Over the years, television shows have changed dramatically from basic entertainment with simple plotlines to powerful storytelling, character development, and amazing graphic designs. The following list shows the top five TV shows that have stood out not only for their groundbreaking writing, acting, and ratings but also for their impact on pop culture forever. These series are timeless and have set the bar for what television can be.
- Friends (1994–2004)
Friends is a pop culture phenomenon that tops charts and is still watched by audiences worldwide. This sitcom about six friends navigating life and love in New York City is beloved for its relatable characters, quick dialogue, and comedy. The chemistry and friendship between actors Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, and David Schwimmer made the show a must-watch. The iconic show has impacted fashion, social media, and dozens of other sitcoms and movies and is still one of the most famous TV shows.
- The Office (U.S.) (2005–2013)
The Office changed all workplace sitcoms with its style, unique filming, and quirky characters. The show follows the daily lives of employees at a dull paper company and the humor, love, and friendship in the boring office life. The dynamics between Steve Carell’s Michael Scott and his coworkers created a show that is hilarious and heartfelt. The office became an enduring fan favorite and a major influence on later sitcoms everywhere.
- Game of Thrones (2011–2019)
Based on George R.R. Martin’s A Song of Ice and Fire novels, Game of Thrones topped the charts with its epic storytelling, complex characters, and plot twists. With its huge worldwide fan base, the show pushed the boundaries of what a TV series could achieve in production, scale, costume, and more. It remains one of the most watched and discussed TV series of all time.
4. Stranger Things (2016–present)
Stranger Things uses the perfect amount of supernatural horror, a retro vibe, and science fiction into the perfect fan-favorite hit TV show. Set in the small town of Hawkins, Indiana, the show follows a group of kids who run into government experiments, unworldly creators, and unexplained mysteries. With its memorable characters, plot twists, and a throwback to the 80s, Stranger Things has quickly become a global sensation.
- Sherlock (2010–2017)
Sherlock, starring Benedict Cumberbatch and the iconic detective Sherlock and Martin Freeman as his sidekick Dr. Watson is a current adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic detective stories. The show’s clever writing, fast-paced plots, and incredible acting bring a thrilling new take on the classic detective story. Sherlock became a massive hit known for its humor, mysteries, and friendship between Sherlock and Dr. Watson.
These top five TV shows have a broad variety of general styles but all share the use of high-quality storytelling, compelling characters, and memorable quotes and moments. These series have not only topped the charts but influenced millions of viewers, and directors of television, handset new standards for what TV can archive. Whether it’s throw mysteries, humor, or drama these shows remain some of the most memorable TV shows known to man.
