The past decade saw a revolution in the television industry, producing some of the most captivating and well-crafted TV shows of all time. From streaming giants to classic network television, a range of outstanding shows entertained, inspired, and made an impact on our culture. The top 10 TV shows of the decade include the cultural phenomenon ‘Game of Thrones,’ the groundbreaking ‘Breaking Bad,’ the nostalgia-laden ‘Stranger Things,’ the dark and thought-provoking ‘Black Mirror,’ the top-notch period drama ‘Mad Men,’ the chilling dystopian ‘The Handmaid’s Tale,’ the character-driven ‘Fleabag,’ the racially charged ‘Atlanta,’ the underrated Cold War spy drama ‘The Americans,’ and the sumptuous historical drama ‘The Crown.’ These exceptional shows pushed the boundaries of storytelling, cementing their place among the decade’s greatest shows.
Top 10 TV Shows of the Decade
The past decade witnessed a complete revolution of the television industry, giving birth to some of the most captivating and well-crafted TV shows of all time. From the realm of streaming giants to classic network television, the decade has offered a range of outstanding shows that have entertained us, made us think, and left a lasting impact on our culture. Here is our pick for the top 10 TV shows of the decade.
1. Game of Thrones
Love it or hate it, Game of Thrones was undoubtedly a television phenomenon that captured the world’s attention. Based on George RR Martin’s epic fantasy series, the show’s intricate plot, stunning visuals, and gripping characters kept viewers on the edge of their seats for eight seasons. Despite its controversial finale, it is undeniable that the show became a cultural phenomenon, making it a frontrunner for the title of the decade’s best TV show.
2. Breaking Bad
Breaking Bad was a game-changer for television, setting the bar high for every other show that followed it. The series tells the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who begins cooking meth to secure his family’s future after a cancer diagnosis. The show’s stunning cinematography and powerful performances elevate the already gripping storyline, making it one of the most compelling shows of the decade.
3. Stranger Things
Stranger Things made an instant impact when it landed on Netflix in 2016. The show’s nostalgic homage to ’80s pop culture paired with its thrilling plot and lovable characters made it an instant hit with fans and critics alike. With its fourth season set to release in early 2022, it’s safe to say that Stranger Things is one of the decade’s most groundbreaking shows.
4. Black Mirror
Black Mirror is one of the most fascinating shows of the decade, focusing on the dark side of technology and its impact on society. The series is an anthology, with each episode telling a different story and exploring different themes. The show’s thought-provoking storylines and impressive visuals make it one of the decade’s most unique and innovative shows.
5. Mad Men
Mad Men takes viewers back to the early 1960s and immerses them in the world of advertising. The show’s character-driven storyline and impeccable attention to detail make it one of the most top-notch period dramas of the decade. The show’s excellent writing, production design, and performances earned it a place among the most critically acclaimed shows of all time.
6. The Handmaid’s Tale
The Handmaid’s Tale is a gripping and chilling dystopian series that explores themes of power, gender, and politics. The show is based on Margaret Atwood’s novel of the same name, and its compelling storyline and standout performances have made it one of the most talked-about shows of the decade. Its timely reflection on contemporary society and political climate makes it an essential addition to this list.
7. Fleabag
Fleabag is a comedy-drama created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, who plays the show’s eponymous character. The show is a masterclass in character-driven storytelling, as it explores themes of grief, trauma, and sexuality with a dry wit and dark humor. Its unique style and superb performances made it one of the finest shows of the decade.
8. Atlanta
Created by and starring Donald Glover, Atlanta tells the story of Earnest ‘Earn’ Marks and his cousin Alfred, who is a rising rapper. The show is a combination of comedy, drama, and social commentary, exploring themes of race, class, and identity in contemporary Atlanta. Its impressive writing, direction, and standout performances earned it critical acclaim and a spot on our list of the decade’s best shows.
9. The Americans
The Americans is a thrilling Cold War spy drama that tells the story of two KGB agents posing as a married couple in suburban Washington, D.C. The show’s immersive world-building and gripping storytelling make it one of the most underrated shows of the decade. Its ability to maintain tension and suspense throughout its six-season run has earned it a place among the decade’s most compelling shows.
10. The Crown
The Crown is a sumptuous and immersive historical drama that charts the reign of Queen Elizabeth II. The show’s lavish production design and superb performances make it one of the decade’s most impressive shows. Its careful attention to detail and the intricate interplay of personal and political power have won it international critical acclaim and a spot as one of the decade’s most exceptional shows.
In conclusion, the past decade has given us an array of exceptional TV shows that have pushed the boundaries of storytelling and captivated audiences across the globe. From fantasy epics to gripping dramas, comedies, and so much more, the decade has gifted us with some of the most exceptional TV shows of all time. The shows mentioned above are a testament to the era’s commitment to quality and innovation in storytelling, cementing these shows as some of the greatest of the decade.