The Best Shows of the 2010s: A Decade of Binge-Worthy TV
Alright, guys, buckle up! We're about to take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the best shows of the 2010s. This was a decade that brought us groundbreaking series, unforgettable characters, and more plot twists than we could handle. So, grab your popcorn and let's dive in! Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and best shows 2010s.
The Golden Age of TV: A Brief Overview
Before we get into the nitty-gritty, let's set the stage. The 2010s, often referred to as the golden age of television, saw a boom in high-quality, innovative shows. With the rise of streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime, the demand for fresh, binge-worthy content skyrocketed. And boy, did the TV industry deliver!
The Best Shows of the 2010s: A Decade in Review
Game of Thrones (2011-2019)
How could we not kick things off with the biggest show of the 2010s? Game of Thrones took the world by storm, turning it into a global phenomenon. Based on George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" series, this epic fantasy drama was a masterclass in world-building, political intrigue, and shocking twists. From the Red Wedding to the Battle of Winterfell, Game of Thrones kept us on the edge of our seats for eight suspenseful seasons.
Breaking Bad (2008-2013)
A little ahead of the 2010s, but too good to leave out, Breaking Bad is a staple of the golden age of TV. This dark comedy-drama followed high school chemistry teacher Walter White as he transformed into a notorious meth cook and drug kingpin. With its unparalleled performances, gripping narrative, and unforgettable characters (looking at you, Jesse Pinkman), Breaking Bad is a show that will forever be remembered as one of the best shows of the 2000s and 2010s.
The Walking Dead (2010-2022)
Zombies, survival, and a whole lot of drama – that's The Walking Dead for you. Based on Robert Kirkman's comic book series, this post-apocalyptic horror drama followed a group of survivors as they navigated a world overrun by the undead. With its intense action sequences, memorable characters, and thought-provoking exploration of human nature, The Walking Dead became a cultural phenomenon and one of the best shows of the 2010s.
Stranger Things (2016-Present)
Who would have thought that a love letter to '80s pop culture could become one of the best shows of the 2010s? Stranger Things took us on a nostalgia-fueled ride through the small town of Hawkins, Indiana, where a group of misfit friends uncover a sinister supernatural force. With its compelling storytelling, standout performances (we're looking at you, Millie Bobby Brown), and copious amounts of '80s references, Stranger Things has become a cultural phenomenon and a staple of the streaming era.
BoJack Horseman (2014-2020)
An animated series that tackles depression, addiction, and the dark side of Hollywood? You bet! BoJack Horseman was a breath of fresh air in the world of adult animation, offering a brutally honest and often hilarious exploration of its titular character's descent into self-destruction. With its stunning animation, unforgettable characters, and surprisingly deep emotional resonance, BoJack Horseman is a true gem of the 2010s.
The Wire (2002-2008)
A bit of a cheat, as this critically acclaimed crime drama premiered in the early 2000s, but The Wire's impact on the 2010s was undeniable. This intricate and sprawling exploration of the drug trade in Baltimore, told from multiple perspectives, set the bar for complex, character-driven storytelling. With its unflinching portrayal of the American justice system and its far-reaching consequences, The Wire remains one of the best shows of the 2000s and 2010s.
Atlanta (2016-Present)
Part dark comedy, part surrealist fever dream, Atlanta is a show that defies easy categorization. Created by and starring Donald Glover, this boundary-pushing series follows two cousins trying to make it in the Atlanta rap scene. With its innovative storytelling, striking visuals, and unapologetic exploration of race and identity, Atlanta is a true standout of the 2010s.
Fleabag (2016-2019)
A British comedy-drama with a unique blend of humor and heartache, Fleabag was a breath of fresh air in the 2010s TV landscape. Created by and starring Phoebe Waller-Bridge, this critically acclaimed series followed a dry-witted, sexually adventurous woman navigating life, love, and loss in London. With its bold storytelling, unforgettable characters, and Waller-Bridge's tour de force performance, Fleabag is a true gem of the 2010s.
The Leftovers (2014-2017)
Based on Tom Perrotta's novel of the same name, The Leftovers was a deeply moving exploration of faith, loss, and the human condition. Set in a world where 2% of the population suddenly vanished without a trace, this thought-provoking drama followed a group of people as they struggled to cope with their new reality. With its stunning performances, evocative storytelling, and unforgettable characters, The Leftovers was a standout show of the 2010s.
Honorable Mentions: More of the Best Shows of the 2010s
We've only scratched the surface of the best shows of the 2010s. Here are a few more that deserve a shout-out:
- True Detective (2014-Present): This anthology crime drama delivered two standout seasons in the 2010s, featuring powerhouse performances from Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, Colin Farrell, and Rachel McAdams. - Rectify (2013-2016): A slow-burn drama that explored the life of a man released from death row after 19 years, Rectify was a poignant and powerful exploration of redemption, forgiveness, and the human condition. - The Americans (2013-2018): This tense and suspenseful drama followed a pair of Soviet spies living undercover in suburban Washington, D.C., during the Cold War. With its compelling performances, intricate plotlines, and thought-provoking exploration of identity and loyalty, The Americans was a standout show of the 2010s. - Master of None (2015-2017): Aziz Ansari's semi-autobiographical comedy-drama explored the complexities of relationships, careers, and identity in the modern world. With its innovative storytelling, standout performances, and unapologetic exploration of race and culture, Master of None was a true gem of the 2010s. - The Crown (2016-Present): This lavish and immersive historical drama chronicled the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the British royal family and the political machinations that shaped the latter half of the 20th century.
The Legacy of the 2010s: A Golden Age of TV
As we look back on the best shows of the 2010s, it's clear that this was a decade that left an indelible mark on the world of television. From groundbreaking dramas to innovative comedies, the 2010s brought us some of the most unforgettable, thought-provoking, and downright entertaining TV shows of all time.
As we move into the 2020s, the future of television looks brighter than ever. With new streaming platforms, innovative storytelling techniques, and a seemingly endless supply of fresh, binge-worthy content, there's no telling what the next decade has in store. But one thing's for sure: the 2010s set the bar high, and the best shows of the 2020s will have some big shoes to fill.
So, guys, what do you think? Did we miss any of your favorite shows from the 2010s? Let us know in the comments below, and happy binge-watching!