The 2010s marked a golden era for television, with numerous groundbreaking shows that captivated audiences worldwide. These series encompassed various genres, from crime dramas to supernatural thrillers and family dramas. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the ten greatest TV shows of the 2010s that left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment.
The 2010s ushered in a golden era of television, birthing a slew of captivating and influential shows that defined the decade. Among them, “Game of Thrones” stands tall, weaving a complex tale of power, politics, and fantasy that gripped audiences worldwide with its intricate storytelling and shocking twists.
“Stranger Things” emerged as a nostalgic powerhouse, blending ’80s homage with supernatural intrigue, capturing hearts with its endearing characters and eerie mysteries set in a small town. Meanwhile, “Breaking Bad” mesmerized viewers with its morally complex journey into the world of a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer.
Best Amazing TV Shows of the 2010s
These shows not only entertained but also pushed the boundaries of storytelling, cementing their places as the best of the 2010s.
1. “Orange Is the New Black” (2013)
“Orange Is the New Black” emerged as a standout in the amazing TV shows of the 2010s. This groundbreaking series offered a gripping and multifaceted narrative set within the confines of a women’s prison. Through its diverse ensemble cast and compelling storytelling, the show navigated themes of identity, race, sexuality, and social issues with both depth and humor. Its bold exploration of the lives of inmates and the complexities of their experiences resonated deeply, sparking discussions about the criminal justice system and humanizing those often marginalized by society. With its rich character development and unflinching portrayal of real-world challenges, “Orange Is the New Black” left an indelible mark on television, showcasing the power of storytelling to provoke empathy and understanding.
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2. “Peaky Blinders” (2013)
“Peaky Blinders” stands tall among the remarkable TV shows of the 2010s. This period crime drama captivated audiences with its gritty portrayal of the Shelby crime family in post-World War I Birmingham. Led by the enigmatic Tommy Shelby, portrayed by Cillian Murphy, the show masterfully blended historical context, intense performances, and a gripping narrative.
Its stylish cinematography and meticulous attention to detail in depicting the era resonated strongly with viewers. The series intricately woven together themes of power, loyalty, and ambition against a backdrop of political and social upheaval. With its compelling characters, intricate plotlines, and electrifying soundtrack, “Peaky Blinders” garnered widespread acclaim for its ability to immerse audiences in a dark and captivating world.
3. “Bates Motel” (2013)
“Bates Motel” emerged as a riveting addition to the amazing TV shows of the 2010s. Serving as a contemporary prequel to Alfred Hitchcock’s classic “Psycho,” this series delved into the intricate backstory of Norman Bates and his intricate relationship with his mother, Norma.
Set in a small town, the show intricately crafted a dark and psychologically gripping narrative, exploring themes of obsession, trauma, and the blurred lines between reality and delusion. Freddie Highmore’s compelling portrayal of a young Norman Bates and Vera Farmiga’s haunting depiction of his mother brought depth and complexity to the characters.
4. “The Haunting of Hill House” (2018)
“The Haunting of Hill House” emerged as a standout among the amazing TV shows of the 2010s. This gripping horror-drama series, based on Shirley Jackson’s novel, masterfully blended supernatural elements with deep emotional storytelling.
With its intricately woven narrative spanning two timelines, the show followed the Crain family’s haunting experiences at Hill House and their lingering psychological trauma. The series skillfully employed atmospheric tension, eerie cinematography, and expertly crafted scares, creating an unsettling and immersive viewing experience.
5. “Better Call Saul” (2015)
“Better Call Saul” shone as an exceptional TV show of the 2010s. A prequel to “Breaking Bad,” this series navigated the transformation of Jimmy McGill into the morally ambiguous lawyer, Saul Goodman.
With its meticulous storytelling, nuanced characters, and expertly crafted tension, “Better Call Saul” captivated audiences by delving into the complexities of law, morality, and the human condition. Bob Odenkirk’s portrayal of Jimmy McGill/Saul Goodman was a tour de force, showcasing the evolution of a charismatic yet flawed character.
6. “Euphoria” (2019)
“Euphoria” emerged as a groundbreaking and provocative addition to the amazing TV shows of the 2010s. This series pushed boundaries with its unflinching portrayal of teenage life, tackling themes of addiction, identity, love, and trauma.
Led by Zendaya’s compelling performance as Rue, the show delved into the lives of high school students navigating the complexities of adolescence in a world dominated by social media and societal pressures. Its raw and visually stunning cinematography, coupled with a pulsating soundtrack, captured the essence of the characters’ struggles.
7. “Stranger Things” (2016)
“Stranger Things” emerged as an iconic and beloved TV show of the 2010s. Set in the ’80s, this supernatural drama captivated audiences with its nostalgic homage to the era and its thrilling blend of sci-fi, horror, and heartfelt storytelling.
The show’s gripping plot centered around a group of kids in Hawkins, Indiana, as they encounter extraordinary events involving a parallel dimension, a mysterious girl named Eleven, and eerie supernatural occurrences. Its endearing characters, nostalgic references, and thrilling mysteries resonated strongly with viewers of all ages.
8. “Vikings” (2013)
“Vikings” stands as a captivating and adventurous TV show of the 2010s. This historical drama brought the world of Norse legends and Viking raids to life, immersing audiences in a gripping tale of exploration, conquest, and the complex characters of legendary figures like Ragnar Lothbrok.
The series skillfully intertwined historical accuracy with dramatic storytelling, depicting the Viking Age’s brutal yet fascinating world. “Vikings” showcased the clash of cultures, the pursuit of power, and the intricate dynamics within Viking society.
9. “The Mandalorian” (2019)
“The Mandalorian” soared as a standout TV show of the 2010s. Set in the expansive “Star Wars” universe, this series took audiences on a thrilling and visually stunning journey through the galaxy far, far away.
With its captivating storytelling, mesmerizing visuals, and endearing characters—most notably the enigmatic Mandalorian and the adorable “Child” (commonly referred to as Baby Yoda)—the show captured the essence of the “Star Wars” universe while carving its own unique path.
“The Mandalorian” adeptly balanced action, emotion, and world-building, drawing in both die-hard “Star Wars” fans and newcomers alike.
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10. “Succession” (2018)
“Succession” emerged as a compelling and critically acclaimed TV show of the 2010s. This gripping drama delved into the cutthroat world of a wealthy media mogul’s family vying for control of his empire.
The series masterfully balanced sharp wit, biting satire, and intricate character dynamics, drawing audiences into the power struggles and dysfunctional relationships within the Roy family. Its nuanced exploration of wealth, power, and the complexities of family dynamics resonated deeply with viewers.
Led by an outstanding ensemble cast, notably Brian Cox as the domineering Logan Roy, the show captivated audiences with its morally ambiguous characters and riveting plotlines.
Conclusion
The 2010s were a golden era for television, marked by a diverse array of remarkable shows that captivated audiences worldwide. From epic fantasies to gritty dramas and thought-provoking narratives, these TV series reshaped storytelling and left an indelible mark on the entertainment landscape. Each show offered a unique blend of compelling characters, intricate plots, and groundbreaking storytelling, showcasing the power of television to provoke emotions, spark conversations, and leave lasting impressions.
FAQs
These shows stood out for their innovative storytelling, rich character development, and their ability to push the boundaries of their respective genres.
Many of these shows achieved both commercial success and critical acclaim, garnering high ratings, awards, and dedicated fan bases.
They elevated television storytelling by tackling complex themes, offering diverse perspectives, and utilizing sophisticated narratives that resonated with audiences on emotional and intellectual levels.
These TV shows became cultural phenomena, inspiring fan theories, merchandise, memes, and discussions that extended far beyond their on-screen narratives.
Their success paved the way for a new era of high-quality television, encouraging networks and streaming platforms to invest in ambitious storytelling, diverse casts, and innovative concepts.
