The Greatest Soap Operas of All Time
- 1Maurice Benard, Steve Burton, Michael Easton
Set in the fictitious town of Port Charles, this long-running daytime drama boasts a tableau of endlessly enthralling storylines rooted in the lives of the staff and patients at a prominent general hospital. With a focus on medicine and romance, the series has successfully delved into issues both personal and professional, capturing the hearts of millions with its engaging characters and dramatic plot twists. General Hospital is unparalleled for its ability to engage viewers by exploring themes of love, danger, and family, all while maintaining the medical setting that sets it apart from other soap operas.
More General Hospital
- Dig Deeper...The Best General Hospital Characters
- And Deeper...The Best General Hospital Actors
- #6 of 29 onThe 25+ Best Current Daytime Talk Shows
- 2Suzanne Rogers, Lauren Koslow, Josh Taylor
Set in the fictional Midwestern town of Salem, this long-running series has captivated audiences for decades with its intricate web of colorful characters and gripping storylines that intertwine love, loss, and redemption. From star-crossed romances to suspenseful mysteries, Days of Our Lives offers an ever-evolving world in which complex relationships are constantly tested by shifting loyalties and unexpected twists. The series is heralded for its ability to delve into both light-hearted and serious matters, consistently captivating viewers and keeping them on their toes.
More Days of Our Lives- #8 of 29 onThe 25+ Best Current Daytime Talk Shows
- #6 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #1 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- 3Larry Hagman, Patrick Duffy, Linda Gray
Revolving around the tumultuous and gripping affairs of the affluent Ewing family, this groundbreaking prime-time soap opera overflows with opulence, glamour, and deceit. Set on the sprawling Southfork Ranch in Texas, the series exposed the power struggles, betrayals, and passionate romances between a cast of unforgettable characters, with the notorious oil tycoon J.R. Ewing at the center of it all. Riveting and addictive, Dallas remains a gold standard of television drama with its captivating blend of wealth, rivalry, and family conflicts.
More Dallas- #45 of 54 onThe 50+ Best TV Shows With 10+ Seasons
- #91 of 125 onThe 110+ Best TV Shows About Families, Ranked
- #8 of 56 onThe Best CBS Dramas of All Time
- 4Cameron Mathison, Michael E. Knight, Alicia Minshew
Located in the mythical town of Pine Valley, this iconic daytime drama centers on the trials and tribulations of its residents, tackling a myriad of intense issues such as blackmail, murder, and forbidden love. Through its dynamic characters and engrossing plots, All My Children seamlessly blends earnest emotion with sinister intrigue, making it one of the most memorable and enduring soap operas in television history. A true hallmark of the genre, this series stands as a testament to the power of compelling storytelling and the resilience of the human spirit.
More All My Children- #9 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #10 of 12 on12 Must-Know Facts About Our Favorite 'Must See TV' Sitcoms
- #4 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- 5Peter Bergman, Eric Braeden, Christel Khalil
Set in the opulent world of Genoa City, this spellbinding drama focuses on two influential families at odds with each other – the Newmans and the Abbotts – amid a tempestuous sea of tangled relationships, high-stakes business deals, and illicit affairs. Delivering a myriad of emotional, suspenseful, and sensational storylines, The Young and the Restless has steadily entranced viewers with its unyielding exploration of ambition, love, and deception. Richly layered, the series continually raises the bar for soap opera storytelling by skillfully blending the allure of wealth with the complexities of human experience.
- #4 of 29 onThe 25+ Best Current Daytime Talk Shows
- #21 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #85 of 165 onThe Best TV Shows You Can Watch On Paramount Plus
- 6John Forsythe, Linda Evans, Joan Collins
Drenched in glamour and excess, this monumental prime-time soap chronicles the fabulous lives and turbulent feuds of the Carringtons, a wealthy Denver-based family led by the legendary oil tycoon Blake Carrington. This deeply addictive series brilliantly captured the heart and soul of the 1980s era of extravagance with its glitzy sets, power-driven characters, and titillating storylines that unraveled the decadent underbelly of high society. Packed with jaw-dropping plot twists and iconic fashion statements, Dynasty stands as a symbol of opulence and intrigue, immersing viewers in a world where money, power, and love are the ultimate means of survival.
More Dynasty- #221 of 651 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #39 of 95 onThe Best ABC Shows of All Time
- #270 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- 7Hayden Panettiere, Kourtney Kardashian, Marcia Cross
Based in the fictionalized city of Llanview, this captivating daytime drama invites audiences into an intricate web of unforgettable characters and intense situations that span from realistic family drama to otherworldly mysteries. One Life to Live was revolutionary in addressing controversial social issues while simultaneously spinning enthralling tales of love, heartbreak, and redemption. With its unique balance of realism and fantasy, the series crafted a world filled with passion, danger, and unpredictability that left viewers constantly speculating and yearning for more.
More One Life to Live- #17 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #3 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- #1 of 15 onBest American Day Time Soap Operas of All Time
- 8Victoria Wyndham, Constance Ford, Hugh Marlowe
Set within the fictional city of Bay City, this beloved series presents an expansive universe teeming with dimensional characters, captivating relationships, and harrowing plotlines that leave fans begging for more. Seamlessly shifting between raw human emotions and compelling suspense, Another World is truly unique in its ability to submerge viewers in a dazzling world that's both grounded in reality and enchanted with elements of enchantment. This groundbreaking daytime drama garnered a devoted following by showcasing true-to-life stories brimming with complex emotions, spanning from passionate love to heart-wrenching tragedy.
More Another World- #23 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #8 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- #10 of 15 onBest American Day Time Soap Operas of All Time
- 9Julianne Moore, Sarah Hyland, Ming-Na Wen
Crafted around the residents of Oakdale, this long-cherished soap opera endeared millions of viewers by offering a fascinating mix of multidimensional characters and riveting plotlines that unspooled across generations. True-to-life dramas such as illicit affairs, scandalous betrayals, and gripping trials formed the backbone of this exceptional series, creating an engrossing emotional landscape wherein dreams were shattered, relationships tested, and lives ultimately redeemed. As the World Turns remains a touchstone in soap opera history, celebrated for its powerful storytelling and indelible depictions of the human condition.
More As the World Turns- #52 of 56 onThe Best CBS Dramas of All Time
- #28 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #7 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- 10Hayden Panettiere, Matt Bomer, Brittany Snow
Taking place in the fictitious town of Springfield, this timeless classic captivated viewers with generational tales of love, loss, and self-discovery that spanned over 70 years. Expertly crafted, Guiding Light showcased an intricate mosaic of unforgettable characters who faced life's everyday challenges and triumphs, making it a landmark of daytime television. Rooted in family, community, and undying loyalty, this groundbreaking series was a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the powerful connections that bind us all together.
More Guiding Light- #45 of 56 onThe Best CBS Dramas of All Time
- #15 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #5 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- 11Michele Lee, Ted Shackelford, Joan Van Ark
A spin-off from Dallas, this engrossing prime-time drama transported viewers to the stunningly scenic yet treacherous cul-de-sac of Seaview Circle. Amidst elegant mansions and lush lawns, Knots Landing unraveled intimate tales of ambition, betrayal, and passion as it chronicled the lives of four married couples grappling with the seductions of power, wealth, and fame. A compelling study of human relationships, the series never ceased to surprise and enthrall audiences with its provocative storylines and masterfully executed character development.
More Knots Landing- #50 of 54 onThe 50+ Best TV Shows With 10+ Seasons
- #30 of 56 onThe Best CBS Dramas of All Time
- #86 of 102 onThe Best Spin-Off Shows
- 12Jonathan Frid, Grayson Hall, Alexandra Isles
This gothic daytime soap departed from traditional conventions by weaving fantastical elements such as vampires, werewolves, and witches into its ether of romantic melodrama. Set against the backdrop of the eerie Collinwood estate, Dark Shadows enraptured viewers with its chilling stories of mystery, horror, and forbidden love, making it a cult classic and spawning numerous adaptations. This trailblazing series captivated audiences by daring to explore the darkest corners of human desire and the mysterious realms beyond our perception.
More Dark Shadows- #212 of 651 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #242 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #119 of 218 onThe 220 Best Cult TV Shows
- 13Leonardo DiCaprio, Robin Wright, Judith Anderson
Set within the breathtaking confines of a coastal Californian town, this energetic soap opera offers an irresistible blend of gripping intrigue, glamour, and romance. Hinging on the rivalries and entanglements of the wealthy Capwell and Lockridge families, Santa Barbara enraptured viewers with its zesty mix of deliciously melodramatic plots, which encompassed everything from heartrending love triangles to nail-biting murder cases. With its stylized storytelling and edgy humor, Santa Barbara revolutionized the genre and remains a cherished favorite among Soap Opera enthusiasts.
More Santa Barbara- #34 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #13 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- #97 of 107 on100+ Movies And Shows With Santa In The Title
- 14Grant Show, Courtney Thorne-Smith, Andrew Shue
Beneath the sun-soaked visage of a seemingly idyllic LA apartment complex, this enticing prime-time soap unraveled the tantalizing tales and steamy exploits of its attractive young residents. Delving into the inner workings of friendships, romances, and ruthless ambitions, Melrose Place lured viewers in with its distinct blend of sex appeal, thrilling plot twists, and unforgettable characters. Brimming with scandal, seduction, and betrayal, the series became an instant phenomenon and remains an emblematic example of 1990s television that fearlessly pushed boundaries and captivated fans.
More Melrose Place- #18 of 43 onThe Best '90s TV Dramas, Ranked
- #4 of 47 onThe All-Time Best Primetime Soap Operas
- #84 of 165 onThe Best TV Shows You Can Watch On Paramount Plus
- 15Martin Sheen, Marcia Cross, Lori Loughlin
Distinguished by its pioneering fusion of soap opera melodrama and crime mystery, this intriguing series transported viewers to the perilous streets of Monticello, a city brimming with suspense, danger, and legal intrigue. Centered around the lives of attorneys and investigators who battled both personal and professional demons, The Edge of Night skillfully navigated the blurry lines between good and evil, resulting in a captivating narrative filled with romance, deception, and unexpected turns. Notably forerunning the detective drama genre, the series left a lasting impression on viewers and remains an iconic testament to the unyielding power of innovation and imagination.
More The Edge of Night- #26 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #10 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- #15 of 15 onBest American Day Time Soap Operas of All Time
- 16Katherine Kelly Lang, Jacqueline MacInnes Wood, Thorsten Kaye
Bursting onto the scene in 1987, this captivating drama has managed to enthrall audiences for more than three decades with its intoxicating blend of romance, betrayal, and high fashion. Set against the backdrop of the glittering world of haute couture, storylines revolve around the intertwined lives and scandals of two affluent families – the Forresters and the Logans. As major forces in the fashion industry, their daily trials and tribulations have kept viewers hooked, with award-winning performances from renowned actors such as Susan Flannery, Ronn Moss, and Katherine Kelly Lang contributing to the show's considerable appeal.
- #10 of 29 onThe 25+ Best Current Daytime Talk Shows
- #24 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #12 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- 17Jane Wyman, Robert Foxworth, Susan Sullivan
This gripping saga, which aired between 1981 and 1990, took audiences deep into the treacherous world of wine-making, where power-hungry matriarch Angela Channing (played by golden-age Hollywood legend Jane Wyman) ruled with an iron grip over her California vineyard empire. Family rivalries, shocking secrets, and illicit affairs were the order of the day as each member of the sprawling cast strove to carve out a place for themselves in the prestigious Tuscany Valley. With lush landscapes and opulent sets providing a visually stunning backdrop, Falcon Crest remains a must-watch for any dedicated soap opera aficionado.
More Falcon Crest- Dig Deeper...Longest Running US Soap Operas
- #47 of 56 onThe Best CBS Dramas of All Time
- #5 of 47 onThe All-Time Best Primetime Soap Operas
- 18
Sunset Beach
Kelly Hu, Susan Ward, Laura HarringRunning from 1997 to 1999, this criminally short-lived drama enthralled audiences with its sizzling tales of love, lust, and intrigue among the sun-kissed inhabitants of Southern California's most famous seaside resort. Following the lives of the wealthy Richards family, the ambitious Torres clan, and the mysterious Deschanels, each episode brought jaw-dropping revelations, extravagant outfits, and monumental showdowns designed to hook viewers from the very first episode. From scandalous seductions to nail-biting murder mysteries, every moment of melodrama was dialed up to eleven, making Sunset Beach an unforgettable entry in the pantheon of great soap operas.
More Sunset Beach- #23 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- #22 of 51 onThe Best Aaron Spelling Shows and TV Series
- #6 of 26 onThe Best 1990s Soap Operas
- 19Barbara Knox, Helen Worth, Kate Ford
Long considered the crown jewel of British soap operas, this venerable institution made its debut in 1960 and continues to captivate audiences with the trials and tribulations of the colorful inhabitants of Weatherfield, a fictional suburb of Manchester. While many soaps tend to focus on the sensational, 'Corrie' has managed to stand the test of time by dealing with everyday issues that resonate with viewers: personal relationships, family drama, and the struggles that come with straddling the gap between aspiration and reality. Grounded in its commitment to gritty realism and bolstered by strong performances from its talented ensemble cast, Coronation Street holds a uniquely esteemed place within both the genre and the hearts of its loyal fans.
More Coronation Street- #2 of 21 onThe Very Best British Soap Operas, Ranked
- #21 of 74 onThe Very The Best ITV Shows
- #12 of 27 onThe Best 1960s Soap Operas
- 20Morgan Freeman, Angela Bassett, Mary-Louise Parker
In stark contrast to the glamour and extravagance that characterized many of its contemporaries, this groundbreaking series took a more down-to-earth approach to the genre when it debuted in 1975. At its core, it was a heartfelt exploration of one family – the Ryans – as they navigated the complexities of life, love, and loss in New York's fast-paced Washington Heights neighborhood. The show earned critical acclaim for its complex, character-driven narratives and authentic portrayal of working-class Irish-Americans, providing viewers with a welcome respite from the well-worn tropes common to the genre at the time of its airing.
More Ryan's Hope- #27 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #11 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- #5 of 15 onBest American Day Time Soap Operas of All Time
- 21Lindsay Hartley, McKenzie Westmore, Galen Gering
Premiering in 1999, this supernatural-themed soap opera took the genre to new heights with its unique blend of dark magic, forbidden romance, and jaw-dropping twists. Set in the picturesque New England town of Harmony, the show delved into the lives of three seemingly unrelated families – the Cranes, the Bennetts, and the Russells – but quickly spiraled into a world where witches, curses, and hidden identities were common occurrences. With fan-favorite storylines like the triangle between Charity, Miguel, and Kay, as well as the unforgettable Timmy and Tabitha duo, Passions remains a one-of-a-kind phenomenon that redefined what audiences expected from their daytime dramas.
More Passions- #40 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #18 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- #11 of 26 onThe Best 1990s Soap Operas
- 22Mia Farrow, Leslie Nielsen, Ryan O'Neal
Widely recognized as the first prime-time soap opera, this milestone series featured taboo topics of mid-20th century America and revolved around the seemingly idyllic New England town that concealed a labyrinth of dark secrets and simmering tensions. The show ran for five years (1964 to 1969) and set the stage for future generations of serialized dramas. With iconic characters like Constance Mackenzie and Dr. Rossi navigating the tricky terrain of love, lust, and moral ambiguity, Peyton Place remains an essential part of any serious discussion about the evolution of soap operas.
More Peyton Place- #13 of 47 onThe All-Time Best Primetime Soap Operas
- #15 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- #31 of 34 onThe Best 1960s TV Dramas, Ranked
- 23Zaraah Abrahams, Delroy Atkinson, Emma Barton
Another stalwart of British television since its debut in 1985, this riveting saga has kept viewers glued to their screens with its unflinching portrayal of life in London's rough-and-tumble East End. Centered around the fictional borough of Walford, the show's commitment to realism and its focus on strong, three-dimensional character development has earned it numerous accolades and unrivaled ratings success. As a master class in blending gripping drama with a keen social conscience, EastEnders stands as an enduring testament to the genre's capacity to evolve and adapt to the ever-changing world in which it exists.
More EastEnders- #18 of 253 onThe 250+ Best BBC One Shows, Ranked
- And Deeper...Amanda Holden TV Show/Series Credits
- #1 of 21 onThe Very Best British Soap Operas, Ranked
- 24Christie Clark, Eileen Davidson, Leann Hunley
As a limited-series spin-off of the long-running soap opera, this ambitious production broadened the scope of Days of Our Lives by taking beloved characters on a high-stakes adventure far beyond the confines of their familiar Midwestern town. Tying together past, present, and future storylines, Beyond Salem weaved a thrilling tale of intrigue, betrayal, and redemption involving an invaluable stolen gemstone known as the Alamainian Peacock. With the return of iconic characters such as Shane Donovan and John Black, as well as fresh faces and exotic locales, this fresh take on a classic formula proved a resounding hit with both long-time fans and newcomers alike.
- #260 of 684 onThe 600+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #87 of 102 onThe Best Spin-Off Shows
- #451 of 651 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- 25Kelly Monaco, Amy Weber, Linda Purl
This spin-off of the wildly popular General Hospital took viewers to the eponymous upstate New York town, where familiar faces from the parent show mixed and mingled with a fresh cast of characters. Launched in 1997, its unique format – consisting of self-contained story "arcs" – allowed for greater creative freedom and experimentation within the traditional soap structure. Throughout its six-year run, fans were treated to a mix of supernatural plotlines, daring romances, and high-stakes medical drama that showcased the overlapping worlds of medicine, love, and mystery.
More Port Charles- #45 of 50 onThe Top 50 Vampire Shows, Ranked
- #17 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- #19 of 26 onThe Best 1990s Soap Operas
- 26Susan Sarandon, Viggo Mortensen, Kevin Bacon
As one of the longest-running soap operas in television history, this compelling drama enthralled viewers for an astonishing 35-year run – from 1951 to 1986 – with its gripping tales of life in the fictional Midwestern town of Henderson. Initially centered around series protagonist Joanne Gardner (played by Mary Stuart), the show's evolving storylines spanned generations and tackled a vast array of provocative themes while remaining rooted in the daily trials and tribulations of friends, family, and foes. Search for Tomorrow's ability to engage audiences with authentic, character-driven storytelling set a high bar for all subsequent entries into the soap opera genre.
More Search for Tomorrow- #37 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #14 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- #3 of 15 onBest American Day Time Soap Operas of All Time
- 27Heather Locklear, Joan Collins, Linda Evans
A two-part miniseries that aired in 1991, this eagerly anticipated follow-up to the glamorous and scandal-soaked exploits of the original Dynasty captivated die-hard fans with its campy drama, shifting alliances, and jaw-dropping revelations. Following the cliffhanger ending of the original series, The Reunion sought to tie up loose ends and put a definitive cap on the epic struggles between the wealthy and powerful Carrington and Colby families. Featuring legendary performances from esteemed actors such as John Forsythe, Linda Evans, and Joan Collins, this love-letter to the show's dedicated fan base provided the closure that many had been craving since Dynasty's initial run came to an end.
- 28Charlton Heston, Barbara Stanwyck, Katharine Ross
A spin-off series of the wildly successful Dynasty, this extravagant saga delved into the world of the glamorous and powerful Colby family, based in California. Expensive sets, exotic locations, and opulent costumes were the norm for this 1985-1987 production, which starred such names as Charlton Heston, Barbara Stanwyck, and Katharine Ross. Extravagant storylines full of intrigue, suspense, and passion made this a must-watch for fans of Dynasty and newcomers alike. Though relatively short-lived, The Colbys remains memorable as an ambitious addition to the golden age of prime-time soaps.
More The Colbys- Dig Deeper...TV Shows Produced By Aaron Spelling
- #11 of 47 onThe All-Time Best Primetime Soap Operas
- #25 of 51 onThe Best Aaron Spelling Shows and TV Series
- 29Billy Dee Williams, Nazanin Boniadi, Antonio Sabàto
A much-anticipated spin-off of the long-standing parent show, this 2007 summer series transported viewers to the after-hours world of Port Charles' famous hospital. Boasting a talented ensemble cast drawn from both General Hospital and new additions, this bold experiment added a heightened sense of urgency and adrenaline to the classic elements of romance, conflict, and intrigue that soap opera fans know and love. Although it only ran for two seasons, General Hospital: Night Shift succeeded in creating an engaging and unique experience for dedicated fans of the flagship series and newcomers alike.
- 30Julie Bowen, Bryan Cranston, Elizabeth Mitchell
Debuting in 1983, this popular daytime drama offered viewers an intimate glimpse into the entangled lives of the residents of the picturesque town of Corinth, Pennsylvania. As its title suggests, the focus was squarely on character-driven romances and heartbreaks, although intrigue and suspense were also sprinkled throughout. Evolving from the format of the traditional soap opera, Loving introduced innovative elements like parallel storylines and flashbacks that fostered a sense of unpredictability and kept fans engaged right up until its conclusion in 1995.
More Loving- #29 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #24 of 32 onThe All Time Greatest Daytime Soap Operas
- #39 of 56 onThe Best ABC '80s Shows, Ranked
