They critiqued Hollywood and stuck it to authority. They celebrated ordinary heroes and evoked empathy for the villains. They highlighted our human imperfections—yet television embraces us nonetheless.
Just when it seemed that the post-Peak TV landscape was a desolate wasteland of uninspired content, the medium rebounded in 2025. While we may not be entering a fresh golden era—streaming services and cable channels are navigating a chaotic media environment (note Netflix’s recent acquisition of Warner Bros. Discovery!)—this year saw a selection of original shows that transcended superficial star power and shallow storylines. The standout series were bold, stylish, and offered meaningful commentary on current societal issues while keeping us thoroughly entertained. From critiquing Hollywood and the healthcare industry to exploring history or alternate realities, whether they made us laugh or cry (or both), these 15 shows, listed here alphabetically, reaffirmed that top creators in television are still very much engaged.
Adolescence (Netflix)
This four-part British limited series follows a boy accused of murdering a classmate and launched on Netflix with little fanfare. By the end of its first weekend, it was the platform’s most-watched show, igniting numerous discourse surrounding incel culture’s effects on young men. Director Philip Barantini and co-writer Stephen Graham crafted a gripping narrative that opens with police arresting 13-year-old Jamie Miller (Owen Cooper). Each episode shares a different viewpoint on the event, with Episode Three presenting a face-off between Jamie and a psychologist (Erin Doherty) in a masterclass of sustained tension. Filmed in a continuous take, this series dominated the 2025 Emmys and deeply resonates despite any awards it received. —David Fear
Andor (Disney+)
The final season of Tony Gilroy’s prequel series intensified its revolutionary themes, offering a profound glimpse into the Rebellion’s formation. Lauded for its first-class villains and thrilling sequences, the season deftly mirrors our era’s sociopolitical anxieties. The gritty narrative around Diego Luna’s Cassian Andor and his comrades feels relevant and urgent. This season provided memorable scenes, including a heist-like hospital sequence, while also revealing the manipulation tactics of authoritarian regimes. The iconic brand will remain, but Gilroy’s exceptional input will surely be missed. —D.F.
Death By Lightning (Netflix)
Writer Mike Makowsky transformed an unusual episode in American history into a riveting series. Based on Candice Millard’s book, it chronicles the 1881 assassination of President James A. Garfield (played by Michael Shannon) by an unstable admirer. The limited series balances dark humor with a poignant commentary on societal violence, featuring beloved character actors like Nick Offerman and Bradley Whitford in remarkable roles. —Esther Zuckerman
Dept. Q (Netflix)
This series emerged as a heartwarming surprise, featuring a group of offbeat detectives in Scotland. Lead actor Matthew Goode brings depth to Carl Morck, a misanthropic detective assigned to cold cases after a traumatic incident. As Morck navigates his chaotic home life with an irritable roommate and an angry teenager, the writing and pacing keep the narrative engaging without sacrificing emotional depth. The understated but powerful moments elevate the show beyond the crime it seeks to resolve. —Maria Fontoura
Long Story Short (Netflix)
In their follow-up to Bojack Horseman, creators Raphael Bob-Waksberg and Lisa Hanawalt explore the tumultuous existence of a dysfunctional family over several decades. The show intricately weaves timelines and focuses on the Schwooper family as they navigate life’s ups and downs. Flash-forwards serve as poignant reminders of time’s fleeting nature, deepening the emotional stakes and the narrative’s exploration of familial bonds. —D.F.
The Last of Us (HBO)
Critics noted that Season Two of The Last of Us wasn’t quite on par with its predecessor, but it remained a well-crafted series rich in strong performances and watchability. The shocking early departure of Joel heightens the emotional stakes and amplifies Pedro Pascal’s presence in flashback episodes that explore his relationship with Ellie. With exceptional visuals and intense plotlines, there’s a lot for fans to anticipate in the upcoming season focused on Abby. —M.F.
