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Popular and critically acclaimed tv series to watch

Explore a diverse collection of popular and critically acclaimed TV series spanning various genres. From gripping dramas to hilarious comedies and thought-provoking narratives, this list offers a range of must-watch shows.

Heartstopper
BoJack Horseman
The End of the F***ing World

Television has entered a remarkable era, offering an unprecedented diversity of stories that capture our attention, challenge our perspectives, and simply entertain us. This list brings together shows that have made a significant impact, whether through groundbreaking storytelling or sheer cultural ubiquity.

We've seen the rise of complex, morally ambiguous protagonists in dramas like Breaking Bad, setting a new standard for character development. Meanwhile, comedies have evolved from traditional sitcoms like The Big Bang Theory and The Office to more unconventional and often dark humor found in shows like BoJack Horseman or Rick and Morty.

The landscape also features powerful coming-of-age narratives, tackling sensitive themes with honesty in series such as Skins, Sex Education, and Heartstopper. The ability of TV to explore specific cultural moments or subcultures is evident in shows like Derry Girls or Kim's Convenience.

Furthermore, television isn't afraid to delve into the uncomfortable or speculative, with series like Black Mirror pushing the boundaries of sci-fi social commentary or DAHMER exploring the darkest aspects of human nature. This collection represents just a snapshot of the incredible breadth and depth available to viewers today, showcasing the power of television to reflect, question, and escape reality.

28. The Inside Man (2019)

From Steven Moffat, the co-creator of Sherlock, comes The Inside Man, a limited series with a unique premise. It follows a US death row prisoner with a knack for solving mysteries, a vicar in a quiet English town, and a journalist, whose lives become unexpectedly intertwined. The show is a dark, twisty thriller that keeps you guessing, exploring themes of morality, secrets, and how seemingly disparate lives can connect in shocking ways.

The Inside Man

27. DAHMER - Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story (2022)

Delve into a dark chapter of true crime with DAHMER - Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story. This series, co-created by Ryan Murphy, recounts the horrific crimes of serial killer Jeffrey Dahmer, but notably also attempts to tell the stories of his victims and the systemic failures that allowed him to continue. Evan Peters' portrayal of Dahmer is unsettlingly accurate, and the series sparked significant discussion and debate regarding its focus and impact.

DAHMER - Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story

26. You (2018)

Get inside the mind of a charming but dangerous stalker in You. This psychological thriller follows Joe Goldberg, a man who becomes obsessed with women and goes to extreme lengths to insert himself into their lives, often with deadly consequences. Narrated by Joe himself, the show offers a disturbing first-person perspective on obsession and manipulation, based on the novels by Caroline Kepnes. Penn Badgley's performance as the charismatic yet terrifying protagonist is central to the series' appeal.

You

25. Breaking Bad (2008)

Witness a man's descent into the criminal underworld in Breaking Bad. This critically acclaimed drama follows Walter White, a mild-mannered high school chemistry teacher diagnosed with terminal cancer, who starts producing and selling methamphetamine to secure his family's financial future. Known for its complex characters, tight plotting, and stunning cinematography, the show explores themes of morality, consequences, and transformation, anchored by Bryan Cranston's incredible performance.

Breaking Bad

24. Outnumbered (2007)

Get a realistic and often hilarious look at family life with Outnumbered. This semi-improvised British sitcom centers on the lives of Pete and Sue Brockman as they try to parent their three children, who often steal the show with their unscripted, naturalistic dialogue. The show's charm lies in its relatable portrayal of the everyday chaos and conversations within a typical family home, with the child actors contributing significantly to the dialogue.

Outnumbered

23. Young Sheldon (2017)

Discover the origins of Sheldon Cooper in Young Sheldon, the prequel to The Big Bang Theory. This single-camera comedy (a departure from the multi-camera format of the original) follows nine-year-old Sheldon as he grows up in East Texas with his family. Narrated by Jim Parsons (who played adult Sheldon), the show provides a different perspective on the character, exploring his gifted mind and the challenges he faces fitting into a world that doesn't always understand him.

Young Sheldon

22. The Big Bang Theory (2007)

Explore the intersection of genius and social awkwardness in The Big Bang Theory. This hugely popular sitcom follows a group of Caltech scientists and their interactions with their neighbor, an aspiring actress. While often relying on stereotypes, the show found massive success with its humor based on the characters' intelligence contrasted with their lack of social skills, particularly in romantic situations. It ran for twelve seasons and spawned a prequel.

The Big Bang Theory

21. The IT Crowd (2006)

Head down to the basement with The IT Crowd, a cult classic British sitcom focusing on the dysfunctional IT department of a large corporation. Created by Graham Linehan, the show relies on sharp, often surreal humor and the dynamic between its three main characters: the tech-savvy but socially awkward Roy and Moss, and their technologically illiterate manager Jen. It's known for its quotable lines and hilarious takes on office culture and geek stereotypes.

The IT Crowd

20. Superstore (2015)

Navigate the wacky world of retail with Superstore. This workplace comedy is set in a fictional big-box store called Cloud 9 and follows the lives of its diverse group of employees. The show expertly blends observational humor about the retail experience with character-driven storylines and subtle social commentary on issues like healthcare, unions, and immigration. America Ferrera and Ben Feldman lead a strong comedic cast.

Superstore

19. The Office (2005)

Experience the mundane hilarity of office life in The Office (US). This mockumentary-style sitcom follows the employees of Dunder Mifflin, a paper company branch in Scranton, Pennsylvania. Known for its cringe humor, awkward interactions, and surprisingly heartfelt character arcs, the show became a cultural phenomenon. Its success is often attributed to its talented ensemble cast, including Steve Carell, John Krasinski, and Jenna Fischer, and its ability to find comedy in the everyday.

The Office

18. Kim's Convenience (2016)

Find heartwarming comedy in the aisles of Kim's Convenience, a Canadian sitcom based on the play of the same name. The series follows the Kim family, a Korean-Canadian family running a convenience store in Toronto. It offers a humorous and touching look at family relationships, cultural identity, and generational differences. The show was praised for its representation and genuine humor derived from relatable family dynamics and immigrant experiences.

Kim's Convenience

17. Human Resources (2022)

Step behind the curtain of where the 'hormone monsters' and other creatures from Big Mouth come from in Human Resources. This animated spin-off delves into the workplace of the creatures who guide (and sometimes manipulate) humans through life stages like puberty, parenthood, and aging. It expands the universe of the original show, focusing on the office dynamics and personal lives of the emotional creatures themselves, featuring a star-studded voice cast.

Human Resources

16. Rick and Morty (2013)

Strap in for dimension-hopping adventures and existential crises with Rick and Morty. This adult animated sci-fi sitcom follows the misadventures of cynical mad scientist Rick Sanchez and his good-hearted but easily influenced grandson Morty Smith. Known for its complex plots, dark humor, and philosophical undertones, the show often deconstructs sci-fi tropes while exploring nihilism and family dynamics. The show originated from an animated short parodying Back to the Future.

Rick and Morty

15. Black Mirror (2011)

Prepare for a chilling look at the potential consequences of technology with Black Mirror. This anthology series, created by Charlie Brooker, presents standalone stories, often set in the near future, that explore the dark side of technological advancement and its impact on society and human nature. Each episode is a self-contained film, varying in tone from darkly comedic to outright terrifying, prompting viewers to think about their own relationship with screens and innovation.

Black Mirror

14. Heartbreak High (1994)

Go back to the 90s with the original Heartbreak High, an iconic Australian drama that followed the lives of students and teachers at Hartley High. This show was known for tackling relevant and sometimes controversial issues for its time, from racism and poverty to drug use and sexuality, making it a significant series in Australian television history. It was a launching pad for many Australian actors and resonated with young audiences globally.

Heartbreak High

13. Ackley Bridge (2017)

Set in a diverse, fictional Yorkshire mill town, Ackley Bridge centers around a new academy school formed by merging two formerly segregated schools. The series explores the lives of students and teachers dealing with cultural clashes, social issues, and personal dramas. It's a compelling look at contemporary British society through the lens of a secondary school, featuring a mix of humor, heart, and challenging storylines.

Ackley Bridge

12. Fresh Meat (2011)

Get a dose of chaotic university life with Fresh Meat. This British comedy-drama from the creators of Peep Show follows six mismatched students sharing a house in their first year at the fictional Manchester Medlock University. The show perfectly captures the awkwardness, friendships, and misadventures of navigating independence for the first time. Its ensemble cast, including Jack Whitehall and Joe Thomas, delivers sharp, character-driven humor.

Fresh Meat

11. Ginny & Georgia (2021)

Explore the complex and often fraught relationship between a mother and daughter in Ginny & Georgia. This drama follows free-spirited Georgia and her teenage daughter Ginny as they move to a new town seeking a fresh start, only for secrets from their past to catch up with them. The show mixes classic coming-of-age tropes with elements of mystery and dark secrets, offering a look at how past traumas shape present lives.

Ginny & Georgia

10. I Am Not Okay with This (2020)

Blending teenage angst with burgeoning superpowers, I Am Not Okay with This is based on another graphic novel by Charles Forsman. This series follows Sydney Novak, a high schooler dealing with typical adolescent issues – family drama, budding sexuality, navigating friendships – all while discovering she has telekinetic abilities. The show has a distinct, slightly retro aesthetic and features strong performances from its young cast, including Sophia Lillis and Wyatt Oleff, who previously starred together in It.

I Am Not Okay with This

9. Derry Girls (2018)

Laugh out loud with Derry Girls, a hilarious and witty sitcom set in Derry, Northern Ireland, during the 1990s amidst The Troubles. The show follows a group of teenage girls (and one English cousin) navigating the universal struggles of adolescence against a very specific historical and cultural backdrop. Creator Lisa McGee drew heavily on her own experiences growing up in the area. The rapid-fire jokes, quirky characters, and nostalgic soundtrack make it a truly joyful watch, despite the serious context.

Derry Girls

8. Young Royals (2021)

Enter the exclusive world of a Swedish boarding school in Young Royals. This drama centers on Prince Wilhelm as he adjusts to life away from royal duties, only to find himself drawn to a fellow student. The series offers a compelling look at the pressures of duty, identity, and young love within a privileged setting. It's praised for its realistic portrayal of teenage relationships and emotions, set against the backdrop of royal expectations and boarding school politics.

Young Royals

7. Never Have I Ever (2020)

From the creative mind of Mindy Kaling, Never Have I Ever is a coming-of-age comedy that follows Devi Vishwakumar, a first-generation Indian-American teenager navigating high school, family expectations, and her own grief. The show is celebrated for its specific cultural representation, sharp humor, and relatable portrayal of teenage awkwardness. A fun narrative device is the use of celebrity narrators, including John McEnroe, Andy Samberg, and Gigi Hadid, providing commentary on Devi's life.

Never Have I Ever

6. Shameless (2011)

Step into the chaotic lives of the Gallagher family in Shameless (US). This long-running series, based on the UK show of the same name, follows patriarch Frank Gallagher, a neglectful alcoholic, and his six resourceful kids who largely raise themselves on the South Side of Chicago. The show is known for its blend of dark comedy and gritty drama, tackling themes of poverty, addiction, and the struggles of the working class with a fiercely loyal and often outrageous family at its core. William H. Macy and Emmy Rossum lead a fantastic ensemble.

Shameless

5. The End of the F***ing World (2017)

Embark on a darkly comedic road trip with The End of the F*ing World**. Based on Charles Forsman's graphic novel, this British series follows two teenagers, James (who believes he's a psychopath) and Alyssa (a rebellious classmate), as they run away from home. The show's distinctive aesthetic, dry wit, and surprising moments of tenderness make for a unique and compelling watch. The performances by Alex Lawther and Jessica Barden are pitch-perfect, capturing the awkwardness and intensity of their unusual bond.

The End of the F***ing World

4. BoJack Horseman (2014)

Don't let the talking animals fool you; BoJack Horseman is one of the most profound and brutally honest explorations of depression, addiction, and the entertainment industry ever put to screen. This animated series follows a washed-up sitcom star trying to navigate life and his own self-destructive tendencies. Featuring an incredible voice cast including Will Arnett, Amy Sedaris, Alison Brie, Aaron Paul, and Paul F. Tompkins, the show is renowned for its sharp writing, complex characters, and ability to seamlessly blend hilarious satire with devastating emotional depth.

BoJack Horseman

3. Heartstopper (2022)

Prepare for your heart to melt with Heartstopper, a beautifully tender adaptation of Alice Oseman's beloved webcomic and graphic novels. This show is a breath of fresh air, offering a genuinely positive and sweet portrayal of young queer love and friendship. Its charming animation flourishes, directly inspired by the source material, pop up throughout the episodes, adding a unique visual flair. The chemistry between leads Joe Locke and Kit Connor is undeniable, making their journey of self-discovery and budding romance utterly captivating.

Heartstopper

2. Sex Education (2019)

Get ready for a truly charming and insightful look at the awkward world of adolescence in Sex Education. This series masterfully blends humor with genuinely heartfelt explorations of sex, relationships, and identity. Set against a backdrop that feels like a delightful mix of British and American high school aesthetics, the show features a fantastic ensemble cast, led by Asa Butterfield and Emma Mackey. Gillian Anderson is absolutely brilliant as the unconventional sex therapist mother, adding another layer of wit and wisdom.

Sex Education

1. Skins (2007)

Dive into the chaotic, raw world of British teenagers with Skins. This show was groundbreaking for its time, tackling tough subjects like mental health, substance abuse, and sexuality with unflinching honesty. It famously refreshed its cast every two seasons, allowing new stories and characters to take center stage, and it launched the careers of many now-famous actors like Dev Patel, Nicholas Hoult, Daniel Kaluuya, and Kaya Scodelario. Its distinctive visual style and soundtrack perfectly capture the turbulent energy of youth.

Skins

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