The 30 Best TV Shows to Watch Across Every Streaming Service

As a lifelong fan of science fiction and action-packed series, I must say that these streaming platforms have truly outdone themselves with their latest offerings!


As someone who has been following the ever-changing landscape of online streaming for years, I can confidently say that this article is a must-read. It keeps track of shows coming and going from various streaming platforms, and the asterisk (*) indicates new additions to the list. This resource has helped me countless times when I’m looking for something new to watch or revisit an old favorite that might be disappearing soon. Whether you’re a casual viewer or a dedicated binge-watcher like myself, this article is invaluable for staying up-to-date on the world of streaming entertainment.

As a long-time TV enthusiast who has spent countless hours flipping through channels and scrolling through streaming services in search of the perfect show to watch, I can attest to the fact that the world of streaming isn’t all that different from the old days of television. Just like back then, we still have to contend with commercials, cable-like bundle packages, and live channels that seem to offer everything except what we actually want to watch. But despite these frustrations, there is no denying that there are more TV shows available on demand than ever before, even if they are often buried deep within endless scrolls and algorithmic feeds.

As a dedicated movie enthusiast with a busy lifestyle, I prefer to subscribe to multiple streaming services that cater to my diverse tastes and schedule. For instance, when I need a quick laugh or want to unwind after a long day, I turn to platforms like Netflix and Hulu for their extensive collections of comedies and popular sitcoms. On the other hand, when I’m in the mood for something more serious or thought-provoking, I head over to Apple TV+ or Amazon Prime Video, which consistently deliver high-quality original content.

Netflix

Better Call Saul

Years: 2015-2022
Length: 6 seasons, 63 episodes
Creators: Vince Gilligan, Peter Gould 

It shouldn’t have been so good. Prequel spin-offs that are as good as the original would make for a very small chapter in the book about the history of television. Saul Goodman broke the rules. With a stunning performance from Bob Odenkirk in the central role, the creators of this show used the origin story of a criminal attorney to unpack a story about the pull of being bad. If Breaking Bad was a show about a man willingly becoming evil, Better Call Saul was a show about a man trying so hard to take the righteous path, but falling victim to everything put in his way. This drama has some of the best writing and acting in the history of TV. It’s essential.

Better Call Saul
netflix

Bojack Horseman

Years: 2014-2020
Length: 6 seasons, 77 episodes
Creator: Raphael Bob-Waksberg

On Netflix, you’ll find an abundance of thought-provoking adult animation. Don’t miss out on “Big Mouth” or its anime counterparts. However, the standout in this category is a clever exploration of celebrity culture, depression, and unsuccessful attempts at connection – it just so happens that this series features talking animals. Will Arnett delivers a stellar performance as the voice of the show’s protagonist, a ’90s sitcom star grappling to regain his former glory. Amy Sedaris, Alison Brie, Paul F. Tompkins, and Aaron Paul join him in a production that initially appeared to be just another Hollywood satire, but has grown richer and more emotionally nuanced with each season.

Bojack Horseman
netflix

Key & Peele

Years: 2012-2015
Length: 5 seasons, 53 episodes
Creators: Keegan-Michael Key, Jordan Peele 

As a longtime fan of comedy, I must say that I wholeheartedly agree with the statement that “Sketch comedy doesn’t get funnier than this massive Comedy Central hit.” Having grown up watching “Mad TV” and following the careers of Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele, I have witnessed firsthand their extraordinary talent and ability to make people laugh. Their reunion in this show allowed them to unleash their genius, tackling hot button issues with fresh insight and hysterical precision.

Key & Peele
netflix

Ozark

Years: 2017-2022
Length: 4 seasons, 44 episodes
Creators: Bill Dubuque, Mark Williams

In 2022, one of Netflix’s most successful series concluded with its Emmy-winning final season, drawing widespread critical acclaim. This gripping drama bears a strong resemblance to “Breaking Bad” and follows an ordinary man’s transformation into a key figure in the global drug market. Jason Bateman delivers his finest performance yet as Marty Byrde, who relocates with his family to the Ozarks and becomes a prominent money launderer. The acting of Bateman, Laura Linney, and Julia Garner was widely praised for this series that keeps viewers hooked from start to finish.

Ozark
netflix

Scavengers Reign

Year: 2023
Length: 1 season, 12 episodes
Creators: Joseph Bennett, Charles Huettner

In a curious turn of events, yet another popular show initially dropped by Max has found a new home on Netflix. This critically acclaimed series, which stands out for its unique blend of adult sci-fi themes in an animated format, follows the harrowing journey of survivors from a cargo ship who find themselves stranded on an alien planet. They must scavenge for resources and battle to survive. The talented voice cast includes Sunita Mani, Wunmi Mosaku, and Alia Shawkat. Help keep it going by tuning in!

Scavengers Reign
netflix

Squid Game

Years: 2021-present
Length: 1 season, 9 episodes
Creator: Hwang Dong-hyuk

The most popular Netflix series ever reached its lofty position due to several factors, with the primary one being the unique appeal – a game show featuring life-or-death stakes. Debuting during the pandemic, “Squid Game” resonated globally, touching upon universal desperation: What lengths would you go to alter your destiny? This Korean series, revolving around a high-stakes competition for wealth, also became one of Netflix’s most critically acclaimed titles, earning 14 Emmy nominations and marking the first time an Asian actor (Lee Jung-jae) won Best Actor for a non-English performance. Regardless of personal opinions about Netflix, the success of “Squid Game” paved the way for stories from various parts of the world to reach American audiences.

Squid Game
netflix

Amazon Prime Video

The Boys

Years: 2019-present
Length: 4 seasons, 32 episodes
Creator: Eric Kripke

Among Prime’s notable successes is a witty critique of the superhero genre inspired by Garth Ennis and Darick Robertson’s graphic novel. In this series, Karl Urban plays Billy Butcher, a character bent on dismantling the powerful group of global superheroes known as The Seven. With its dark humor, it provokes thought: What if superheroes harbored sociopathic tendencies? Although the first season has its bumps, it ultimately proves rewarding, and the show’s intrigue deepens with each subsequent season.

The Boys
prime video

The Fall

Years: 2013-2016
Length: 3 seasons, 17 episodes
Creator: Allan Cubitt

Gillian Anderson and Jamie Dornan play the lead roles in an Irish crime series, with one portraying a detective and the other a serial killer. The show’s appeal lies in its intricate and thoughtful narrative unfolding, making it well worth watching. With just 17 episodes available so far, you can finish it rather swiftly. Fans are eagerly awaiting creator Allan Cubitt to revisit this storyline someday.

The Fall
prime video

Fleabag

Years: 2016-2019
Length: 2 seasons, 12 episodes
Creator: Phoebe Waller-Bridge

Without a doubt, Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s comedy on Amazon stands out as one of the finest original series ever produced. Its exceptional second season elevated it from good to extraordinary, making it one of the most compelling shows to watch across any platform or network. The titular character, played by Waller-Bridge, navigates modern life’s chaos while seeking stability, but don’t let that description label Fleabag as just another ordinary comedy. You won’t truly understand its uniqueness until you experience it for yourself.

Fleabag
prime video

Jury Duty

Year: 2023
Length: 1 season, 8 episodes
Creators: Lee Eisenberg, Gene Stupnitsky

Occasionally, what’s needed is a brilliant concept, as demonstrated by two significant figures behind the hilarious series The Office. This now-famous show, initially aired on Freevee (formerly known as IMDb TV before merging with Prime), was their innovative brainchild. Ronald Gladden, an exceptional non-actor, lends authenticity to this fictitious courtroom drama that resonates with viewers. The show’s success can be attributed to Ronald’s inherent kindness and compliance, while James Marsden’s self-deprecating humor earned him his first Emmy nomination.

Jury Duty
prime video

Max

Deadwood

Years: 2004-2006
Length: 3 seasons, 36 episodes
Creator: David Milch

In 2019, after more than a decade since its initial cancellation, one of the greatest television series ever made, “Deadwood,” returned on HBO in the form of a movie titled “Deadwood: The Movie“. If you’re curious as to why fans were eager to re-engage with David Milch’s Western, let me enlighten you. This is not just one of the most intelligent and profound shows in television history; it delves into our perceived understanding of history and the Old West to narrate contemporary human stories that still echo today. Moreover, it boasts arguably the finest ensemble cast ever seen on TV.

Deadwood
max

Friends

Years: 1994-2004
Length: 10 seasons, 236 episodes
Creators: David Crane, Marta Kauffman

One significant factor that boosted Max’s popularity was securing the exclusive streaming license for one of the most iconic comedies ever made, which was a massive hit on Netflix beforehand. This series is an ideal fit for streaming, given its comforting comedic beats from Ross, Rachel, Chandler, Joey, Monica, and Phoebe. As some of the humor may seem a bit outdated now, it’s still hard not to admire the exceptional chemistry shared by this talented cast.

Friends
max

The Sopranos

Years: 1999-2007
Length: 6 seasons, 86 episodes
Creator: David Chase

Frequently hailed as the greatest TV series ever made, David Chase’s critically acclaimed masterwork significantly reshaped the television landscape for good. Who would have thought that a cultural juggernaut would emerge from Tony Soprano discussing panic attacks with his therapist? The first season of The Sopranos is an exemplary piece of television that, once viewed, may well leave you captivated enough to watch the entire series – perhaps even twice over.

The Sopranos
max

Succession

Years: 2018-2023
Length: 4 seasons, 39 episodes
Creator: Jesse Armstrong

Since the conclusion of “Game of Thrones” on HBO, this drama has gained widespread acclaim and increased in popularity with each new season. It reached its peak in 2023, ending as one of the most successful series ever produced. The final season was exceptionally Emmy-nominated, and creator Jesse Armstrong brought the saga of the Roy family to a close (temporarily) with a mix of hilarity and emotional depth in a series of unforgettable episodes.

Succession
max

The Wire

Years: 2002-2008
Length: 5 seasons, 60 episodes
Creator: David Simon

David Simon’s five-season series offers an unparalleled exploration into life within a contemporary city, with Baltimore serving as its model. The narrative delves deep into the intricacies of urban existence, initially focusing on a seemingly straightforward portrayal of police and criminals, but gradually expanding to encompass dock workers, educators, journalists, and politicians throughout its run. It’s no wonder that many believe this show is the pinnacle of television history.

The Wire
max

Hulu

Abbott Elementary

Years: 2021-present
Length: 4 seasons, 49 episodes
Creator: Quinta Brunson

As a long-time fan of network TV comedies, I can confidently say that “Abbott Elementary” has breathed new life into this genre. With its hysterically funny and subtly insightful social commentary, it’s a refreshing take on the struggles of an underfunded Philadelphia elementary school. Shot in a mockumentary style, the writing is incredibly sharp, but what truly sets this show apart is its exceptional ensemble cast – one of the best of its era in comedy television. As someone who has worked in education myself, I can appreciate the authenticity and attention to detail that the writers have put into portraying the challenges faced by educators every day. Overall, “Abbott Elementary” is a must-watch for anyone looking for a heartwarming and thought-provoking comedy that doesn’t shy away from addressing important issues in education.

Abbott Elementary
hulu

The Americans

Years: 2013-2018
Length: 6 seasons, 75 episodes
Creator: Joe Weisberg

Without a doubt, one of the most outstanding dramas from the 2010s was “The Americans,” an FX series that features Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys as Elizabeth and Philip Jennings, a seemingly ordinary suburban couple with two kids during the ’80s. In reality, they are Russian spies working undercover, living next door to their FBI neighbor (Noah Emmerich). This show was smart, seductive, emotional, and exhilarating, offering an experience unlike any other on television at that time or currently. Its bold writing and execution will undoubtedly be appreciated over time.

The Americans
hulu

The Bear

Years: 2022-present
Length: 3 seasons, 28 episodes
Creator: Christopher Storer

As a devoted viewer, I can’t help but sing praises for one of the standout series in recent years – “The Bear,” a gripping tale set against the backdrop of a Chicago sandwich shop and the relentless challenges of the culinary world. The remarkable Jeremy Allen White shines brilliantly as the protagonist, yet he’s not alone in his exceptional performance. Ayo Edibiri and Ebon Moss-Bacharach deliver outstanding performances that leave me eagerly anticipating Emmy nominations for all three. Although its third season didn’t achieve the same level of success, overall, it’s a unique blend of humor and tension that makes it one of the most enthralling shows on television today.

The Bear
hulu

Moonlighting

Years: 1985-1989
Length: 5 seasons, 67 episodes
Creator: Glenn Gordon Caron

For nearly three decades, the release of hit ABC dramedy “Moonlighting” on Hulu was delayed due to music rights complications. This show, which seems years ahead of its time, has left creators scrambling to keep up with it. Featuring Bruce Willis as David Addison and Cybill Shepherd in a crime-solving duo that epitomized the popular “will they, won’t they” dynamic of the era, “Moonlighting” catapulted Willis to stardom. Despite its premature end, there is still much to appreciate over the five seasons it graced our screens. To fully immerse yourself in this classic series, here are some must-watch episodes of “Moonlighting.”

Moonlighting
hulu

Shōgun

Year: 2024-present
Length: 1 season, 10 episodes
Creators: Rachel Kondo, Justin Marks

44 years following the critically acclaimed mini-series adaptation, FX revisits the realm of “Shogun,” inspired by James Clavell’s bestselling novel. This new 10-episode installment is a visually stunning retelling of history, revolving around a British sailor named Blackthorne (Cosmo Jarvis), who arrives on Japanese shores during tumultuous times and sets the course for historical change. Featuring Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai alongside Jarvis, this adaptation surpasses the original portrayed by Richard Chamberlain. Initially conceived as a limited series, it has been given another season to continue its storytelling.

Shōgun
hulu

Apple TV+

For All Mankind

Year: 2019–present
Length: 4 seasons, 40 episodes
Creators: Ronald D. Moore, Matt Wolpert, Ben Nedivi

One of the minds behind the revival of ‘Battlestar Galactica’ also worked on an entirely different type of science fiction: a character-focused series exploring what life in America might look like if the Soviet Union had landed on the moon first, before the USA. Since then, this show has taken turns no one could have predicted, blending real historical figures such as Neil Armstrong, Sally Ride, and Wernher von Braun into a production that breaks the mold of typical sci-fi expectations. This drama is likely to receive much praise from history.

For All Mankind
apple tv+

Severance

Year: 2022–present
Length: 1 season, 9 episodes
Creator: Dan Erickson

In the 2020s, one of the highly praised new series is called “Severance.” This show creatively explores a unique idea and takes it on an unanticipated journey. Adam Scott plays a worker at a company that pioneers a groundbreaking process that separates work and personal life in an entirely novel manner. Imagine if your professional self and private self led completely separate lives, with distinct memories and worries? Britt Lower, Patricia Arquette, and Christopher Walken also star in this thought-provoking and humorous sci-fi drama.

Severance
apple tv+

Peacock

Columbo

Years: 1968-1978
Length: 10 seasons, 69 episodes
Creators: Richard Levinson, William Link

It appears that the popularity of Natasha Lyonne’s show “Poker Face” may have sparked a resurgence in interest for the most renowned trenchcoat-wearing detective in pop culture history. The character is portrayed by Peter Falk, who plays an ordinary man with an extraordinary ability to solve crimes. Its return on streaming platforms has led many new viewers to appreciate the enduring appeal of one of the greatest mystery series ever made.

Columbo

Those About to Die

Year: 2024-present
Length: 1 season, 8 episodes
Creator: Robert Rodat

In simpler terms, the creator of “Saving Private Ryan” has transformed an expensive original series (reportedly over $140 million) featuring direction by disaster specialist Roland Emmerich and the renowned Anthony Hopkins in a supporting role. With “Gladiator 2” upcoming, this could serve as a prelude to the type of sword-and-sandal violence that once dominated popular culture.

Those About to Die
peacock

The Traitors

Years: 2023-present
Length: 2 seasons, 23 episodes
Creators: Lee Gant, Christine Rose 

As a longtime fan of reality TV, I must say that the newest hit show of 2023 is truly a standout in the genre. With its captivating format and Alan Cumming’s exceptional hosting skills, this competition series has quickly become my go-to entertainment.

The Traitors
peacock

Yellowstone

Years: 2018-present
Length: 5 seasons, 47 episodes
Creators: Taylor Sheridan, John Linson

The Kevin Costner-led Western series gradually transformed into one of television’s most prominent programs. Originally broadcast on the Paramount Network, it now streams new episodes on Paramount+; however, its initial four seasons are still accessible on Peacock due to complex TV rights. Known as Yellowstone, this franchise has expanded with four spin-offs: 1883 and 1923 are currently available on Paramount+, while 6666 and 1944 are under development. They have a penchant for numerical designations.

Yellowstone
peacock

Disney+

Andor

Years: 2022–present
Length: 1 season, 12 episodes
Creator: Tony Gilroy

Is this the most sincere Star Wars TV series? It undeniably presents the most authentic portrayal of Cassian Andor (Diego Luna), a character from 2016’s Rogue One, crafting a thoughtful backstory for him. The fact that the film’s co-writer, Tony Gilroy, is the mastermind behind this intriguing series, contributes to its appeal. Unlike many Disney+ Star Wars shows, it avoids patronizing its viewers, a common flaw in these productions. Moreover, it exhibits exceptional craftsmanship, each episode appearing more like a short film than typical television programming.

Andor
disney+

X-Men ‘97

Year: 2024-present
Length: 1 season, 10 episodes
Creator: Beau DeMayo

As someone who grew up watching “X-Men: The Animated Series” in the mid-’90s, I can honestly say that this new show is a delightful trip down memory lane. It doesn’t just reboot the original series, it seamlessly picks up from where the 1997 show left off and even brings back most of the same voice cast for key roles. It feels like I’ve been transported back in time, and it’s not just nostalgia that makes this show stand out. This reboot manages to create one of the most thematically rich comic book shows currently streaming, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

X-Men ’97
disney+

Paramount+

Evil

Years: 2019-2024
Length: 4 seasons, 47 episodes
Creators: Robert King, Michelle King

In 2019, the minds behind “The Good Fight” introduced a completely new (yet equally intelligent) series on CBS. However, it shifted to Paramount+ for its second season and significantly improved. Starring Katja Herbers and Mike Colter, this show delves into the contemporary interpretation of evil, revealing its presence in areas ranging from social media to cryptocurrency. The series quickly became one of TV’s sharpest shows, offering a captivating blend of intrigue, unease, and intelligence that echoes the style of a modern-day “X-Files”.

Evil
paramount+

The Star Trek franchise

Years: Various
Length: Various
Creator: Gene Roddenberry

As a devoted cinephile who’s been on the Star Trek journey for generations, it’s no secret that Paramount+ is my go-to destination for exploring the cosmos. The platform has stacked up weeks of voyages into the unknown for fellow fans to immerse themselves in. With original series like Discovery, Prodigy, Lower Decks, Strange New Worlds, and Picard leading the charge, it’s clear that Paramount is pushing the boundaries of Starfleet’s adventures.

Star Trek
paramount+

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2024-08-06 21:56