Ranking the 100 Best Netflix Original TV Shows
Netflix has fundamentally changed the television landscape, not only by altering viewing habits but also by establishing itself as a leading global producer of TV content.
From its early days, it became evident that to draw in a worldwide audience and generate buzz, the streaming platform required more than just licensed series and movies. Though such content remains pivotal, Netflix has built an impressive library of original programming following its programming ventures, starting with the co-produced show Lilyhammer in 2012 and its first fully funded series, House of Cards, in 2013.
Here, we present a ranking of the top 100 original series produced by Netflix over the last decade. It’s essential to note that our interpretation of a Netflix original diverges slightly from the service’s definition, which may label shows as “original” even if they were not commissioned by them—like Breaking Bad and Fauda, which are produced by AMC and Yes Oh, respectively. Our rankings focus solely on shows that were produced or commissioned by Netflix, including landmark originals like The Crown and Stranger Things, alongside later titles such as Black Mirror, Lucifer, and Arrested Development. We have also omitted any programming that Netflix categorizes as films, despite resembling one-off specials.
We encourage readers to leave their thoughts in the comments below, sharing which shows they believe should have made the list or ranked higher.
100. Space Force (2020)
This satirical comedy starring Steve Carell and John Malkovich explores the establishment of a US military space branch, though it didn’t achieve the success Netflix initially anticipated.
99. Is It Cake? (2022-)
A uniquely engaging format where contestants craft cakes that can be mistaken for everyday objects.
98. Too Hot to Handle (2020)
This reality dating show attempts to rival Love Island, showcasing ten singles in a luxurious setting while restricting their sexual interactions.
97. Inside Bill’s Brain: Decoding Bill Gates (2019)
A revealing look into the life and thoughts of Microsoft founder Bill Gates, highlighting his innovative thinking and achievements.
96. Kaleidoscope (2023)
This ambitious heist series, featuring an impressive cast including Giancarlo Esposito, allows viewers to watch in any sequence, though it didn’t meet all expectations.
95. Manifest (2018)
A familiar yet engaging drama about a passenger flight that disappears and returns five years later, filled with cliches.
94. Alice in Borderland (2020-)
This Japanese sci-fi survival drama, based on a manga, gained traction following the global acclaim of Squid Game.
93. Virgin River (2019-)
A beloved series depicting life and relationships in a quaint American small town.
92. Bodies (2023)
This intense crime drama follows four detectives across different time periods as they investigate a murder in Whitechapel, featuring Stephen Graham.
91. Avatar: The Last Airbender (2024-)
This reimagined live-action adaptation of the iconic animated series attracted attention but did not resonate as strongly with audiences as its predecessor.
90. Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes (2019)
This chilling documentary chronicles the heinous acts of the notorious serial killer through previously unreleased audio recordings.
89. Santa Clarita Diet (2017-19)
This quirky horror comedy featuring Drew Barrymore and Timothy Olyphant follows a married couple facing a bizarre twist in their lives.
88. I Think You Should Leave with Tim Robinson (2019)
This sketch comedy series immerses viewers in a world of cringe-worthy moments and escalating awkwardness.
87. Inventing Anna (2022)
Julia Garner stars in this true crime narrative about Anna Sorokin, who fabricated her identity as a wealthy socialite, leading to her dramatic downfall.
86. Don’t F**k with Cats: Hunting an Internet Killer (2019)
This gripping true crime docuseries follows internet vigilantes on a quest to track down a cat killer, garnering significant attention upon release.
85. Designated Survivor (2019)
Kiefer Sutherland stars in this gripping political thriller focusing on a low-ranking politician unexpectedly thrust into the presidency.
84. Harry & Meghan (2022)
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex provide an intimate glimpse into their lives, falling under their production deal with Netflix.
83. Jim & Andy: The Great Beyond (2017)
This documentary offers an in-depth look at Jim Carrey’s immersive performance during the filming of the role of Andy Kaufman.
82. A Series of Unfortunate Events (2017)
Based on Lemony Snicket’s beloved novels, this witty adaptation features Neil Patrick Harris as the villainous Count Olaf.
81. Grace and Frankie (2015-22)
Starring Jane Fonda and Lily Tomlin, this series presents a humorous take on friendship and starting anew in one’s twilight years.
80. Robbie Williams (2023)
A compelling documentary outlining Robbie Williams’ journey through his music career, featuring insightful reflections.
79. The Haunting of Hill House (2018)
This chilling series explores themes of trauma and grief through the lens of a haunted mansion, garnering rave reviews.
78. The Kominsky Method (2018)
Michael Douglas stars in this humorous take on aging, focusing on an actor and his agent navigating life’s late stages.
77. Dahmer — Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story (2022)
This haunting series examines the life of the infamous serial killer, bringing to light disturbing historical events.
76. After Life (2019-22)
Ricky Gervais finds humor amid tragedy in this series about a man struggling to cope with the death of his wife.
75. The Diplomat (2023)
This political thriller showcases the glamorous yet often chaotic life at the US embassy in London.
74. Altered Carbon (2018-20)
Set in a futuristic world, this sci-fi series follows a mercenary who navigates identity and morality across different lifetimes.
73. The Watcher (2022-)
Ryan Murphy’s unsettling series is inspired by true events, focusing on a family plagued by mysterious letters after moving into a new home.
72. The Punisher (2017-19)
Jon Bernthal stars in this intense drama about a vigilante response to crime and injustice in New York City.
71. Luke Cage (2016-18)
This drama featuring the Marvel superhero centers on a man with superhuman strength fighting for justice in Harlem.
70. Bloodline (2015-17)
This family drama filled with dark secrets explores the complex relationships within the Rayburn family.
69. Anne with an E (2017-19)
This modern adaptation of the classic novel, envisioned by Moira Walley-Beckett, brings fresh vitality to Anne of Green Gables.
68. A Man in Full (2024)
Jeff Daniels stars in this adaptation of Tom Wolfe’s novel, depicting the trials of a real estate mogul in Atlanta.
67. Painkiller (2023)
This fictionalized account shines a light on the Sackler family’s role in America’s opioid epidemic, starring Matthew Broderick.
66. Beckham (2023)
This captivating documentary details the life of David Beckham, showcasing his journey from football star to cultural icon.
65. Lucifer (2016-21)
This fantasy series about the Devil living in Los Angeles blended crime-solving with supernatural elements, becoming a fan favorite after Netflix revived it.
64. The Andy Warhol Diaries (2022)
This six-part series offers a detailed exploration of the life and art of the iconic pop artist through his own words.
63. The Night Agent (2023)
This conspiracy thriller has become a global sensation, following an FBI agent unraveling a conspiracy within the government.
62. Cheer (2020-22)
This uplifting series follows a competitive cheerleading squad from Navarro College in Texas as they strive for success.
61. The Keepers (2017)
This gripping documentary series centers on the unsolved murder of a nun, shedding light on sexual abuse within the church.
60. Fool Me Once (2024)
This gripping thriller starring Michelle Keegan showcases the strengths of adaptations of Harlan Coben’s work.
59. The Staircase (2004-18)
This pioneering true crime series investigates the mysterious death of Kathleen Peterson and the subsequent trial of her husband.
58. Our Planet (2019)
This groundbreaking documentary series, narrated by David Attenborough, highlights the beauty and fragility of the natural world.
57. Sense8 (2015-18)
This visually stunning series explores the emotional and telepathic connections of eight individuals across the globe.
56. The OA (2016-19)
This unique science-fiction drama follows a missing woman who returns home after several years, presenting a fascinating narrative blend of indie horror and teen drama.
55. You (2019-)
Penn Badgley stars in this psychological thriller about a bookstore manager who becomes dangerously obsessed with the women he pursues.
54. Shadow and Bone (2021-23)
This fantasy drama, set in the Grishaverse, follows Alina Starkov’s journey as she uncovers her power in a war-torn world.
53. The Lincoln Lawyer (2022-)
This legal drama series, based on Michael Connelly’s novels, follows a defense attorney who works from the back of his car.
52. Emily in Paris (2020-)
This romantic comedy depicts an American woman’s move to Paris as she navigates new opportunities and challenges in her career and love life.
51. When They See Us (2019)
Ava DuVernay’s powerful miniseries portrays the wrongful convictions of five black teenagers in the infamous Central Park jogger case.
50. Unbreakable Kimmy Schmidt (2015-19)
This charming sitcom stars Ellie Kemper as a woman adjusting to life in New York after escaping from a doomsday cult.
49. Griselda (2024)
This captivating series features Sofia Vergara in a dramatic portrayal of Colombian drug lord Griselda Blanco.
48. Sweet Tooth (2021-)
This fantasy adventure series explores a post-apocalyptic world where hybrid children emerge amid humanity’s downfall.
47. Master of None (2015-21)
Aziz Ansari’s series offers a witty and insightful take on modern love and life through the lens of a young man in New York.
46. The Umbrella Academy (2019-)
This inventive series follows a dysfunctional family of super-powered siblings trying to solve the mystery of their father’s death.
45. Cobra Kai (2018-)
This revival of The Karate Kid story continues with rivalry and rivalry, set against the backdrop of teen struggles.
44. Wednesday (2022-)
Tim Burton brings the beloved Addams Family character to life in this darkly comedic series centered on Wednesday Addams.
43. GLOW (2017-19)
This series about 1980s women’s wrestling showcases strong female characters and storytelling, earning acclaim for its humor and depth.
42. Heartstopper (2022-)
This heartwarming series about a young gay romance has resonated with viewers for its authenticity and charm.
41. Jessica Jones (2015-19)
This series features a compelling lead performance as a private investigator tackling issues of power and abuse.
40. Unbelievable (2019)
This gripping true crime narrative follows the detective work surrounding a serial rapist case, showcasing strong performances from its leads.
39. The Sandman (2022-)
An adaptation of Neil Gaiman’s acclaimed comic series, this fantasy epic follows the titular character and his influence over dreams.
38. Unorthodox (2020)
This limited series tells the inspiring story of a young woman’s escape from her ultra-Orthodox Jewish community.
37. Tiger King (2020-21)
This wild documentary series dives into the eccentric world of big cat owners, featuring the controversial Joe Exotic.
36. The Gentlemen (2024)
Guy Ritchie’s stylish crime drama about a marijuana empire is filled with thrilling twists and charismatic performances.
35. Formula 1: Drive to Survive (2019-)
This documentary series offers an insider’s view of the thrilling world of Formula 1 racing, captivating fans across the globe.
34. 13 Reasons Why (2017-20)
This controversial drama examined the impact of suicide among teenagers, triggering important conversations.
33. Atypical (2017-21)
This heartfelt series follows an autistic teenager’s exploration of love and independence, providing humor and warmth.
32. Sunderland ’Til I Die (2018-24)
This sports documentary chronicles the struggles of a football team and its dedicated fans during challenging times.
31. 3 Body Problem (2024)
This highly anticipated adaptation of a sci-fi classic tackles themes of humanity and civilization in an epic narrative.
30. Lupin (2021-)
This French series blends heist thrills and clever storytelling, following the adventures of the charming thief Assane Diop.
29. Arrested Development (2003-06, 2013-19)
This offbeat comedy about a dysfunctional family successfully redefined sitcoms and returned triumphantly to Netflix.
28. Eric (2024)
Benedict Cumberbatch leads this gripping drama exploring the life of a struggling puppeteer in 1980s New York.
27. Russian Doll (2019-22)
This inventive series follows a woman caught in a time loop, reliving the same night with unexpected twists.
26. One Day (2024)
This adaptation explores the complexities of love and relationships through the lens of time and memory.
25. Dark (2017-20)
This intricate German-language series intricately weaves together a tale of time travel, secrets, and family ties.
24. Squid Game: The Challenge (2023-)
This adaptation translates the popular series into a reality competition, where players navigate a series of challenges.
23. Mindhunter (2017-19)
This true crime thriller delves into the psychological profiles of serial killers, enriched by period details and strong performances.
22. Bridgerton (2020-)
This period drama reimagines Regency-era romance with modern sensibilities, achieving widespread acclaim and popularity.
21. The Last Kingdom (2015-22)
This riveting adaptation of Bernard Cornwell’s novels brings to life the epic struggles and fierce battles of early England.
20. Maid (2021)
This poignant series tells the story of a young mother escaping an abusive relationship, balancing hardships with resilience.
19. Baby Reindeer (2024)
Richard Gadd’s critically acclaimed one-man show is transformed into a limited series exploring the complex dynamics of stalking.
18. The Witcher (2019-)
Based on a popular novel series, this fantasy epic follows a monster hunter navigating a world of magic and intrigue.
17. Sex Education (2019-23)
This refreshing comedy series highlights the sexual experiences of teenagers while tackling serious themes with heart and humor.
16. The Last Dance (2020)
This gripping documentary chronicles Michael Jordan’s final season with the Chicago Bulls, showcasing sports and media’s power.
15. Beef (2023)
This drama unfolds from a simple road rage encounter into an elaborate feud, reflecting the complexities of modern life.
14. Making a Murderer (2015-18)
This groundbreaking series analyzes the 2005 murder case of Teresa Halbach, exploring legal systems through a gripping lens.
13. Money Heist (2017, 2019-21)
This thrilling Spanish series revolves around a meticulously planned heist on the Royal Mint, captivating audiences globally.
12. BoJack Horseman (2014-20)
This animated series uniquely blends humor and poignant storytelling as it addresses issues like depression and addiction.
11. Orange Is the New Black (2013-19)
This groundbreaking series provides an unflinching look at the lives of women in a minimum-security prison, addressing important social issues.
10. Narcos (2015-17)
This gripping drama explores the rise of drug kingpin Pablo Escobar, exposing the dark underbelly of the narcotics industry.
9. The Queen’s Gambit (2020)
This coming-of-age story about a young chess prodigy captures the challenges faced by women in a male-dominated field.
8. Ozark (2017-22)
This tense crime thriller chronicles a family’s descent into the murky waters of money laundering amidst escalating danger.
7. Ripley (2024)
This stylish adaptation of Patricia Highsmith’s thriller embeds viewers in a world of deception and intrigue, led by Andrew Scott.
6. Top Boy (2011-13, 2019-23)
This acclaimed drama about London’s drug trade has earned recognition as the UK’s answer to The Wire, expertly blending realism and storytelling.
5. Squid Game (2021-)
This South Korean survival drama that captivated audiences globally with its high-stakes game challenges and commentary on class disparity.
4. Black Mirror (2011-)
This anthology series delves into contemporary society’s relationship with technology, offering dark and thought-provoking narratives.
3. House of Cards (2013-18)
This political drama propelled Netflix into prominence, spotlighting the ruthless world of Washington D.C. governance.
2. The Crown (2016-23)
This visually stunning series recounts the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, merging historical events with compelling storytelling.
1. Stranger Things (2016-)
A truly iconic series that combines nostalgia, supernatural elements, and character-driven stories set in the enigmatic town of Hawkins.
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