Television has evolved drastically since its mainstream emergence in the 1950s. Over the decades, specific breakout series have redefined the medium, leaving an indelible mark on pop culture. While any ranking of the greatest shows is inherently subjective, IMDb provides a compelling metric for quality. Here are 10 of the best television shows of all time, ranked by user data.
The Procedural King: Law & Order
Before Dick Wolf’s creation, cop shows and legal dramas were rarely combined into one cohesive package. Law & Order pioneered the definitive procedural format, boasting remarkable longevity. Its success is rooted in its self-contained episode structure and a knack for casting exceptional talent, such as Jerry Orbach and Sam Waterston. Its “ripped from the headlines” approach keeps the franchise relevant even decades later.
Medical and Barroom Classics
9. ER (1994–2009): Created by Michael Crichton, who drew on his own experience as a medical student, this series revolutionized the medical drama genre and launched the careers of numerous stars.
8. Cheers (1982–1993): Set in a Boston bar, this sitcom overcame a shaky start to become a television institution. With its memorable theme song and stellar ensemble cast—initially focused on the tension between Sam Malone and Diane Chambers—it remains a benchmark for the blue-collar comedy format.
Pioneering Sitcoms
7. The Mary Tyler Moore Show (1970–1977): This series was a watershed moment for television. It was the first to feature a single, career-oriented woman as the protagonist. Beyond its historical significance, the show was consistently sharp and funny, anchored by an incredible supporting cast.
6. I Love Lucy (1951–1957): As the first true blockbuster sitcom, the chemistry between real-life couple Lucille Ball and Desi Arnaz created a blueprint for the genre that remains influential seven decades later.
Animated Icons and Nothingness
5. The Simpsons (1989–Present): What began as animated shorts grew into a Fox network powerhouse. While the show has spanned nearly 800 episodes, its earliest seasons are widely regarded as having some of the finest writing in television history.
4. Seinfeld (1989–1998): Famous for being a "show about nothing," Jerry Seinfeld and Larry David’s creation turned mundane everyday experiences into comedic gold. It remains one of the final massive sitcom hits of the pre-streaming era.
Sci-Fi Morality and Complex Anti-Heroes
3. The Twilight Zone (1959–1964): Rod Serling’s anthology series was more than just sci-fi and horror; it was a sophisticated collection of morality tales. Through surreal stories, the show explored human nature, often punishing the wicked and redeeming the unexpected.
2. The Sopranos (1999–2007): This series shattered boundaries by centering on Tony Soprano, a complex mob boss navigating the dualities of criminal life and family dynamics. It paved the way for the modern era of the anti-hero.
The Top Spot
1. Breaking Bad (2008–2013): Building upon the foundation laid by The Sopranos, Vince Gilligan’s masterpiece tracks the chilling transformation of Walter White from a struggling teacher into a ruthless drug kingpin. With its cinematic style, impeccable writing, and a perfect five-season arc, it stands as the highest-rated show on this list.