Must-Watch TV Shows from Europe and the US

Television has played a significant role in shaping popular culture across the Western world, offering a variety of programming that entertains, informs, and inspires. Certain TV shows, from groundbreaking dramas to iconic comedies, have left an indelible mark on the industry and audiences. This guide explores six of the most iconic TV shows in Western television history, each celebrated for its unique contribution to the medium.

1. Seinfeld

352 votes

Seinfeld, created by Larry David and Jerry Seinfeld, is often described as a show without substance, but it has become one of the most influential sitcoms ever. The show aired on NBC from 1989 to 1998. It follows comedian Jerry Seinfeld and his eccentric friends—George Costanza, Elaine Benes, and Cosmo Kramer—as they deal with the minutiae of everyday life in New York City. Known for its unique sense of humour, catchy catchphrases, and innovative narrative structures, Seinfeld broke the mould of traditional sitcoms. Episodes such as "The Race," "The Soup Nazi," and "The Puffy Shirt" have become cultural milestones. The show's exploration of social norms and human behaviour, combined with sharp writing and memorable characters, has earned it a permanent place in the pantheon of great television. Seinfeld continues to be popular through reruns and streaming services and has influenced many subsequent comedies.

2. The Crown

297 votes

Peter Morgan created The Crown, a critically acclaimed historical drama premiered on Netflix in 2016. The series traces the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, providing an in-depth look at her life and the significant events that shaped the second half of the 20th century. The Crown has been praised for its meticulous attention to historical detail, rich production values, and strong performances. Claire Foy, Olivia Colman and Imelda Staunton have all played the Queen at different stages of her life, adding depth and complexity to the character. Key episodes such as Aberfan, Tywysog Cymru and War highlight the show's ability to combine personal drama with historical context. Exploring themes of responsibility, power and identity, the series takes a nuanced look at the monarchy and its impact on the royal family and the country. The Crown has won numerous awards, including Golden Globes and Emmys, and continues to captivate audiences with its compelling storytelling and exceptional cinema.

3. The X-Files

277 votes

Created by Chris Carter, The X-Files is a hit science fiction series aired on Fox from 1993 to 2002, with reboots in 2016 and 2018. The series follows FBI agents Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) investigating paranormal phenomena, cold cases, and government conspiracies. Mulder, a believer in the paranormal, and Scully, a sceptic and doctor, create a compelling dynamic as they delve into mysteries involving aliens, mysterious creatures, and other unexplained events. The X-Files is known for its combination of standalone episodes and an overarching mythology, covering themes of trust, faith, and the search for the truth. Iconic episodes such as Home, The Last Rest of Clyde Bruckman, and The Postmodern Prometheus have had a lasting impact on the genre. The show's atmospheric storytelling, complex characters, and catchy tagline, "The Truth Is Out There", have made The X-Files an essential and lasting part of television history.

 4. Downton Abbey

274 votes

Downton Abbey is a British historical drama created by Julian Fellowes that aired on ITV in the UK and PBS in the US from 2010 to 2015. Set in the early 20th century, the series follows the lives of the aristocratic Crawley family and their servants at the fictional Downton Abbey estate in Yorkshire. The series explores major historical events such as the sinking of the Titanic, World War I, and the Spanish Flu and their impact on British society and the estate's residents. Downton Abbey is known for its beautiful period costumes, detailed sets, and rich character development. The series' cast includes Maggie Smith, Hugh Bonneville, and Michelle Dockery, who deliver impressive performances that bring the era to life. Iconic moments and storylines such as Lady Mary's love story, Mr. Bates and Anna's trials, and the Countess's witticisms have captivated audiences. Downton Abbey has received numerous awards and nominations, cementing its status as a popular and influential drama that reveals the complexity of social change and interpersonal relationships.

5. Mad Men

249 votes

Mad Men is a critically acclaimed television series created by Matthew Weiner and aired on AMC from 2007 to 2015. Set in the 1960s, the series explores the advertising world through the eyes of Jon Hamm's Don Draper, a brilliant but troubled creative director at the Sterling Cooper advertising agency. Mad Men has been praised for its meticulous attention to historical detail, complex characters, and exploration of social issues such as gender roles, racism, and the American Dream. The series delves deep into its characters' personal and professional lives, revealing the era's often turbulent and shifting landscape. Iconic episodes such as "The Wheel," "The Suitcase," and "The Milk and Honey Trail" showcase the series' emotional depth and narrative complexity. Mad Men has won numerous awards, including 16 Emmys and five Golden Globes. It has been praised for its impact on the television industry, influencing a new wave of period dramas and character storytelling.

 6. The Mandalorian

200 votes

Created by Jon Favreau, The Mandalorian is a groundbreaking series in the Star Wars saga that premiered on Disney+ in 2019. Set after the fall of the Empire, the series follows the journey of bounty hunter Din Djarin, played by Pedro Pascal, as he travels to the outer reaches of the galaxy and forms an unexpected connection with a mysterious child known to fans as "The Child," or "Baby Yoda" as he is more commonly known. The series has been praised for its cinematic quality, compelling storytelling, and innovative use of technology, including the groundbreaking StageCraft virtual production approach. Episodes such as Chapter 1: The Mandalorian, Chapter 8: Redemption, and Chapter 16: The Rescue highlight the series' combination of action, emotion, and fan service. The Mandalorian reinvigorated the Star Wars franchise on television, winning widespread acclaim from critics and passionate fans. Its success paved the way for numerous spinoffs and expanded the Star Wars universe in exciting new directions.

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