Buzz
While baseball has long been celebrated as America's favorite pastime, the rise of streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon has arguably shifted the spotlight to binge-watching. With endless options and limited time, it's common to waste hours just deciding what to watch. That's where we come in to simplify your choice.
No matter if you're into spine-chilling sci-fi collections or hilariously quirky comedies, we've curated a list of 50 TV series currently dominating our binge-watch queue. Each show spans multiple seasons (apologies to Firefly and Freaks and Geeks fans), ensuring plenty of content to enjoy, all just a click away.
1. ALFRED HITCHCOCK PRESENTS (1955-1962)
Stream it on: Hulu
With his razor-sharp introductions and meticulously crafted moral tales, Alfred Hitchcock—already a legend in feature films—set the stage for Rod Serling with the 1955 premiere of Alfred Hitchcock Presents. Each episode delves into a unique criminal plot and its eventual downfall, from a woman’s ingenious method of disposing a murder weapon (“Lamb to Slaughter”) to a paralyzed man’s harrowing encounter with robbers after a car crash (“Breakdown”). The show’s striking black-and-white visuals might look familiar—Hitchcock employed much of the same crew for his 1960 classic Psycho. —Jake Rossen
2. THE AMERICANS (2013- )
Stream it on: Amazon
To their unsuspecting neighbors in a quiet D.C. suburb, Philip and Elizabeth Jennings appear to be nothing more than mundane travel agents. However, to those who cross their path (including FBI agents), these covert Russian operatives are swift, ruthless, and lethal. Packed with espionage, action, sizzling romance, '80s nostalgia, and a raw portrayal of marriage, The Americans is a must-watch. —Kate Horowitz
3. ARRESTED DEVELOPMENT (2003- )
Stream it on: Hulu, Netflix
This sharp, witty series chronicles the downfall of the Bluths, a dysfunctional Orange County family whose real estate empire crumbles under SEC scrutiny for fraud. When patriarch George Bluth Sr. (Jeffrey Tambor) lands in prison, his son Michael (Jason Bateman) reluctantly steps up to keep the family afloat. Despite its intricately woven storylines, running jokes, and brilliant wordplay, Arrested Development struggled with ratings, leading Fox to cancel it after three seasons. A fan-driven revival brought a lackluster fourth season on Netflix in 2013, which fell short of the original’s charm. (A fifth season is currently in development.) —Nicolas Rivero
4. BETTER CALL SAUL (2015- )
Watch it on: Amazon
Before becoming Saul Goodman, the sleazy lawyer for Albuquerque’s infamous meth kingpin Walter White in Breaking Bad, Bob Odenkirk portrayed Jimmy McGill, the troubled younger brother of a highly respected attorney. Jimmy’s constant clashes with his brother stem from his shady past and questionable choices, though his underlying compassion for a select few shines through. However, his drive to win and prove his growth from his “Slippin' Jimmy” days in Cicero, Illinois, often takes precedence. Better Call Saul serves as both a brilliant prequel to Breaking Bad and a standalone masterpiece, deepening the lore while carving its own legacy. —Jennifer M. Wood
5. BLACK MIRROR (2011- )
Stream it on: Netflix
A word of caution: avoid binge-watching Black Mirror in a single day. While its 13 episodes across three seasons (plus a Christmas special) make it technically possible, the show’s intense, thought-provoking themes demand mental breaks. Often likened to The Twilight Zone for its tech-driven twists, Black Mirror ultimately holds up a mirror to society. Creator Charlie Brooker explained to Vogue, “Technology isn’t the villain in our stories—it’s the tool that enables people to harm themselves or others.” The very first episode drives this point home. —Stacy Conradt
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6. BOB’S BURGERS (2011- )
Stream it on: Amazon
This animated series follows Bob Belcher (voiced by H. Jon Benjamin) and his quirky family as they manage a struggling burger restaurant in a coastal town. With the mortician next door as one of their few regulars, the Belcher kids—mischievous yet endearing—often find themselves in hilarious situations while the family strives to make ends meet with Bob’s creative burger recipes, which have even inspired a real-life cookbook. Packed with musical numbers (enough for a 112-song album), fart jokes, and burger-themed puns, the show balances humor with heartfelt moments about a loving family. Its layered humor makes it endlessly rewatchable. —Shaunacy Ferro
7. BREAKING BAD (2008-2013)
Watch it on: Netflix
If you haven’t yet experienced one of television’s most celebrated series, there’s no better time to dive in. Breaking Bad tells the story of Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a struggling high school chemistry teacher who turns to manufacturing crystal meth after being diagnosed with terminal lung cancer. Partnering with a former student and low-level dealer (Aaron Paul), Walter navigates New Mexico’s criminal underworld, uncovering a ruthless ambition that goes far beyond securing his family’s future. Filled with tension, dark humor, and raw humanity, this gripping drama is as compelling as it is unforgettable. —NR
8. BROADCHURCH (2013-2017)
Stream it on: Netflix
While Broadchurch became a television sensation in the UK upon its 2013 debut, it took some time for American viewers to discover its brilliance. Similar to Twin Peaks but with a more grounded approach, the series centers on two detectives (David Tennant and Olivia Colman) investigating the murder of a 12-year-old boy in a close-knit coastal town where trust is scarce, and everyone is a potential suspect. Beyond being a gripping crime drama that keeps audiences guessing, Broadchurch delves into the darkest aspects of human nature while offering a poignant message about resilience in the face of unimaginable loss. —JMW
9. CATASTROPHE (2015- )
Watch it on: Amazon
It’s a timeless tale: an American man meets an Irish woman during a business trip, they have a brief affair, she becomes pregnant, and they choose to raise the child together. Rob Delaney and Sharon Horgan, who both write and star in this Amazon original, bring a sharp, often profane (definitely not kid-friendly!) wit that will have you laughing uncontrollably and rewinding to catch every hilarious moment. With just 18 episodes so far, it’s ideal for a weekend binge. —Abbey Stone
10. CHEWING GUM (2015- )
Stream it on: Netflix
Tracey Gordon’s everyday life makes your most embarrassing moments seem tame. The series kicks off with the awkward yet endearing 24-year-old protagonist desperately trying to lose her virginity, and the cringe-worthy hilarity only escalates from there. Created by and starring Michaela Coel, this BAFTA-winning show showcases her incredible facial expressions and knack for physical comedy, leaving you in stitches. —KH
11. DEADWOOD (2004-2006)
Stream it on: Amazon
Much like other HBO prestige dramas that followed The Sopranos, David Milch’s Deadwood cultivated a devoted fanbase that continues to expand as new audiences discover it through streaming platforms like Amazon. Set in the late 19th century, shortly after Custer’s Last Stand, the series blends historical figures like Wild Bill Hickok, Calamity Jane, and Wyatt Earp with fictional narratives. Central characters Seth Bullock (Timothy Olyphant), Sol Star (John Hawkes), and Al Swearengen (Ian McShane) are also based on real individuals. While it delivers classic Western elements—gunfights, gold rushes, and lively brothels—the show’s true focus is on the birth of civilization and the formation of order from chaos. And yes, there’s a lot of swearing (mostly from McShane). —JMW
12. DOCTOR WHO (1963- )
Watch it on: Amazon, BritBox
Debuting in 1963, Doctor Who is a sci-fi phenomenon that might seem overwhelming to newcomers. While the original series (available on BritBox) has its charm, the 2005 reboot brings a fresh, campy energy. The story follows a time-traveling alien known as The Doctor, who saves the universe with the help of a rotating cast of companions. A unique feature of the show is the concept of regeneration, allowing The Doctor to transform into a new actor with each iteration (Christopher Eccleston, David Tennant, Matt Smith, and Peter Capaldi have all taken on the role). With 26 seasons and over 900 episodes (or 10 seasons and 275 episodes in the reboot), there’s plenty to explore. The show’s whimsical tone keeps it accessible, and with Jodie Whittaker set to become the first female Doctor, now’s the perfect time to dive into this boundless, imaginative universe. —JMW
13. DOWNTON ABBEY (2010-2015)
Stream it on: Amazon
In the idyllic English village of Downton, the Earl (Hugh Bonneville) and Countess (Elizabeth McGovern) of Grantham face a crisis: their nephew and heir, who was also the unofficial fiancé of their eldest daughter Mary (Michelle Dockery), has perished aboard the Titanic. With no provision for a female heir in 1912 England, the family must marry Mary to a suitable gentleman to preserve her status while also welcoming a distant relative, Matthew Crawley (Dan Stevens), a middle-class lawyer, and his mother Isobel (Penelope Wilton), who must adapt to the aristocratic lifestyle. Blending historical drama with soap opera flair, the series captivates with its meticulous attention to period detail, guided by historical adviser Alastair Bruce, and its dual focus on the lives of the Crawleys and their loyal servants. Despite occasional melodrama, the show remains irresistibly engaging. —JMW
14. EASTBOUND & DOWN (2009-2013)
Watch it on: Amazon
Let’s get one thing straight: Eastbound & Down is not for the faint of heart. Fans of Danny McBride’s work will know exactly what to expect—even the clip above might be NSFW. From his low-budget indie The Foot Fist Way to his HBO series Vice Principals, McBride thrives when playing outrageously obnoxious characters. As Kenny Powers, a washed-up, egotistical former baseball star forced to live with his brother and teach P.E., McBride delivers a performance that’s both hilariously over-the-top and cringe-worthy. Co-created by McBride, Jody Hill, and Ben Best, the series follows Powers’ self-inflicted highs and lows, unafraid to push boundaries with its bold humor and audacious storytelling. —JMW
15. THE FALL (2013- )
Stream it on: Netflix, Amazon
While its later seasons faltered slightly, The Fall remains a gripping crime drama that excels in its portrayal of a chilling cat-and-mouse game. Before his role in 50 Shades of Grey, Jamie Dornan captivated audiences as Paul Spector, a seemingly ordinary family man and grief counselor with a sinister double life as a serial killer. The show’s brilliance lies in revealing Spector’s crimes early on, eliminating the mystery of “whodunit” and instead focusing on the tension of whether detective Stella Gibson (Gillian Anderson) can bring him to justice. Despite some flaws, the series is undeniably addictive. —JMW
16. FARGO (2014- )
Stream it on: Hulu
Transitioning from film to television rarely succeeds (think Ferris Bueller, Serpico, Uncle Buck, and Casablanca), but Fargo defies the odds. This masterfully crafted anthology series, now in its third season, doesn’t simply retell the Coen brothers’ 1996 classic. Instead, it honors their work through its tone, eccentric characters, and sharp black comedy. Die-hard Coen fans will appreciate the subtle nods to their filmography, such as Billy Bob Thornton’s chilling portrayal of a sociopath in season one, reminiscent of Anton Chigurh from No Country for Old Men. The show’s brilliance lies in its ability to stand alone while paying homage to its cinematic roots. —JMW
17. GAME OF THRONES (2011- )
Watch it on: Amazon, HBO Go
Adapted from George R.R. Martin’s fantasy novels, Game of Thrones is a sprawling epic of power, betrayal, and warfare in the fictional realm of Westeros. With a vast ensemble cast, including standout performances by Peter Dinklage, Maisie Williams, Kit Harington, and Lena Headey, the series weaves intricate storylines filled with shocking twists and brutal consequences. Be warned: no character is safe, as showrunners David Benioff and D.B. Weiss are unafraid to eliminate fan favorites. Even for those indifferent to fantasy, the show’s gripping drama and cinematic action make it impossible to resist. —JS
18. GILMORE GIRLS (2000-2007; 2016)
Stream it on: Netflix, Amazon
Step into the charming world of Stars Hollow, Connecticut, and join Lorelai Gilmore (Lauren Graham) and her daughter Rory (Alexis Bledel) as they navigate life’s ups and downs with endless cups of coffee and rapid-fire banter. Gilmore Girls delves into themes of love, friendship, family dynamics, and societal divides, all wrapped in witty, fast-paced storytelling. The show’s quirky cast of characters and memorable moments will have you hooked, and once you’ve finished, don’t miss the Netflix revival, Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life. —Renee Borcas
19. HANNIBAL (2013-2015)
Watch it on: Amazon
Before tackling American Gods, Bryan Fuller brought Hannibal Lecter to life in Hannibal, which aired on NBC from 2013 to 2015. The series drew inspiration from Thomas Harris’s novels Red Dragon and Hannibal, portraying the infamous cannibal psychiatrist before his true nature was exposed. Hugh Dancy plays Will Graham, a troubled FBI profiler with the unique ability to mentally reconstruct the methods and motives of serial killers. As Graham’s mental state deteriorates, his boss, Jack Crawford (Laurence Fishburne), insists he seek therapy from Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Mads Mikkelsen). Unbeknownst to them, Lecter manipulates the FBI while continuing his gruesome killings, often serving his victims as gourmet meals to unsuspecting guests.
Fuller’s signature style is evident in the show’s elaborate murder scenes, which are as artistically crafted as they are horrifying. (It’s astonishing this aired on network TV.) The cooking sequences, accompanied by classical music, are visually stunning, resembling a macabre culinary show. While the presentation is exquisite, the realization of what’s being served will leave you both fascinated and repulsed.
With only three seasons, Hannibal is a quick but unforgettable binge. The final episode of season three, filmed before the cancellation, ends with a tantalizing cliffhanger that leaves fans craving more. (Fuller has hinted at a potential fourth season exploring Silence of the Lambs territory, which could be on the menu soon.) —Erin McCarthy
20. HOUSE OF CARDS (2013- )
Stream it on: Netflix, Amazon
In many ways, House of Cards pioneered the binge-watching phenomenon. As one of Netflix’s first original series, it was designed to be devoured in one go—not just because all 13 episodes of its debut season were released simultaneously, but because of the magnetic allure of Frank Underwood (Kevin Spacey). A cunning South Carolina Congressman and Democratic House Majority Whip, Frank seeks vengeance after being betrayed by newly elected President Garrett Walker (Michael Gill), who denies him the promised Secretary of State position. With his equally ruthless wife Claire (Robin Wright) by his side, Frank’s ascent to power is both mesmerizing and terrifying. While later seasons have seen some missteps, the show remains a gripping exploration of political intrigue, often eerily reflective of real-world Washington. —JMW
21. IT’S ALWAYS SUNNY IN PHILADELPHIA (2005- )
Stream it on: Amazon
FX’s longest-running series, now in its 12th season, is also one of TV’s most outrageous. The Gang—a group of dysfunctional bar owners in Philadelphia—embarks on absurd escapades, from exploiting a dumpster baby for profit to investigating who defecated in their bed. Each episode could aptly be titled “The Gang Fails to Learn Anything.” Yet, the show’s charm lies in its unapologetic portrayal of greed, incompetence, and Danny DeVito’s antics, cementing its status as a cult favorite. —JR
22. JANE THE VIRGIN (2014- )
Stream it on: Netflix, Amazon
Jane the Virgin centers on Jane Villanueva (Golden Globe-winner Gina Rodriguez) as she deals with the unexpected consequences of an accidental artificial insemination. While more grounded than its Venezuelan telenovela inspiration, the series is packed with family drama, a sizzling love triangle, and even a shape-shifting crime lord—all within the first season. Each episode is a whirlwind of emotion and excitement. —Michele Debczak
23. JUSTIFIED (2010-2015)
Watch it on: Amazon
At first glance, Justified appears to be a typical cop drama: Raylan Givens (Timothy Olyphant), a lawman with a troubled past, returns to his Kentucky roots to confront old enemies and a demanding boss. However, the show’s brilliance lies in its razor-sharp dialogue, inspired by Elmore Leonard’s short story. Givens’ quick wit and sharp tongue are as deadly as his gun, and Walton Goggins’ portrayal of Boyd Crowder, a former friend turned adversary, steals the spotlight. As The New York Times noted, Goggins consistently elevates every show he’s in. —JR
24. THE LAST KINGDOM (2015- )
Stream it on: Netflix, Amazon
Adapted from Bernard Cornwell’s The Saxon Stories, The Last Kingdom chronicles the journey of Uhtred of Bebbanburg (Alexander Dreymon), a Saxon raised by Danes after being captured as a child. Torn between two cultures, Uhtred’s story unfolds during the reign of Alfred the Great (David Dawson), the 9th-century King of Wessex who resisted Viking invasions and laid the foundation for a united England. Blending historical drama with gripping battles and intricate characters, the series offers a compelling mix of action and intrigue. Originally a BBC production, it’s now a Netflix exclusive in the U.S. —Jason Serafino
25. THE LEAGUE (2009-2015)
Watch it on: Amazon
The League is a show where you’re not exactly cheering for the characters to win. This group of NFL-obsessed friends, who form an intensely competitive fantasy football league, are outrageously offensive, utterly shameless, and endlessly entertaining. Created by Jeff and Jackie Schaffer, the series draws from Jeff’s own fantasy sports obsession, with the cast even participating in their own league for added authenticity. Even if football isn’t your thing, the show’s rapid-fire humor and the characters’ absurd antics in pursuit of a meaningless trophy make it a hilarious watch. —SF
26. THE KNICK (2014-2015)
Stream it on: Amazon
Directed and shot by Steven Soderbergh, this two-season Cinemax series is a gritty, unflinching look at early 20th-century medicine. Set in a New York City hospital, the show features graphic, historically accurate surgical scenes. Clive Owen stars as John Thackery, a brilliant but cocaine-addicted surgeon, while André Holland plays Algernon C. Edwards, a highly skilled African-American doctor facing racial prejudice. Eve Hewson (daughter of U2’s Bono) portrays Lucy Elkins, a nurse torn between her faith and her affair with Thackery.
The series is packed with high-stakes drama, from Thackery’s groundbreaking surgeries and a doctor’s wife descending into madness to illegal abortions and corrupt dealings with mobsters. History enthusiasts will appreciate the numerous historical references, including appearances by figures like Typhoid Mary. With only 20 episodes, the show is as addictive as Thackery’s drug habit. —EM
27. LUTHER (2010- )
Stream it on: Amazon
While conflicted detectives are a staple of cop dramas, Luther sets itself apart with Idris Elba’s commanding performance as DCI John Luther. This gritty British series follows Luther as he confronts London’s most dangerous criminals, often bending the rules to achieve justice. His complex relationship with a sociopathic genius (Ruth Wilson), who murdered her own parents, adds another layer of intrigue. Elba’s magnetic presence and the show’s intense storytelling make it a standout. With only 15 episodes across four seasons, it’s easy to binge before Elba returns for a fifth season. —JMW
28. MISS FISHER’S MURDER MYSTERIES (2012- )
Watch it on: Amazon
Phryne Fisher (Essie Davis) is Melbourne’s most brilliant detective, even if she doesn’t officially work for the police. Set in 1920s Australia, Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries is a charming detective series that follows Fisher as she solves the city’s most perplexing crimes. Her confidence and modern approach often clash with the traditional methods of the local police, but her sharp instincts consistently lead her to the truth. The show blends jazz, romance, action, and stunning flapper fashion into a delightful package. —SF
29. THE OFFICE (2001-2003)
Stream it on: Amazon
While the American adaptation of The Office is a classic in its own right, Ricky Gervais’s original British version is a masterclass in cringe-worthy comedy. David Brent, the bumbling manager of Wernham Hogg, is a self-absorbed, socially inept character who constantly seeks validation but fails spectacularly. His attempts to assert dominance, like his infamous dance-off with a superior, are painfully hilarious. Martin Freeman’s deadpan reactions add another layer of brilliance to this awkward yet unforgettable series. —JMW
30. ORPHAN BLACK (2013-2017)
Stream it on: Amazon
If you’re craving top-tier sci-fi, look no further than Orphan Black. This Canadian sensation redefined storytelling, cultural critique, and character design, with Tatiana Maslany delivering an Emmy-winning performance as multiple clones, each distinct and compelling. Her ability to portray dozens of unique characters is nothing short of extraordinary. —KH
31. PARKS AND RECREATION (2009-2015)
Watch it on: Netflix, Amazon
Parks and Recreation turned small-town government into a comedic treasure trove. Amy Poehler shines as Leslie Knope, the endlessly enthusiastic deputy director of Pawnee’s parks department. Alongside a stellar cast, including Rob Lowe, Chris Pratt, Aziz Ansari, and Aubrey Plaza, the show balances political satire with heartfelt humor. Whether they’re mourning Lil' Sebastian or battling bureaucracy, the series remains a feel-good favorite. —MD
32. PARTY DOWN (2009-2010)
Stream it on: Hulu
Before their rise to fame in Glee and Parks and Recreation, Jane Lynch and Adam Scott shared the screen in Party Down. This short-lived Starz series, which aired from 2009 to 2010, follows a group of aspiring actors and a screenwriter working as caterers to make ends meet. Their journey is filled with quirky party guests, cringe-worthy romantic encounters, and the constant struggle to chase their dreams. —Kirstin Fawcett
33. PEAKY BLINDERS (2013- )
Watch it on: Netflix
This BBC series, crafted by Steven Knight, is often likened to the British version of The Godfather, drawing inspiration from the real-life gang that terrorized Birmingham, England, in the 19th and 20th centuries. (Legend has it they earned their name by sewing razor blades into their caps.)
Cillian Murphy shines as Tommy Shelby, the reluctant yet fierce leader of the Shelby crime family, thrust into the role by a sense of duty. With a modern soundtrack (featuring Nick Cave & the Bad Seeds’ “Red Right Hand”) and a cinematic intensity, Peaky Blinders captivates by blurring the lines between right and wrong. Tom Hardy guest stars as Alfie Solomons, a rival gang leader, delivering one of his most intense performances.
Each season consists of just six episodes, making it perfect for a weekend binge. Catch up before season four, which introduces Oscar-winner Adrien Brody, premieres. —EM
34. PENNY DREADFUL (2014-2016)
Stream it on: Netflix, Amazon
It’s difficult to pinpoint exactly where Penny Dreadful faltered. Perhaps if it had aired on HBO instead of Showtime, we’d be well into its fourth season. This visually stunning series, created by John Logan (known for Gladiator, The Aviator, Skyfall, and Alien: Covenant), concluded abruptly after 27 episodes, leaving viewers stunned when “The End” appeared on screen. A sophisticated blend of classic literary monsters—Victor Frankenstein, Dracula, Van Helsing, and more—the show is set in Victorian England and features a stellar cast led by Eva Green, Timothy Dalton, and Josh Hartnett. Its dark, captivating tales leave fans longing for more. —JMW
35. PUSHING DAISIES (2007-2009)
Stream it on: Amazon, CW Seed
As Stefon might say, Pushing Daisies has everything: a cruise ship murder, agoraphobic aunts, a piemaker with the power to resurrect the dead, and Swoosie Kurtz. This vibrant “forensic fairytale” stars Lee Pace as Ned, the owner of The Pie Hole, whose touch can bring the dead back to life—but a second touch kills them permanently. His ability complicates things when he revives his childhood love after her mysterious death. Sadly, the show was canceled after just 22 whimsical episodes. While rumors of a reboot persist, fans can relive the magic on CW Seed. —SC
36. SCHITT’S CREEK (2015- )
Stream it on: Netflix, Amazon
Fans of Catherine O’Hara and Eugene Levy’s quirky parental roles will adore Schitt’s Creek. This Canadian series sees the duo as wealthy narcissists forced to adapt to life in the small, rural town of Schitt’s Creek after losing their fortune. Their equally self-absorbed children, David (played by Levy’s real-life son, Dan) and Alexis (Annie Murphy), add to the chaos as they navigate their social lives. With episodes running just 22 minutes, it’s easy to binge an entire season—or two—in one sitting. —Colin Gorenstein
37. SHERLOCK (2010- )
Watch it on: Netflix, Amazon
Sherlock Holmes, the world’s most portrayed literary character, gets a modern twist in Sherlock. Benedict Cumberbatch stars as the brilliant detective, with Martin Freeman as Dr. Watson, his loyal companion. Set in contemporary London, the series incorporates modern technology like Google and social media into Holmes’ investigations, with Watson documenting their cases online. Though there are only 15 episodes, each runs about 90 minutes, offering a cinematic experience. One standout episode even transports the duo back to their original Victorian era. —JMW
38. THE SHIELD (2002-2008)
Stream it on: Hulu
Television has long embraced antiheroes, but none are as compelling as Vic Mackey, a corrupt cop who manipulates, steals, and kills his way through the LAPD. Michael Chiklis earned an Emmy for his portrayal of Mackey, masterfully balancing the character’s ruthless actions with a glimmer of relatability. Mackey doesn’t just blur the line between right and wrong—he obliterates it entirely. —JR
39. SILICON VALLEY (2014- )
Watch it on: Amazon, HBO Go
Mike Judge’s meticulous satire of the tech world follows Richard Hendricks (Thomas Middleditch) as he tries to launch a startup based on a groundbreaking algorithm. Pied Piper’s quirky team of programmers has the talent to revolutionize the industry, if they can stop sabotaging themselves. The series showcases comedians like Martin Starr, Kumail Nanjiani, T.J. Miller, and Zach Woods at their sharpest, delivering rapid-fire wit while navigating the absurd egos of Silicon Valley elites—including one who employs a “blood boy” for youthful transfusions. (Yes, that’s based on a real startup.) —SF
40. SIX FEET UNDER (2001-2005)
Stream it on: Amazon, HBO Go
Death is a constant presence in Six Feet Under, Alan Ball’s acclaimed HBO series. The story begins with the death of Nathaniel Fisher (Richard Jenkins), the patriarch of the Fisher family, who runs a funeral home with his son David (Michael C. Hall). David’s older brother Nate (Peter Krause) returns home to help manage the business, reconnecting with their mother Ruth (Frances Conroy) and sister Claire (Lauren Ambrose). Each episode opens with a death, often bizarre or unsettling, but the show ultimately explores family dynamics and the value of life. While deeply moving, it’s best enjoyed in moderation to avoid existential overload. —JMW
41. THE SOPRANOS (1999-2007)
Stream it on: Amazon Prime, HBO Go
The Sopranos defies mob drama stereotypes, blending violent mob dealings with deep psychological exploration. Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini) juggles his criminal life with therapy sessions, a troubled marriage to Carmella (Edie Falco), and raising two teenagers. The show’s relatable characters, gripping storylines, and memorable quotes make its six-season run a binge-worthy experience. —JS
42. STRANGERS WITH CANDY (1999-2000)
Watch it on: Amazon
Jerri Blank, the self-proclaimed “boozer, user, and loser,” returns to high school at 46 after a life of crime and addiction. Strangers With Candy, a parody of 1970s and 1980s after-school specials, hilariously captures the timeless awkwardness of adolescence. Despite changing trends, the pain of growing up remains universal. —KF
43. SUPERNATURAL (2005- )
Stream it on: Netflix, Amazon
As it approaches its 13th season, Supernatural holds the title of the longest-running fantasy series on American TV. The show follows brothers Sam and Dean Winchester (Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles) as they hunt demons, ghosts, and monsters across the country, accompanied by a stellar classic rock soundtrack. While rooted in horror, the series’ blend of humor and heartfelt moments has cemented its enduring appeal. —RB
44. 12 MONKEYS (2015- )
Watch it on: Hulu
While sharing its name and some plot elements with Terry Gilliam’s 1995 film (inspired by the French short La Jetée), Syfy’s 12 Monkeys, co-created by Travis Fickett and Terry Matalas, quickly establishes its own identity. James Cole (Aaron Stanford), a scavenger from a post-apocalyptic future, is sent back in time by Dr. Katarina Jones (Barbara Sukowa) to locate Dr. Cassandra Railly (Amanda Schull), who may hold the key to preventing a devastating plague. Along the way, they team up with Jennifer Goines (Emily Hampshire), the unpredictable daughter of a biotech CEO, to thwart the Army of the 12 Monkeys, a shadowy group led by The Pallid Man (Tom Noonan) aiming to destroy humanity.
The series spans diverse time periods, from 2043’s dystopian wasteland to 1800s London, 1980s New York, and even World War I. As the characters navigate these eras to uncover the secrets of the Army of the 12 Monkeys and their enigmatic leader, The Witness, the story grows increasingly intricate and captivating. With meticulous attention to historical detail and cinematic production quality, 12 Monkeys is irresistibly binge-worthy. While original viewers endured cliffhangers between seasons, new audiences can enjoy the entire journey before the show’s fourth and final season premieres. —EM
45. THE TWILIGHT ZONE (1959-1964)
Stream it on: Netflix, Amazon
A cornerstone of sci-fi and fantasy, The Twilight Zone captivated audiences with its exploration of “the odd, the bizarre, the unexpected.” Rod Serling’s groundbreaking series used robots, aliens, and time travel as vehicles to delve into human nature and Cold War-era fears. Its influence is evident in nearly every modern sci-fi show, and Serling’s signature twist endings remain iconic. As you immerse yourself in its clever storytelling, watch for early roles from stars like Robert Redford, Burt Reynolds, William Shatner, and George Takei. —Bess Lovejoy
46. TWIN PEAKS (1990-1991; 2017)
Stream it on: Netflix
“Diane, I’m currently engrossed in Twin Peaks, a groundbreaking series that debuted in 1990. The show follows FBI agent Dale Cooper as he investigates the murder of Laura Palmer, a high school homecoming queen in a quiet Pacific Northwest town. Each character, from her boyfriend Bobby Briggs to her rival Audrey Horne, harbors dark secrets, especially her father Leland. The deeper I dive, Diane, the more surreal and complex it becomes. I predict only two seasons, but they’ll undoubtedly be the most bizarre and innovative episodes ever to air on network television.” —Kat Long
47. VEEP (2012- )
Watch it on: Amazon, HBO Go
While The West Wing delivers high-stakes political drama, Veep offers a hilarious yet equally incisive look at Washington, D.C. Julia Louis-Dreyfus stars as Vice President Selina Meyer, surrounded by a cast of bumbling aides and cunning adversaries. The series masterfully satirizes the political world, blending sharp humor with insightful commentary on the complexities of governance. It’s a refreshingly irreverent take on politics that balances weighty topics with laugh-out-loud moments. —JS
48. THE WEST WING (1999-2006)
Stream it on: Netflix, Amazon
Aaron Sorkin’s The West Wing set the standard for political dramas long before the term “prestige TV” existed. The series follows the administration of fictional President Josiah Bartlet (Martin Sheen), offering a behind-the-scenes look at the White House during both routine operations and crises. Known for its rapid-fire dialogue and attention to detail, the show is essential viewing for anyone fascinated by politics. —JS
49. THE WIRE (2002-2008)
Stream it on: Amazon, HBO Go
“Have you seen The Wire?” is a question you’ve probably heard too many times, but don’t let that overshadow the show’s brilliance. Widely regarded as one of the best series of the 2000s, The Wire delves into the interconnected worlds of crime, law enforcement, politics, and media in Baltimore. Its intricate storytelling explores themes of class, race, and capitalism, brought to life by an exceptional cast including Dominic West, Idris Elba, and Sonja Sohn. It’s a masterclass in television storytelling. —JS
50. THE X-FILES (1993-2002; 2016- )
Watch it on: Hulu
In the shadowy corners of the FBI, Special Agents Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) tackle cases the bureau prefers to keep hidden. From alien abductions to government conspiracies, Mulder’s unwavering belief and Scully’s skepticism create a dynamic partnership that drove the show through nine seasons and a recent revival. With 208 episodes, binge-watching might just make you a believer in the unknown. —KL
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