Top 5 Best TV Dramas of All Time, Ranked

There are countless outstanding TV dramas, and many debate the era of a "golden age" of television. Some claim it started in the 1990s and lasted roughly 10 to 20 years. Others believe that this golden age persists today, driven by the surge of streaming services in the 2010s. Undoubtedly, the past few decades showcase some of the greatest TV dramas ever created. The following selections exemplify this richness with shows that, while often blending into other genres, are fundamentally defined as dramas.

Although these acclaimed television shows might incorporate elements outside of standard drama, they are pivotal to the genre. Viewers in search of emotional, relatable, and gripping stories should prioritize these series. While some may exhibit flaws or fluctuating quality across seasons, each remains an impressive achievement. The following rankings progress from great to greatest.

5. Succession (2018 - 2023)

Succession is a recent addition to the pantheon of great dramas. Starting in 2018, the series centers on a wealthy, ailing media mogul tasked with passing his vast empire to one of his children. The power struggles and competing ambitions among his offspring form a captivating narrative.

As the show progresses, complexities arise, revealing the moguls reluctance to relinquish control. It effectively balances humor and tension, showcasing masterful dialogue and outstanding performances. The character dynamics transform engagingly unlikable figures into captivating television. Its four-season run culminated in a fitting finale, solidifying its status as a modern classic.

4. Mad Men (2007 - 2015)

Mad Men, spanning seven seasons and nearly 100 episodes, unfolds during the 1960s, following Don Draper, a prestigious advertising agency executive. The narrative explores his intricate backstory, complex family life, and his colleagues journeys.

While its concept may not initially seem thrilling, Mad Men slowly immerses viewers. It captures character-driven drama and sharp dialogue that rival conventional plot-driven excitement. This remarkable consistency allowed it to maintain high quality, making it one of the most engrossing dramas to air over eight years.

3. Breaking Bad (2008 - 2013)

Breaking Bad burst onto the television landscape in 2008 and initially focused on a chemistry teacher who turns to meth manufacturing after a cancer diagnosis. This choice aims to secure his familys financial stability in case he doesnt survive.

Complications arise as he becomes intoxicated by the power and fame that accompany his involvement in the drug trade. Gradually, the protagonists transformation into a drug kingpin unfolds, creating a thrilling tale of modern tragedy. Its intense narrative captivates viewers, marking it as one of the most binge-worthy shows in recent history.

2. The Wire (2002 - 2008)

The Wire captivates viewers with a wide-ranging and intricate cast of characters, expanding its scope over five seasons. It begins exploring street-level drug operations and the police attempts to tackle them. Vastly overlapping stories expand into various facets of Baltimore life, without neglecting previous characters.

By the series’ conclusion, audiences gain insight into different community layers, including dockworkers, politics, public schools, and media. The show intricately weaves these narratives together, becoming one of the best-written and most compelling dramas. Moreover, it features remarkable acting, pacing, and believability throughout.

1. The Sopranos (1999 - 2007)

Discussing The Sopranos is both daunting and exciting. It reinvented the possibilities for television, achieving a cinematic quality rarely seen before. Blurring the lines between crime thriller and family drama, the show masterfully balances humor with profoundly emotional moments.

At the center lies Tony Soprano, brilliantly portrayed by James Gandolfini. The series boasts numerous outstanding performances beyond Gandolfini, showcasing exceptional talent. Over time, The Sopranos reveals itself as a complex, thought-provoking narrative that deepens with every viewing. Beyond being television at its finest, some might argue that The Sopranos represents the apex of fiction itself’.

Earlier, SSP told about all Harry Potter movies: ranked from worst to best.