Best Series of All Time
From gritty crime dramas to sweeping fantasy epics, the best series of all time span genres, languages, and cultures. Whether you’re in the mood for suspense, comedy, action, or deep emotional storytelling, this curated list of 25 iconic shows brings together television’s finest. These series have left a lasting legacy, captivated millions, and continue to attract viewers from every corner of the world. Each entry includes a brief synopsis, why it stands out as one of the best TV series ever made, and where to stream it right now. Get ready to add some must-see shows to your watchlist!
1. Breaking Bad (2008–2013) – Netflix
Widely hailed as one of the best series of all time, Breaking Bad tells the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned meth kingpin. With razor-sharp writing, unforgettable characters, and tense storytelling, this crime drama redefined what television could be. All five gripping seasons are available to binge on Netflix.
2. The Sopranos (1999–2007) – Max (HBO)
A cornerstone of modern TV, The Sopranos follows mob boss Tony Soprano as he balances organized crime with family life and therapy sessions. The show’s innovative mix of psychology and violence helped elevate it to one of the top TV series of all time. Stream all episodes now on HBO Max.
3. Game of Thrones (2011–2019) – Max (HBO)
This epic fantasy saga took the world by storm. Game of Thrones explores power struggles among noble houses while a supernatural threat rises. Despite a divisive finale, it’s often listed among the greatest series of all time due to its ambitious storytelling and production scale. Watch all 73 episodes on Max.
4. Friends (1994–2004) – Max (HBO)
Friends became a global phenomenon with its warm-hearted look at six friends navigating life and love in New York City. With relatable humor and lovable characters, it remains one of the best comedy series of all time. All ten seasons are available on HBO Max.
5. The Wire (2002–2008) – Max (HBO)
The Wire is often described as the most realistic crime series ever made. Set in Baltimore, it dives into the lives of both police officers and drug dealers. Its social commentary and layered storytelling earn it a place among the best series of all time. Stream it on HBO Max.
6. Money Heist (2017–2021) – Netflix
Spain’s Money Heist combines intricate plots with emotional depth, following a criminal mastermind and his team during high-stakes heists. A cultural sensation and one of the best international series of all time, it streams in full on Netflix.
7. Dark (2017–2020) – Netflix
This German sci-fi thriller gained critical acclaim for its complex time-travel plot and emotional storytelling. Dark is a must-watch for those who enjoy puzzles and deep drama. It’s considered one of the best sci-fi series of all time and is fully available on Netflix.
8. Stranger Things (2016–2022) – Netflix
Combining supernatural horror, ’80s nostalgia, and endearing characters, Stranger Things quickly became a global favorite. It’s widely ranked among the best series of all time, especially for fans of mystery and adventure. All four seasons stream on Netflix.
9. The Crown (2016–2023) – Netflix
The Crown brings British royal history to life with elegance and drama. With Emmy-winning performances and a stunning cast, this biographical series is one of the top historical dramas of all time. Watch all six seasons on Netflix.
10. Narcos (2015–2017) – Netflix
Based on true events, Narcos tells the gritty story of drug kingpin Pablo Escobar and the rise of Colombian cartels. Its tense pace and raw storytelling make it one of the best crime series of all time. Stream all seasons on Netflix.
11–25: More Must-See Series That Define Great Television
The remaining 15 titles on our list span genres from dystopian thrillers to clever comedies, further proving that the best series of all time can come from anywhere in the world:
- Peaky Blinders – Stylish gangster drama set in post-WWI England (Netflix)
- Black Mirror – Tech dystopias in standalone episodes (Netflix)
- Rick and Morty – Witty, weird, and wildly inventive animated sci-fi (Hulu/Max)
- The Simpsons – Satirical look at American family life for over 30 years (Disney+/Hulu)
- Chernobyl – A haunting dramatization of the 1986 nuclear disaster (Max)
- The Mandalorian – Star Wars meets Western in this space bounty hunter story (Disney+)
- The Witcher – Monster-hunting meets destiny in a dark fantasy world (Netflix)
- Seinfeld – A “show about nothing” that changed everything (Netflix)
- Better Call Saul – Breaking Bad’s brilliant, character-driven prequel (Netflix)
- Ozark – A family’s dangerous entanglement in money laundering (Netflix)
- Succession – Billionaire family fights for control in this sharp drama (Max)
- Squid Game – A deadly competition with chilling social critique (Netflix)
- Lupin – A gentleman thief in modern-day Paris (Netflix)
- The Handmaid’s Tale – Chilling dystopia based on Atwood’s novel (Hulu)
- Borgen – Denmark’s gripping political drama led by a powerful female PM (Netflix)
Why These Are the Best Series of All Time
These 25 series stand out because they changed the game, captivated audiences worldwide, and continue to be discussed and rewatched years after airing. The combination of great storytelling, high production value, and cultural resonance ensures their legacy. From groundbreaking American dramas to innovative international hits, this list reflects the truly global nature of the best series of all time.
No matter what you’re in the mood for—crime, fantasy, comedy, or sci-fi—there’s something here for every viewer. And the best part? Every series on this list is available to stream on platforms like Netflix, HBO Max, Hulu, and Disney+, so your next favorite show is just a click away.
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