Top TV Shows Of 2020: A Year In Review
Hey guys, let's rewind to 2020, a year that, let's be honest, was a rollercoaster! But amidst all the chaos, one thing remained a constant source of comfort and entertainment: television. It was a year that saw us glued to our screens more than ever before, discovering new worlds, characters, and storylines. So, let's dive into some of the best TV shows of 2020! This list isn't just about what was popular; it's about what truly resonated, what pushed creative boundaries, and what gave us those unforgettable moments we still talk about. We'll explore shows from various genres, from gripping dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies and everything in between. Get ready to reminisce and maybe even discover a hidden gem or two that you missed the first time around. And of course, since the landscape of television is always changing, we will revisit this again later on in another year. This is not a ranking, but an overview of some of the best that this year had to offer, so no need to get into a debate. This is all subjective. Ready? Let's go!
The Must-Watch Dramas
When we talk about the best TV shows of 2020, the drama genre always has a special place. 2020 was no exception. Several series captivated audiences with their complex characters, compelling narratives, and stunning visuals. One show that immediately comes to mind is "The Queen's Gambit." This Netflix miniseries wasn't just a hit; it was a cultural phenomenon. Following the life of a young chess prodigy, Beth Harmon, the show's story is both captivating and visually stunning. The way it depicted the world of competitive chess, the struggles of addiction, and the determination of its protagonist was brilliant. Plus, Anya Taylor-Joy's performance was absolutely mesmerizing, and it's something everyone was talking about. It's a must-watch if you somehow missed it! Then we had "Better Call Saul," which continued to deliver a masterclass in character development and suspense. Although this isn't exactly a 2020 show, the season airing that year made it stand out as it was getting towards the end. It's a spin-off that arguably surpassed the original, offering a deep dive into the evolution of Saul Goodman and exploring the moral complexities of its characters. This show had everyone on the edge of their seats and is a great testament to the writers and the cast involved. It's always a good sign when the show has you thinking after each episode. On the other hand, "The Crown" continued its reign as one of television's most lavish and well-crafted dramas. The show's portrayal of the British Royal Family is always something that people have an interest in. This season of the show introduced new characters, new conflicts, and new layers to the ongoing story. It remains a benchmark for historical dramas, and the performances were, as always, top-notch. And of course, we cannot forget "Ozark". As it gets into later seasons, everyone is always wondering what will happen next. This show is filled with a captivating thriller-style adventure that keeps you hooked from beginning to end. Overall, the drama genre in 2020 was a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of complex, character-driven narratives, and this is why these shows are known to be the best tv shows of 2020.
Exploring the Genres: Comedy and Beyond
Beyond dramas, 2020 offered a diverse range of genres, proving the year's television landscape was brimming with creativity. Comedies provided much-needed laughs, and other genres offered unique viewing experiences. One of the highlights of the year was "Ted Lasso." This show quickly became a global sensation, with its heartwarming story, lovable characters, and optimistic outlook. It's a show that manages to be both hilarious and genuinely moving, reminding us of the power of kindness and believing in yourself. It's a perfect show for those who want a good laugh, but also enjoy a heartfelt adventure. Additionally, “Schitt's Creek” completed its final season, and its popularity continued to grow. The story of the Rose family and their journey of rediscovery has resonated with audiences worldwide, and its humor and heartwarming moments make it a must-watch for anyone looking for a feel-good show. The character growth and the relationships between the characters are incredible. When we get into some other genres, "The Mandalorian" continued to dominate the sci-fi scene with its visually stunning and action-packed storytelling. As it became the go-to show for fans of the Star Wars franchise, the show kept everyone hooked with each episode and made for some amazing water-cooler talk the next day. The show's success proved that quality television can thrive in any genre, and it continues to set a high bar for storytelling. Documentaries like "Tiger King" also captured the public's attention, sparking conversations and debates about its wild story. Overall, 2020's television offerings showcased the industry's ability to adapt and provide audiences with entertainment across a wide range of tastes and preferences. The variety demonstrated why this year had so many of the best tv shows of 2020.
The Rise of Streaming Platforms
In 2020, streaming platforms truly cemented their place as the dominant force in the television industry. With people spending more time at home, streaming services saw a massive surge in viewership, and they responded by delivering high-quality content that catered to a wide range of tastes. Netflix, of course, was a major player, releasing a slew of original shows that quickly became global hits. From dramas to comedies, and everything in between, Netflix had something for everyone. Shows like "The Queen's Gambit," "The Crown," and "Ozark" captivated audiences and generated significant buzz. Amazon Prime Video also made a splash with shows like "The Boys" and continued to expand its library of original content. Disney+ entered the scene in a big way, with "The Mandalorian" being a major hit, and the platform quickly became a must-have for families and fans of franchises like Star Wars and Marvel. HBO Max, though still relatively new at the time, also made a name for itself by offering access to a vast library of HBO content and new original series. The platform's commitment to quality programming and its diverse offerings made it a popular choice for viewers. These platforms not only changed how we watch television but also reshaped the industry itself. They empowered creators to take risks, allowed for more diverse storytelling, and gave viewers unprecedented access to content from all over the world. As we look back at the best tv shows of 2020, it's clear that the rise of streaming platforms played a crucial role in shaping the year's television landscape. Streaming services have helped produce some of the best content possible.
The Impact of the Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic profoundly impacted the entertainment industry, including television. The pandemic led to production shutdowns, delays, and significant changes in how shows were filmed and released. Despite these challenges, the television industry showed remarkable resilience, finding innovative ways to continue creating and delivering content to audiences. Many shows had to adjust their production schedules, implement strict safety protocols, and sometimes even alter their storylines to accommodate the new realities. Despite all of this, the industry was able to continue to entertain everyone. Some shows were forced to film remotely, while others had to postpone their release dates. Despite these hurdles, the industry managed to find ways to adapt, and the quality of the content remained high. In many ways, television became even more important during the pandemic. As people were confined to their homes, television offered an escape, a source of comfort, and a way to stay connected to the world. Viewing numbers soared, and streaming platforms saw a surge in subscriptions. The pandemic also highlighted the importance of diverse representation in television, with audiences seeking stories that reflected a wide range of experiences and perspectives. The industry responded by creating content that addressed the challenges and realities of the pandemic. As a result, 2020's television offerings were a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the industry, and it also helped everyone cope with the unprecedented challenges of the time. This era is one of the most memorable of the best tv shows of 2020.
Conclusion
Looking back at 2020, it's clear that the year was a pivotal one for television. From gripping dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies and groundbreaking documentaries, the best tv shows of 2020 provided a much-needed escape, a source of entertainment, and a way to connect with the world. The rise of streaming platforms reshaped the industry, while the pandemic presented unprecedented challenges that forced the industry to adapt and innovate. As we move forward, the lessons learned in 2020 will continue to shape the future of television. The industry's ability to adapt, innovate, and provide audiences with high-quality content is a testament to the power of storytelling and the enduring appeal of the medium. So, next time you're looking for something to watch, remember the best tv shows of 2020. They were a beacon of light in a challenging year, and they continue to offer entertainment and enjoyment for audiences around the world. So, grab some popcorn, and get ready to enjoy some amazing shows!