2025 was a good year for TV. From cinematic experiments to sizzling character dramas, this year’s standout series remind us of why TV continues to grow as a medium. Whether you binged, debated, or stayed up far too late for just one more episode, these are the shows that defined this past year.
The Last of Us
TV kicked off the year with a bang. Way back in February, HBO delivered the second season of one of its most-awaited series, “The Last of Us,” following survivors from a devastating pandemic as they live in a world inhabited by terrifying infected. The second season shifts the order of things, eliminating Joel (Pedro Pascal) and using that violent moment as the series’ inciting incident, putting Ellie (Bella Ramsey) in the darkest headspace she’s ever been.
Pluribus
Vince Gilligan’s "Pluribus" had one of the most exciting rollouts in recent memory. Dropping weekly episodes on Apple TV+, the show was cleverly marketed, with ads and photos not revealing any of its plot details. The result is one of the strangest and most unexpected post-apocalyptic series in recent memory, taking a focus on character over plot, starring Rhae Seehorn, Carlos Manuel Vesga, and more.
Welcome to Derry
Another surprise was how starved audiences were for more Pennywise. “Welcome to Derry,” developed by Argentinean duo Andy and Barbara Muschietti, has become one of the biggest hits of the year, exploring the universe of “It,” a new group of talented and adorable kids, and Bill Skarsgard’s reliably terrifying version of Pennywise the clown.
Stranger Things
Whether or not you’re into “Stranger Things” nowadays, you can’t deny that it’s a pop culture moment and one of the biggest series of all time. This year sees the release of the series’ fifth season, and the awaited conclusion of Mike and Eleven’s story.
Heated Rivalry
"Heated Rivalry" came out of nowhere. The Canadian TV show based on a series of romance novels following the secret romances of hockey players has had everyone talking since its late release in November. Led by gorgeous actors and stuffed with racy sex scenes, "Heated Rivalry" is incredibly easy to watch, but it’s also well performed, fun, and intimate, making viewers invested in watching its characters circle each other as they try their hardest to resist their feelings.
Hacks
“Hacks” is getting ready to say goodbye. The beloved comedy series came out earlier this year with its fourth season, following legendary comedian Deborah (Jean Smart) and her talented and ambitious writer Ava (Hannah Einbinder). Through the seasons, the women oscillate between admiration, fury, and the recognition that they share a bond unlike any other, no matter how annoying they find the other.
The Pitt
HBO Max’s medical drama quickly became one of 2025’s most respected prestige picks, exploring the insane work life of the doctors and nurses at the Pittsburgh Trauma Medical Center. Led by Noah Wyle’s quietly powerful performance and a talented ensemble cast, "The Pitt" has it all.
Severance
It took years, but "Severance" came back with a second season earlier this year. It did the impossible, satisfying audience's expectations and diving even deeper into the world of Lumon, where employees' personal and work lives are split apart. The show’s cerebral narrative, unsettling tone, and bold ideas on corporate life have made it one of the most fun shows to watch and discuss with friends.
Task
In a year packed with crime dramas, "Task" stood out from the rest as one of the most thoughtful entries to the genre, exploring morality and desperation with each of its characters. Developed by Brad Ingelsby, the series follows an FBI agent (Mark Ruffalo) heading a task force after a string of violent robberies in Philadelphia’s working-class suburbs, with Tom Pelphrey becoming one of the year's breakout stars due to his performance as Robbie, an ordinary man leading a double life as a thief.
Adolescence
Shot in four continuous and immersive episodes, "Adolescence" was one of the year's biggest and most innovative hits. The British drama follows the arrest of a 13-year-old boy accused of murdering a female classmate, inspiring plenty of conversation regarding a new generation of teens, social media, and identity. Released earlier this year, the TV show was a dominating force on awards season, being nominated for 13 Emmys.