Television has delivered some of the best storytelling of all time. From sprawling fantasy adventures to taut crime dramas, television shows can hook viewers across generations. But what are the best of the best?
The 10 greatest TV shows of all time are ranked here. So whether you’re a diehard fan of gritty crime shows, mind-bending sci-fi, or tear-inducing comedies, these are the shows that stuck in the audience’s minds the most in the world of entertainment.
So without any further ado, here is the Top 10 list of TV series that helped mould what we have today. Top 10 Television Series of All Time — Legendary Series You Need to See
1. Breaking Bad (2008-2013)
IMDb Rating: 9.5/10
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Created by: Vince Gilligan
Starring: Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn
Why It’s One of the Best
Breaking Bad is considered the best TV show ever made. The show centers around Walter White, a journeyman high school chemistry teacher who becomes a merciless drug lord and brings the drug lord “Heisenberg” to life.
From the captivating narration to the nail-biting character progression and cinematography, this is a series that will not be missed. Bryan Cranston’s iconic performance as Walter White and Aaron Paul’s Jesse Pinkman keep viewers glued to their screens from beginning to end.
Best Episodes:
- Ozymandias (Season 5, Episode 14)
- Felina (Season 5, Episode 16)
- Face Off (Season 4, Episode 13)
2. Game of Thrones (2011-2019)
IMDb Rating: 9.2/10
Genre: Fantasy, Drama, Action
Created by: David Benioff, D.B. Weiss
Starring: Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, Peter Dinklage
Why It’s One of the Best
Game of Thrones is an epic fantasy television series based on the books by George R.R. Martin. The show kept viewers on the edge of their seats for years, with political intrigue, epic battles, and stunning plot twists.
Game of Thrones, arguably the most controversial television series to ever hit the airwaves, redefined television storytelling with its fascinating characters, stunning visuals, and narrative left turns.
Best Episodes:
- Battle of the Bastards (Season 6, Episode 9)
- The Winds of Winter (Season 6, Episode 10)
- The Rains of Castamere (Season 3, Episode 9)
3. The Sopranos (1999-2007)
IMDb Rating: 9.2/10
Genre: Crime, Drama
Created by: David Chase
Starring: James Gandolfini, Lorraine Bracco, Edie Falco
Why It’s One of the Best
The Sopranos is one of the most impactful crime dramas in television history. It centers on Tony Soprano, a New Jersey mob boss who is trying to balance his family life with a violent and criminal empire.
It’s a fantastic series of both deep psychological storytelling and unforgettable character performances that every crime drama fan should watch, beloved not only for its quirky approach but also for its cultural significance.
Best Episodes:
- Pine Barrens (Season 3, Episode 11)
- Long Term Parking (Season 5, Episode 12)
- Made in America (Season 6, Episode 21)
4. The Wire (2002-2008)
IMDb Rating: 9.3/10
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
Created by: David Simon
Starring: Dominic West, Idris Elba, Michael K. Williams
Why It’s One of the Best
As one of the most realistic crime shows ever made, The Wire provides a deep view into Baltimore’s criminal underbelly. The first season focuses on the drug trade in the city, the second season focuses on politics, and the third season focuses on media.
With its brilliant writing, heavy themes, and realism, The Wire is often referred to as one of the best shows on TV.
Best Episodes:
- Middle Ground (Season 3, Episode 11)
- Final Grades (Season 4, Episode 13)
- 30 (Season 5, Episode 10)
5. Friends (1994-2004)
IMDb Rating: 8.9/10
Genre: Comedy, Romance
Created by: David Crane, Marta Kauffman
Starring: Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Matthew Perry
Why It’s One of the Best
Friends, the ultimate sitcom, takes place in New York City, where six friends are learning about life, love, and careers. Featuring iconic characters, countless hilarious moments, and warm friendships, Friends remains a firm fan favorite decades on.
Best Episodes:
- The One Where Everybody Finds Out (Season 5, Episode 14)
- The Last One (Season 10, Episode 17-18)
- The One with the Prom Video (Season 2, Episode 14)
Other Great TV Shows to Watch in the Top 10:
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Stranger Things (2016-Present)
- Genre: Sci-Fi, Horror, Mystery
- Why Watch? An ideal combination of 80s nostalgia, horror, and supernatural mystery.
-
The Office (US) (2005-2013)
- Genre: Comedy, Mockumentary
- Why Watch? Among the funniest and most quotable sitcoms of all time.
-
Sherlock (2010-2017)
- Genre: Crime, Mystery, Drama
- Why Watch? Benedict Cumberbatch’s brilliant turn as Sherlock Holmes.
-
Better Call Saul (2015-2022)
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Why Watch? A perfect prequel to Breaking Bad and some of the best storytelling.
-
The Mandalorian (2019-Present)
- Genre: Sci-Fi, Action
- Why Watch? This is a great addition to the Star Wars galaxy with an awesome storyline.
Conclusion
Television has produced so much amazing writing, but these are the 10 TV series of all time that set the gold standard. Whether you’re into crime dramas, fantasy, or comedy, these shows are sure to entertain. Top 10 Television Series of All Time — Legendary Series You Need to See.
Have you watched them all? Which is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
