The Best TV Shows of 2023, Ranked (2024)

Even from the very beginning of the year, TV fans had a plethora of intriguing shows to watch and look forward to, ranging from new shows debuting in 2023 to older series returning with new seasons. While some of these shows exceeded expectations, others were less than stellar, but one this was clear — there were way too many. It's a hell of a task navigating the thousands of TV series from cable, network, streaming, and international television. This list narrows it all down and focuses on some of the year's top shows, emphasizing their brilliance and impact.

Netflix, Peaco*ck, Max, Prime Video, and other streaming services have provided fans with a wealth of amazing series for the year. 2023 began with riveting dystopian tales like The Last of Us from HBO and the innovative experimental comedy Paul T. Godlman on Peaco*ck, followed by modern tales about the relentless pursuit of power and wealth like Succession. It subsequently ventured towards profound period dramas delving into royal romance, such as Queen Charlotte on Netflix. Netflix continued to dominate much of the television landscape with shows like Beef, One Piece, and The Fall of the House of Usher. Meanwhile, some of our favorite shows came to an end.

Here are the best new and returning TV shows of 2023, based on:

• A new show's originality and ability to immediately engage.
• A returning show's ability to deliver and even go beyond the promise of previous seasons.
• TV characters that stand out and are relatable, memorable, or endlessly watchable.
• Continuity for season-long narratives and character evolution and development.
• Stylistic ingenuity and quotable, brilliant dialogue.
• How relevant the series is to the current cultural zeitgeist.

23 Good Omens Season 2

Good Omens

Comedy

Documentary

Cast

Michael Sheen , David Tennant , Michael McKean , Frances McDormand

Seasons

2

Exploring angels and demons has long been a fascination in Hollywood, but it's stunningly executed in Good Omens, a wonderful, stylish, and humorous fantasy. Season one followed angel Aziraphale and demon Crowley as they join up to stop the Antichrist with the help of an 11-year-old boy. The production design is phenomenal, and the chemistry between Michael Sheen's Aziraphale and David Tennant's Crowley has led to legions of devoted fans.

Season 2 of Good Omens Continues the Sheen and Tenant Bromance

The second season, in particular, returns with the same heart and hilarity as the beloved first season. Despite having thwarted the Armageddon and having little to do but please the modern fandom, the outing proves to be one of television’s most thoroughly entertaining takes on the absurdity of life. Sheen and Tennant carry the season to new heights as the odd couple indulging in their love for espresso (and one another), their banter and (b)romance more on-point than ever. The new additions to the cast are wonderful, as well, especially Quelin Sepulveda and the pairing of Nina Sosanya and Maggie Service, who are perfect together. Season two of Good Omens is just as clever and fun as fans remember. You can watch our interview with Tennant and Sheen below.

Watch Good Omens

22 I’m a Virgo

Read Our Review

Combining originality with eccentricity, I’m a Virgo delivers a distinctive social commentary on the issue of capitalism and other weighty subject matters. Directed by Boots Riley (Sorry to Bother You), this coming-of-age series paints a surreal world through the perspective of a 13-foot tall teenager, Cootie (Jharrel Jerome), who embarks on a journey into the outside world in pursuit of love and acceptance. In a careful satire of superhero media, Cootie must come to terms with his adoration of a comic book superhero who is also a real-life embodiment of the prison industrial complex.

I'm a Virgo Is a Truly Revolutionary Series

Despite being a peculiar show set in an absurdist world with quirky characters, the Prime Video project has a lot of heart and unflinchingly presents harsh truths about society. I'm a Virgo may not be suited to everyone’s taste, but it caters to those who crave fresh series unlike anything else. This is one of the most radically anti-capitalist shows of all time, something which peaks in the breathtaking final episode, which will make people think deeply about corporations, policing, prison, profit, and Black lives. Like the show’s main character, viewers will perceive the world through a new lens, leaving them blown away as the series unfolds. You can watch our interview with star Jharrel Jerome below:

Watch I'm a Virgo

21 Jury Duty

Read Our Review

Set in a fake courtroom, this documentary-style comedy series sheds light on the inner workings of an American trial through the eyes of a particular juror, Ronald Gladden. Unknown to Ronald, the judge, plaintiff, defendant, and everything about the trial are all fake. Jury Duty is a super fun show that will leave viewers laughing uproariously at the events taking place in the court, and will appeal particularly to fans of shows like the Office.

A Genuinely Good-Hearted Twist on Reality TV

While delivering plenty of humor, Jury Duty also succeeds in delivering a meaningful message about the presence of genuinely good-hearted individuals in the world, exemplified by the kind and compassionate character of Ronald. The cast, including James Marsden, Alan Bariholtz, Susan Berger, Ben Seaward, David Brown, and others, deliver authentic and lifelike portrayals.

Watch Jury Duty

20 Love & Death

TV-MA

Biography

Crime

Drama

Release Date

April 27, 2023

Creator

David E. Kelley

Cast

Elizabeth Olsen , Jesse Plemons , Patrick Fugit , Olivia Grace Applegate , Krysten Ritter , Lily Rabe

Seasons

1

Directed by Lesli Linka Glatter and Clark Johnson, Love & Death brings yet another story about the disastrous effects of extramarital affairs to our screens. It follows a reserved housewife, Candy, who decides to have an affair with her neighbor. However, things soon get out of control when her lover’s wife is found dead, and all fingers point at Candy.

Elizabeth Olsen Is Perfect in HBO Miniseries

For fans of true crime, Max’s seven-episode miniseries offers a visually stunning and intriguing narrative that should not be missed. The series manages to transport viewers to the 1980s and '70s through the outstanding settings and nostalgic soundtracks. Elizabeth Olsen also delivers a convincing portrayal of the quiet housewife with a complicated interior; she is truly in her element, and makes , another series based on this true story of a grisly murder in small-town Texas.

Watch Love & Death

19 Dead Ringers

Read Our Review

Developed by Alice Birch and based on the 1988 film of the same name by David Cronenberg, Dead Ringers features Rachel Weisz in the lead roles as the Mantel twins, a pair of famous gynecologists determined to change the birthing process for women. The show is thought-provoking and a disturbing exploration of birth and sexuality that is certainly not for everyone. However, for those seeking a well-crafted adaptation of the original film, and who can tolerate its occasionally graphic and always morbid content, this series is a must-watch.

Rachel Weisz Pulls Double Duty in a Very Dark and Disturbing Drama

While Dead Ringers deviates from the source material through gender-swapping of the main characters and other elements, it still delves into weighty themes such as suicide, childbirth, addiction, the nature of pain, and humanity's lack of empathy. Weisz also delivers an absolutely brilliant performance, effortlessly portraying both Elliot and Beverly Mantle in the role that Jeremy Irons played in Cronenberg's original.

Watch Dead Ringers

18 Yellowjackets Season 2

Yellowjackets

TV-MA

Thriller

Drama

Horror

Mystery

Release Date

November 14, 2021

Creator

Ashley Lyle, Bart Nickerson

Cast

Melanie Lynskey , Tawny Cypress , Christina Ricci , Juliette Lewis , Jasmin Savoy Brown , Sophie Thatcher

Seasons

3

Yellowjackets became one of the most captivating and buzzworthy shows after its 2021 premiere, garnering praise for its exceptional writing, stellar cast and its perfect blend of horror, coming-of-age themes, and psychological drama. This survival drama follows a group of girls’ soccer team who find themselves stranded in the wilderness after a plane crash. The show alternates between then and 25 years later, showing their ongoing struggles to cope with the difficult choices they made during their time in the wild.

An Eerie and Inevitably Horrifying Series with Women Leads

Yellowjackets is one of the most excellent and second-most streamed series in Showtime’s history, cultivating a dedicated fanbase who are eagerly awaiting future seasons. With its eerie atmosphere and intriguing premise, it is reminiscent of William Golding’s Lord of the Flies and beloved series like Lost. The exceptional performances by the cast and the compelling plot stand out as major strengths, earning accolades from both critics and audiences alike.

Watch Yellowjackets

17 Mrs. Davis

Mrs. Davis

TV-MA

Comedy

Drama

Sci-Fi

Release Date

April 20, 2023

Cast

Jake McDorman , Betty Gilpin , Andy McQueen , Chris Diamantopoulos , Tom Wlaschiha , Katja Herbers

Seasons

1

This weird but great show follows a nun named Betty (Betty Gilpin), who joins forces with her ex-boyfriend (Jake McDorman) in a quest to destroy an artificial intelligence known as Mrs. Davis. While this comedy drama may seem ridiculous at first glance, it successfully weaves in powerful messages about faith and technology that leave a profound impact on viewers.

Mrs. Davis Is a Bonkers Comedy-Mystery

Mrs. Davis is replete with mystery and unexpected twists, making it a perfect choice for those seeking an unpredictable and truly unique viewing experience. For enthusiasts of science fiction series with original narratives, this is an absolute must-watch. It effortlessly blends elements of eccentric fun, entertainment, and emotional depth, resulting in a truly exceptional television show. But of course, it is not without flaws; it's often a little too silly and obtuse for its own good, even if it is intentionally bonkers.

Watch Mrs. Davis

16 Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story

Queen Charlotte: A Bridgerton Story

Biography

Drama

History

Release Date

May 4, 2023

Cast

India Amarteifio , Freddie Dennis , Richard Cunningham , Golda Rosheuvel , Michelle Fairley

Seasons

1

Read Our Review

In 2020, Bridgerton made its debut on Netflix, captivating viewers with its regency drama, dazzling romance, and its lavish world of elites. It offered a delightful and enchanting experience, boasting a diverse and lovable cast. However, its prequel spinoff, Queen Charlotte, came and delved even deeper into a darker themes, reminding viewers of the bittersweet nature of love while exploring more complex issues unlike the original.

A Massively Popular Netflix Spinoff with Great Chemistry

This Netflix miniseries quickly became the most-watched English title during its debut week and a social media sensation. Created by Shonda Rhimes and based on Julia Quinn's book series, this popular series delves into the captivating love story of Queen Charlotte (India Amarteifio) and King George (Corey Mylchreest), providing a delectable backstory to the beloved character, Queen Charlotte, portrayed by Golda Rosheuvel. The chemistry between Amarteifio and Mylchreest is undeniably among the amazing highlights of the show.

Watch Queen Charlotte

15 The Night Agent Season 1

The Night Agent

TV-MA

Action

Drama

Thriller

Release Date

March 23, 2023

Cast

Gabriel Basso , Luciane Buchanan , Fola Evans-Akingbola , Sarah Desjardins , Eve Harlow

Seasons

1

This sophisticated, character-driven action thriller follows a rookie FBI agent who gets assigned to the basem*nt of the White House to man a phone that never rings. However, when that phone unexpectedly does ring one fateful night, he is drawn into a complex and messy conspiracy that leads to the Oval Office. Due to how popular The Night Agent was, it was renewed for a second season by Netflix just after it was released in March.

The Night Agent Is a Conspiratorial Action Drama

The Night Agent offers an exhilarating blend of action and drama that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. While some perceive the show as illogical and predictable, both audiences and critics have praised its well-choreographed action sequences, well-cast ensemble, and fast-paced plot that hooks viewers from start to finish. While they may seem far-fetched, the conspiracies at the heart of the series taps into a cultural moment when doubt defines the American populace.

Watch The Night Agent

14 One Piece

Netflix's One Piece

TV-14

Action

Adventure

Comedy

Release Date

August 31, 2023

Creator

Steven Maeda, Matt Owens

Cast

Iñaki Godoy , Mackenyu , Emily Rudd , Jacob Romero Gibson , Taz Skylar

Seasons

1

Read Our Review

The Straw Hat Pirate's journey to find the legendary treasure known as “One Piece" gets entwined in an increasingly intense, epic adventure with many other people. That’s what makes up this infinitely charming Netflix adaptation, which remains very loyal to its source material. In One Piece, Monkey D. Luffy is aware of his goal – find a crew, get the treasure. But as he forges new alliances and enters fiercely dramatic battles, the stakes only grow higher. Throughout the season, the crew members face personal growth and life-changing revelations, making the show more than just an ambitious rework of the classic manga and anime.

A Practically Perfect Life-Action Anime Adaptation

The Netflix show raises the bar for anime adaptations. Each episode focuses on Luffy’s relationship with crew members like Nami and Zoro, as well as their breathtaking fights with episodic villains. Paying exquisite attention to detail, One Piece immerses you into a rich and imaginative world of pirates, strange creatures ,magical superpowers, and over-the-top villains. Sure, the Japanese characters are Americanized, which may not sit well with otakus, but the original anime has maintained a committed, global fan base for decades. And with the creativity and heart shown by Netflix, the live-action series honors and respects the fanbase while also transcending the past.

Watch One Piece

13 The Fall of the House of Usher

The Fall of the House of Usher

TV-MA

Horror

Drama

Mystery

Release Date

October 12, 2023

Creator

Mike Flanagan

Cast

Carla Gugino , Bruce Greenwood , Mary McDonnell , Henry Thomas , Rahul Kohli , Samantha Sloyan , T'Nia Miller , Zach Gilford , Mark Hamill , Kate Siegel

Seasons

1

Read Our Review

Despite being a miniseries, Mike Flanagan’s sumptuous new show deserves a spot on the list. Bringing the Gothic world of Edgar Allan Poe to life and juxtaposing it with a Succession-like darkness, The Fall of the House of Usher redefines family horror. When Roderick Usher, the power-hungry CEO of a corrupt pharmaceutical company, discovers all his six children have died within the span of six weeks, he calls Dupin, an attorney, to get to the bottom of it. Because Dupin has worked tirelessly to expose the Ushers, he wastes no time in diving straight into the curses and hauntings that plague the family.

An Astounding Edgar Allan Poe Adaptation

The Fall of the House of Usher sets a new standard for literary adaptations. Flanagan brings back the moody and sophisticated production design that made The Haunting so very addictive. The lush visuals and subtle supernatural chills only enhance the mind-bending mystery that’s taking place beneath the veneer of power and privilege. With Bruce Greenwood and Mary McDonnell leading an incredible cast, it’s only natural that every character is three-dimensional and unintentionally scary. Moreover, the show also explores themes of inheritance and madness, becoming a masterclass of psychological horror that would make Poe proud.

Watch The Fall of the House of Usher

12 The Mandalorian Season 3

The Mandalorian

TV-14

Sci-Fi

Action

Adventure

Release Date

November 12, 2019

Cast

Pedro Pascal , Carl Weathers , Giancarlo Esposito , Temuera Morrison , Ming-Na Wen , Nick Nolte , Taika Waititi , Werner Herzog

Seasons

3

Since its arrival in 2019, The Mandalorian has become a fan favorite, effortlessly maintaining the captivation of its viewers with each subsequent season. Like its predecessors, season three consists of nine episodes, chronicling the captivating journey of the lone bounty hunter, Din Djarin, as he journeys the lawless expanse of the galaxy.

The Mandalorian Is Still the Best Star Wars TV Show

This incredible addition to the Star Wars franchise has been hailed as one of the best offerings since the original trilogy. With the quality of the show, Jon Favreau proves that he is not just a great actor, but also an underrated director. Pedro Pascal's exceptional acting helps to propel the show forward even if he's masked and covered up most of the time, while the entire cast and incredible special effects excel in bringing The Mandalorian story to life.

Watch The Mandalorian

11 The Glory

The Glory

TV-MA

Drama

Mystery

Thriller

Release Date

December 30, 2022

Cast

Song Hye-Kyo , Lee Do-Hyun , Ji-Yeon Lim , Jona Xiao

Seasons

2

Starring Song Hye-kyo in an exceptionally brilliant role, The Glory is the only Korean drama on our list (though there are plenty of great K-dramas from 2023), and it definitely earns its spot. It tells the story of Moon Dong Eun, a woman who was harshly bullied in high school by Park Yeon-jin, a delinquent who led a pack of students into violent behavior. Shattering her dreams of becoming an architect and forcing her to drop out of school, Yeon-jin goes on to become a successful weather presenter and Dong Eun exacts her revenge by becoming the homeroom teacher of her kid.

The Glory Is an Upsetting Korean Masterpiece

The Glory is genuinely shocking. As one of the few shows catered to satisfy a mature audience to come out in the last few years, it pulls all the stops to immerse viewers in a thoughtful and visceral exploration of school violence and the lasting effect it has on the victim’s psychology. Apart from Hye-kyo’s intense and grounded approach towards revenge, it is the performances from Park Sung-hoon, Shin Ye-eun, and Lee Do-hyun that anchor the stunning narrative. The show leaves you cold and angry, but it is so worth it.

Watch The Glory

10 You Season 4

Charming serial killers have graced the TV landscape in the past few decades with shows like Dexter, Hannibal, and others, but the murderous Joe Goldberg stands out, mostly because of how his story is brilliantly written. Based on Caroline Kepnes’ best-selling novel of the same name and created by Greg Berlanti and Sera Gamble, You introduces Goldberg, a bookstore manager who becomes obsessed with the women he meets and goes to extreme lengths to control their lives.

Season 4 of You Makes a Drastic and Dark Change

In its fourth season, just like its predecessors, the show delves deeper into Joe's twisted psyche, presenting a chilling portrayal of the dark side of humanity and the dangers of toxic relationships. But what makes the season remarkable is its international journeys through America, London, and France, and the complicated emotions of its relationships. Its ending stands out, as well, with Kate turning out to be just as twisted and toxic as Joe. Overall, You is a remarkable series, boasting amazing directing, cinematography, acting, writing, and bold themes.

Watch You

9 Poker Face Season 1

Poker Face

TV-MA

Drama

Crime

Mystery

Release Date

January 26, 2023

Creator

Rian Johnson

Cast

Natasha Lyonne , Benjamin Bratt , Simon Helberg , Brandon Micheal Hall , Tim Miller , Nick Nolte , Joseph Gordon-Levitt

Seasons

1

Read Our Review

In this comedy murder mystery show, Natasha Lyonne stars as the brilliant and charismatic protagonist, Charlie Cale, a woman who develops the power to tell when someone is lying over the course of her debauched lifetime. The series announced itself with one of the best pilot episodes of any show in recent memory, with Lyonne and actor Adrien Brody engaging in a witty psychological duel, the results of which spur Charlie's nomadic journeys for the rest of the season.

Poker Face Is a Delightful Update of Columbo

Poker Face was so good that it became one of the highest-rated television series on Peaco*ck from the start. Drawing inspirations from classic detective shows of the 70s, it appeals particularly to viewers who enjoy nostalgic throwbacks to that era, with its 'crime of the week' format. With its delightful blend of humor and mystery, the show offers an enjoyable viewing experience akin to a modern-day version of Columbo, with Lyonne’s exceptional acting on full display alongside a variety of wonderful guest stars. It gets repetitive, but it's a pretty perfect format, so it's hard to complain.

Related: 25 Best TV Shows of All Time

Watch Poker Face

8 Happy Valley Season 3

This gritty British crime drama has had viewers hooked to its emotionally raw premise for almost a decade now since it first premiered to great acclaim in 2014. In the third season of Happy Valley, Sergeant Catherine Cawood continues fighting crime in her tiny Yorkshire town. Still mourning the loss of those dearest to her, Catherine plunges straight into complex new cases as she nears her retirement. She battles old enemies and new threats with her trademark determination, but the personal toll on her, even with the seven years that have passed between events, is greater than ever.

Happy Valley Ends with an Amazing Season 3

Bidding farewell with quite the impact, Happy Valley season three goes even deeper into the Catherine role perfected by Sarah Lancashire, who delivers a powerhouse performance as the show’s compelling lead. The show’s creator, Sally Wainwright, maintains the tenderness and melancholy from the previous seasons but guides this one in a uniquely dark direction. The season is well aware that the audience has been waiting for it, and so the exploration of personal traumas and human impact of the previous episodes' violence is as flawless as ever. We also see new sides of characters like Clare, Catherine’s sister, and Lancashire herself stuns in the tense and intelligent finale.

Watch Happy Valley

7 Succession Season 4

Succession

TV-MA

Drama

Release Date

June 3, 2018

Creator

Jesse Armstrong

Cast

Brian Cox , Kieran Culkin , Nicholas Braun , Matthew Macfadyen , Alan Ruck , J. Smith-Cameron

Seasons

4

Read Our Review

And so it ends. The Roy family drama premiered in 2018 and followed the dysfunctional owners of a multinational media empire known as Waystar Royco until its dramatic conclusion in 2023. Created by the great Jesse Armstrong, the plot of Succession centers around the Roy family's internal power struggles, family dynamics, and the unrelenting quest for power and wealth.

Succession Ends with a Culturally Important Season 4

Succession has rightfully earned its place as one of the best TV shows on HBO, joining the ranks of acclaimed series like Game of Thrones, True Detective, and The Sopranos. Praised by both viewers and critics alike, it has garnered a reputation as one of the greatest TV dramas of all time. The show's three Emmy wins for Best Drama simply solidifies its excellence. While it may start off at a slower pace, Succession becomes undeniably addictive as the story unfolds, leading to a truly surprising and intense final season.

Watch Succession

6 The Last of Us Season 1

The Last Of Us

TV-MA

Action

Adventure

Drama

Release Date

January 15, 2023

Creator

Neil Druckmann, Craig Mazin

Cast

Pedro Pascal , Bella Ramsey , Anna Torv , lamar johnson , Melanie Lynskey

Seasons

2

Read Our Review

HBO's adaptation of The Last of Us is widely acclaimed as the best video game adaptation ever created, bringing immense joy not only to players of the iconic game but also to fans of well-crafted post-apocalyptic thrillers. The series has garnered immense love from viewers thanks to its faithful portrayal of the source material. With Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey taking the lead as Joel and Ellie as they journey through a desolate world after an outbreak of a deadly virus, The Last of Us offered a fresh take on the post-apocalyptic tales.

An Exceptional Video Game Adaptation Is a Huge Success

The Last of Us achieved remarkable success, surpassing Game of Thrones spin-off House of the Dragon to become the second most-successful TV debut in 13 years on HBO. While some feel it is overhyped and just an amalgam of The Walking Dead and Logan, others have praised the exceptional acting, writing, dialogue, directing and cinematography, all of which contribute to its haunting atmosphere and engrossing nature.

Watch The Last of Us

5 Sex Education Season 4

Sex Education

Comedy

Romance

Drama

Creator

Laurie Nunn

Cast

Asa Butterfield , Gillian Anderson , Kedar Williams-Stirling , Alistair Petrie

Seasons

4

Read Our Review

Back at Moordale Secondary, Otis, Eric, Maeve, and their quirky classmates had found their safe haven, with their greatest challenges being relationships and grades. But the third season ended on a note where they were preparing to go separate ways and dealing with changes within their friendship. Sex Education Season 4 sees Otis and Eric heading to Cavendish Sixth Form College, determined to be popular and liked. Meanwhile, Maeve tries to fit into the Ivy League and Jane feels defeated caring for her newborn, Joy.

An Emotional Goodbye to Sex Education

Season 4 is a refreshing and relevant send-off to Netflix’s most beloved property. The season not only introduces brand new characters like Otis’ rival sex therapist O and Dan Levy as Maeve’s college professor, but also allows returning characters to shine differently. On one hand, Aimee is experimenting with not just relationships but her expression, and on the other hand, Ruby is embracing the idea of not being revered as the most popular girl in school. A stand-out is Ncuti Gatwa’s Eric Effiong, whose exuberant wardrobe and religious journey makes for a satisfying conclusion.

Watch Sex Education

4 Barry Season 4

Barry

Comedy

Creator

Bill Hader

Cast

Bill Hader , Stephen Root , Henry Winkler

Seasons

4

Main Genre

Comedy

Succession isn’t the only acclaimed HBO series to come to an end in 2023. The assassin comedy, Barry, which revolves around the life of a depressed and lonely U.S. veteran, has reached its final conclusion with the release of its fourth and final season this year. Created by Alec Berg and Bill Hader, this dark comedy follows life of the titular character, Barry Berkman, a disillusioned hitman from Cleveland who travels to Los Angeles to carry out a hit but ends up getting involved in the local theater scene.

Barry Ends in Season 4 Before It's Too Late

With a masterful blend of comedy and drama, Barry presents a realistic and refreshing approach to death and violence, setting it apart from many other dark comedies. It is dark, funny and unique in its own way, delivering plenty of action, suspense and tension to keep viewers thoroughly entertained. Not to mention, the exceptional performances by the cast (especially Henry Winkler in his greatest performance) further enhance the brilliant nature of the show. Ultimately, Barry was getting to a place where things were too illogical and absurd, so it was a wise decision to bow out in season four.

Watch Barry