25 TV Shows That Redefined Television in the Last 25 Years!

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The past 25 years of the 21st century have been an exhilarating journey, marked by an incredible amount of change and invention. From the rise of social media platforms to the shift towards streaming content, this transformation has been quite astonishing, especially in the realm of television. Just 25 years ago, we were tuning into network TV each evening for a much-needed respite. However, with the emergence of cable television and the rise of serialized dramas, our television viewing habits have undergone a significant shift, redefining pop culture in a dramatic fashion.

Today, television has matched and even eclipsed the scope and grandeur of films. We find ourselves in the midst of a second TV golden era, boasting countless series spread across cable and streaming networks, each vying for attention and acclaim. Narrowing down just 20 outstanding shows from the past 25 years was no small feat, but we’ve compiled a list featuring some groundbreaking series that have left an indelible impact on television and found a permanent place in our daily routines. Now, let us share this esteemed collection with you.

20
‘Atlanta’ (2016 – 2022)

The show, titled “Atlanta,” encompasses four seasons and is a blend of comedy and drama. It chronicles the journey of Earn Marks, a former Princeton student who drops out, as he maneuvers Atlanta’s music industry alongside his cousin Alfred, or Paper Boi, and their companion Darius. Their primary goal is to realize their aspirations and support their loved ones, while encountering the ridiculousness and unsettling truths of celebrity, race, and social class in contemporary America.

Darkly Comedic Exploration of Identity

One of the most remarkable TV series from the last quarter-century, created by Donald Glover, is recognized for its groundbreaking storytelling style and distinctive take on modern problems. It seamlessly blends absurd comedy, sharp social critique, dreamlike elements, and poignant character development. The program has earned widespread praise for its daring narrative decisions and stellar performances delivered by Glover, Brian Tyree Henry, and Lakeith Stanfield.

19
‘Ted Lasso’ (2020 – Present)

In the show named Ted Lasso, the main character is an American football coach of modest background, who finds himself in an unfamiliar role as manager for a struggling soccer club in the English Premier League, AFC Richmond. Ted has never before been involved with this sport and his constant positive outlook confuses the players at first. However, his genuine kindness and unique coaching techniques eventually endear him to both the team and the community.

A Fish-Out-of-Water Comedy

This show offers a genuinely heartwarming and inspiring journey that contrasts the skepticism and self-doubts prevalent in today’s world. In an era dominated by pessimism, the lead character, portrayed by Jason Sudeikis, stands as a rejuvenating remedy, shining brightly as a beacon of hope. The series skillfully delves into the triumphs and tribulations of the sport, fosters friendships, and promotes personal growth among characters, all while creating heartfelt moments that resonate deeply with viewers.

18
’30 Rock’ (2006 – 2013)

30 Rock, Tina Fey’s witty and satirical NBC comedy series, is unfortunately not given its due recognition. This show takes viewers backstage in the hectic and rapid-fire environment of a fictional live sketch comedy program, as seen through the lens of Liz Lemon, the head writer. She struggles to balance corporate meddling, actor outbursts, boss demands, and her personal affairs, all while upholding her principles and ensuring the show remains successful.

Sharp, Witty, and Unforgettable

As a die-hard movie enthusiast, let me tell you that Fey’s masterpiece is an uproariously funny, self-reflective spoof of Hollywood itself. It’s a workplace comedy that never fails to serve up quick-witted dialogue, biting humor, and insightful commentary. Tina Fey, Alec Baldwin, and Tracy Morgan spearhead an extraordinary cast, breathing life into unforgettable characters for seven seasons straight. This show’s fearless satire of the very network it graced with its presence earned it acclaim from critics and cemented its status as a significant sitcom of the 21st century.

17
‘Arrested Development’ (2003 – 2019)

When the family’s leading figure is found guilty of a financial crime, the once affluent and troubled Bluth household must face the consequences of their dubious transactions and individual flaws. The main character, Michael Bluth, struggles to maintain both the family and the business, but the quirks and self-centered behavior of his relatives continually hinder his efforts.

Smart and Layered Family Comedy

Arrested Development revolutionized the world of television comedy by introducing complex storylines, witty dialogues, abundant pop culture references, and recurring jokes. The show is filmed in mockumentary fashion and its self-referential humor, both amusing and satirical, stands out. Facing cancellation by Fox, it struggled to survive, but eventually gained a passionate fanbase, critical acclaim, and numerous accolades.

16
‘Girls’ (2012 – 2017)

In the bustling cityscape of New York, the series “Girls” focuses on the lives of four friends: Hannah, Marnie, Jessa, and Shoshanna. As they journey through adulthood, they encounter a myriad of issues related to self-discovery, relationships, careers, and independence. The show offers an unfiltered look into the difficult and sometimes awkward experiences that many women face in today’s society.

Brutally Honest Depiction of Modern Womanhood

Lena Dunham’s creation, Girls, made waves by offering an unprecedentedly frank depiction of women’s experiences in adulthood. It garnered both acclaim and criticism, but consistently showcased genuine storytelling, realistic characters, and tangled plots. The powerful acting of the cast, including Allison Williams, Jemima Kirke, and Zosia Mamet, infused the themes of friendship, romance, and maturity with emotional depth and broad relevance.

15
‘Fleabag’ (2016 – 2019)

The show “Fleabag” is the creative work of Phoebe Waller-Bridge. In this series, she plays the main character, a young woman dealing with the aftermath of a personal loss while managing her own intricate desires. Throughout her journey through life’s highs and lows, Fleabag frequently engages the audience by breaking the fourth wall, speaking directly to them, and offering glimpses into her thoughts.

Scathingly Honest and Subversive

Although labeled as a comedy, Fleabag transcends all genre boundaries, revealing itself as a gritty, candid, and emotionally poignant series. It delves into topics such as grief, sexuality, guilt, forgiveness, and the complexities of human connection, often demonstrating how it’s virtually impossible to maintain without causing harm. Over its two seasons, the show garnered widespread admiration from audiences and critics for its intelligence, depth, and distinctive storytelling. The ensemble cast, particularly Olivia Colman and Andrew Scott, significantly contributed to its appeal.

14
‘Black Mirror’ (2011 – Present)

Black Mirror invites you to contemplate a future where the technology in our hands has advanced so significantly it can alter our lives in the most disturbing and disquieting ways. This thought-provoking anthology series presents individual stories that tap into our fears about the digital era, transforming them into cautionary tales.

Portrays an All-Too-Plausible Future

Black Mirror, spanning six seasons, has delved into topics ranging from virtual reality, artificial intelligence, social media, and surveillance – and there’s still more to discover. This series stands out as a remarkable example of speculative storytelling, offering glimpses into potential futures and alternate realities that are both witty and biting but also unsettling and nerve-wracking. With its high-quality production, skillful direction, and memorable acting, it has enthralled millions worldwide.

13
‘The Crown’ (2016 – 2023)

Over the past quarter-century, television has undergone an extraordinary transformation, with one of the key contributors being Peter Morgan’s historical drama, “The Crown.” This series delves into the life and reign of Queen Elizabeth II, taking us on a journey from her unexpected accession to the throne in the 1950s through to the present day. Each season concentrates on a specific decade, offering insights into the personal and political hurdles encountered by the Queen and the monarchy as a whole during that time.

Humanizes a Bunch of Historical Figures

The Crown distinguishes itself through its cinematic opulence and meticulous attention to historical precision. Morgan ensured that the show’s grandiose production quality and factual accuracy remained consistent from beginning to end, breathing life into truly intricate and imperfect characters. The cast was exceptional overall, but the portrayals by Claire Foy, Olivia Colman, and Imelda Staunton as Queen Elizabeth II at various stages of her life were particularly noteworthy.

12
‘Peaky Blinders’ (2013 – 2022)

Stepping into 1919’s gritty post-World War I Birmingham, England, I find myself immersed in the captivating saga of Peaky Blinders. As a fan, I follow the ascension of the Shelby crime family, masterfully led by the relentless and ambitious Tommy Shelby. The gang maneuvers through the perilous realms of organized crime, politics, and global machinations, all while holding onto their supremacy.

Stylish and Addictive Gangster Drama

An enthralling work of art, “Peaky Blinders” has made a lasting impact on contemporary television by seamlessly blending historical events with gripping storytelling. This series offers aspects of crime and thriller genres, along with a family saga reminiscent of Shakespearean tales, centers around personal feuds and gang conflicts, boasts an exceptional soundtrack and captivating visuals, and delivers outstanding performances from Cillian Murphy, Helen McCrory, Paul Anderson, among others.

11
‘Succession’ (2018 – 2023)

Imagine a family, incredibly influential and financially mighty, where it appears that the forces of nature themselves yield to their power. This is the Roy family, proprietors of the expansive media empire Waystar Royco, and the turbulent household central to the captivating series titled Succession. As the aging head, Logan Roy, ponders the destiny of his domain, his offspring – Kendall, Roman, Shiv, and Connor – will go to any length to seize control.

Intrigue, Plot Twists, and Power Plays

The TV show “Succession” stands out as an exceptional demonstration of character-centric narratives. It’s a gripping and merciless portrayal of corporate ruthlessness and unbridled ambition, yet it’s presented with a witty, dark humor that keeps viewers hooked. Critics have highly regarded its clever script and top-notch performances, describing the series as equally amusing as it is terrifying. As each season unfolds, the story delves further into the intricacies of the Roy family, while consistently maintaining its central themes without compromise.

10
‘Reservation Dogs’ (2021 – 2023)

Reservation Dogs, co-developed by Taika Waititi and Sterlin Harjo, revolves around a quartet of Native American teenagers – Bear, Elora, Willie Jack, and Cheese – residing in a tranquil Oklahoma backwater town. Bonded by their common past, they aspire to break free from their small-town life and migrate to the glamorous state of California, but the hurdles of adolescence often obstruct their aspirations for a new beginning.

Heartfelt Celebration of Indigenous Culture

The television show “Reservation Dogs” has garnered widespread acclaim for its accurate portrayal of Native American culture and its successful challenge of common misconceptions about their lives. Its unique blend of authenticity, complexity, and humor in storytelling is both captivating and commendable. This series distinguishes itself due to its poignant coming-of-age narrative that carries a profound sense of cultural respect and identity.

9
‘Friday Night Lights’ (2006 – 2011)

A heartwarming sports-centric drama, “Friday Night Lights” unfolds in the football-fanatical town of Dillon, Texas, where high school football is more than just a game – it’s a way of life. The show revolves around Coach Eric Taylor, his family, and the members of their local team, the Dillon Panthers, as they experience both the victories and hardships on the field, while also grappling with the complexities of their individual lives off the field.

“Clear Eyes, Full Hearts, Can’t Lose.”

The TV series, Friday Night Lights, delves into the heartfelt themes of ambition and loyalty, beautifully portraying small-town America. It’s a captivating blend of emotional depth and inspiring moments, spanning five seasons with exceptional character growth at its core. This critically acclaimed and popular drama has solidified its reputation as one of the most admired and beloved TV dramas in the past quarter century, inspired by H.G. Bissinger’s book and Peter Berg’s film.

8
‘Game of Thrones’ (2011 – 2019)

Without a doubt, one of the most significant television series of the century thus far is “Game of Thrones.” This captivating saga whisks audiences away to the continents of Westeros, where nine prominent families compete in a lethal struggle for power, all seeking dominance over the Iron Throne. As the realm stands on the precipice of total war and the specter of an ancient menace draws nearer, various characters find their narratives intertwining.

Visually Epic and Culturally Impactful

David Benioff and D.B. Weiss’ version of George R.R. Martin’s books significantly reshaped the cultural landscape. Over a span of eight seasons, featuring an unprecedented scale, stunning visual effects, exquisite costume designs, shocking plot developments, iconic battles, brutal power struggles, and complex political machinations, the series enthralled millions of viewers. Although some fans were upset about the final season being rewritten, this didn’t diminish the lasting appeal of Game of Thrones.

7
‘Lost’ (2004 – 2010)

Stepping into the realm of film critique, allow me to share my thoughts on the intriguing series, “Lost.” As I embarked on this captivating journey, I found myself among the unfortunate passengers of Oceanic Flight 815, who inexplicably crash-landed on a seemingly uninhabited tropical isle. The ensuing struggle to adapt and survive in this baffling new world was already an uphill battle, but it became exponentially more challenging as we unraveled the island’s myriad mysteries.

One such revelation was the presence of a menacing smoke monster that seemed to defy all logic and reason. Adding to the tension were the encounters with a formidable group of residents, dubbed the Others, who appeared to be hostile towards our newfound community. The series masterfully weaves these elements together, leaving viewers on the edge of their seats as they eagerly await each new twist and turn in this engrossing narrative.

A Web of Interconnected Mysteries

A notable series that significantly changed television for the better, “Lost” masterfully combines science fiction and fantasy elements to deliver a daring and character-centric narrative. Each character is intricately developed, boasting complex backgrounds, unique motivations, and their stories unfold through flashbacks and forward flashes. This innovative storytelling approach, under the guidance of J.J. Abrams, Damon Lindelof, and Jeffrey Lieber, has proven to be a remarkable success that continues to be celebrated today.

6
‘Mad Men’ (2007 – 2015)

Mad Men, a series conceived by Matthew Weiner, is set against the backdrop of the stylish, fast-paced advertising environment of the 1960s. The narrative unfolds around Don Draper, a complex and troubled advertising executive, along with the staff at Sterling Cooper agency. As Don maneuvers through industry shifts and confronts the specters of his past, his personal and professional lives become more entangled in a time of great change.

Stylish and Timeless

Due to the numerous accolades and awards it earned, Mad Man transcended into a contemporary masterpiece. It’s a skillfully woven period drama that showcases exceptional detail in its execution and thought-provoking exploration of the human condition amidst a swiftly changing social backdrop. The captivating performance of Jon Hamm as Don Draper, a complex character who is both toxic and mesmerizing, serves as the series’ core. Alongside him are stellar performances by Elisabeth Moss, Christina Hendricks, John Slattery, and others.

5
‘Breaking Bad’ (2008 – 2013)

Ever since “Breaking Bad” concluded, no crime drama has managed to surpass it – this is simply an undeniable truth. The series revolves around Walter White, a quiet high school chemistry teacher who receives a devastating terminal illness diagnosis. In a desperate attempt to secure his family’s financial future, he immerses himself in the dark underworld of drug production, teaming up with his former student Jesse Pinkman to manufacture and sell top-tier meth. However, the dangerous world of crime eventually swallows him whole.

The Greatest Anti-Hero Narrative

Vince Gilligan crafted a captivating series that delves deeply into character complexity; it’s a grim exploration of how ambition can erode, reminiscent of ancient Greek tragedies. Over five gripping seasons, the mesmerizing acting of Bryan Cranston as Walter White and Aaron Paul as Jesse Pinkman kept viewers hooked. The show’s visually stunning scenes combined with profound themes left an indelible mark on television.

4
‘Stranger Things’ (2016 – 2025)

A thrilling tribute to Steven Spielberg films and the 1980s, Stranger Things starts off with the unexpected vanishing of Will Byers from the peaceful, ordinary town of Hawkins, Indiana. His friends, the locals, and the sheriff initiate a search party, but they uncover something unusual – a hidden government lab, an alternate world called the Upside Down, and a peculiar girl named Eleven, who holds extraordinary abilities.

Nostalgia Paired with Supernatural Horror

Stranger Things quickly became a sensation on Netflix, thanks to its unique combination of ’80s nostalgia, captivating sci-fi/horror elements, tense storytelling, and thrilling character developments. Crafted by the Duffer Brothers, each season strikes a perfect balance between humor, adventure, and horror, making transitions between them seamless. Millie Bobby Brown’s remarkable portrayal of Eleven, coupled with the performances of Winona Ryder, David Harbour, and the young cast, solidified its reputation as the must-watch series for binge-watching.

3
‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’ (2017 – 2023)

Following Lorelai Gilmore, Amy Sherman-Palladino introduced another swift-witted female lead to stir the television world. Known as The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel, this series is set in the 1950s and follows the life of Miriam “Midge” Maisel. At first glance, she appears to have it all: a devoted husband, an apartment on New York’s Upper West Side, and two lovely children. However, when her husband unexpectedly leaves, Midge uncovers a knack for stand-up comedy and decides to chase a career in an industry predominantly ruled by men.

Rewards Fans With Its Charm and Humor

The captivating and amusing show “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” emphasizes the significance of women and encourages following one’s aspirations. With a lively vintage atmosphere, each episode beautifully portrays 1950s New York City in its full splendor. Notably, Rachel Brosnahan’s portrayal of Midge Maisel and Tony Shalhoub’s performance as her father Abe are standouts – they breathe life into stereotypical characters, making them endearing and providing numerous laughs throughout the series.

2
‘The Wire’ (2002 – 2008)

Speaking about exceptional and unyielding TV series, not many can claim the title of landmark accomplishments, but undeniably, “The Wire” stands out as one such example. This show provides an insightful perspective on the rougher parts of Baltimore from the viewpoints of both police officers and drug traffickers. Each season delves into a unique aspect of the city, with the educational system, working class, politics, and media playing prominent roles in painting a vivid picture of a system that is simultaneously imperfect and deeply human.

Important and Influential Dissection of Society

The Wire presents an expansive narrative using a varied group of characters such as Detective Jimmy McNulty, drug lord Avon Barksdale, and teenager Wallace dealing drugs. They collectively offer a complex view of the struggles confronting contemporary urban America. Over five seasons, this series garnered significant acclaim and recognition for its meticulously researched plotline, well-developed characters, and reluctance to simplify complex issues with straightforward solutions.

1
‘Deadwood’ (2004 – 2006)

Deadwood is set against the unruly landscape of a small mining town called Deadwood, where a variety of characters such as Al Swearengen (saloon owner), Seth Bullock (former lawman with principles) and Wild Bill Hickok (notorious figure) navigate through disorder and brutality during the 19th century’s later years. As more individuals flock to town, the struggle for dominance grows increasingly fierce and destructive.

Depicts a Tumultuous Time in American History

David Milch created this remarkable Western series well past when the genre had faded from popularity on screen, yet managed to attract significant viewership for HBO. Although it ran for just three seasons, its blend of raw realism, meticulous historical context, and poetic dialogue made a lasting impression on television. The performances by Ian McShane, Timothy Olyphant, and others were exceptional, breathing life into the town, its people, their struggles, dreams, and inner turmoil in an unforgettably majestic way.

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2025-02-08 03:04