The Best Serial Dramas of the 21st Century
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- Charlie Hunnam, Katey Sagal, Kim CoatesAn outlaw motorcycle club is intent on protecting its sheltered California town.
- Shawn Hatosy, Ben Robson, Jake WearyIn the gritty, adrenaline-fueled world of Animal Kingdom, viewers are thrust into the complex dynamics of the Cody family, a Southern California clan with a penchant for crime. The show, which has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base, masterfully weaves together elements of drama, action, and suspense while delving into themes of loyalty, power, and betrayal. Ellen Barkin's standout performance as the cunning matriarch, Smurf Cody, is bolstered by an exceptional ensemble cast including Shawn Hatosy (Pope), Ben Robson (Craig), and Jake Weary (Deran). As alliances shift and tensions rise, Animal Kingdom proves to be an engrossing exploration of a family bound together by their criminal pursuits.More Animal Kingdom
- #332 of 447 onThe 440+ Best Binge Worthy Shows Of All Time
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- Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna GunnBreaking Bad, a critically acclaimed drama series, masterfully unravels the story of Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer. Alongside his former student, Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul), they navigate the treacherous world of drug production and distribution. The show skillfully balances intense character development with dark humor, contributing to its numerous accolades, including 16 Primetime Emmy Awards. As the narrative progresses, viewers are drawn into the complex moral dilemmas faced by the protagonists, leaving them questioning the limits of their own principles. Breaking Bad's gripping storytelling and unforgettable performances make it a standout in television history.
- Michael C. Hall, Jennifer Carpenter, C.S. LeeA gripping drama with a dark and twisted premise, Dexter revolves around an unassuming blood-spatter analyst who moonlights as a vigilante serial killer. The protagonist, Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall), navigates a double life, satisfying his insatiable thirst for justice while maintaining a facade of normalcy. Set against the backdrop of sun-soaked Miami, this award-winning series expertly blends elements of crime, mystery, and psychological thriller. Dexter's complex relationships with sister Debra (Jennifer Carpenter) and love interest Rita (Julie Benz) add depth and emotion to the narrative, ensuring that viewers remain invested in the characters' fates throughout the show's suspenseful eight-season run.
- James Gandolfini, Lorraine Bracco, Edie FalcoTony Soprano tries to be a good family man and run the New Jersey mob.More The Sopranos
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- #2 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- Norman Reedus, Melissa McBride, Lauren CohanIn a world ravaged by an apocalyptic outbreak, The Walking Dead delves into the raw struggles and triumphs of humanity amidst a gruesome reality. This gripping drama series, which has garnered numerous accolades including a Golden Globe nomination, expertly balances heart-wrenching emotion with nail-biting action. Viewers follow the journey of Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln), a former sheriff's deputy, as he navigates this unforgiving landscape alongside an ensemble of diverse and dynamic characters. As they face both flesh-hungry walkers and treacherous humans, their resilience and morality are put to the ultimate test, resulting in a thought-provoking exploration of survival and human nature.More The Walking Dead
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- #11 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- James Spader, Diego Klattenhoff, Hisham Tawfiq"Red" Reddington agrees to work with the FBI, on the condition he'll only work with profiler Keen.More The Blacklist
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- #55 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #123 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- Peter Dinklage, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Lena HeadeyNoble families in the seven kingdoms of Westeros vie for control of the Iron Throne.More Game of Thrones
- Dig Deeper...The 100+ Favorite 'Game of Thrones' Characters
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- #1 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- Dominic West, John Doman, Frankie R. FaisonA gritty exploration of the urban landscape, The Wire delves into the complex web of crime, law enforcement, and societal issues in Baltimore. As a critically acclaimed drama series, it boasts multiple various award nominations, highlighting its captivating storytelling and stellar ensemble cast. Central to the narrative is Detective Jimmy McNulty (Dominic West), whose relentless pursuit of justice brings him face to face with the city's underbelly. The show masterfully intertwines the experiences of various characters, from drug dealers to politicians, providing an unflinching look at the intricate connections that bind them together. In doing so, The Wire transcends the typical crime drama, offering viewers a thought-provoking and compelling experience.More The Wire
- Dig Deeper...The Best Things Cast Members of The Wire Have Done Since the Genius Show Ended
- And Deeper...The Best Seasons Of 'The Wire,' Ranked
- #9 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- Juno Temple, Jon Hamm, Jennifer Jason LeighVenturing into the frosty landscape of Minnesota, this darkly humorous crime drama weaves a complex web of deception and violence. With each season presenting a self-contained narrative inspired by the Coen Brothers' original film, viewers are immersed in the entangled lives of its multidimensional characters. Among them, Lorne Malvo (Billy Bob Thornton) embodies pure chaos, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake. The series has garnered critical acclaim for its exceptional storytelling and stellar performances, resulting in numerous award nominations, including Emmys and Golden Globes. Fargo's distinct blend of wit, suspense, and intricate plotlines ensures a memorable viewing experience without compromising on substance.
- Katheryn Winnick, Moe Dunford, Josefin AsplundA historical drama of epic proportions, Vikings delves into the brutal and complex world of Norse warriors, exploring their customs, beliefs, and conquests. The series follows the legendary Ragnar Lothbrok (Travis Fimmel), a farmer-turned-king, as he navigates both political intrigue and fierce battles in his quest for greatness. Supported by a stellar cast, including Lagertha (Katheryn Winnick) and Floki (Gustaf Skarsgård), the show has garnered critical acclaim and multiple award nominations throughout its six-season run. With stunning cinematography and meticulous attention to detail, Vikings transports viewers to a time of bloodshed, loyalty, and ambition, providing an enthralling glimpse into a long-gone era.More Vikings
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- Timothy Olyphant, Ian McShane, Molly ParkerSet amidst the rugged, lawless backdrop of a 19th-century South Dakota mining town, this groundbreaking television series masterfully delves into the complex lives of its diverse inhabitants. Boasting an ensemble cast led by Ian McShane's riveting portrayal of saloon owner Al Swearengen, the show skillfully weaves together multiple storylines, exploring themes of power, morality, and survival. Lauded for its gritty realism and sharp dialogue, Deadwood has garnered numerous accolades, including eight Emmy Awards and a Golden Globe. With its rich character development and meticulously crafted narrative, audiences are transported to a time when civilization teetered on the edge of chaos.More Deadwood
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- #91 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Mahershala Ali, Stephen Dorff, Carmen EjogoPolice investigations unearth the personal and professional secrets of those involved.More True Detective
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- #6 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- Hugh Dancy, Mads Mikkelsen, Laurence FishburneHannibal is a psychological thriller that delves into the complex relationship between FBI special investigator Will Graham (Hugh Dancy) and Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Mads Mikkelsen), a psychiatrist with a taste for the macabre. The show intricately weaves together elements of crime, horror, and drama, presenting viewers with a fresh perspective on Thomas Harris's renowned literary characters. Nominated for multiple awards, including a Saturn Award for Best Network Television Series, Hannibal has garnered critical acclaim for its exceptional storytelling, stunning visual aesthetics, and the chilling performances of its lead actors. As the story unfolds, the lines between hunter and prey blur, leaving audiences questioning who they can truly trust.
- Mireille Enos, Joel Kinnaman, Gregg HenryThe Killing, a riveting crime drama series, delves into the murky depths of complex murder investigations led by tenacious homicide detectives Sarah Linden (Mireille Enos) and Stephen Holder (Joel Kinnaman). Set against the backdrop of Seattle's gloomy skies, the show masterfully unravels each case with a meticulous attention to detail, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. While receiving critical acclaim for its gripping narrative and stellar performances, The Killing has also been honored with several award nominations, including Primetime Emmy nods for Enos and Michelle Forbes, who plays the anguished mother of a murdered teenager. As the storylines unfold, the show skillfully examines the personal struggles of the characters, creating an intricate tapestry of suspense, emotion, and human connection.More The Killing
- Dig Deeper...The Best Seasons Of 'The Killing,' Ranked
- #205 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
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- Elisabeth Moss, Joseph Fiennes, Yvonne StrahovskiA woman forced into sexual servitude struggles to survive in a terrifying, totalitarian society.
- Hugh Bonneville, Laura Carmichael, Jim CarterSet against the backdrop of post-Edwardian England, Downton Abbey unfolds as a beautifully crafted period drama that captivates its audience with the interwoven lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their loyal servants. With its sharp wit and engaging plotlines, the show has garnered numerous accolades, including Primetime Emmy and Golden Globe Awards. The ensemble cast features memorable performances from Dame Maggie Smith as the Dowager Countess Violet Crawley, Hugh Bonneville as Lord Robert Crawley, and Michelle Dockery as Lady Mary Crawley. The series expertly balances the intricate dynamics of social hierarchy, love, and ambition, keeping viewers enthralled throughout its six-season run.More Downton Abbey
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- #59 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Peter Krause, Michael C. Hall, Frances ConroyA Los Angeles family operates a funeral home.More Six Feet Under
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- Keri Russell, Matthew Rhys, Noah EmmerichMarried KGB spies pose as Americans in Washington, D.C., after Ronald Reagan is elected president.More The Americans
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- #148 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #53 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- Steve Buscemi, Michael Pitt, Kelly MacdonaldThe life of gangster Nucky Thompson at the dawn of Prohibition.More Boardwalk Empire
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- #13 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- Michael Chiklis, Benito Martinez, CCH PounderThe story of an inner-city Los Angeles police precinct.More The Shield
- #43 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #156 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #143 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- Kiefer Sutherland, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Cherry JonesJack Bauer must try to divert a catastrophe.More 24
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- #60 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Gabriel Macht, Rick Hoffman, Sarah RaffertySet against the high-stakes world of Manhattan corporate law, Suits dives into the lives of two unconventional lawyers, the brilliant college dropout Mike Ross (Patrick J. Adams) and the tenacious Harvey Specter (Gabriel Macht). This legal drama intricately weaves together a balance of gripping cases with the personal struggles of both lead characters, garnering critical acclaim and multiple award nominations throughout its nine-season run. With its clever dialogue, strong ensemble cast, and engaging storylines, Suits has successfully carved out a niche for itself in the ever-competitive landscape of television dramas.More Suits
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- #135 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Robin Wright, Michael Kelly, Jayne AtkinsonIn the realm of political dramas, House of Cards has carved out a niche all its own. This award-winning series invites viewers to delve into the ruthless world of Washington politics, where manipulation and cunning reign supreme. With Frank Underwood (Kevin Spacey) orchestrating his rise to power, audiences bear witness to the Machiavellian machinations of this calculating protagonist. Meanwhile, Claire Underwood (Robin Wright) is equally ambitious, serving as both a partner and an adversary in their mutual quest for control. As the complex narrative unfolds, the show's intricate web of deception and intrigue keeps viewers thoroughly engaged, showcasing the darker side of politics and power.More House of Cards
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- #87 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Claire Danes, Mandy Patinkin, Maury SterlingIn a gripping portrayal of the complex world of espionage, Homeland offers a thrilling exploration into the lives of intelligence officers and their high-stakes endeavors. The show has been lauded for its intricate storytelling and exceptional performances, garnering numerous accolades, including Primetime Emmy Awards and Golden Globe Awards. At the heart of the drama is the intense relationship between CIA officer Carrie Mathison (Claire Danes) and former Marine Nicholas Brody (Damian Lewis), whose intertwined fates keep viewers on the edge of their seats. By delving into the moral ambiguities of modern warfare and terrorism, Homeland challenges audiences to confront the realities of a post-9/11 world.More Homeland
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- Dylan McDermott, Connie Britton, Taissa FarmigaA family of three moves from Boston to Los Angeles to reconcile its painful past.
- Evan Rachel Wood, Thandiwe Newton, Ed HarrisSet in a futuristic theme park, Westworld invites viewers to explore the complexities of artificial intelligence and human morality. As a critically acclaimed science fiction drama, the show has garnered numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy nominations. The series follows an ensemble cast of characters, such as Dolores Abernathy (Evan Rachel Wood), a self-aware android, and Dr. Robert Ford (Anthony Hopkins), the enigmatic park creator. Each episode unravels the intricate web of narratives that weave throughout the park, while simultaneously delving into the minds of both guests and hosts alike. With its thought-provoking themes and riveting storytelling, Westworld offers a captivating experience for its audience.More Westworld
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- #14 of 144 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- Vera Farmiga, Freddie Highmore, Max ThieriotBates Motel delves into the dark and twisted relationship between a young Norman Bates (Freddie Highmore) and his mother, Norma (Vera Farmiga), offering a haunting prelude to the classic thriller, Psycho. Set in a small coastal town, the show unravels the intricate layers of deception and madness that lie beneath the surface of their seemingly normal lives. The series has garnered critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling and captivating performances, earning multiple award nominations. As viewers are drawn into the eerie world of the Bates family, they witness the chilling transformation of a vulnerable boy into a notorious killer, while navigating a web of secrets that leaves them questioning the true nature of evil.More Bates Motel
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- Julianna Margulies, Christine Baranski, Matt CzuchryIn a world where legal dramas often fall into predictability, The Good Wife sets itself apart with its masterful blend of courtroom intrigue and complex character development. This Emmy Award-winning series boasts outstanding performances from its ensemble cast, including Julianna Margulies as the resilient Alicia Florrick, Christine Baranski as the formidable Diane Lockhart, and Alan Cumming as the cunning Eli Gold. Delving into both personal and professional challenges faced by its characters, the show explores themes of morality, ambition, and loyalty. With its intelligent writing and engaging plotlines, The Good Wife offers a sophisticated viewing experience that keeps audiences engrossed throughout its seven-season run.More The Good Wife
- Dig Deeper...The Best Seasons Of 'The Good Wife,' Ranked
- #239 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
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- Benjamin McKenzie, Donal Logue, David MazouzIn the shadowy world of Gotham City, a gritty prequel to the Batman saga unfolds with an ensemble cast of familiar faces and morally ambiguous characters. The series delves into the origins of Commissioner James Gordon (Ben McKenzie) and his tumultuous journey through the crime-ridden streets, while also exploring the backstories of iconic villains like Penguin (Robin Lord Taylor), Riddler (Cory Michael Smith), and Catwoman (Camren Bicondova). With its dark, atmospheric visuals and compelling storytelling, Gotham has garnered critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, including a Primetime Emmy nod for Outstanding Special Visual Effects. This exhilarating drama keeps viewers enthralled as it navigates the complex web of alliances and betrayals that shape the city's destiny.More Gotham
- Dig Deeper...The Best Episodes Of 'Gotham'
- And Deeper...15 Reasons Commissioner Gordon Is Terrible at His Job
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