Best Shows of 2019
2019 stands as a watershed year for television, delivering an unprecedented lineup of groundbreaking series that redefined what the small screen could achieve. From prestige historical dramas that commanded water-cooler conversations to bold superhero deconstructions and epic animated adventures, the best shows of 2019 showcased the golden age of streaming and network television at its finest. This carefully curated collection of 21 must-watch series highlights the year's most critically acclaimed and audience-beloved programs, spanning diverse genres including intense limited series, boundary-pushing science fiction anthologies, immersive fantasy epics, and revelatory documentary explorations. Whether you're seeking award-winning performances that dominated the Emmy conversation, innovative storytelling that pushed creative boundaries, or binge-worthy entertainment that captivated millions of viewers worldwide, these standout 2019 releases represent the unforgettable television moments that defined the year. Discover the shows that earned universal praise from critics, sparked cultural phenomena, and demonstrated why 2019 remains a landmark year for episodic storytelling across every platform and genre imaginable.
Here, iconic horror host Joe Bob Briggs returns in glorious form, reviving his cult-classic brand of film commentary for Shudder's streaming platform with remarkable wit and encyclopedic genre knowledge. Each marathon-length episode features Briggs introducing and dissecting exploitation, horror, and B-movies with his trademark "drive-in totals" tallying the body counts, gratuitous elements, and practical effects that define these films. Accompanied by the delightful Darcy the Mail Girl, Briggs transforms movie-watching into an educational and hilarious experience, offering behind-the-scenes stories, cultural context, and appreciation for filmmaking craftsmanship often dismissed by mainstream critics. His tangential monologues covering everything from censorship history to regional filmmaking create a rich tapestry around each feature presentation. The series perfectly captures the communal joy of discovering weird cinema with knowledgeable friends, making even the most obscure grindhouse oddities accessible and entertaining. Whether you're a longtime horror devotee or curious newcomer, Briggs' infectious enthusiasm and genuine love for these misunderstood films makes this essential viewing that elevates its subjects while delivering non-stop entertainment.
Somber, meticulous, and utterly gripping, this documentary series from creator Stephen Michaels stands as the definitive television examination of World War I. Across ten episodes, the show combines newly restored archival footage, letters read by accomplished voice actors, and insights from leading historians to create an immersive chronicle of the conflict. What distinguishes this from other historical documentaries is its commitment to showing the war from multiple perspectives—British, German, French, Ottoman, and others—refusing to simplify the complex web of causes and consequences. The restored footage is remarkable, colorized and speed-corrected to give these century-old images startling immediacy. Producer David Chen's team has crafted something that works both as comprehensive history and powerful human drama. This is essential viewing that illuminates how the Great War shaped the modern world, presented with the gravity and care the subject demands.
This is about truth, courage, and the devastating cost of lies, told through the lens of humanity's worst nuclear disaster. Craig Mazin's meticulously researched miniseries chronicles the 1986 Chernobyl explosion and its aftermath with such unflinching honesty that every episode feels almost unbearably tense. Jared Harris delivers a stunning performance as scientist Valery Legasov, racing against time and Soviet bureaucracy to prevent even greater catastrophe, while Stellan Skarsgård and Emily Watson provide equally powerful support. The attention to historical detail is extraordinary, from the production design to the moral complexity of every decision. What could have been simple disaster drama instead becomes a profound meditation on institutional failure, individual heroism, and the price paid by those who dare speak truth to power. It's haunting, essential television that lingers long after the final frame.
This Australian animated series is a masterpiece of children's programming that adults will genuinely love watching. Created by Joe Brumm, Bluey follows a six-year-old Blue Heeler puppy and her family as they turn everyday moments into imaginative adventures. What sets this show apart is its profound understanding of childhood development and family dynamics—each seven-minute episode captures the magic of play while addressing real parenting challenges with warmth and wisdom. Voice actors David McCormack and Melanie Zanetti bring Bluey's parents, Bandit and Chilli, to life as genuinely engaged, sometimes imperfect parents who prioritize connection over perfection. The animation is vibrant and expressive, while the writing balances humor with surprisingly emotional moments that might make you tear up. Whether Bluey and her sister Bingo are playing "Keepy Uppy" or learning about disappointment, the series celebrates the importance of presence, creativity, and unconditional love in ways that resonate across generations.
Four Brazilian comedians dissect pop culture with razor-sharp wit and infectious chemistry in this outstanding comedy show that's become a cultural phenomenon. Maurício Meirelles, Marcelo Adnet, Rogerio Morgado, and Leandro Hassum create magic as they analyze movies, TV shows, and cultural trends through their hilariously absurd lens. What sets Choque de Cultura apart is its commitment to the bit—each host embodies a distinct persona that plays off the others brilliantly, creating comedic moments that feel both spontaneous and expertly crafted. The show's deep-dive into Brazilian pop culture references might challenge international audiences, but the physical comedy and timing transcend language barriers. Whether they're delivering mock-serious film critiques or breaking into unexpected tangents, the quartet maintains an energy level that's absolutely captivating from start to finish.
This culinary travelogue is an absolute feast for the senses, taking viewers on an unforgettable journey through Romania's diverse regional cuisines. Host and chef Radu Anton Roman brings infectious enthusiasm to every episode as he explores everything from Transylvanian hearty stews to Danube Delta seafood traditions, meeting local cooks, farmers, and artisans who've preserved centuries-old techniques. Created by Maria Popescu, the series beautifully captures not just the food but the cultural stories behind each dish, showing how geography, history, and tradition shape what appears on Romanian tables. The cinematography makes every meal look utterly irresistible, and Roman's genuine curiosity and respect for his subjects shines through. Whether you're a foodie or simply curious about Eastern European culture, this series will leave you hungry and booking flights.
Narrated by the incomparable David Attenborough, this breathtaking nature documentary examines how each of Earth's seven continents developed unique ecosystems and wildlife after the breakup of the supercontinent Pangaea. The BBC's stunning cinematography captures everything from Antarctic penguin colonies to Asian jungle predators to South American wetlands, demonstrating how isolation shaped evolution in dramatically different directions. Each episode focuses on a single continent, revealing both the distinctive species that call it home and the environmental challenges they face in our changing climate. The production team's technical achievements are remarkable—underwater photography, aerial drone footage, and patient observation yield moments of animal behavior rarely captured on film. While Attenborough's environmental message is clear, it never overwhelms the sense of wonder at the natural world's diversity. This is prestige documentary filmmaking at its finest, essential viewing for nature enthusiasts and casual viewers alike.
Peter Dinklage as Tyrion Lannister leads an extraordinary ensemble through David Benioff and D.B. Weiss's magnificent adaptation of George R.R. Martin's fantasy epic. This isn't your typical medieval drama—it's a ruthlessly intelligent exploration of power, loyalty, and survival where noble houses clash for control of the Iron Throne in the richly detailed realm of Westeros. The production values are absolutely stunning, from the sweeping landscapes to the intricately choreographed battle sequences. Kit Harington, Emilia Clarke, and Lena Headey deliver career-defining performances in a series that fearlessly subverts fantasy tropes. With political intrigue as sharp as a Valyrian steel blade and shocking twists that kept audiences breathless for eight seasons, this remains essential viewing for anyone seeking television that operates on an operatic scale.
Neil deGrasse Tyson assumes Carl Sagan's role as our guide through the universe in this breathtaking revival of the landmark science documentary series, proving that educational television can be both intellectually rigorous and emotionally stirring. Executive producers Seth MacFarlane, Ann Druyan, and Brannon Braga crafted a 13-episode journey through space and time that makes complex scientific concepts accessible without ever dumbing them down, using stunning visual effects that transform abstract ideas into comprehensible imagery. The series covers everything from cosmic evolution to climate change, with Tyson's enthusiastic narration striking the perfect balance between authoritative and approachable. The "Cosmic Calendar" framing device and animated historical sequences provide memorable ways to grasp incomprehensible timescales and celebrate scientific pioneers. This isn't just a documentary series—it's a passionate argument for curiosity, skepticism, and the scientific method itself, delivered with such infectious wonder that it might genuinely change how viewers see their place in the cosmos.
In this series, comedian and game master Brennan Lee Mulligan leads an ever-rotating cast of performers through wildly imaginative tabletop roleplaying campaigns that showcase the absolute best of collaborative storytelling. Each season explores completely different settings—from high fantasy to noir detective stories to candy-covered kingdoms—with professional comedians and improvisers bringing characters to life with hilarious voice work and genuine emotional depth. The production values continuously improve across seasons, adding impressive sets, costumes, and battle maps that enhance rather than overshadow the performances. What makes this essential viewing is the cast's chemistry and Mulligan's brilliant ability to craft narratives that honor player choices while delivering satisfying story arcs. This is actual play content at its finest, proving the medium's capacity for entertainment that rivals scripted television.
Following BTS across Europe during their 2018 Love Yourself World Tour, this intimate docu-series captures the global phenomenon at a pivotal moment in their career. The six episodes offer unprecedented backstage access, showing the members—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—reflecting on their meteoric rise, the pressures of fame, and their deep connection with ARMY. What makes this essential viewing is the genuine vulnerability on display; these aren't polished promotional interviews but raw, exhausted conversations after grueling performances. The cinematography beautifully captures both the spectacle of sold-out stadiums and quiet moments of introspection. For fans, it's an invaluable window into the emotional reality behind the synchronized choreography and chart success, while newcomers will understand why this group inspires such devotion worldwide.
In the sun-scorched suburbs of Australia, a sasquatch named Lez navigates trippy adventures with his mates Sassy, Quinton, and Donny in this gloriously bizarre animated series. Created by Jarrad Wright, who voices multiple characters with manic energy, "The Big Lez Show" is a cult phenomenon that deserves every bit of its devoted fanbase. What starts as crude MS Paint animation evolves into something surprisingly profound, blending absurdist humor with genuine emotional moments and surprisingly epic storytelling. The show's willingness to embrace its lo-fi aesthetic while telling increasingly ambitious stories—including interdimensional travel and existential themes—is nothing short of brilliant. It's crude, weird, and absolutely addictive, with a finale that somehow delivers real catharsis. If you're willing to embrace its chaotic energy and rough-around-the-edges production, you'll discover one of the internet's hidden treasures.
Follow BTS as they escape their rigorous idol schedules for adventures across stunning international destinations in this absolutely delightful reality series! Each season drops the seven members—RM, Jin, Suga, J-Hope, Jimin, V, and Jungkook—into a new country where they navigate everything from grocery shopping to local transportation with infectious enthusiasm and genuine chemistry. What sets Bon Voyage apart from typical celebrity travel shows is its authenticity; these aren't carefully curated tourism ads but real moments of friendship, occasional chaos, and cultural discovery. The members' personalities shine as they cook meals together, explore hidden gems, and simply enjoy being twenty-somethings on vacation. For ARMY, it's an essential watch that reveals the group's dynamics beyond the stage, while newcomers will find themselves charmed by their warmth and humor.
Exploring themes of duty, sacrifice, and humanity's fight for survival, this stunning fan-made animation set in the Warhammer 40,000 universe represents a triumph of independent filmmaking. Creator Syama Pedersen crafted something extraordinary: a visual feast that rivals big-budget productions while telling a focused, intense story of Space Marine Astartes on a critical mission. The action sequences are breathtaking, with meticulous attention to weaponry, armor mechanics, and combat tactics that fans of the franchise will deeply appreciate. What's remarkable is how much storytelling is conveyed through pure visual language—minimal dialogue, maximum impact. The sound design deserves special mention for its visceral power. Even viewers unfamiliar with Warhammer lore will find themselves captivated by the craftsmanship and intensity. This is essential viewing that demonstrates what passionate creators can achieve.
The escalating feud between film "expert" Tim Heidecker and his increasingly unhinged co-host Gregg Turkington forms the chaotic center of this brilliantly deconstructed movie review show. What begins as a simple VHS-era throwback quickly spirals into an intricate long-form narrative involving Oscar specials gone wrong, legal troubles, mysterious deaths, and competing visions of what film criticism should even be. Created by Heidecker, Turkington, and director Eric Notarnicola, "On Cinema" commits completely to its bit across hundreds of episodes, building a dense mythology that rewards devoted viewers with callbacks and running gags that span years. The deadpan performances never crack even as situations become absurdly dramatic, and the show's willingness to let uncomfortable moments breathe creates comedy unlike anything else on television. It's a masterclass in sustained improvisation and character work that doubles as both loving tribute to and savage parody of film culture.
Set in first-century Galilee under Roman occupation, this groundbreaking series brings the Gospels to life with unprecedented authenticity and emotional depth. Director Dallas Jenkins has created something truly special by focusing on the humanity of Jesus and his followers, showing their fears, doubts, and transformations with remarkable nuance. Jonathan Roumie's portrayal of Jesus is both powerful and tender, capturing a warmth and accessibility rarely seen in faith-based media. What makes The Chosen extraordinary is how it imagines the backstories of familiar biblical figures—Matthew the tax collector, Mary Magdalene, Simon Peter—making their encounters with Jesus feel fresh and deeply moving. The crowdfunded production boasts cinematic quality that rivals major studio releases, while the writing balances reverence with genuine humor and relatable struggles. Whether you're a person of faith or simply appreciate compelling character-driven drama, this series offers something profoundly uplifting.
Intimate, revelatory, and absolutely essential, this documentary series presents The Beatles' story as told by the band members themselves through extensive interviews and breathtaking archival footage. Spanning their formation through their breakup, the eight-part series offers unprecedented access to the creative process behind the most influential band in popular music history. Paul McCartney, George Harrison, and Ringo Starr, along with insights from John Lennon's interviews, provide candid reflections on their extraordinary journey, from Liverpool's Cavern Club to global phenomenon. What makes this anthology truly special is the rare footage and demo recordings that illustrate how their songs evolved from initial ideas to finished masterpieces. The series doesn't shy from the tensions and conflicts that ultimately split the group, but it's primarily a celebration of their unmatched musical innovation and cultural impact. For Beatles fans, it's indispensable; for music lovers generally, it's a master class in creativity and collaboration.
From the BBC Natural History Unit and legendary producer Alastair Fothergill comes this breathtaking documentary series that follows five of the world's most endangered animals as they fight for survival and their families' futures. Narrated with perfect gravitas by David Attenborough, "Dynasties" achieves something truly special by focusing on individual animals rather than species in general, creating genuine emotional investment in their stories. The cinematography is absolutely stunning—intimate, dramatic, and often heartbreaking as the camera crews capture once-in-a-lifetime moments of triumph and tragedy. Each episode feels like an epic saga, whether following a chimpanzee alpha defending his position or a penguin colony battling Antarctic conditions. This is nature documentary filmmaking at its finest, combining technical excellence with storytelling that reminds us why these animals matter and what we stand to lose.
Yoo Jae-suk leads this absolutely explosive Korean variety show that has defined entertainment television for over a decade! As the nation's beloved MC, Yoo guides a rotating cast of celebrities through wildly inventive games, missions, and challenges that blend physical comedy with genuine suspense. From name-tag elimination races through elaborate sets to international adventures and detective-themed episodes, Running Man delivers non-stop laughter and surprisingly heartfelt moments. The chemistry between regular cast members like Kim Jong-kook, Song Ji-hyo, and HaHa creates an infectious energy that transcends language barriers. Whether they're racing through Seoul landmarks or competing in absurd costume challenges, the show's creativity never stops. It's comfort food television that rewards long-time viewers with running gags while remaining accessible to newcomers jumping in at any episode.
In this Breaking Bad prequel, Vince Gilligan and Peter Gould trace the transformation of small-time lawyer Jimmy McGill into the criminal attorney Saul Goodman with extraordinary patience and precision. Bob Odenkirk delivers career-best work as Jimmy, a man struggling between his desire for legitimacy and his natural gift for running cons. What makes this special isn't just the connection to its parent series—it's the meticulous character work, the stunning cinematography that rivals any prestige drama, and the way it explores morality in shades of gray rather than black and white. Rhea Seehorn's Kim Wexler emerges as an equally compelling co-lead, while Jonathan Banks brings depth to the Mike Ehrmantraut storyline. The pacing is deliberately measured, rewarding patient viewers with rich storytelling that proves prequels can stand as masterworks in their own right.
An alcoholic genius scientist drags his anxious grandson across infinite dimensions for increasingly dangerous adventures, and somehow this premise has spawned one of the most brilliant animated series ever created. Dan Harmon and Justin Roilich's Rick and Morty masterfully blends absurdist humor with genuine emotional depth, never afraid to deliver devastating character moments between the interdimensional chaos and sci-fi shenanigans. The show's willingness to experiment with narrative structure—from anthology episodes to serialized storylines—keeps every season feeling fresh and unpredictable. Justin Roilich voices both title characters with manic energy, while the supporting cast, including Chris Parnell and Sarah Chalke, grounds the family dynamics. The writing is razor-sharp, packed with clever references and philosophical questions disguised as crude jokes. Whether Rick is battling alternate versions of himself or the family is dealing with relationship drama, the series consistently delivers some of the smartest and most hilarious television available.