The Top 15 TV Shows of 2025

After a period of tepid and formulaic programming, television made a striking comeback in 2025. While the industry is navigating an unpredictable landscape with mergers and shifts in streaming, this year delivered a range of inventive shows that went beyond star-studded casts on flimsy scripts. The standout series were bold, stylish, and meaningful, reflecting contemporary society while keeping viewers thoroughly engaged. From exploring alternate realities to probing societal issues, these 15 shows, listed alphabetically, confirmed that TV creators still have plenty of fight left.

Adolescence (Netflix)

This British limited series tells the story of 13-year-old Jamie Miller, accused of murdering a classmate. Released quietly on Netflix, it quickly became a sensation, sparking conversations about youth and online culture. Each episode examines the fallout from a different perspective, and the single-take direction adds immense tension. A gripping, emotional series that dominated awards consideration for a reason.

Andor (Disney+)

The second and final season of this Star Wars prequel deepens the story of the Rebellion, showing the origins of a movement against tyranny. Beyond thrilling action and memorable villains, the series offers a lens on manipulation, propaganda, and resistance that resonates with contemporary society. A season that enriched the franchise while standing on its own.

Death By Lightning (Netflix)

Based on historical events, this limited series dramatizes the assassination of President James A. Garfield in 1881. Michael Shannon plays Garfield with quiet intensity, while Matthew Macfadyen shines as the assassin. A mix of dark humor, rich performances, and historical intrigue makes this series one of the most captivating of the year.

Dept. Q (Netflix)

This Scottish crime series follows a team of misfit detectives tackling cold cases. Matthew Goode leads as Carl Morck, a detective navigating personal trauma while managing his quirky team. With emotional depth and compelling character development, the series excels in both suspense and subtle storytelling.

Dying for Sex (FX on Hulu)

Michelle Williams delivers a powerful performance as Molly, a woman facing terminal cancer who embarks on a journey of sexual exploration and self-discovery. Adapted from a podcast, the series balances humor, tenderness, and raw honesty, making it both heartfelt and provocative.

Long Story Short (Netflix)

From the creators of Bojack Horseman, this animated series explores the lives of a Jewish-American family over decades. Shifting timelines highlight the joys, struggles, and fleeting nature of life. With humor and poignancy, it demonstrates how ordinary life can be profoundly moving.

Pluribus (Apple TV)

Vince Gilligan returns with a sci-fi thriller about a virus that creates a hive-mind, leaving only 12 individuals, including author Carol (Rhea Seehorn), unaffected. The series explores independence, human nature, and societal conformity with suspenseful plotting and exceptional performances.

Severance (Apple TV)

The second season deepens the mysteries of Lumon and its employees, expanding both the emotional and visual scope. Adam Scott, Britt Lower, and others deliver nuanced performances, while the show continues to impress with its inventive visual storytelling and haunting narrative.

Task (HBO)

Set in Pennsylvania, this drama follows Robbie (Tom Pelphrey), a garbageman leading heists, and cop Tom (Mark Ruffalo) investigating the case. Despite a dark premise, the show balances tension with emotional resonance, surprising viewers with unexpected twists and a hopeful conclusion.

The Chair Company (HBO)

Tim Robinson returns with this absurdist comedy, following Ron as he investigates a broken office chair, spiraling into increasingly bizarre events. With inventive writing and surreal humor, the series is a masterclass in strange, darkly comedic storytelling.

The Last of Us (HBO)

Season Two continues the post-apocalyptic tale with compelling performances and intricate storytelling. Pedro Pascal and Kaitlyn Dever shine, while set pieces and suspense maintain the show's reputation for high-quality, emotionally charged drama.

The Lowdown (FX)

Sterlin Harjos noir drama follows journalist Lee Raybon investigating a local death in Oklahoma. The series weaves together social commentary, crime, and character-driven storytelling, featuring a talented ensemble cast and intricate plotting.

The Pitt (HBO Max)

This medical drama reinvigorates the genre, focusing on a single 15-hour shift in a Pittsburgh emergency room. Noah Wyle leads a strong cast in a series that balances adrenaline-fueled medical emergencies with detailed character studies, showcasing real-world hospital challenges.

The Rehearsal (HBO)

Nathan Fielders second season pushes surrealist boundaries, exploring aviation and human error through elaborate staged scenarios. From staged competitions to piloting a plane with fake passengers, the series delivers unprecedented, boundary-pushing storytelling.

The Studio (Apple TV)

Seth Rogen and Evan Goldbergs satire of Hollywood highlights the absurdity and charm of the entertainment industry. Centered on a studio head navigating a chaotic workplace, the show combines sharp humor, clever meta-commentary, and standout celebrity cameos.

Author: Zoe Harrison