As someone who reviews TV shows as part of my job (how lucky am I?) one question I am often asked is what my all-time favourite shows are. It’s a topic of conversation with friends and colleagues, alike, as we rhyme off our top fives or pick apart the new show we’re watching.
I have been a voracious viewer of TV since I can remember, way back to the days that I would set my VCR to record sitcoms when I knew I wouldn’t be home (I’m really dating myself here). But there are a few shows that stand out as my all-time favourites, fitting right into my diverse and expansive wheelhouse of genres.
How do I Determine a Favourite Show?
I’m overly excited when I know a new season is coming. If I have earmarked the date that the season premieres, or I’m anxiously refreshing my e-mail inbox for the confirmation message of screener availability access for reasons beyond just completing assignments, that’s the first sign.
I would watch it again. If I have already watched an entire series a second or even third time, that’s a good indication that it’s something special. I rarely re-watch shows.
Constantly researching and sharing. If it’s a show I can’t stop talking to friends and family members about, Googling theories, reviews, and opinions and analysis, and constantly nagging friends to watch, it’s a top-tier show in my books.
It keeps my attention. While I’ll watch some shows in the background while I work on my laptop or scroll on my phone, if I put both those tech items down, it means the show is truly worth my time.
It makes me feel something. A favourite show will always make me feel something, whether it’s anger, frustration, joy, sadness, or a mix of emotions. If I find I have to process the events as they unfold, the show is providing more than just surface entertainment value.
With all that said, which shows make the list? After little deliberation since these shows are always top of mind, here are my recommendations if you’re looking for something new to binge.
Dexter (2006-2013)
What it’s About: Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall) is a serial killer who desperately tries to blend in during the day, living as normal a life as he can while partaking in his murderous activities at night, feeding the urges he can’t suppress. But there’s a twist: he lives by a code his adoptive father taught him upon realizing that Dexter had a Dark Passenger. He carefully vets his victims to ensure they are deplorable people (think murderers, child abusers, rapists, drug peddlers, and ironically, fellow serial killers) and only kills once he can prove they’re “deserving.” His vigilante killer status is made easier since he’s a blood spatter analyst for Miami Metro P.D. with easy access to information.
Why I Love It: Way back in 2006, I was sitting in my office when my boss at the time walked in and said, “hey, I came across this show last night and it’s right up your alley. You should watch it.” That show was Dexter. I have a well-known fascination with true crime and the psychology of serial killers, and he was right. I was obsessed right from the first episode and the iconic opening sequence. The show toys with your emotions, making you absolutely adore a man who drugs, taunts, kills, dismembers, and disposes of people, then brings donuts to the office for everyone the next morning. Your adoration for the vicious killer sparks conversation and confusion about morality, justice, and what’s truly right. With superb acting, the first four seasons, especially season four, are masterclasses in television writing and acting.
I have since begun to re-watch Dexter, a fascinating experience since it has been almost 20 years since it premiered and I last watched. Seeing how brilliantly the new prequel series Dexter: Original Sin ties to it is impressive. Warning: the ending of the original is awful, but it was followed up by the limited series sequel Dexter: New Blood along with the aforementioned prequel and Dexter: Resurrection (stay tuned for my review). All three sequels are headed up by the series’ original showrunner, Clyde Phillips, who left after season four.
Breaking Bad (2008-2013)
What it’s About: Quiet family man and high school chemistry teacher Walter White (Bryan Cranston) gets a devasting diagnosis: he has terminal cancer. Desperate to ensure that his wife and kids have a nest egg to take care of them once he passes, he uses his talents to make the purest form of methamphetamine to sell on the streets. He recruits a former student and drug addict Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul) to help. Somewhere along the way, however, the business becomes less about Walt’s family and more about his quest for recognition and power.
Why I Love It: Bryan Cranston brilliantly portrays the lead as a meek man whose talents have been wasted, and he knows it. The second he gets a taste of power and respect, he can’t let go. Seeing his slow descent from a suburban man you’d likely never notice to a domineering drug kingpin is a sight to behold. His sidekick Jesse, meanwhile, adds a level of innocence to the dynamic. The series is perfect from start to finish, ending on a high and leaving as strongly as it begun. While it’s slow to start, wait for the moment Walt shaves his head in front of the mirror. That’s when the show truly begins.
Stream Breaking Bad on Netflix.
Black Mirror (2016-)
What it’s About: An anthology series, every episode of Black Mirror tells a completely different story. But each one centres around a dystopian future whereby technology has gone too far, exploring the most dire implications of letting AI, robots, and technology dominate our existence.
Why I Love It: Speculative fiction in its finest form, Black Mirror is not a show you can binge in a night. In fact, you might find it challenging to even watch more than one episode. By the end of each one, you’ll have to stop, think, and process everything you’ve seen. The show presents philosophical and psychological questions through mind-bending scenarios that will make you wince, cry, and scratch your head screaming WTF? It’s one of the most brilliant shows on television that has created thematic consistencies throughout episodes so that you feel like you’re entering a completely fictional but intertwined world.
You can technically watch episodes and seasons in any order, but it’s best to go from beginning to end to see the show as it evolves. My favourite episodes are “The Entire History of You” from season one and “Be Right Back” from season two. Season five is arguably the weakest, season six a close second. But the show is back to its original form for season seven. Note that you’ll be taken aback by the series’ very first episode “The National Anthem.” But if you can stomach that one, the others take it to new, less uncomfortable but still deeply troubling heights.
Stream Black Mirror on Netflix.
Mad Men (2007-2015)
What it’s About: In this period drama, Don Draper (Jon Hamm) is a creative genius working for a prestigious New York City ad firm in the 1960s. But he’s not actually Don Draper. He’s a loner man with a troubled past who has taken on this man’s identity. Beyond Don’s complicated journey, the show follows the firm and its partners and staff as they navigate the burgeoning world of print advertising.
Why I Love It: There’s something about the glitz and glamour of the ‘60s that draws you to Mad Men. At the time the show was originally on, I was working for a publishing company and the owner had worked in the advertising space in the ‘60s himself. He declared that there was a lot of truth to what was depicted on the show. Yes, people smoked cigarettes and had drink carts in their offices as they sipped whiskey on the rocks during meetings. Money was flowing because there was no internet, no digital ads, no social influencers. It was all about well thought out print ad campaigns, a refreshing departure from today’s approach with ads targeted to short attention spans.
Watching Don’s mind work (the Kodak Carousel pitch scene is one of the most memorable) will leave you mesmerized at his ability’s to tap into messaging that resonates with buyers on an emotional level, despite the fact that he often seems devoid of any himself. It’s also nice that the show portrays strong working women who fight for their place during a time when that wasn’t defined by top positions in the workplace. Among them is Elisabeth Moss in her breakout role before The Handmaid’s Tale. The pay-off is worth the ride, as Mad Men has one of the best series finales ever on television.
Stream Mad Men on Netflix. (available for a limited time)
The Walking Dead (2010-2022)
What it’s About: Society as we know it has come to an end. A virus that infects people when they die and turns them into flesh-eating zombies (er, walkers) has taken over. Follow a group of survivors as they band together to find shelter and face the biggest enemies yet: other humans.
Why I Love It: One of the things any The Walking Dead fan will tell you about the show is that it’s not about the zombies. They’re secondary to the main story, which is about human resilience, difficult decisions, moral dilemmas, and survival. The heartbreaking deaths throughout aren’t just for shock value, many of them are designed to make you think about how they came about, which is often at the hands of humans, not zombies.
After rewatching this entire series recently now that my 13-year-old son is old enough to watch, it reinforced my belief that it’s one of the best-acted, underrated shows on television. Be mindful that it takes a dip through the Saviors storyline with Negan (Jeffrey Dean Morgan) in season seven, a time when many die-hard fans abandoned the show. But if you stick it through, it’s one of those rare shows that gets better again. The story culminates in a satisfying end and continues with many spin-offs since, all of which are worth watching, too, including The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon, The Walking Dead: Dead City, and The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live.
Stream The Walking Dead on Netflix.
The Bear (2022-)
What it’s About: Carmy Berzatto (Jeremy Allen White) grew up in a dysfunctional family in Chicago. He managed to escape and pursue his dream of becoming a fine dining chef, something he accomplished in spades. But when his older brother dies by suicide, he returns to his hometown to run the sandwich shop his brother left behind. Once there, he finds himself determined to turn this restaurant into something different from what it is, but mostly to prove his worth to others and himself. But he also has to deal with reopened wounds from his past.
Why I Love It: If you want a show that will make you feel a whole range of emotions, face demons head on, even shed a tear or two, The Bear is it. The dynamic between Carmy and his old friends and family, along with new ones, is heartbreaking and cathartic. While the centre of the show is the restaurant, it’s really about Carmy’s journey to healing and all the roadblocks he meets along the way. As the series progresses, it sheds light on other characters and their personal journeys, too.
Season two, episode six “Fishes” is a highlight, a deeply traumatizing episode that will leave you heaving a massive sigh by the end. The frantic energy of the first few seasons provides a sense like you’re right there in the kitchen. Season three switches it up with an artsier feel while season four continues the rocky yet emotional ride.
The Pitt (2025-)
What it’s About: Told in 24 style with every episode representing a real-time hour in the emergency department of a teaching hospital, follow along with Dr. Michael “Robby” Robinavitch (Noah Wyle), the senior attending physician as he deals with patients with varying illnesses and injuries. It follows his interactions with staff, the experiences of students and residents, and the personal trauma that those in the medical profession deal with on a daily, even hourly, basis.
Why I Love It: I have watched a lot of medical dramas in my time, but none has been so real and raw as The Pitt. In fact, many real-life doctors have applauded the shows realism, noting that watching the show makes them feel as though they’re simply spending a day at work. The stories are relatable, experiences heartbreaking (and, at times, heartwarming), and the acting superb. As far as medical dramas go, this is the best one you’ll find on television today, and arguably even ever.
Ted Lasso (2020-)
What it’s About: The title character, played by Jason Sudeikis, is an American football coach from Kansas whose ridiculous dancing and joyful spirit attracts the attention of Rebecca Welton (Hannah Waddingham), owner of the AFC Richmond English football team. She fought to keep the team as a middle finger to her cheating ex with the goal of sabotaging it for revenge. So, she hires Ted, hoping he’ll tank it. Ted knows nothing about English football, so he seems like the perfect person to drive the team into the ground. But soon, they all realize that doesn’t matter, because what Ted does know is how to rally a team and lift spirits to inspire.
Why I Love It: Little attention is paid to men’s mental health, especially men in sports. Ted Lasso initially presents as a cute and fun comedy, but it soon reveals that the show is much deeper than that. From Ted’s own mental health issues to the challenges players face, from star player Jamie Tartt (Phil Dunster) and his issues with a domineering dad to aging once legend Roy Kent (Brett Goldstein) and disregarded kitman turned assistant coach Nate Shelley (Nick Mohammed), everyone goes through their own personal journey.
Ted Lasso is one of the most uplifting shows on television, a series that will make you laugh, cry, and feel a sense of warmness and butterflies in the stomach after every episode. There’s good reason the show is returning for a fourth season years after it supposedly ended.
Stream Ted Lasso on Apple TV+.
Severance (2022-)
What it’s About: A biotechnology company has devised a way to sever the human brain into two parts: one for your work life and one for your home life. When you enter the building, you have no recollection of who you are outside, your “outie.” When you leave, you don’t remember anything about work as your “innie.” Mark Scout (Adam Scott) willingly undergoes this procedure to help get through the days following the tragic death of his wife. But through a series of circumstances, he begins to realize that not all is what it seems.
Why I Love It: I appreciate mind-bending shows that make you think, the ones that you can’t wait to talk to other fans about following each weekly episode. Severance fits the bill, a show you’ll find yourself investigating online to read theories about, diving deep into the rabbit hole of the internet. The first season’s finale featured one of the most frustrating cliffhangers ever on television (your jaw will drop), and season two matched it, leaving fans like me reeling.
A weirdly wonderful show about psychological manipulation and oppression that cleverly skewers corporate culture, Severance is a must-watch that also happens to be one of the most visually stunning shows ever as well.
Stream Severance on Apple TV+.
The Boys (2019-)
What it’s About: Society is now ruled by a group of superhumans known as Supes who possess incredible powers that, in theory, should mean they can use them for good and help society. Instead, they are ruled by powerful corporation Vought International that uses them for their personal gain. The worst offender is Homelander (Antony Starr), the most powerful Supe and leader of a group known as The Seven. His insecurities make him an evil, violent tyrant. But his powers also make him unstoppable.
Why I Love It: On the surface, The Boys is incredibly gruesome, violent, and crude. It’s not a show for everyone. Most people, in fact, can’t get beyond the first episode before they realize they can’t stomach it any longer. But beneath the surface, the series is witty political satire that pokes fun at real-life situations and important social and political issues. As the show has become more blatant in its parodies, those on one side of the political spectrum have awoken to its true messaging and abandoned the show. But no matter which side you’re on, there’s no denying that The Boys has something to say. And it speaks its message loudly, clearly, and slathered in blood, guts, and odd sexual proclivities.
Stream The Boys on Amazon Prime Video.
Orphan Black (2013-2017)
What it’s About: Sarah Manning (Tatiana Maslany) notices a woman who looks just like her at the subway station right before the woman dies by suicide. Taking her ID, Sarah investigates and uncovers a secret, underground cloning project for which she has been an unknowing part. As she meets more clones, they band together to save the others and put an end to the morally corrupt practice.
Why I Love It: Tatiana Maslany is absolutely brilliant in this series, playing a total of 17 distinct clones, five of which are main characters. She doesn’t just don a different wig and clothes for each one. She truly captures the essence of each character, from their mannerisms to their voice and their personalities. It proves she’s one of the most underrated actors of this generation. Her portrayals alone are reason to watch the show, which has a fascinating plot as well that will keep you guessing and intrigued all the way through. It doesn’t hurt that the show is Canadian, filmed in Toronto.
Silicon Valley (2014-2019)
What it’s About: The plot centers around Richard Hendricks (Thomas Middleditch), a programmer who creates a start-up called Pied Piper. But he quickly discovers that it’s easier said than done to make it in the tech sector, even if you have a groundbreaking technology. The show follows his journey to protect his intellectual property and get the company off the ground before everything blows up in a puff of smoke.
Why I Love It: Anyone who works in the tech industry needs to watch Silicon Valley. They’ll understand references others don’t and appreciate the dynamics, especially those who work in the IT, incubator, or venture capital spaces. A hilarious parody of Silicon Valley culture, events in the series sometimes seems like there’s more truth than parody to the ridiculous roadblocks Richard and his team face at every turn. You’ll have fun guessing which real-life tech moguls each character was inspired by, too.
Stream Silicon Valley on Crave.
Cobra Kai (2021-2025)
What It’s About: A 30 years later sequel to The Karate Kid, Cobra Kai follows the journeys of Daniel LaRusso (Ralph Macchio) and Johnny Lawrence (William Zabka) as they cross paths once again. It also centres around a new group of high school students who learn the martial art and prep to compete while fighting with one another along the way.
Why I Love It: Cobra Kai isn’t a wonderfully acted show. It’s also downright corny. But it’s the type of feel-good show that those who grew up watching The Karate Kid movies will love. There’s a significant focus on the original rivals and tons of characters cameos from the original movies, some of whom become main characters. At the heart is a flipped perspective that shows Johnny’s side and how the big All-Valley Tournament loss led to a downward spiral in his life. The show is also appealing to a new generation of viewers, my 13-year-old son loving it as well.
Having come to an end after the three-part final sixth season (see my Part 1, Part 2, and Part 3 reviews) Cobra Kai wrapped up the story beautifully, delivering a satisfying, standing ovation-worthy end.
Shrinking (2023-)
What it’s About: Jimmy Laird (Jason Segel) is grieving the loss of his wife after a tragic car accident involving a drunk driver. He lost his way, neglecting his teenage daughter Alice (Lukita Maxwell), even his job as, ironically, a therapist. As he finds new ways to deal thanks to the support of friends and family, however, a journey to healing begins. But that also means trying unconventional methods with his patients, some of which blow back on him.
Why I Love It: Who knew that the combination of Jason Segel and Harrison Ford would make comedy magic? It’s not just about the comedy, however. Shrinking is deeply emotional, a glimpse into personal trauma, healing, and forgiveness. There’s a lot to unpack as the episodes pivot from hilarious and witty to cry-worthy at the drop of a hat. But every moment is intentional, every character perfect in their role. If you love Ted Lasso, you’ll love Shrinking, which hails from the same creative team.
Stream Shrinking on Apple TV+.
Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990-2000)
What it’s About: The Walshes move from Minnesota to Beverly Hills for dad’s job, and now twins Brenda (Shannen Doherty) and Brandon (Jason Priestley) must acclimate to their new high school life, going to school with wealthy California kids to whom they feel they can’t relate. The show navigates their coming-of-age challenges, from dating to friendship drama, and more.
Why I Love It: Everyone has a guilty pleasure show. I have many, but Beverly Hills, 90210 is one I’d watch again and again. In fact, years ago, I managed to find episodes online and re-watched the entire series. All it takes is that opening guitar riff and the show is instantly recognizable, giving you chills if you recall watching as a teen. The show was groundbreaking for its time, tackling serious issues that most shows (Canadian hits like Degrassi Junior High excepted) hadn’t done yet. From eating disorders to sexual assault, drug use, drinking and driving, and even teenage suicide, the teen drama didn’t shy away from any of it.
I fondly recall pining for the late Luke Perry’s bad boy Dylan McKay at the time when the show was originally on and I was just a tween/teen myself, Beverly Hills, 90210 is one of the defining shows of my formative years, as it likely is for any Gen-Xer/Xennial like me.
Watch Beverly Hills 90210 on DVD.
Succession (2018-2023)
What it’s About: The satirical black-comedy drama depicts a wealthy patriarch trying to consider what to do with his billionaire business once he’s ready to retire. The problem is that all four of his grown children are morons, none fit to take over. That doesn’t stop them from pleading their cases, though, which leads to a merry-go-round of greedy, entitled backstabbing and posturing.
What I Love It: Succession set out to tell a fictional story, but it’s evident that the Roys are at least inspired by a mix of real-life billionaire families. The show has smart writing and tremendous acting with Brian Cox as Logan Roy making viewers shake in their boots with every glare, every menacing insult he dolls out. The show brilliantly demonstrates the greed and excess of the one percent and the dirty, underhanded tactics people will resort to for money and power. Toeing the line beautifully between humor and drama, Succession is wonderful from start to finish. The words “you are not serious people” will cut deep after watching the final season.
Stranger Things (2016-2025)
What it’s About: A group of middle schoolers encounter a strange young girl with special powers shortly after their friend goes missing. Soon, they uncover an Upside Down world filled with monsters and a terrifying company conducting experiments on children. As they and the local police chief investigate, they try desperately to save their friend and this young girl. Though it seems she is the one who has to save them.
Why I Love It: A wonderful throwback to ’80s coming-of-age movies and sci-fi, Stranger Things will instantly remind you of movies like The Goonies. It features a wonderful cast of young actors as well as veterans like Winona Ryder. A sight for the eyes, Stranger Things is the type of sci-fi horror show that even those who don’t traditionally like sci-fi or horror will enjoy. You become deeply invested in the characters and their journeys, rooting for these kids to kick ass. This is another show I’ve watched twice, diving into it for the second time with my 13-year-old who has become just as enamoured with the series.
Stream Stranger Things on Netflix.
Silo (2023-)
What it’s About: Based on the trio of novels Wool, Shift, and Dust by Hugh Howey, Silo is set in a dystopian future where all relics from the before world are gone or outright banned. Survivors reside in an underground silo and they are told the Earth above is uninhabitable. They’re made to believe this based on cameras that showthe vast wasteland outside, and what happens to those who request to leave. But is it all just a ruse? What caused this event in the first place? It’s up to an engineer from the lower levels named Jules (Rebecca Ferguson) to fight for the truth.
Why I Love It: Silo is one of many dystopian “end of the world” type shows that I love because it has deeper meaning. While a new world purports to be better than the one before, designed to protect people, it’s still based on a class system, the lowly workers down below while the elites are up above. Every episode leaves you guessing, Jules and her abilities more and more impressive. Silo is a compelling watch that keeps you at the edge of your seat, wondering which characters you can truly trust, what’s really going on, and questioning your faith in humanity.
Honourable Mentions
Looking for something more, perhaps within a different genre? Here are a few more shows that get top marks in my books.
The Handmaid’s Tale (2017-2025): Based on the book of the same name by Canadian author Margaret Atwood, the story is of a future where a theocratic regime has taken over, forcing young women to serve as birthing vessels for wealthy commanders and their barren wives. The series diverts from its source material in later seasons, but it’s a thought-provoking show about the dangers of slow-moving regression to an oppressive society. Stream on Crave.
Mr. Robot (2015-2019): A young cybersecurity engineer and hacker vows to secretly take down a conglomerate and bring an end to greedy corporate culture and the amassing of wealth by a few while others suffer. With plenty of twists, turns, and a major surprise, it’s the type of show you’ll benefit from watching twice. Stream on Amazon Prime Video.
Game of Thrones (2011-2019): Based on the writings of George R.R. Martin, various individuals throughout the fictional Seven Kingdoms vie for what they believe to be their earned seat on the Iron Throne. But it turns out, it will be a bloodbath to get there. Stream on Crave.
Friends (1994-2004): A classic sitcom about single friends in their 20s navigating life in New York City, the running gags, memorable episodes, and hilarious moments have become part of pop culture history. It’s the type of show younger generations are just getting into now and parents are enjoying re-watching with them. Stream on Crave.
Ozark (2017-2022): The Byrde family finds themselves in hot water when patriarch Marty (Jason Bateman) gets involved with the criminal underworld. What was to be a one-off job to earn some extra cash turns into an entire family relocation once a cartel boss finds his accounting skills in laundering money too good to let go. Stream on Netflix.
Big Brother (2000-): A reality competition show on the surface, Big Brother is actually a fascinating social experiment about what happens when people from all walks of life are cut off from the world, filmed 24/7, and left to find ways to make it further in the game. Psychological manipulation, clever strategies, and scheming are all par for the course. Stream on Paramount+.
Modern Family (2009-2020): The classics are always a go-to, but as far as recent sitcoms go, Modern Family is one of the most original. The fantastic cast, clever writing, and double entendres will entertain throughout. Stream on Disney+.
Poker Face (2023-): Weirdly good fun, if you’re a fan of Natasha Lyonne, you’ll love this Columbo-style series where she plays a young woman with a unique gift of being able to determine when someone is lying. As she travels the U.S. on the run, she uses her talents to help solve murders. With a massive guest list cast, each episode of Poker Face is unique, parodying all types of movie genres and quirky character tropes. Stream on Citytv+.
Schitt’s Creek (2015-2020): Eugene Levy is a Canadian national treasure and his talents are on full display alongside his son Daniel Levy and fellow Canadian and long-time collaborator Catherine O’Hara in this sitcom about a wealthy family who loses everything. The only thing left to their name is a small town called Schitt’s Creek that Johnny (Eugene Levy) once bought as a joke. With nowhere else to go, he and his family move into the town’s seedy motel. As they become acquainted with the eccentric small town folks, the Roses also learn a lesson or two about what’s really important in life. Stream on Netflix.
Paradise (2025-): Sterling K. Brown is Xavier Collins, lead agent for the president’s Secret Service security detail who gets caught up in a sinister plot when the president (James Marsden) winds up dead. There’s a massive twist at the end of the first episode you won’t see coming. It’s a wild, action-packed ride from there with plot twists that change up the focus from one episode to the next. Stream on Disney+.