The Best Black TV Shows In 2020
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2.1K votes
392 voters
Voting Rules
Any shows that aired during the 2020 calendar year and feature a primarily Black cast.
- Donald Glover, Brian Tyree Henry, LaKeith StanfieldVenturing into the realm of dark comedy and drama, Atlanta masterfully explores the life of aspiring rapper Alfred "Paper Boi" Miles (Brian Tyree Henry) and his cousin-turned-manager, Earn Marks (Donald Glover). With its raw portrayal of the music industry, the series delves into themes of race, relationships, and the pursuit of success. Garnering numerous accolades, including two Golden Globe Awards and two Primetime Emmy Awards, Atlanta has cemented itself as a must-watch show. The distinctive storytelling, combined with Glover's multifaceted talents and a strong supporting cast, creates an unforgettable journey through the city's vibrant and challenging landscape.More Atlanta
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- #94 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #162 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- Damson Idris, Carter Hudson, Sergio Peris-MenchetaSet amidst the social turbulence of 1980s Los Angeles, Snowfall intricately weaves the stories of diverse individuals whose lives are impacted by the rising crack cocaine epidemic. The drama series, hailed for its unflinching portrayal of the era's complexities, has garnered critical acclaim and award nominations since its premiere. At the heart of the narrative is Franklin Saint (Damson Idris), a young entrepreneur whose ambitions lead him to navigate the treacherous drug world. Alongside Franklin, an ensemble cast of characters, portrayed by a talented roster of actors, bring depth to the multilayered storyline. Snowfall offers viewers an insightful exploration of a pivotal period in American history, without shying away from its dark realities.More Snowfall
- #15 of 35 onThe 30 Best Drama Series On Cable
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- #73 of 98 onThe 90+ Best Black TV Shows Of All Time
- Brandee Evans, Nicco Annan, Shannon ThorntonSet in the heart of the Mississippi Delta, P-Valley offers a raw and compelling look into the lives of those who inhabit a small-town strip club. With an outstanding ensemble cast, the series showcases the struggles and triumphs of its characters, such as Mercedes (Brandee Evans) and Uncle Clifford (Nicco Annan). The show has received critical acclaim for its authentic portrayal of the South, garnering multiple award nominations. P-Valley masterfully weaves together themes of resilience, identity, and community, providing viewers with a gritty yet captivating narrative that keeps them invested throughout its run.More P-Valley
- #2 of 138 onThe Best Black TV Shows of the Last Few Years
- #29 of 76 onThe 70 Best Current Shows About Women
- #74 of 116 onThe Best New Cable Dramas of the Last Few Years
- Issa Rae, Yvonne Orji, Natasha RothwellTwo black women share friendship and uncomfortable experiences.More Insecure
- #23 of 55 onThe 50+ Best HBO Comedies, Ranked
- #19 of 93 onThe Best Comedy Shows On Max, Right Now
- #20 of 98 onThe 90+ Best Black TV Shows Of All Time
- Michael Rainey, Mary J. Blige, Gianni PaoloTariq St. Patrick divides his time between school and hustling to pay for his mum's defense lawyer.More Power Book II: Ghost
- #1 of 138 onThe Best Black TV Shows of the Last Few Years
- #59 of 116 onThe Best New Cable Dramas of the Last Few Years
- #81 of 84 onThe Best TV Shows with Non-White Stars
- Abbey Lee, Chase BrownAtticus Black embarks on a road trip across 1950s Jim Crow America in search of his missing father.
- Jacob Latimore, Alex R. Hibbert, Yolonda RossThe lives of residents of the south side of Chicago.More The Chi
- #2 of 20 onThe Best Current Shows That Deal with Race Relations
- #30 of 35 onThe 30 Best Drama Series On Cable
- #90 of 125 onThe 110+ Best TV Shows About Families, Ranked
- Forest Whitaker, Vincent D'Onofrio, Ilfenesh HaderaDelving into the complex world of crime and politics, Godfather of Harlem masterfully weaves a tale based on the life of infamous gangster Bumpy Johnson (Forest Whitaker). Set in the 1960s, the gritty drama explores the intersection of organized crime, civil rights activism, and political power. Boasting an exceptionally talented ensemble cast, the show has garnered critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including a Satellite Award for Best Television Series - Drama. With compelling storytelling and gripping performances, Godfather of Harlem offers audiences an enthralling look at a turbulent era in American history.More Godfather of Harlem
- #5 of 138 onThe Best Black TV Shows of the Last Few Years
- #88 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #35 of 110 onThe Best Drama TV Shows Airing Now
- Octavia Spencer, Tiffany Haddish, Carmen EjogoExploring the remarkable journey of a trailblazing entrepreneur, Self Made: Inspired by the Life of Madam C.J. Walker delves into the life of America's first self-made female millionaire. The limited series, which has received critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling, showcases the tenacity and determination of Sarah Breedlove (Octavia Spencer), who overcame numerous obstacles to build a haircare empire. Set against the backdrop of the early 20th century, the show masterfully blends historical context with dramatic flair, earning praise for its performances, particularly that of Spencer. Self Made not only tells an inspiring story but also sheds light on the often overlooked contributions of African American women in history.
- Nicholas Pinnock, Indira Varma, Joy BryantFor Life, a gripping legal drama series, draws inspiration from the real-life story of Isaac Wright Jr., a man wrongfully convicted who later becomes an attorney. The show follows the journey of Aaron Wallace (played by Nicholas Pinnock) as he navigates the challenges of imprisonment while striving to overturn his conviction and reunite with his family. With its powerful storytelling and compelling performances, For Life has garnered critical acclaim and secured a nomination for Outstanding Drama Series at the 52nd NAACP Image Awards. The series skillfully balances emotional depth with legal intrigue, providing viewers with thought-provoking content that keeps them invested in Aaron's pursuit of justice.More For Life
- #14 of 138 onThe Best Black TV Shows of the Last Few Years
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- Michaela Coel, Weruche Opia, Paapa EssieduI May Destroy You, a gripping drama series, masterfully unravels the complexities of modern-day relationships, consent, and the effects of trauma. With a BAFTA-nominated performance by Michaela Coel, who also serves as the show's creator and writer, the series delves into the life of Arabella (Coel), an aspiring writer struggling to navigate her newfound fame. As she confronts her own harrowing experience of sexual assault, viewers are introduced to a diverse ensemble of characters, each grappling with their own emotional baggage. The show skillfully balances raw vulnerability with moments of humor, making it a thought-provoking exploration of human resilience.More I May Destroy You
- #22 of 138 onThe Best Black TV Shows of the Last Few Years
- #16 of 25 onNewer Shows With The Most Impressive Writing
- #48 of 116 onThe Best New Cable Dramas of the Last Few Years
- Anthony Anderson, Tracee Ellis Ross, Yara ShahidiA black husband and father tries to establish a sense of cultural identity for his family.More Black-ish
- #19 of 91 onThe 80+ Best Black Sitcoms Of All Time
- #34 of 95 onThe Best ABC Shows of All Time
- #252 of 282 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- Alisha Wainwright, Ja'Siah Young, Jazmyn SimonA single mother must hide her young son's superpowers to protect him from exploitation.More Raising Dion
- #255 of 685 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #25 of 138 onThe Best Black TV Shows of the Last Few Years
- #106 of 654 onThe 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
- Akili McDowell, Alana Arenas, Isaiah JohnsonDavid Makes Man is a poignant drama that explores the life of young David (Akili McDowell), a 14-year-old prodigy from the South Florida projects, tormented by the death of his closest friend. Haunted by memories and under the pressure of community expectations, David is torn between the pursuit of a better future through education and the pull of his impoverished environment. Created by Tarell Alvin McCraney and produced by Oprah Winfrey, the show captures the essence of his complex character's inner struggles. The series has gained critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling, vivid representation of African American life, and gripping portrayal of the implications of systemic poverty. David Makes Man has received a Peabody Award, among other distinctions, for its narrative excellence.
- Simone Missick, Wilson Bethel, Jessica CamachoLos Angeles judges, prosecutors and public defenders work to get justice for the people.
- Yara Shahidi, Trevor Jackson, Diggy SimmonsWhen a college student leaves the nest, she discovers that everything is not going to go her way.More Grown-ish
- #168 of 476 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #67 of 91 onThe 80+ Best Black Sitcoms Of All Time
- #245 of 282 onThe 275 Greatest Sitcoms In Television History
- Viola Davis, Billy Brown, Jack FalaheeLaw professor Annalise Keating and her students get mixed up in a murder plot.
- Dig Deeper...The Best Characters On 'How To Get Away With Murder'
- #218 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #169 of 654 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- Rob Gronkowski, Julianne Hough, Caleb McLaughlinAthletes, entertainers and musicians provide an inside look into their personal journeys.More Becoming
- #139 of 166 onThe Best Shows On Disney Plus
- #221 of 510 onThe 350+ Best Documentary TV Shows
- #11 of 132 onThe 100+ Best Biographical Documentary Series, Ranked
- Joy Bryant, Henry Simmons, Richard RoundtreeCherish The Day, a romantic anthology series from Ava DuVernay, premiered on February 11, 2020. The show chronicles the stirring relationship of one couple, and each episode spans a single day. The narrative unfolds to reveal significant moments in a relationship that compel us to hold true to the ones we love. Xosha Roquemore and Alano Miller star as the central couple, while Cicely Tyson also features in a key role. The series has been praised for its nuanced portrayal of African-American life and love, earning it an NAACP Image Award nomination for Outstanding Drama Series.More Cherish The Day
- #89 of 110 onThe Best Drama TV Shows Airing Now
- #11 of 51 onThe Best Black Shows Of 2024, Ranked
- #13 of 47 onThe 45+ Best Current OWN Shows, Ranked
- Robin Thede, Gabrielle Dennis, Skye TownsendA Black Lady Sketch Show offers a refreshing perspective in the world of sketch comedy, breaking boundaries with its all-female, predominantly African American cast. Created by Robin Thede, this Emmy-nominated series masterfully combines humor and social commentary, touching on various themes relevant to modern society. With an ensemble that includes Gabrielle Dennis, Ashley Nicole Black, and Quinta Brunson, viewers are treated to a diverse array of sketches that showcase their exceptional talents. From workplace scenarios to reality show parodies, A Black Lady Sketch Show consistently delivers laughs while challenging conventional norms, making it a must-watch for fans of innovative comedy.More A Black Lady Sketch Show
- #36 of 138 onThe Best Black TV Shows of the Last Few Years
- #317 of 475 onThe 400+ Funniest TV Shows Ever, Ranked
- #6 of 76 onThe 70 Best Current Shows About Women
- Tetona Jackson, Tequan Richmond, Leland B. MartinA successful executive comes to question his lifestyle choices.
- 22
American Soul
Sinqua Walls, Jason Dirden, Jelani WinstonThe rise and fall of impresario Don Cornelius who created the dance show "Soul Train." - Zoë Kravitz, Da'Vine Joy Randolph, David H. HolmesHigh Fidelity, a modern reimagining of the 2000 film and Nick Hornby's novel, takes viewers on a journey through the emotional rollercoaster of love and heartbreak. Zoë Kravitz shines as Rob, a record store owner with an encyclopedic knowledge of music and an all-consuming passion for creating the perfect playlist. The series delves into Rob's past relationships, inviting audiences to empathize with her complex, relatable character. Nominated for a Primetime Emmy Award, High Fidelity masterfully blends humor and poignancy, set against the backdrop of a diverse and vibrant Brooklyn neighborhood. With its engaging narrative, unforgettable soundtrack, and captivating performances, this show is an unmissable treat for music lovers and romantics alike.More High Fidelity
- 24
Black Lightning
Cress Williams, China Anne McClain, Nafessa WilliamsIn a landscape saturated with superhero stories, Black Lightning offers a refreshing take on the genre, delving into complex themes of family, community, and social justice. This series, which has garnered numerous award nominations, follows the journey of Jefferson Pierce (Cress Williams), a high school principal who returns to his crime-fighting alter ego after a long hiatus. With a grounded approach to storytelling, the show seamlessly explores the challenges faced by both the protagonist and his daughters, Anissa (Nafessa Williams) and Jennifer (China Anne McClain), as they navigate their powers and responsibilities. The series not only entertains but also sparks thought-provoking conversations about real-world issues.More Black Lightning- #251 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #49 of 56 onThe 55+ Best Teen Sci-Fi And Fantasy TV Series
- #72 of 144 onThe Best Comic Book And Superhero Shows Of All Time
- 25
Greenleaf
Merle Dandridge, Lynn Whitfield, Keith DavidGreenleaf centers on the turbulent lives and dark secrets of the Greenleaf family, who run a sprawling Memphis megachurch with a large African-American congregation. The drama unfolds as Grace Greenleaf returns home after 20 years following the mysterious death of her sister, Faith. Grace's arrival sets off a chain of events that reveals long-buried secrets and lies within the family, touching on themes of faith, betrayal, and redemption. The series stars Merle Dandridge, Keith David, and Lynn Whitfield. Greenleaf has been praised for its performances and storytelling, earning NAACP Image Awards among other accolades.More Greenleaf- #54 of 95 onThe 90+ Best Black TV Shows Of All Time
- #9 of 35 onThe Best Black TV Shows In 2019
- #1 of 45 onThe 45+ Best Current OWN Shows, Ranked
- Logan Browning, Brandon P Bell, DeRon HortonSet within the hallowed halls of a prestigious Ivy League university, Dear White People delves into the complexities of race, identity, and social dynamics. With its sharp wit and poignant storytelling, the series has garnered critical acclaim, earning multiple NAACP Image Award nominations. Through the experiences of characters like Samantha White (Logan Browning) and Lionel Higgins (DeRon Horton), viewers are invited to explore thought-provoking perspectives on modern-day race relations. The show cleverly balances humor and heart, tackling sensitive topics with refreshing honesty and courage. As each episode unfolds, Dear White People continues to challenge assumptions and foster meaningful conversations.More Dear White People
- #3 of 20 onThe Best Current Shows That Deal with Race Relations
- #25 of 26 onThe Best-Written Current TV Shows
- #33 of 69 onThe 65+ Best Gen Z Shows, Ranked
- Don Cheadle, Andrew Rannells, Regina HallIn a whirlwind of 1980s excess, Black Monday delves into the world of Wall Street, exploring the events leading up to the infamous stock market crash. With a darkly comedic tone, this award-nominated series offers viewers a satirical glimpse into the lives of those who navigated the financial chaos. Anchored by an exceptional ensemble cast, including Don Cheadle as Maurice "Mo" Monroe and Andrew Rannells as Blair Pfaff, each episode masterfully balances humor and drama. The show's period-accurate costumes and set design further transport audiences to the era of greed and power struggles, making Black Monday an engaging watch without resorting to sensationalism.
- Barry Brewer, Mahdi Cocci, Phillip MullingsFour longtime friends navigate life and relationships.More Bruh
- #71 of 138 onThe Best Black TV Shows of the Last Few Years
- #21 of 51 onThe Best Black Shows Of 2024, Ranked
- #23 of 84 onThe Best Current Black TV Shows
- Kj Smith, Mignon, Ebony ObsidianSistas is a comedy-drama series from Tyler Perry that follows a group of single black women as they navigate the complexities of their careers, friendships, and romantic relationships. The show centers around the lives of four vibrant women - Andi, Karen, Danni, and Sabrina - who bond over their shared experiences as they each search for love and fulfillment. The main themes include sisterhood, empowerment, and the modern dating landscape. As they face the ups and downs of life, these women support each other through thick and thin, showcasing the strength found in female solidarity. The series has been praised for its relatable characters and entertaining plotlines.More Sistas
- #14 of 138 onThe Best Black TV Shows of the Last Few Years
- #87 of 119 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
- #48 of 76 onThe 70 Best Current Shows About Women
- Tia Mowry-Hardrict, Anthony Alabi, Talia JacksonA family struggles to make the transition from life in Seattle to Georgia.More Family Reunion