285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
- 1Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Andrew Scott
This modern retelling of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's classic detective stories features Benedict Cumberbatch as the brilliant yet socially awkward sleuth, Sherlock Holmes. His razor-sharp wit and uncanny ability to solve complex cases make this series a must-watch for those who appreciate intellectual entertainment.
Why It's Smart
Sherlock is clever in its intricate plot twists and its fresh interpretation of iconic characters. The dialogue is sharp, and the mysteries are genuinely challenging. It modernizes the classic Sherlock Holmes tale with episodes that challenge what you know, what you thought you knew, and what you had no idea you should have probably known.
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- #12 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 2Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Millie Bobby Brown
A thrilling blend of supernatural mystery and '80s nostalgia, this captivating series follows a group of friends as they uncover the truth behind their friend's disappearance while battling sinister forces from another dimension. With its intelligent plot twists and engaging characters, it's no wonder smart viewers are hooked.
Why It's Smart
This show is a masterclass in blending '80s nostalgia with modern storytelling. It's smart because it takes complex themes like friendship and coming-of-age and mixes them with science fiction and horror elements. The result? A multi-layered narrative that keeps you guessing.
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- #13 of 282 onThe 260+ Best SciFi Shows Of All Time
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- 3Hugh Laurie, Robert Sean Leonard, Omar Epps
Driven by Hugh Laurie's charismatic portrayal of the misanthropic medical genius Dr. Gregory House, this show combines intricate medical mysteries with compelling character drama - a perfect prescription for intelligent viewers seeking both intrigue and emotional depth.
Why It's Smart
House is really less about the accuracy of the medical cases and more about being a complex character study about its titular character. The show smartly delves into ethical and philosophical dilemmas that those in the medical profession (and patient's families) face, making you think twice about what's right and wrong in medicine.
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- #8 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #3 of 119 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
- 4Rod Serling, Robert McCord, Jay Overholts
Rod Serling's iconic anthology series explores thought-provoking themes through eerie tales that challenge our perceptions of reality, making it an enduring favorite among discerning fans of cerebral television.
Why It's Smart
This is the OG anthology series that explored social and political issues through the lens of science fiction and fantasy. Each episode is a thought experiment, making you question the world around you.
- 5Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn
Chronicling the transformation of high school chemistry teacher Walter White into ruthless meth kingpin Heisenberg, Breaking Bad is lauded for its impeccable storytelling, complex characters, and unflinching exploration of moral ambiguity - all marks of truly great TV.
Why It's Smart
It's not just about a chemistry teacher turned meth producer. Breaking Bad explores the complexities of morality, choice, and consequence in a way that's both thrilling and intellectually stimulating. There are SO many different layers to this series, and as you rewatch it a second time, you'll catch new details that you missed the first time around.
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- #4 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- 6Evan Rachel Wood, Thandiwe Newton, Ed Harris
Set in an immersive theme park populated by lifelike robots called "hosts," Westworld delves into deep philosophical questions about consciousness and humanity while delivering mind-bending plot twists that keep even the sharpest viewers on their toes.
Why It's Smart
Westworld takes the concept of AI and runs with it, exploring themes of consciousness, free will, and the ethics of playing god. It's a philosophical rollercoaster.
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- #28 of 282 onThe 260+ Best SciFi Shows Of All Time
- 7Alan Alda, McLean Stevenson, Wayne Rogers
As one would expect from a show set during wartime in Korea; M*A*S*H masterfully balances humor with heart-wrenching drama as it follows the lives and challenges faced by army doctors at Mobile Army Surgical Hospital 4077th unit.
Why It's a Smart Show
On the surface, it's a comedy about a mobile army surgical hospital during the Korean War. But it smartly tackles issues like the futility of war and the human condition.
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- #14 of 119 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
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- 8Gillian Anderson, David Duchovny, Mitch Pileggi
This cult classic series follows FBI agents Mulder and Scully as they investigate unsolved cases involving paranormal phenomena. With its intricate storylines, memorable characters, and chilling atmosphere, The X-Files has earned a devoted following among fans of intelligent TV.
Why It's Smart
This show made conspiracy theories mainstream. It's smart in how it blends science fiction, horror, and drama to explore big questions about existence and government secrecy.
- 9Nathan Fillion, Gina Torres, Alan Tudyk
A space western with witty dialogue and engaging characters led by Captain Malcolm Reynolds (Nathan Fillion), Firefly offers a unique blend of action, humor, and thought-provoking themes that resonates with viewers who appreciate smart storytelling.
Why It's a Smart TV Series
A space western that was way ahead of its time, Firefly delves into themes of freedom, governance, and individuality, all while delivering snappy dialogue and complex characters.
More Firefly - 10Peter Dinklage, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Lena Headey
Based on George R.R. Martin's epic fantasy novels, this sprawling saga features complex political intrigue, morally ambiguous characters, and stunning world-building - making it an irresistible feast for the intellect as well as the senses.
Why It's Smart
Known for its intricate political plots and a vast array of characters, this series is a deep dive into power dynamics, human nature, and ethical ambiguity.
More Game of Thrones - 11Michael C. Hall, Jennifer Carpenter, C.S. Lee
This darkly humorous series about a blood-spatter analyst who moonlights as a serial killer is equal parts thrilling crime drama and fascinating character study - perfect for those seeking entertainment that stimulates both the heart rate and the brain cells.
Why It's Smart
This show flips the script on the crime genre by making the killer the protagonist. It explores the psychology of its lead character in a way that's both disturbing and fascinating.
- 12Mike Richards, Alex Trebek, Johnny Gilbert
As one of television's longest-running quiz shows featuring contestants competing in various trivia categories; Jeopardy! consistently challenges viewers' knowledge across diverse subjects while fostering an appreciation for intellectual prowess.
Why It's Smart
It's a quiz show, but it's designed to make both the contestants and the viewers think. The questions aren't just trivia; they often require a broad knowledge base and quick thinking.
More Jeopardy! - 13Jodie Whittaker, Mandip Gill, John Bishop
Time-traveling adventures abound in this long-running British sci-fi series starring The Doctor (played by various actors over time) which explores history-spanning mysteries while examining deep philosophical questions about humanity's place in the universe.
Why It's Smart
Time travel, aliens, and moral dilemmas—what's not to love? Doctor Who uses its sci-fi trappings to explore complex issues, from the nature of humanity to the consequences of one's actions.
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- #11 of 282 onThe 260+ Best SciFi Shows Of All Time
- 14Robin Wright, Michael Kelly, Jayne Atkinson
Offering viewers an unflinching look at political machinations through the devious protagonist Frank Underwood (Kevin Spacey); House of Cards provides ample food for thought regarding real-world power dynamics.
Why It's Smart
A political drama that delves into the dark underbelly of American politics. It's smart in its portrayal of manipulation, power, and moral corruption.
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- #87 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 15Daniel Kaluuya, Toby Kebbell, Rory Kinnear
Delivering unsettling glimpses into possible near-future scenarios where technology runs amok; Black Mirror serves up thought-provoking cautionary tales that resonate powerfully with today's tech-savvy audience.
Why It's a Smart TV Series
This anthology series is a dark look at technology and society. Each episode serves as a cautionary tale that makes you rethink your relationship with the digital world. It covers everything from the influence of social media to our use of smartphones.
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- #36 of 282 onThe 260+ Best SciFi Shows Of All Time
- 16Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, LeVar Burton
This iconic sci-fi series continues the voyages of the starship Enterprise, exploring new worlds and engaging with fascinating alien cultures while grappling with ethical dilemmas that resonate beyond the final frontier.
Why It's Smart
More than just a space adventure, this series explores ethical and philosophical questions through its diverse cast and imaginative storylines.
- 17John Cleese, Terry Jones, Graham Chapman
Featuring absurd sketches and biting social satire; this groundbreaking British comedy troupe has earned a devoted following among fans who appreciate their unique brand of cerebral humor.
Why It's Smart
This isn't just slapstick comedy; it's a satirical take on society, politics, and human behavior. The sketches often contain layers of meaning and social commentary.
- 18Jon Lung, Brian Louden
By testing popular myths and urban legends using scientific methods; MythBusters delivers an entertaining blend of education and spectacle that appeals to viewers' innate curiosity about how things work.
Why It's Smart
This show takes urban legends and popular myths and puts them to the scientific test. It's educational but also wildly entertaining.
- 19William Shatner, Leonard Nimoy, DeForest Kelley
With its pioneering vision of a utopian future where humanity has overcome its flaws to explore the cosmos in peace; Star Trek captivates audiences with thought-provoking storylines and memorable characters like Captain Kirk (William Shatner) & Mr. Spock (Leonard Nimoy).
Why It's Smart
More than just a space adventure, the original Star Trek series explores ethical and philosophical questions through its diverse cast and imaginative storylines.
- #7 of 282 onThe 260+ Best SciFi Shows Of All Time
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- #18 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- 20Joe Mantegna, A.J. Cook, Kirsten Vangsness
Delving into the minds of twisted criminals, this gripping procedural drama offers a fascinating glimpse at human psychology while keeping viewers on edge as they try to solve each case alongside Profiler Aaron Hotchner (Thomas Gibson) & his FBI team.
Why It's Smart
This isn't your average police procedural. The show delves into the psychology of crime and makes you think about the "why" as much as the "who."
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- #30 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 21Christian Slater, Rami Malek, Portia Doubleday
Rami Malek gives an electrifying performance as Elliot Alderson, a cybersecurity engineer drawn into a world of hacking, conspiracy, and corporate greed in this critically acclaimed techno-thriller filled with complex characters and intricate plotting.
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- #167 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
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- 22Katheryn Winnick, Moe Dunford, Josefin Asplund
A historical drama chronicling legendary Viking chieftain Ragnar Lothbrok's exploits combines brutal action sequences with rich storytelling that explores themes such as power dynamics, loyalty, and ambition - making it an engrossing watch for intelligent viewers seeking more than just mindless entertainment.
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- #5 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #11 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 23Emily Deschanel, David Boreanaz, T.J. Thyne
Forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance Brennan (Emily Deschanel) teams up with Special Agent Seeley Booth (David Boreanaz) to solve murder cases using cutting-edge science in this compelling crime procedural that offers a unique blend of humor, heart, and intellect.
More Bones- #42 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
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- 24John Oliver, David Kaye, Noel MacNeal
Tackling current events with razor-sharp wit and keen insight; this Emmy-winning HBO series presents thought-provoking analysis on topical issues while delivering big laughs.
- #53 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
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- 25Kelsey Grammer, John Mahoney, Jane Leeves
This sophisticated sitcom follows the life of radio psychiatrist Dr. Frasier Crane (Kelsey Grammer), whose wit and wisdom are matched only by his penchant for getting entangled in hilariously complicated situations - making it an enduring favorite among fans who appreciate smart comedy.
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- #16 of 164 onThe Most Important TV Sitcoms
- 26Jared Padalecki, Jensen Ackles, Misha Collins
Brothers Sam (Jared Padalecki) & Dean Winchester (Jensen Ackles) travel across America battling evil forces in this long-running fantasy horror series which combines thrilling action, witty banter, complex mythology and emotional drama to create a truly engaging viewing experience.
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- #19 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 27Tony Shalhoub, Ted Levine, Traylor Howard
Tony Shalhoub stars as Adrian Monk, a brilliant detective with obsessive-compulsive disorder in this quirky crime dramedy that blends clever mysteries with heartfelt character development.
More Monk- #82 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #5 of 119 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
- #56 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- 28Damian Lewis, Ron Livingston, Rick Gomez
Based on Stephen E. Ambrose's best-selling book about World War II heroes from Easy Company 506th Regiment. Band of Brothers delivers gripping combat sequences alongside poignant moments illustrating camaraderie forged under fire – making it an unforgettable watch for history buffs & discerning viewers alike.
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- 29Anna Torv, Joshua Jackson, John Noble
Mixing elements of sci-fi, mystery, and thriller genres; Fringe explores alternate realities and mind-bending phenomena through the eyes of FBI agent Olivia Dunham (Anna Torv), eccentric scientist Walter Bishop (John Noble), and his estranged son Peter (Joshua Jackson).
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- #17 of 282 onThe 260+ Best SciFi Shows Of All Time
- 30James Gandolfini, Lorraine Bracco, Edie Falco
Delving into the personal struggles faced by mob boss Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini) as he navigates his criminal empire & family life. The Sopranos offers a complex, character-driven narrative that has earned its place among the greatest TV shows of all time.
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- #2 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
