Top 20 Drama TV Shows Ever: Audience’s All-Time Favorites Revealed!

Are you ready to embark on a rollercoaster ride of emotions, filled with suspense, intrigue, and heart-wrenching moments? Well, fasten your seatbelts, because we’re about to dive into the world of drama TV shows that have left audiences worldwide on the edge of their seats. From nail-biting crime thrillers to tear-jerking family sagas, these shows have not only entertained us but also made us question, reflect, and sometimes even yell at our screens (we’ve all been there). So, whether you’re a seasoned drama enthusiast looking for a trip down memory lane, or a newbie searching for your next binge-watch, this list is your golden ticket. Get ready to discover the top 20 drama TV shows ever, as voted by you, the audience. Let’s see if your all-time favorite made the cut!
Breaking Bad

Breaking Bad

Release Date: 2008-01-20

Genres: Drama, Crime

“Breaking Bad” is a gripping drama TV show that premiered in 2008. It follows the story of Walter White, a chemistry teacher who, after being diagnosed with cancer, turns to a life of crime to secure his family’s financial future. With an incredible cast including Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul, this intense series delves into the dangerous world of drugs and crime, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.

Cast: Bryan Cranston (Walter White) , Aaron Paul (Jesse Pinkman) , Anna Gunn (Skyler White) , Dean Norris (Hank Schrader) , Jonathan Banks (Mike Ehrmantraut) , Bob Odenkirk (Saul Goodman) , Betsy Brandt (Marie Schrader) , RJ Mitte (Walter White Jr.)

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Tags: drug dealer, psychopath, new mexico, terminal illness, outlaw, tragedy, cancer, drugs, criminal, meth lab, high school teacher, dea agent, narcissism, neo-western, narcissist, albuquerque, new mexico, criminal lawyer, fall from grace, cartel, mexican cartel, male egos, crystal meth, methamphetamine, thriller

Heartstopper

Heartstopper

Release Date: 2022-04-22

Genres: Drama

“Heartstopper” is a heartwarming coming-of-age drama series that follows the journey of two teenagers, Charlie and Nick. As they navigate the ups and downs of school and young love, their unlikely friendship blossoms into something more. With a talented cast including Joe Locke, Kit Connor, and Yasmin Finney, this highly anticipated show is set to premiere on April 22, 2022, and promises to be a must-watch for drama TV enthusiasts.

Cast: Joe Locke (Charlie Spring) , Kit Connor (Nicholas Nelson) , William Gao (Tao Xu) , Yasmin Finney (Elle Argent) , Corinna Brown (Tara Jones) , Kizzy Edgell (Darcy Olsson) , Tobie Donovan (Isaac Henderson) , Rhea Norwood (Imogen Heaney)

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Tags: coming out, high school, friendship, based on novel or book, based on comic, romance, coming of age, love, growing up, based on graphic novel, first love, lgbt, lgbt teen, eating disorder, teen drama, gay theme, gay relationship, comic adaptation, sapphic, boys’ love (bl)

The Last of Us

The Last of Us

Release Date: 2023-01-15

Genres: Drama

“The Last of Us” is an upcoming drama TV show set in a post-apocalyptic world where civilization has crumbled. The story follows Joel, a tough survivor, who is tasked with smuggling a 14-year-old girl named Ellie out of a strict quarantine zone. As they embark on a dangerous journey across the United States, their bond grows stronger as they rely on each other for survival. Starring Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey, this highly anticipated series is set to premiere on January 15, 2023.

Cast: Pedro Pascal (Joel Miller) , Bella Ramsey (Ellie Williams)

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Tags: people smuggling, post-apocalyptic future, infection, survival, epidemic, based on video game, horror

Chernobyl

Chernobyl

Release Date: 2019-05-06

Genres: Drama

“Chernobyl” is a gripping drama TV show that tells the true story of one of the worst man-made disasters in history: the catastrophic nuclear accident at Chernobyl. Released in 2019, it follows the brave men and women who risked their lives to save Europe from unimaginable disaster. With a stellar cast including Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgård, and Emily Watson, this show is a must-watch for anyone who loves intense and compelling dramas.

Cast: Jared Harris (Valery Legasov) , Stellan Skarsgård (Boris Shcherbina) , Emily Watson (Ulana Khomyuk) , Paul Ritter (Anatoly Dyatlov) , Jessie Buckley (Lyudmilla Ignatenko) , Adam Nagaitis (Vasily Ignatenko) , Sam Troughton (Alexandr Akimov) , Robert Emms (Leonid Toptunov) , Con O’Neill (Viktor Bryukhanov) , Adrian Rawlins (Nikolai Fomin) , Alan Williams (KGB Chairman Charkov) , David Dencik (Mikhail Gorbachev) , Mark Lewis Jones (General Pikalov) , Ralph Ineson (General Tarakanov) , Barry Keoghan (Pavel) , Alex Ferns (Glukhov) , Fares Fares (Bacho) , Michael McElhatton (Prosecutor Andrei Stepashin)

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Writers: Craig Mazin

Tags: based on true story, miniseries, nuclear catastrophe, 1980s, chernobyl

Better Call Saul

Better Call Saul

Release Date: 2015-02-08

Genres: Crime, Drama

“Better Call Saul” is a gripping drama TV show that takes us back in time, six years before the events of “Breaking Bad.” It follows the journey of Jimmy McGill, a struggling lawyer trying to find his place in the world while dealing with financial hardships. Alongside him is the enigmatic “fixer” Mike Ehrmantraut, as we witness Jimmy’s transformation into the infamous criminal lawyer, Saul Goodman. With a talented cast including Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, and Rhea Seehorn, this series has captivated audiences since its release on February 8, 2015.

Cast: Bob Odenkirk (Jimmy McGill) , Jonathan Banks (Mike Ehrmantraut) , Rhea Seehorn (Kim Wexler) , Patrick Fabian (Howard Hamlin) , Michael Mando (Nacho Varga) , Tony Dalton (Lalo Salamanca) , Giancarlo Esposito (Gustavo Fring)

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Tags: new mexico, moral conflict, crooked lawyer, romance, prequel, tragedy, brother against brother, spin off, albuquerque, new mexico, criminal lawyer, fall from grace, neo-noir, mexican cartel, legal drama, black comedy, crime drama

Love, Victor

Love, Victor

Release Date: 2020-06-17

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Love, Victor” is a captivating drama TV show that follows the story of Victor, a new student at Creekwood High School. As he embarks on a journey of self-discovery, he faces various challenges at home, adjusts to a new city, and grapples with his sexual orientation. With a talented cast including Michael Cimino, Rachel Hilson, and Anthony Turpel, this heartfelt series explores the ups and downs of high school life, offering a relatable and engaging watch. It premiered on June 17, 2020, and has quickly become a fan favorite.

Cast: Michael Cimino (Victor Salazar) , Rachel Hilson (Mia Brooks) , Anthony Turpel (Felix Weston) , Bebe Wood (Lake Meriwether) , Mason Gooding (Andrew Spencer) , George Sear (Benjamin ‘Benji’ Campbell) , Isabella Ferreira (Pilar Salazar) , Mateo Fernandez (Adrian Salazar) , Anthony Keyvan (Rahim) , Ava Capri (Lucy) , James Martinez (Armando Salazar) , Ana Ortiz (Isabel Salazar)

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Tags: coming out, high school, male friendship, sequel, coming of age, in the closet, spin off, lgbt, lgbt teen, gay theme, male protagonist, sapphic

Young Royals

Young Royals

Release Date: 2021-07-01

Genres: Drama

“Young Royals” is a captivating drama TV show that premiered on July 1, 2021. It follows Prince Wilhelm as he navigates the challenges of his new boarding school, Hillerska, while also trying to follow his heart. With a talented cast including Edvin Ryding, Omar Rudberg, Malte Gårdinger, Frida Argento, and Nikita Uggla, this series promises to be one of the best dramas of all time.

Cast: Edvin Ryding (Wilhelm of Sweden) , Omar Rudberg (Simon Eriksson) , Malte Gårdinger (August Horn of Årnäs) , Frida Argento (Sara Eriksson) , Nikita Uggla (Felice Ehrencrona)

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Tags: coming out, friendship, boarding school, sweden, royal family, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (adhd), romance, coming of age, royalty, social life, lgbt, lgbt teen, rowing, social media, asperger’s syndrome, teen drama, gay theme, teen romance, male protagonist, anxiety

Stranger Things

Stranger Things

Release Date: 2016-07-15

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery

“Stranger Things” is a gripping drama TV show that premiered on July 15, 2016. Set in a small town, the story revolves around a young boy who mysteriously disappears, leading the community to uncover a web of secrets involving eerie experiments, supernatural forces, and a peculiar girl. With a talented cast including Millie Bobby Brown, David Harbour, Winona Ryder, and more, this show has captivated audiences and is hailed as one of the best drama series of all time.

Cast: Millie Bobby Brown (Jane “Eleven” Hopper) , David Harbour (Jim Hopper) , Joe Keery (Steve Harrington) , Winona Ryder (Joyce Byers) , Finn Wolfhard (Mike Wheeler) , Gaten Matarazzo (Dustin Henderson) , Caleb McLaughlin (Lucas Sinclair) , Noah Schnapp (Will Byers) , Natalia Dyer (Nancy Wheeler) , Matthew Modine (Martin Brenner) , Charlie Heaton (Jonathan Byers) , Sadie Sink (Max Mayfield) , Maya Hawke (Robin Buckley) , Brett Gelman (Murray Bauman) , Priah Ferguson (Erica Sinclair) , Paul Reiser (Sam Owens)

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Tags: friendship, small town, sheriff, monster, experiment, love triangle, skateboarding, supernatural, halloween, redemption, nostalgia, drug scene, telekinesis, coming of age, cheerleading, evil corporation, female protagonist, psychological thriller, single mother, parallel world, super power, missing person, missing child, computer nerd, government conspiracy, chief of police, family tension, superhero kids, teen drama, 1980s, 80s throwback, supernatural horror, teen romance, male protagonist, horror

The Umbrella Academy

The Umbrella Academy

“The Umbrella Academy” is a captivating drama TV show that revolves around a dysfunctional family of superheroes. Together, they embark on a thrilling journey to uncover the truth behind their father’s death, while also facing the impending threat of the apocalypse. With a talented cast including Aidan Gallagher, Elliot Page, and Tom Hopper, this series, released on February 15, 2019, is a must-watch for fans of gripping and mysterious storylines.

Cast: Aidan Gallagher (Number Five) , Elliot Page (Vanya Hargreeves / Viktor Hargreeves / Number Seven) , Tom Hopper (Luther Hargreeves / Number One) , Emmy Raver-Lampman (Allison Hargreeves / Number Three) , Robert Sheehan (Klaus Hargreeves / Number Four) , David Castañeda (Diego Hargreeves / Number Two) , Justin H. Min (Ben Hargreeves / Number Six) , Ritu Arya (Lila Pitts) , Colm Feore (Sir Reginald Hargreeves) , Génesis Rodríguez (Sloane Hargreeves)

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Writers: Gabriel Bá, Gerard Way

Tags: superhero, time travel, dysfunctional family, based on comic, alternate history, apocalypse, universe, super power, end of world, siblings, children

The Sopranos

The Sopranos

Release Date: 1999-01-10

Genres: Drama

“The Sopranos” is a gripping drama TV show that revolves around Tony Soprano, an Italian-American mobster from New Jersey. As he tries to balance his criminal organization with his family life, Tony faces numerous challenges that are often explored through his sessions with psychiatrist Jennifer Melfi. With a stellar cast including James Gandolfini, Edie Falco, and Jamie-Lynn Sigler, this critically acclaimed series delves into the complexities of Tony’s world, featuring his wife Carmela and cousin Christopher Moltisanti in prominent roles. Premiering on January 10, 1999, “The Sopranos” has rightfully earned its place among the 20 best voted drama TV shows of all time.

Cast: James Gandolfini (Tony Soprano) , Edie Falco (Carmela Soprano) , Jamie-Lynn Sigler (Meadow Soprano) , Robert Iler (A.J. Soprano) , Lorraine Bracco (Jennifer Melfi) , Michael Imperioli (Christopher Moltisanti) , Steven Van Zandt (Silvio Dante) , Tony Sirico (Paulie Gualtieri) , Dominic Chianese (Junior Soprano) , Aida Turturro (Janice Soprano) , Steve Schirripa (Bobby ‘Bacala’ Baccalieri)

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Tags: drug dealer, new jersey, italian american, mafia boss, dysfunctional family, strip club, family relationships, dysfunctional marriage, mobster, organized crime, mafia, psychiatrist, family, criminal organization

The Originals

The Originals

Release Date: 2013-10-03

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama, Mystery

“The Originals” is a captivating drama TV show that takes us to the enchanting city of New Orleans. It follows the story of the Mikaelson siblings, who happen to be the world’s original vampires. After years of absence, Klaus returns to reclaim his city from his former protégé, Marcel, and becomes determined to establish himself as the king once again. With an intriguing mix of supernatural elements and family dynamics, this spin-off from “The Vampire Diaries” is a must-watch for fans of thrilling and mysterious TV shows. Starring Joseph Morgan, Daniel Gillies, Charles Michael Davis, Riley Voelkel, Yusuf Gatewood, Danielle Rose Russell, and Steven Krueger, “The Originals” first premiered on October 3, 2013.

Cast: Joseph Morgan (Klaus Mikaelson) , Daniel Gillies (Elijah Mikaelson) , Charles Michael Davis (Marcel Gerard) , Riley Voelkel (Freya Mikaelson) , Yusuf Gatewood (Vincent Griffith) , Danielle Rose Russell (Hope Mikaelson) , Steven Krueger (Joshua “Josh” Rosza)

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Tags: witch, vampire, new orleans, louisiana, battle for power, rivalry, werewolf, spin off

House

House

Release Date: 2004-11-16

Genres: Drama, Mystery

“House” is a gripping drama TV show that follows the brilliant yet unconventional Dr. Gregory House and his team of diagnosticians at Princeton-Plainsboro Teaching Hospital. With a stellar cast including Hugh Laurie, Robert Sean Leonard, and Omar Epps, the show delves into the complex medical cases they tackle while also exploring House’s drug addiction and misanthropic personality. Premiering in 2004, this critically acclaimed series has rightfully earned its place among the 20 best drama TV shows of all time.

Cast: Hugh Laurie (Gregory House) , Robert Sean Leonard (James Wilson) , Omar Epps (Eric Foreman) , Jesse Spencer (Robert Chase) , Odette Annable (Jessica Adams) , Peter Jacobson (Chris Taub) , Charlyne Yi (Chi Park)

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Tags: drug addiction, medicine, misanthrophy, hospital, doctor, patient, medical drama

Shadow Hunter

Shadow Hunter

Release Date: 2005-12-08

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“Shadow Hunter” is a gripping drama TV show that delves into the world of the paranormal. Hosted by Darryll Walsh, a renowned ghost hunter and expert in parapsychology, this documentary series takes you on a thrilling journey through haunted locations and explores the unexplained. With its release in 2005, it has become one of the best voted drama TV shows of all time.

Cast: Darryll Walsh (Self – Host)

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Dickinson

Dickinson

Release Date: 2019-11-01

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Dickinson” is a captivating drama TV show that premiered on November 1, 2019. Starring Hailee Steinfeld, Toby Huss, Adrian Enscoe, Anna Baryshnikov, Ella Hunt, Amanda Warren, Chinaza Uche, and Jane Krakowski, it tells the story of Emily Dickinson, a rebellious poet and daughter. Follow Emily’s journey as she strives to become the world’s greatest poet in this compelling coming-of-age tale.

Cast: Hailee Steinfeld (Emily Dickinson) , Toby Huss (Edward Dickinson) , Adrian Enscoe (Austin Dickinson) , Anna Baryshnikov (Lavinia ‘Vinnie’ Dickinson) , Ella Hunt (Sue Gilbert) , Amanda Warren (Betty) , Chinaza Uche (Henry) , Jane Krakowski (Mrs. Dickinson)

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Writers: Sophie Zucker, Ken Greller, Ziwe Fumudoh, R. Eric Thomas, Francis Weiss Rabkin

Tags: poetry, 1800s, emily dickinson

Teen Wolf

Teen Wolf

Release Date: 2011-06-05

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“Teen Wolf” is an exciting drama TV show that follows the life of Scott McCall, a regular high school student whose world turns upside down when he gets bitten by a werewolf. As he navigates his newfound identity, Scott must find a balance between his teenage life and the challenges that come with being a werewolf. With a talented cast including Tyler Posey, Dylan O’Brien, and Holland Roden, this thrilling series explores Scott’s journey to protect his loved ones while maintaining normal relationships. Premiering in 2011, “Teen Wolf” has captivated audiences with its intriguing storyline and compelling characters.

Cast: Tyler Posey (Scott McCall) , Dylan O’Brien (Stiles Stilinski) , Holland Roden (Lydia Martin) , Shelley Hennig (Malia Tate) , Dylan Sprayberry (Liam Dunbar) , Linden Ashby (Noah Stilinski) , Melissa Ponzio (Melissa McCall) , JR Bourne (Chris Argent)

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Tags: high school, supernatural, werewolf, creature, interspecies romance, teenager

Peaky Blinders

Peaky Blinders

Release Date: 2013-09-12

Genres: Drama, Crime

“Peaky Blinders” is a gripping drama TV show that takes us back to 1919 Birmingham, England. It follows the intense story of a gang who cleverly sew razor blades into their caps, led by the ambitious and fearless Tommy Shelby. With a stellar cast including Cillian Murphy, Paul Anderson, Sophie Rundle, and Natasha O’Keeffe, this show has captivated audiences since its release in 2013.

Cast: Cillian Murphy (Tommy Shelby) , Paul Anderson (Arthur Shelby) , Sophie Rundle (Ada Shelby) , Natasha O’Keeffe (Lizzie Stark)

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Tags: corruption, england, gypsy, gangster, outlaw, drugs, criminal, period drama, historical, british history, protection racket, illegal gambling, historical drama, bookmaker, 1920s, 1910s, birmingham, modern history, zohaib

Sherlock

Sherlock

Release Date: 2010-07-25

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Sherlock” is a captivating drama TV show that brings the iconic detective Sherlock Holmes into the modern era. Set in 21st century London, Sherlock and his partner, Dr. Watson, use their brilliant minds to solve crimes. With an incredible cast including Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman, this show has been highly acclaimed since its release in 2010 and is considered one of the best drama TV shows of all time.

Cast: Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock Holmes) , Martin Freeman (John Watson) , Una Stubbs (Mrs. Hudson) , Rupert Graves (DI Greg Lestrade) , Louise Brealey (Molly Hooper) , Mark Gatiss (Mycroft Holmes) , Andrew Scott (Jim Moriarty) , Amanda Abbington (Mary Morstan)

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Writers: Arthur Conan Doyle

Tags: london, england, based on novel or book, detective, investigation, murder, private detective, murder mystery, sherlock holmes, great detective

Girl from Nowhere

Girl from Nowhere

Release Date: 2018-10-27

Genres: Drama, Mystery, Crime

“Girl from Nowhere” is a captivating drama TV show that follows the intriguing story of Nanno, a clever and enigmatic girl who constantly changes schools. With her sharp wit, she uncovers the hidden truths and wrongdoings of both students and faculty, making for an enthralling watch. Starring Chicha Amatayakul, this series premiered on October 27, 2018, and has become a must-watch for drama enthusiasts.

Cast: Chicha Amatayakul (Nanno)

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Tags: high school, rape, supernatural, gore, bullying, anthology, revenge, murder, betrayal, school, death, social issues, extreme violence, psychological horror

The Queen's Gambit

The Queen’s Gambit

Release Date: 2020-10-23

Genres: Drama

“The Queen’s Gambit” is a captivating drama TV show that premiered on October 23, 2020. Set in a Kentucky orphanage during the 1950s, it follows the journey of a young girl named Anya Taylor-Joy who discovers an incredible talent for chess while battling addiction. With Chloe Pirrie also starring, this series has been voted as one of the 20 best drama TV shows of all time.

Cast: Anya Taylor-Joy (Elizabeth ‘Beth’ Harmon) , Chloe Pirrie (Alice Harmon)

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Writers: Walter Tevis, Scott Frank

Tags: chess, orphanage, kentucky, female friendship, addiction, coming of age, orphan, historical, suicide of mother, substance abuse, historical drama, 1950s, 1960s, american history, modern history

The Wire

The Wire

Release Date: 2002-06-02

Genres: Crime, Drama

“The Wire” is a gripping drama TV show that delves into the world of Baltimore’s homicide and narcotics detectives, as well as the criminals they pursue. Set in a universe where the war on drugs has become an entrenched bureaucracy, the series explores the blurred lines between good and evil. With a talented cast including Dominic West, Lance Reddick, and Sonja Sohn, “The Wire” has been hailed as one of the best drama shows of all time since its release in 2002.

Cast: Dominic West (Jimmy McNulty) , Lance Reddick (Cedric Daniels) , Sonja Sohn (Kima Greggs) , Wendell Pierce (Bunk Moreland) , Michael Kenneth Williams (Omar Little) , Deirdre Lovejoy (Rhonda Pearlman) , J.D. Williams (Bodie Broadus) , Jamie Hector (Marlo Stanfield) , Aidan Gillen (Tommy Carcetti) , Andre Royo (Bubbles) , Seth Gilliam (Ellis Carver) , Domenick Lombardozzi (Herc) , Corey Parker Robinson (Leander Sydnor) , Isiah Whitlock Jr. (Clay Davis) , Michael Kostroff (Maurice Levy) , John Doman (William Rawls) , Reg E. Cathey (Norman Wilson) , Clark Johnson (Augustus Haynes) , Tom McCarthy (Scott Templeton) , Gbenga Akinnagbe (Chris Partlow) , Neal Huff (Michael Steintorf) , Jermaine Crawford (Duquan “Dukie” Weems) , Tristan Mack Wilds (Michael Lee) , Michelle Paress (Alma Gutierrez)

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Tags: drug dealer, newspaper, corruption, police, gangster, baltimore, usa, organized crime, police detective, surveillance, power politics, urban decay, newspaper reporter, workers union, education system, docks, black project, violence

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