Top shows of the 2010s: Ranking the best ones released each year

Top shows from 2010-2019 | Images via Prime Video, Netflix and Hotstar
Top shows from 2010-2019 | Images via Prime Video, Netflix and Hotstar

Television had a phenomenal boom in the 2010s, with strong characters, memorable tales, and a plethora of new concepts. TV included thrilling dramas, funny comedies, and sci-fi movies for all audiences.

The list includes the top shows of the 2010s, with only one remarkable season from each year between 2010 and 2019. These seasons altered our perceptions of outstanding TV and had a significant influence on pop culture.

Disclaimer: This article is solely the writer's opinion. Reader discretion is advised.


Here is the list of the top shows of the 2010s: Ranking the best ones released each year:

10. 2019 - Fleabag Season 2 (A.V. Club, Rotten Tomatoes Top Rating)

Fleabag Season 2 (Top Shows of the 2010s) | Image via Prime Video
Fleabag Season 2 (Top Shows of the 2010s) | Image via Prime Video

Season 2 of Fleabag is among the top shows of the 2010s. The character's protagonist, Phoebe Waller-Bridge, produced it. The plot follows a young woman in London as she deals with matters of love, loss, and her family. Season 2 took a different turn when a priest, played by Andrew Scott, arrived.

Audiences appreciate how the author makes the text smart, witty, and emotive. The way the show addresses the audience often lets viewers relate more to the main character. Many people praised the movie as being flawless. Fleabag received a Primetime Emmy Award (2019) and other major awards. Its timely conclusion made a profound cultural impact that many will always remember.


9. 2018 - The Americans Season 6 (PGA, Golden Globes, A.V. Club)

The Americans Season 6 | Image via Prime Video
The Americans Season 6 | Image via Prime Video

The Americans Season 6 is recognized as one of the top shows of the 2010s. The story follows two Russian spies living in America during the Cold War. They behave like an ordinary American couple, yet they are, in fact, under the KGB’s control. The narrative concludes emotionally well and powerfully in Season 6.

The main protagonists must make significant decisions about their loyalties, families, and country. The show received the Best Television Series Award at the 76th Golden Globe Awards. The screenplay and the performances are both excellent. The fans praised the last episode for its gentle and melancholic atmosphere. The TV show displayed many emotions instead of large-scale actions.


8. 2017 - The Handmaid's Tale Season 1 (PGA, Golden Globes, A.V. Club)

The Handmaid's Tale Season 1 | Image via Showmax
The Handmaid's Tale Season 1 | Image via Showmax

The Handmaid’s Tale Season 1 turned into one of the top shows of the 2010s. The idea is taken from Margaret Atwood’s book. It happens in a world where women are denied all their rights. Many are taken away to act as “handmaids” to give birth for the elite. The film’s main character, June, is played by Elisabeth Moss.

The show is heartbreaking, but it also offers hope. The Handmaid’s Tale reveals power, control, and freedom. The graphics are spectacular, featuring red and white costumes that have become symbols.

In its first season, the show won numerous awards, including the Emmy for Outstanding Drama. The series sparked crucial conversations and showed that television can be quite serious.


7. 2016 - Stranger Things Season 1 (PGA, Golden Globes, Critics' Choice)

Top Shows of the 2010s - Stranger Things Season 1 | Image via Netflix
Top Shows of the 2010s - Stranger Things Season 1 | Image via Netflix

Millions of TV show fans love and appreciate Stranger Things as one of the top shows of the 2010s. The plot revolves around characters from these three genres in a small American town. A group of children is the main focus of the story as they try to locate their missing friend. On their journey, they encounter a young girl called Eleven who has powers.

The series includes several songs, fashion, and references from the 1980s. The show has freshness, but also makes me feel nostalgic. The plot is driven by the relationship between the main protagonists, who gained fame due to their acting.

People were interested in reading mainly because of the mystery and monsters. Critics enjoyed the story and the atmosphere of the movie. It wasn't long before it became a global success. The story of Stranger Things demonstrated that strong storytelling can be both entertaining and moving.


6. 2015 - Mad Men Season 7 (A.V. Club)

Mad Men Season 7 (Top Shows of the 2010s) | Image via Prime Video
Mad Men Season 7 (Top Shows of the 2010s) | Image via Prime Video

Mad Men Season 7 (the final season) is frequently ranked as one of the top shows of the 2010s. It centers on Don Draper, a creative director in the 1960s who works for an advertising agency. The show's meticulous plot, intricate cast of characters, and striking visuals are what set it apart.

In the seventh season, every main character deals with life-changing events. Don attempted to accept the things that happened in his past. The women and other staff members seek meaning in both their personal and professional lives.

The end episode is almost silent, but it is very moving. He cleverly connects Don's experience to a large-scale marketing campaign as he closes the commercial. The show won Best Drama at the 68th Writers Guild of America Awards. Matthew Weiner's Season 7 was nominated for Best Episodic Drama in 2015.


5. 2014 - Game of Thrones Season 4 (Critics' Choice, Golden Globes)

Game of Thrones Season 4 | Image via JustWatch
Game of Thrones Season 4 | Image via JustWatch

Season 4 of Game of Thrones contributed to its status as one of the most popular and top shows of the 2010s. Some of the best and most intense episodes happened this season. People still recall Tyrion’s trial, Oberyn’s fight with The Mountain, and the major conflict at Castle Black. There were more shocks and acts of betrayal in the dark, turning the story. The actors and the special effects did a great job.

Every episode was made to feel like a full movie. The series successfully combined political, combat, and familial tales. Many people believe that Season 4 was the show's peak. A large portion of the audience watched the shows weekly and commented on them. The universe of Westeros was realistic and unforgettable.


4. 2013 - Enlightened Season 2 (A.V. Club)

Scene from Enlightened Season 2 | Image via JustWatch
Scene from Enlightened Season 2 | Image via JustWatch

Enlightened Season 2 stands out as the top shows of the 2010s. Amy, played by Laura Dern, seeks to turn her life around after a breakdown. In this season, she tries to reveal the bad deeds of a major corporation. There is not much action in the show, but its strength is clear. It is about personal development, working in an office, and defending the rule of law. Laura Dern portrays it honestly and with wonderful compassion.

The author’s writing is both smart and emotional, and it is often very soothing. Critics praised it despite the fact that it wasn't very popular with the public. The most recent episodes are genuine and poignant. This movie demonstrated how a straightforward storyline delivered well may have a profound effect on viewers.


3. 2012 - Breaking Bad Season 5 (A.V. Club)

Breaking Bad (Top Shows of the 2010s) | Image via Netflix
Breaking Bad (Top Shows of the 2010s) | Image via Netflix

Breaking Bad Season 5 is widely regarded as one of the top shows of the 2010s. Walter White, a teacher, starts a career as a drug dealer. Walt now reveals his actual nature and acts more severely. The situation becomes more exciting and more dangerous. A powerful ending is the result of the story arc and suspense in the series. They both did an outstanding job in their performances.

The drama in each episode is full of tensions and emotions. The script is well thought out and amusing. Action and moral issues are combined in the series. It examines how much people will do for money or their kin. Season 5 closed the series in a way that pleased everyone, including fans and critics. The conclusion became a model for concluding a popular television program.


2. 2011 - Game of Thrones Season 1 (Golden Globes, Critics' Choice)

Game of Thrones Season 1 (Top Shows of the 2010s) | Image via Hotstar
Game of Thrones Season 1 (Top Shows of the 2010s) | Image via Hotstar

Game of Thrones' debut season was one of the most popular shows of the decade. Game of Thrones created a show set in Westeros that featured kings, warriors, and dragons. The story revolves around numerous families fighting for power. It had a significant impact because it depicted one of the major characters' early death. The show was famous for delivering surprises, plenty of drama, and memorable characters.

The performances and the settings were great. The magic did not make the story unrealistic in any way. Weekly, people looked forward to sharing their ideas on the series. Season 1 shaped the series and showed what was to happen going forward. It established that stories in the fantasy world could be equally smart, serious, and exciting.


1. 2010 - Breaking Bad Season 3 (A.V. Club)

Top Shows of the 2010s: Breaking Bad Season 3 | Image via Prime Video
Top Shows of the 2010s: Breaking Bad Season 3 | Image via Prime Video

Breaking Bad Season 3 played a big role in making the show one of the best of the 2010s. The story centers on Walter White, who manufactures narcotics to support his family. The story becomes much more serious in Season 3. Walt and Jesse face new challenges, some of which come from Mexico. In this season, viewers are introduced to Gus Fring, who is calm and also very dangerous.

The suspense gets higher with every episode. Both the acting and the script are great in this film. One of the primary components of the play is the blend of action and more profound emotions. It demonstrates that even decent individuals may make mistakes.

Breaking Bad has earned 16 Emmys, including two straight Outstanding Drama Series awards for its 62 highly entertaining episodes.


We conclude that several top shows of the 2010s made a strong impact on viewers and critics. Each film featured amazing heroes who lived in thrilling situations. They belonged not only to the show; people spoke about them and included them in their own culture. Each series demonstrated the increasing power of television over the previous decade.

Edited by Sezal Srivastava