Finding the best TV shows to watch can be overwhelming with so many options across streaming services and networks. The most highly rated TV series based on viewer reviews and critical acclaim include standout titles like Breaking Bad, Planet Earth, The Last of Us, and The Bear.

These acclaimed shows consistently top popular TV rankings and viewer-generated lists with strong storylines, impressive acting, and wide appeal for binge-watching.

This roundup highlights the TV shows that are currently capturing the attention of audiences and critics alike. Whether seeking drama, comedy, suspense, or documentary series, viewers can choose from a variety of top-rated options that have earned high scores and positive feedback.

For anyone searching for a new series with proven entertainment value, these recommendations provide an easy starting point.

Top-Rated Drama TV Series to Watch Now

The highest-rated drama TV series consistently combine strong storytelling, compelling characters, and exceptional performances. Viewer reviews and aggregated ratings often spotlight genres like family drama, high-stakes corporate intrigue, and post-apocalyptic adventures that resonate with audiences on platforms like Apple TV+, HBO, and CBS.

Critically Acclaimed Dramas

Critics and audiences continue to praise shows such as The Last of Us and Succession for their writing, direction, and performances. The Last of Us, adapted from the acclaimed video game, stands out with a 95% rating on Rotten Tomatoes due to its emotionally driven story and tense, atmospheric world-building.

Succession has drawn attention for its sharp scripts and portrayal of a powerful, dysfunctional family. It explores family drama and power struggles within a media empire, making it a must-watch for fans of character-driven storytelling.

Series like Severance on Apple TV+ bring unique premises and psychological depth, attracting both awards recognition and a devoted fanbase.

Fan-Favorite Emotional Stories

Viewer reviews often point to emotionally resonant dramas as the most compelling. Shows like The Bear, This Is Us, and 1923 deliver layered stories centered on relationships, family struggles, and personal growth.

1923, a spin-off from the Yellowstone franchise, highlights inter-generational tension and Western family drama. Fans praise its immersive storylines, nuanced characters, and the standout performances of its cast.

This Is Us maintains popularity due to its honest exploration of family challenges across decades, earning consistently high ratings. Viewers seeking series focused on personal journeys, legacy, and connection will find these shows particularly appealing.

Notable emotional dramas to check out:

• The Bear (FX/Hulu): High-intensity restaurant drama with strong character arcs.
• 1923 (CBS/Paramount+): A look at legacy and hardship in the American West.
• This Is Us (NBC): Generational family storytelling.

Game of Thrones: An Epic Saga

Game of Thrones remains one of the most-watched and discussed drama TV series of all time, renowned for its epic scale, political scheming, and complex characters. The show is consistently listed at the top of viewer rankings based on the number of ratings, and its impact on pop culture is substantial.

Set in the continents of Westeros and Essos, Game of Thrones weaves together multiple storylines about noble families contending for the Iron Throne. The show’s unpredictable narrative and intricate world-building have kept audiences engaged through all eight seasons.

Although its ending divided viewers, its highly rated seasons are often cited for their intense drama, memorable characters, and significant plot twists. For anyone interested in fantasy drama with high stakes and widespread acclaim, Game of Thrones is a benchmark in must-watch television.

Must-See Comedy and Comedy-Drama Gems

The current television landscape features a strong lineup of standout comedies and genre-blending comedy-dramas that consistently earn high marks from viewers and critics. Recent years have brought a surge of refreshingly original series, dynamic performances, and innovative storytelling styles, especially within network and streaming television.

Popular Comedy Standouts

Audiences looking for sharply written, laugh-out-loud sitcoms have an abundance of options among today’s top-rated shows. The Four Seasons and Poker Face are two recent examples, with Poker Face in particular gaining critical acclaim for its inventive approach and impressive 99% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.

Classic favorites such as Schitt’s Creek and The IT Crowd continue to attract loyal viewers thanks to their blend of unique humor, memorable characters, and clever plots. More recent entries like Hacks have garnered significant attention by focusing on timely themes and the evolving world of comedy performance.

Celebrated Comedy-Drama Hits

Blending humor with meaningful storytelling, comedy-dramas—or “dramedies”—such as Barry and Trying have earned strong reputations on streaming platforms and cable networks. Barry, for instance, masterfully interweaves tragicomic elements and has become a popular choice for viewers looking for something deeper than a straightforward sitcom.

Many fans gravitate toward shows that balance comedic relief with genuine emotional stakes. Trying offers an authentic, heartfelt exploration of relationships, using a mix of dry wit and poignant drama.

Shows like The White Lotus and Succession have also received attention for integrating comedy into their dramatic narratives, often highlighting the absurdities in family dynamics and modern society. This approach results in storytelling that remains both compelling and highly relatable.

Abbott Elementary: The Mockumentary Phenomenon

Abbott Elementary has quickly cemented itself as a must-watch on ABC, leveraging the mockumentary format to deliver both laughs and social commentary. Set in a Philadelphia public school, the series stands out with its blend of satirical humor and earnest depictions of daily educational challenges.

Key features include a strong ensemble cast, documentary-style interviews, and sharp writing that targets issues like underfunding and bureaucracy. The show’s authenticity resonates with educators and general audiences alike, leading to high viewer ratings and critical success.

Abbott Elementary distinguishes itself within the comedy genre by transforming the familiar workplace comedy structure into something uniquely heartfelt and socially relevant. It maintains a balance of wit and warmth that keeps viewers engaged each week.