV-MA | 22 min | Animation, Comedy
In a wacky Rhode Island town, a dysfunctional family strives to cope with everyday life as they are thrown from one crazy scenario to another.
Stars: Alex Borstein, Seth MacFarlane, Seth Green, Mila Kunis
Votes: 364,420
Can't really believe I'm adding this series to this list.. Didn't even know until this very instance that this series has been on since 1999!! I never watched the series until this last year or so (in syndication) and have been surprised, truly surprised, at how much I've laughed out loud.
I still can't believe I'm adding this to the list..
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