The Greatest TV Shows Of All Time, Ranked
  • Photo 1:
    • HBO Entertainment
  • Photo 2:
    • NBC
  • Photo 3:
    • Sony Pictures Television

The Greatest TV Shows Of All Time, Ranked

Ranker Community
Updated April 24, 2025 1.0M views 2,695 items
Ranked By
2.1M votes
98.0K voters
332 reranks
Voting Rules

Vote on all your favorite TV shows of any genre, from any era.

Latest additions: Web Therapy, I May Destroy You, The Righteous Gemstones
Most divisive: Friends
Over 98.0K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Greatest TV Shows Ever Made

Welcome to our curated exploration of the best TV shows of all time, a definitive guide through the most iconic and beloved series television has ever offered. With over 1000 tv series, this list is a vibrant celebration of the most watched and most popular TV shows of all time, showcasing a range from timeless classics to modern masterpieces. It's a collection that resonates with the preferences of TV enthusiasts and critics alike, highlighting shows that have not only set benchmarks but have also become a crucial part of our cultural fabric.

In this era, our list stands as a beacon for those seeking the top rated TV shows. These shows aren't just for American audiences. From the narrative complexity of Game of Thrones to the comedic brilliance of Friends, we've captured the essence of TV's transformative journey. This list isn't just about rankings; it's a tribute to the greatest TV show of all time contenders, reflecting the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of television. These shows don't have some of the highest ratings of all time for nothing.

Your participation is what shapes this eclectic mix, elevating your favorites by voting on them and discovering new gems along the way. Whether you're a fan of groundbreaking dramas, classic sitcoms, or genre-defying adventures, there's something here for everyone. Dive into this rich tapestry of television's most famous series, cast your vote, and share your passion for the best series of all time.

Ranked by
  • Breaking Bad
    1
    A high-school chemistry teacher has a midlife crisis.
    46,903 votes

    Breaking Bad is a riveting drama that follows the life of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer. Battling lung cancer and financial struggles, White's transformation from a mild-mannered teacher to a feared drug lord, Heisenberg, is both shocking and compelling. The show masterfully blends intense drama, dark humor, and complex characters, making it a standout in television storytelling.

    The series' acclaim as one of the best TV shows ever stems from its brilliant writing, exceptional character development, and Bryan Cranston's unforgettable performance as Walter White. Breaking Bad excels in creating a tense, morally ambiguous world that challenges viewers' perceptions of right and wrong. Its influence on television storytelling and its cultural impact solidify its status as a television masterpiece.

    • Actors: Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn, RJ Mitte, Dean Norris
    • Premiered: January 20, 2008
    • Jesse Pinkman
      1Jesse Pinkman
      3,801 Votes
    • Saul Goodman
      2Saul Goodman
      3,879 Votes
    • Gustavo Fring
      3Gustavo Fring
      2,976 Votes
  • The Sopranos
    2
    Tony Soprano tries to be a good family man and run the New Jersey mob.
    24,750 votes

    The Sopranos is a groundbreaking television series that delves into the complex life of Tony Soprano, a New Jersey mob boss struggling to manage his family life with the demands of running a criminal organization. The show masterfully blends dark humor with dramatic tension, offering a deep dive into Tony's psychological struggles, particularly through his therapy sessions. Its portrayal of the mafia lifestyle is both gritty and nuanced, setting a new standard for character development in television.

    The series earns its place among the greatest TV shows for its revolutionary approach to storytelling and character depth. The Sopranos redefined the crime drama genre, influencing numerous subsequent series. Its intricate narrative, coupled with exceptional performances, particularly by James Gandolfini, created a compelling, immersive world that resonated with audiences and critics alike. The show's impact on popular culture and its contribution to the golden age of television is undeniable, making it a benchmark for quality in TV storytelling.

    • Actors: James Gandolfini, Lorraine Bracco, Edie Falco, Michael Imperioli, Dominic Chianese
    • Premiered: January 10, 1999
    • Tony Soprano
      1Tony Soprano
      3,992 Votes
    • Christopher Moltisanti
      2Christopher Moltisanti
      3,849 Votes
    • Silvio Dante
      3Silvio Dante
      3,524 Votes
  • votes needed!
    NEW TO THE LIST
    • NEW
      #632
      Being Erica
      0 votes
    • NEW
      #629
      Pose
      0 votes
  • Game of Thrones
    3
    Noble families in the seven kingdoms of Westeros vie for control of the Iron Throne.
    44,257 votes

    Game of Thrones, an epic fantasy series, captivated audiences worldwide with its intricate plot, complex characters, and a stunning portrayal of a fictional world. Based on George R.R. Martin's A Song of Ice and Fire novels, the show weaves together multiple storylines, each rich with political intrigue, personal struggles, and mythical elements.

    The series stands out as one of the best TV shows of all time due to its unprecedented scale and production values, its ability to consistently surprise and engage viewers, and its significant impact on popular culture. Game of Thrones redefined the fantasy genre on television, setting new standards for storytelling, visual effects, and character development.

    • Actors: Peter Dinklage, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Lena Headey, Emilia Clarke, Aidan Gillen
    • Premiered: April 17, 2011
    • Tyrion Lannister
      1Tyrion Lannister
      31,227 Votes
    • Jon Snow
      2Jon Snow
      28,386 Votes
    • Arya Stark
      3Arya Stark
      29,211 Votes
  • Looney Tunes
    4
    The adventures of Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, Porky Pig and friends.
    18,945 votes

    Looney Tunes is an iconic series that has left an indelible mark on the world of animation. Known for its witty humor, memorable characters, and inventive storytelling, the show has entertained audiences of all ages. Its cast, including the likes of Bugs Bunny, Daffy Duck, and Porky Pig, became cultural icons, each with their unique catchphrases and personalities.

    The reason Looney Tunes stands as one of the greatest TV shows of all time lies in its timeless appeal and its influence on the animation industry. Its clever writing, combined with groundbreaking animation techniques, set a high standard for cartoons. The show's ability to blend humor, satire, and a variety of animation styles has made it a beloved classic, transcending generations and continuing to delight new audiences.

    • Actors: Mel Blanc, June Foray
    • Premiered: 1930
    • Bugs Bunny
      1Bugs Bunny
      2,926 Votes
    • Daffy Duck
      2Daffy Duck
      2,746 Votes
    • Wile E. Coyote
      3Wile E. Coyote
      2,275 Votes
  • The Twilight Zone
    5
    Host Rod Serling introduces stories of fantasy and suspense.
    21,791 votes

    The Twilight Zone stands as a monumental series in the realm of television, renowned for its innovative blend of science fiction, fantasy, and psychological horror. Created by Rod Serling, the show originally aired from 1959 to 1964, captivating audiences with its unique, thought-provoking narratives and unexpected plot twists. Each episode served as a standalone story, often concluding with a moral or philosophical message, a feature that distinguished the series from its contemporaries.

    The enduring appeal of The Twilight Zone lies in its timeless exploration of human nature and societal issues. Its ability to weave compelling stories that challenge viewers' perceptions has made it a seminal work in television history. The show's influence extends beyond its genre, inspiring countless writers and filmmakers, and its themes remain as relevant today as they were during its original run. This lasting relevance and its impact on the landscape of television storytelling secure The Twilight Zone a place among the greatest TV shows of all time.

    • Actors: Rod Serling, Robert McCord, Jay Overholts
    • Premiered: October 2, 1959
    • To Serve Man
      1To Serve Man
      2,558 Votes
    • Nightmare at 20,000 Feet
      2Nightmare at 20,000 Feet
      2,929 Votes
    • The Masks
      3The Masks
      1,997 Votes
  • The Office
    6
    Workers plod along at Dunder Mifflin's paper-supply company.
    23,350 votes

    The Office, an American mockumentary sitcom, brilliantly captures the everyday lives of office employees working at Dunder Mifflin's Scranton, PA branch. Its unique blend of humor, relatable characters, and a setting in an average American office environment makes it stand out. The show excels in its ability to turn mundane office life into a source of laughter and heartwarming moments, led by the unforgettable character Michael Scott.

    The reason The Office ranks among the top TV shows of all time is its masterful balance of comedy and poignant storytelling. It resonates with a wide audience through its portrayal of universal workplace themes and its development of deeply relatable characters. The show's legacy is evident in its enduring popularity, influence on pop culture, and its successful adaptation from the original UK version, proving its universal appeal and timeless humor.

    • Actors: Steve Carell, Rainn Wilson, John Krasinski, Jenna Fischer, Ed Helms
    • Premiered: March 24, 2005
    • Michael Scott
      1Michael Scott
      12,421 Votes
    • Dwight Schrute
      2Dwight Schrute
      12,077 Votes
    • Jim Halpert
      3Jim Halpert
      10,803 Votes