Top TV Shows Of 2020: The Ultimate Binge-Worthy List
Hey guys! Remember 2020? Yeah, it was quite a year. But amidst all the craziness, we were gifted with some seriously amazing television. So, if you're looking for your next binge-watching obsession, or just want to reminisce about some of the best shows from that year, you've come to the right place. We're diving deep into the top TV shows of 2020, the ones that kept us glued to our screens and gave us something to talk about (besides, you know… everything else that was happening).
Why 2020 Was a Stellar Year for TV
Okay, before we jump into the list, let's talk about why 2020 was such a great year for TV. First off, with so many people staying home, streaming services really stepped up their game. We saw a massive influx of high-quality content, from gripping dramas to hilarious comedies and mind-bending sci-fi. It felt like there was something for everyone! Plus, many shows had already been in production before the world went into lockdown, meaning we got a steady stream of fresh episodes and new series to devour. Think of it as the universe's way of saying, "Here, have some great TV. You deserve it."
The surge in streaming popularity definitely played a huge role. Platforms like Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, and Disney+ were all vying for our attention, which meant they were investing big bucks in original programming. This competition led to some truly groundbreaking shows that pushed boundaries and told stories we hadn't seen before. So, yeah, 2020 might have been a challenging year, but at least our TVs were happy!
And let's not forget the sheer variety on offer. Whether you were into historical dramas, superhero adventures, quirky comedies, or intense thrillers, there was a show (or ten!) to scratch that itch. This diversity meant that more voices were being heard and more stories were being told, which is always a good thing. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and let's get this show on the road!
Our Picks for the Best TV Shows of 2020
Alright, let's get to the good stuff! This is our carefully curated list of the absolute best TV shows of 2020, the ones that we think stood out from the crowd and deserve a spot on your watch list. Get ready to discover (or rediscover) some serious gems.
1. The Queen's Gambit
Okay, let's kick things off with a show that took the world by storm: The Queen's Gambit. This Netflix miniseries tells the story of Beth Harmon, a young orphan who becomes a chess prodigy. But it's not just about chess, guys. It's a beautifully crafted coming-of-age story that deals with addiction, genius, and the pressures of being a woman in a male-dominated world. Anya Taylor-Joy's performance as Beth is absolutely mesmerizing, and the show's stunning visuals and period-perfect costumes make it a feast for the eyes.
The Queen's Gambit masterfully blends the intensity of competitive chess with the personal struggles of its protagonist. The show doesn't just explain the game; it makes you feel the tension and the strategy behind every move. And Beth's journey is so compelling because she's not just fighting her opponents on the board; she's fighting her own inner demons. This duality is what makes the show so gripping and emotionally resonant.
Plus, the show sparked a huge resurgence in the popularity of chess! How cool is that? People were buying chess sets, joining chess clubs, and dusting off their old strategies. The Queen's Gambit proved that a well-told story, even about something as seemingly niche as chess, can capture the imagination of a global audience. If you haven't seen it yet, seriously, what are you waiting for?
2. Ted Lasso
If you needed a dose of feel-good TV in 2020, Ted Lasso was the answer. This Apple TV+ comedy follows an American football coach who's hired to coach a professional soccer team in England, despite knowing absolutely nothing about the sport. Sounds like a recipe for disaster, right? But Ted Lasso's unwavering optimism and folksy charm win everyone over, even the cynical team owner and the disgruntled players.
Ted Lasso is pure sunshine in TV form. It's a show that reminds you to believe in the good in people, even when things get tough. Jason Sudeikis is brilliant as Ted, bringing a warmth and sincerity to the role that's truly infectious. And the supporting cast is equally fantastic, creating a group of characters you genuinely care about. The show's humor is smart and witty, but it's also incredibly heartwarming, making it the perfect antidote to a stressful day.
What's so special about Ted Lasso is that it's not afraid to tackle deeper issues, like mental health and personal growth, while still maintaining its optimistic tone. It shows us that it's okay to be vulnerable, to ask for help, and to believe in yourself, even when you're facing challenges. In a world that often feels cynical and divided, Ted Lasso is a reminder that kindness and positivity can go a long way.
3. Normal People
Prepare to have your heartstrings tugged! Normal People, based on Sally Rooney's bestselling novel, is a beautifully raw and intimate portrayal of first love. The series follows Marianne and Connell, two Irish teenagers from different social backgrounds, as they navigate their complex relationship through high school and college. It's a story about connection, communication, and the challenges of growing up.
Normal People stands out for its authentic and nuanced depiction of young love. The performances from Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal are absolutely stunning, capturing the vulnerability and intensity of their characters with incredible sensitivity. The show doesn't shy away from the awkwardness and misunderstandings that can happen in relationships, making it feel incredibly relatable and real. It's a show that stays with you long after the credits roll.
One of the things that makes Normal People so special is its focus on communication. Marianne and Connell's struggles often stem from their inability to express their feelings openly, highlighting the importance of honest and vulnerable communication in any relationship. The show also explores themes of social class, mental health, and personal identity, adding layers of depth and complexity to the story.
4. I May Destroy You
I May Destroy You is a bold and groundbreaking drama that tackles the complexities of consent, sexual assault, and trauma. Created by and starring Michaela Coel, the series follows Arabella, a young writer in London, as she tries to piece together the events of a night she can't remember. It's a powerful and unflinching exploration of difficult topics, but it's also incredibly insightful and thought-provoking.
I May Destroy You is a masterpiece of storytelling. Michaela Coel's writing is sharp, honest, and often darkly humorous, creating a narrative that's both challenging and deeply moving. The show doesn't offer easy answers or simple solutions, but it does provide a platform for important conversations about consent, trauma, and healing. It's a series that demands to be watched and discussed.
What makes I May Destroy You so impactful is its willingness to explore the gray areas of sexual assault. It challenges our assumptions about what constitutes consent and sheds light on the complexities of trauma and its aftermath. The show is also incredibly diverse and inclusive, representing a range of experiences and perspectives. It's a powerful reminder that stories like these need to be told.
5. The Undoing
If you're a fan of twisty thrillers, The Undoing is a must-watch. This HBO miniseries stars Nicole Kidman and Hugh Grant as a wealthy New York couple whose lives are turned upside down when a shocking murder occurs. As secrets unravel and suspicion mounts, Grace (Kidman) must confront the possibility that her husband, Jonathan (Grant), may not be who she thought he was.
The Undoing is a masterclass in suspense. The series keeps you guessing until the very end, with each episode revealing new clues and red herrings. Nicole Kidman delivers a stellar performance as Grace, a woman grappling with betrayal and uncertainty. And Hugh Grant is surprisingly chilling as Jonathan, a charming but potentially dangerous man. The show's atmospheric cinematography and luxurious setting add to the overall sense of unease and intrigue.
What makes The Undoing so captivating is its exploration of the hidden darkness beneath the surface of a seemingly perfect life. It's a story about trust, betrayal, and the lengths we go to protect ourselves and the ones we love. The show also raises questions about privilege and the ways in which wealth and status can influence justice.
Honorable Mentions
Of course, no list of the best TV shows of 2020 would be complete without a few honorable mentions. These are the shows that didn't quite make our top five, but are still definitely worth checking out:
- The Flight Attendant
- Mrs. America
- Better Call Saul (Season 5)
- Ozark (Season 3)
- The Great
Final Thoughts: So Much Great TV, So Little Time!
So there you have it, guys! Our picks for the best TV shows of 2020. It was a year of amazing television, and we hope this list has given you some inspiration for your next binge-watching session. Whether you're in the mood for heartwarming comedy, gripping drama, or mind-bending thriller, there's something out there for everyone. Happy watching!