- Photo 1:
- HBO Entertainment
- Photo 2:
- NBC
- Photo 3:
- Sony Pictures Television
The Greatest TV Shows Of All Time, Ranked
Vote on all your favorite TV shows of any genre, from any era.
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
- 1Jesse Pinkman3,801 Votes
- 2Saul Goodman3,879 Votes
- 3Gustavo Fring2,976 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
- 1Tony Soprano3,992 Votes
- 2Christopher Moltisanti3,849 Votes
- 3Silvio Dante3,524 Votes
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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
- 1Tyrion Lannister31,227 Votes
- 2Jon Snow28,386 Votes
- 3Arya Stark29,211 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
- 1Bugs Bunny2,926 Votes
- 2Daffy Duck2,746 Votes
- 3Wile E. Coyote2,275 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
- 1To Serve Man2,558 Votes
- 2Nightmare at 20,000 Feet2,929 Votes
- 3The Masks1,997 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
- 1Michael Scott12,421 Votes
- 2Dwight Schrute12,077 Votes
- 3Jim Halpert10,803 Votes