The 10 Best TV Shows of the Century: A Quarter Century of Unforgettable TV

The last quarter-century has been a period of immense transformation for television. We’ve witnessed the transition from the so-called “Golden Age” to what we now call “Peak TV,” where the number of shows being produced each year rivals the entire history of television prior to this. The evolution of TV has ushered in a new era of storytelling, characterized by complex characters, ambitious narratives, and high production values that rival film. The impact of television shows in the 21st century cannot be overstated—where movies once held the cultural spotlight, TV now carries much of that torch, and often, with far more intimacy and emotional depth.

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Television has not only entertained but also tackled a wide range of important social issues, explored complex human relationships, and given audiences more nuanced characters to engage with than ever before. From the rise of streaming platforms that have democratized access to content, to the serial storytelling that has captivated millions, TV is not what it once was—it is an art form in its own right, constantly evolving and reflecting the society in which it exists.

As we reflect on the last quarter century, it’s clear that television has had a profound effect on pop culture and the way we interact with stories. The following list of TV shows highlights those that have left an indelible mark on the medium, shaping the future of television and influencing audiences across the globe. These shows span a wide array of genres and styles, but what they all share is a lasting legacy, both on-screen and in the cultural conversations they continue to spark.

1. Industry (2020-Present)

How to watch: Stream it on Max

At first glance, Industry seemed like an unusual proposition. Described as a “Succession-meets-Skins” drama set inside the high-stakes world of London’s investment banks, it was a risky venture that could have easily fallen into formulaic tropes. Yet, the show proved itself time and again to be an innovative and captivating exploration of ambition, greed, and the complexities of modern finance. With a pilot episode directed by Lena Dunham, Industry quickly garnered attention, and in just a few seasons, it became one of the most talked-about shows in recent memory.

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The brilliance of Industry lies in its ability to fuse financial intrigue with character-driven drama. Set within the cut-throat world of banking, the show follows a diverse group of young professionals trying to carve their names in a field where success is both earned and inherited. The performances are electric, with Myha’la, Harry Lawtey, and Marisa Abela leading a stellar cast that showcases a range of fresh talent. The world-building in Industry is meticulous, bringing to life the high-pressure, morally gray world of finance in a way that feels both authentic and exhilarating.

From the show’s sharp writing to its distinct visual style, Industry has become a contemporary classic. It’s not just a story of money and power—it’s a look at what happens when the drive for success collides with personal ethics and individual desires. This show has already cemented itself as a defining example of modern drama, and its influence on the industry is undeniable.

2. Normal People (2020)

How to watch: Stream it on Hulu

In the middle of a global pandemic, many turned to the screen for solace, and one of the most emotionally resonant shows to emerge during this time was Normal People. Based on Sally Rooney’s bestselling novel, the series follows Connell and Marianne, two Irish students who navigate the complexities of love, class, and identity as they grow from high school into adulthood. What sets Normal People apart is not only its grounded approach to young love but also its ability to capture the aching beauty of intimate relationships.

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At the heart of the show is the undeniable chemistry between Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal, whose performances elevate the material into something extraordinary. Normal People explores the nuances of relationships—how they evolve, fracture, and sometimes remain unspoken. Rooney’s writing, paired with director Lenny Abrahamson’s careful direction, ensures that each moment between Connell and Marianne feels weighty, tender, and deeply human.

Beyond the romantic plotline, Normal People also delves into the themes of societal pressures, class disparities, and the emotional complexities of mental health, offering a quiet yet profound reflection on what it means to grow up in the modern world. The show’s ability to blend realism with poignancy makes it not just a coming-of-age story but a universal reflection on the messiness of love and life itself.

3. The Bureau (2016-2020)

How to watch: Buy episodes on Fandango at Home

Few shows have matched the intricacy and tension of The Bureau, a French espionage drama that sets the standard for the genre. Over five remarkable seasons, the series immerses viewers in the world of French intelligence officers working for the DGSE (General Directorate for External Security), navigating the murky waters of national security, psychological warfare, and betrayal. The series never glamorizes the spy world; instead, it provides a nuanced look at the toll that secrecy and deception take on both the individuals and the nation.

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The Bureau’s attention to detail and psychological depth are what set it apart. With Éric Rochant at the helm, the show has become a masterclass in slow-burn tension. It’s a series that builds its emotional stakes over time, gradually pulling viewers deeper into its world of espionage. Notably, the fifth season, directed by Jacques Audiard, features some of the most captivating episodes of television in the 21st century. The Bureau is an intelligent, engrossing, and chilling exploration of the human psyche in the context of statecraft.

4. Spiral (2005-2020)

How to watch: Stream it on MHz Choice

French police procedurals often operate on the edges of what’s expected from the genre, and Spiral is a prime example. Spanning eight gripping seasons, Spiral takes a stark look at crime, law, and justice in Paris through the eyes of an elite criminal investigative unit. At its core, the show balances hard-hitting crime-solving with a focus on the moral complexities and personal entanglements of the characters involved.

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The unique blend of drama and gritty realism is what makes Spiral such an engrossing watch. Over its long run, the show becomes more sophisticated, diving into the lives of the officers, prosecutors, and criminals alike. The interplay between their personal and professional lives creates a tense backdrop for the increasingly complex cases they handle. With unforgettable performances from a talented ensemble cast, Spiral continues to captivate audiences, raising questions about justice, morality, and the human cost of law enforcement.

5. Fleabag (2016-2019)

How to watch: Stream it on Prime Video

When Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Fleabag debuted in 2016, it quickly became a cultural sensation. The show’s genius lies in its combination of dark comedy, raw emotion, and a startlingly original protagonist. Waller-Bridge, who created the series, stars as Fleabag, a complicated, flawed woman trying to navigate her life in the midst of grief, guilt, and relationships gone wrong. The show’s most unique feature is its direct address to the audience—Fleabag often breaks the fourth wall, pulling us into her thoughts and confessions with piercing wit and vulnerability.

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Despite its humor, Fleabag is not afraid to dive deep into the difficult emotional terrain of love, loss, and self-doubt. The show’s second season, in particular, is a masterpiece of storytelling, thanks to its sharp writing, impeccable performances, and a surprising romance between Fleabag and a “hot priest” (Andrew Scott). Fleabag became a landmark show, winning multiple Emmy Awards and cementing Waller-Bridge as one of the most talented creators of her generation. With its perfect blend of comedy and pathos, it’s a series that will be remembered for years to come.

6. Better Call Saul (2015-2022)

How to watch: Stream it on Netflix

It took several years for Better Call Saul to step out of the shadow of Breaking Bad, but once it did, it became clear that this was not just a prequel but a show that could stand on its own merits. A spin-off that explores the transformation of Jimmy McGill into Saul Goodman, the morally compromised lawyer from Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul delves into character development with a depth and complexity that rivals its predecessor. The show explores Jimmy’s relationship with his brother Chuck, the evolution of his professional career, and his growing involvement with criminal enterprises.NPR

What makes Better Call Saul so compelling is its focus on the human side of the criminal underworld. The show balances tension and humor, providing a nuanced portrayal of morality, ambition, and family dynamics. Bob Odenkirk’s performance as Jimmy/Saul is exceptional, and the addition of Rhea Seehorn as Kim Wexler brought another layer of emotional depth to the show. By the time the series concluded in 2022, Better Call Saul had proved itself as one of the finest TV shows of the 21st century.

7. Game of Thrones (2011-2019)

How to watch: Stream it on Max

Game of Thrones is perhaps the most iconic and influential TV show of the last quarter-century. From its first season in 2011, the series captured audiences with its sprawling world-building, complex characters, and shocking plot twists. Set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos, Game of Thrones weaves a tale of political intrigue, power struggles, and the rise and fall of kings, queens, and warriors. The show is a blend of fantasy, historical drama, and epic action, and it captivated millions worldwide.

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Though the final seasons of Game of Thrones were met with mixed reactions from fans, the show’s impact on television and popular culture is undeniable. It revolutionized production values, with massive battle scenes, complex CGI, and jaw-dropping set designs. Characters like Arya Stark, Tyrion Lannister, and Jon Snow became household names, and the show’s unforgettable moments—like the Red Wedding—have become cultural touchstones. Despite its controversial ending, Game of Thrones remains a defining series of the 21st century.

8. Barry (2018-2023)

How to watch: Stream it on Max

Barry is a show that evolved dramatically from its initial concept to something much more profound. What started as a dark comedy about a hitman-turned-actor transformed into one of the most unique and daring shows on television. Bill Hader, who stars as the titular Barry, plays a hitman who wants to leave his criminal life behind to pursue acting. The show deftly blends absurd humor with deeply unsettling moments, as Barry grapples with his violent past and his attempts to create a new identity in Hollywood.

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What truly elevates Barry is its willingness to embrace the absurdity of the situation while exploring the darkness within its characters. The show’s exploration of identity, guilt, and the quest for redemption is matched by Hader’s extraordinary direction and performances. Anthony Carrigan as NoHo Hank and Sarah Goldberg as Sally bring additional depth to the show, making Barry not just a black comedy but a compelling psychological drama that resonates on a deeper level.

9. Succession (2018–2023)

How to watch: Stream it on Max

Succession is arguably the defining show of the last decade, a searing portrayal of wealth, power, and family dysfunction. The series follows the Roy family, owners of a global media conglomerate, as they fight for control of the company in the wake of patriarch Logan Roy’s (Brian Cox) health issues. With razor-sharp writing, blistering performances, and an exploration of greed, ambition, and betrayal, Succession has become a cultural touchstone.

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Each season of Succession has built upon the last, with the complex relationships between the Roy children—Kendall (Jeremy Strong), Shiv (Sarah Snook), Roman (Kieran Culkin), and Connor (Alan Ruck)—playing out in increasingly tense and dramatic ways. The show’s biting satire of the media industry and corporate culture has made it a favorite of critics and audiences alike. As Succession comes to a close, it will undoubtedly be remembered as one of the greatest TV shows of all time.

10. Girls (2012–2017)

How to watch: Stream it on HBO Max

Lena Dunham’s Girls was a landmark series that both defined and defied the expectations of the coming-of-age genre. Following the lives of four women in their twenties living in New York City, Girls captured the messy, sometimes painful, and often funny experiences of navigating life in your twenties. Dunham’s portrayal of the trials and tribulations of adulthood resonated with many viewers, who saw their own struggles reflected on screen.

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The show’s raw, unflinching look at relationships, career challenges, and personal growth made it one of the most influential series of the decade. With unforgettable performances from Dunham, Allison Williams, Zosia Mamet, and Jemima Kirke, Girls offered a refreshing perspective on modern womanhood. While it received criticism for its lack of racial diversity and for its sometimes controversial moments, Girls remains a bold and important work of television.

A Legacy of Unforgettable Television

As we look back on the past quarter-century of television, it’s clear that the medium has undergone a profound transformation. From the rise of premium cable networks to the explosion of streaming platforms, TV has evolved into an art form capable of tackling the most complex human emotions and societal issues. The shows on this list have all made significant contributions to the landscape of television, each in its own unique way. Whether through innovative storytelling, memorable performances, or cultural impact, these series have shaped the television of today and will continue to be celebrated for years to come.

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These shows are not just entertainment—they are reflections of the time in which they were made, offering insights into the human experience that resonate far beyond the small screen. And as we enter a new era of television, with even more groundbreaking shows on the horizon, we can only anticipate what the next quarter century of TV will bring. For now, these 10 series stand as the ultimate TV experiences of the 21st century, and rewatching them will no doubt continue to captivate and inspire new generations of viewers.