From landmark dramas like “The Sopranos” to animated wonders like “Harley Quinn,” here are the big blue streamer’s best offerings.

The 50 best shows to watch on HBO Max

From landmark dramas like "The Sopranos" to animated wonders like "Harley Quinn," here are the big blue streamer's best offerings.

By Declan Gallagher

and Kevin Jacobsen

on July 21, 2025 12:28PM EDT

Larry David as himself on 'Curb Your Enthusiasm'; Harley Quinn (voice: Kaley Cuoco) on ‘Harley Quinn’; Quincy Isaiah as Magic Johnson on ‘Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty’. Credit:

HBO; HBO/Courtesy Everett Collection; Warrick Page/HBO

The phrase "prestige TV" has become nearly synonymous with HBO Max's treasure trove of offerings. With series like *The Sopranos*, *Deadwood*, and *Curb Your Enthusiasm*, the olden HBO of yore cemented itself as the leading provider of high-quality, adult-skewing television years before the so-called "Golden Age" kicked off with *Mad Men* and *Breaking Bad* (over at AMC).

The streaming service is positively packed full of classics that are well-known or waiting to be widely discovered. Here are the 50 best shows on HBO Max.

Abbott Elementary (2021–present)

Quinta Brunson as Janine Teagues and Taraji P. Henson as Vanetta Teagues on 'Abbott Elementary'. Gilles Mingasson/ABC

Quinta Brunson's lauded mockumentary, following five disparate teachers at an under-funded Philadelphia public school struggling to help their students, achieves something the form rarely does: It actually makes you laugh. *Abbott Elementary* is reminiscent of cult classic sitcoms like *Arrested Development* twisted with the warm, universal appeal of *Modern Family*. *—Declan Gallagher*

Where to watch *Abbott Elementary*: HBO Max

**EW grade: **A– (read our review)

**Cast: **Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Lisa Ann Walter, Sheryl Lee Ralph, Janelle James, Chris Perfetti, William Stanford Davis

Awkwafina Is Nora From Queens (2020–present)

Lori Tan Chinn as Grandma, BD Wong as Wally, Awkwafina as Nora, and Bowen Yang as Edmund in a season 2 cast photo for 'Awkwafina Is Nora From Queens'. Comedy Central

A funnier, edgier take on the *Broad City* formula — a tremendously high mark to match, let alone surpass — Awkwafina's Comedy Central showcase is prime comfort viewing. It follows the titular Nora (Awkwafina) who, along with her cousin, father, and eccentric grandmother, tries to navigate life in Flushing, Queens. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Awkwafina Is Nora From Queens*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Awkwafina, Bowen Yang, Lori Tan Chinn, B.D. Wong, Jennifer Esposito

Barry (2018–2023)

Henry Winkler as Gene Cousineau in season 4 of 'Barry'. Merrick Morton/HBO

Bill Hader masterminded this highly decorated dark dramedy, which wrapped up its final season in 2023. There's no better time to binge the hilarious, often tragic exploits of its title character, a hitman (Hader) who worms his way into an acting class, and as a result, gets a second chance at life. As the batty instructor, Henry Winkler has rarely been better. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Barry*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** B+ (read the review)

**Cast:** Bill Hader, Henry Winkler, Sarah Goldberg, Stephen Root, Anthony Carrigan

Batman: The Animated Series (1992–1995)

Batman (voice: Kevin Conroy) on 'Batman: The Animated Series'. Warner Bros. Animation

As the streaming home of DC media, Max has numerous Batman films and shows on its platform. And while everyone has their preferred take on the character, few would argue that *Batman: The Animated Series* is top tier, if not the best. This is the gold standard for superhero television, from its striking visuals to the writing to its signature voice performances. —*Kevin Jacobsen***

Where to watch *Batman: The Animated Series*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Kevin Conroy, Efrem Zimbalist Jr., Loren Lester, Bob Hastings, Robert Costanzo, Mark Hamill, Arleen Sorkin

Big Little Lies (2017–2019)

Nicole Kidman as Celeste Wright, Shailene Woodley as Jane Chapman, and Reese Witherspoon as Madeline Mackenzie on 'Big Little Lies'. Hilary Bronwyn Gayle/HBO

The level of A-list talent on this Emmy-winning adaptation of Liane Moriarty's best-selling novel is still astonishing in retrospect. Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Shailene Woodley, Zoë Kravitz, and Laura Dern star as a group of five Monterey women involved in a murder investigation, though each has more than their fair share of drama in their personal lives, too. —*K.J.*

Where to watch *Big Little Lies*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Reese Witherspoon, Nicole Kidman, Shailene Woodley, Zoë Kravitz, Laura Dern, Alexander Skarsgård, Adam Scott, Iain Armitage, Kathryn Newton, Meryl Streep

Boardwalk Empire (2010–2014)

Steve Buscemi as Enoch 'Nucky' Thompson on 'Boardwalk Empire'. Macall B. Polay/HBO

Martin Scorsese and Terence Winter's rip-roaring prohibition-era crime epic follows Enoch "Nucky" Thompson (Steve Buscemi), Atlantic City's treasurer who also happens to supply its illicit liquor. Working with gangsters such as Al Capone and lining the pockets of the metropolitan elite, Nucky soon becomes the most fearsome figure on the East Coast — and one of the most notable television characters of the 2010s. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Boardwalk Empire*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** B+

**Cast:** Steve Buscemi, Michael Pitt, Michael Shannon, Kelly Macdonald, Gretchen Mol

Chernobyl (2019)

Stellan Skarsgård as Boris Shcherbina in 'Chernobyl'. Liam Daniel/HBO

You might not expect one of the worst nuclear tragedies in history to make for enjoyable, or even watchable, television. Yet Craig Mazin's searing limited series — a disaster drama deconstructing the calamity and its aftermath — manages to be all of those things. It's also one of the best-written shows in recent memory. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Chernobyl*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** A– (read the review)

**Cast:** Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgård, Jessie Buckley, Emily Watson

The Comeback (2005; 2014; 2026)

Lisa Kudrow as Valerie Cherish on 'The Comeback'. John P. Johnson/HBO

This terrifically uncomfortable mockumentary show (created by *Sex and the City*'s Michael Patrick King) had one season in 2005 before getting brought back for a fan-generated reboot in 2014. It was announced in June that *The Comeback* will come back (wink) for a third/final season in 2026. The series follows the hubristic exploits of faded actress Valerie Cherish (Lisa Kudrow) as she tries to get her career back on track with a hip new sitcom and a reality television crew in tow. *The Comeback* gives its star many opportunities to flex her significant comedy muscles in an edgier setting than *Friends* allowed for. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *The Comeback*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** N/A (read the review)

**Cast:** Lisa Kudrow, Malin Åkerman, Laura Silverman, Robert Michael Morris, Damian Young

Conan O’Brien Must Go (2024–present)

Conan O'Brien with a fan on 'Conan O'Brien Must Go'.

Celebrity-hosted travel shows seem to be more popular than ever, but few are as tailor-made for their host as *Conan O'Brien Must Go*. The series finds Conan O'Brien flying to various locales to meet fans in their home countries. Naturally, plenty of hijinks ensue as he indulges in local customs, from learning Irish slang to training in Muay Thai. —*K.J.*

Where to watch *Conan O'Brien Must Go*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Conan O'Brien

Curb Your Enthusiasm (2000–2024)

Gina Gershon as Anna and Larry David as himself on 'Curb Your Enthusiasm'. HBO

Larry David became everyone's favorite curmudgeonly father over 12 seasons of antagonism, so much so that his real life blends with that of his onscreen counterpart. *Curb* is ambling and often shapeless (especially as it goes along) but the general thread of Larry insulting everyone he encounters with seemingly innocuous remarks and igniting petty grievances somehow never gets old. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Curb Your Enthusiasm*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** A– (read the review)

**Cast:** Larry David, Jeff Garlin, Cheryl Hines, Susie Essman, J.B. Smoove

Deadwood (2004–2006)

Timothy Olyphant as Seth Bullock and Ian McShane as Al Swearengen in a press photo for 'Deadwood: The Movie'. James Minchin/HBO

Set in the lawless, Civil War-era mining town of the title, David Milch's startlingly violent (and profane) Western revitalized the genre across three seasons and a movie. It demonstrated that horse operas could be more than John Wayne, one-liners, and saloon brawls. Following an assortment of characters wandering through town to make a buck, *Deadwood* made stars out of Timothy Olyphant (as Sheriff Seth Bullock) and Ian McShane (as dastardly Al Swearengen). *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Deadwood*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** N/A (read the review)

**Cast:** Ian McShane, Timothy Olyphant, Robin Weigert, Molly Parker, Dayton Callie

Duster (2025–present)

Rachel Hilson as Nina Hayes and Josh Holloway as Jim Ellis on 'Duster'.

Ursula Coyote/Max

This thrillingly entertaining slice of '70s-era pulp sees Josh Holloway fully in his element as a swaggering Southwesterner. The *Lost* alum stars as Jim Ellis, a getaway driver who learns the crime syndicate boss (Keith David) he works for may have orchestrated the murder of his brother. He hesitantly agrees to help an intrepid FBI agent (Rachel Hilson) take his boss down, though this is far easier said than done. With a rockin' soundtrack and a charismatic lead performance from Holloway, *Duster* is a sunny throwback to the stylish crime shows of yesteryear. —*K.J.***

Where to watch *Duster*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Josh Holloway, Rachel Hilson, Keith David, Asivak Koostachin, Sydney Elisabeth, Benjamin Charles Watson, Camille Guaty, Adriana Aluna Martinez, Greg Grunberg**

Enlightened (2011–2013)

Laura Dern as Amy Jellicoe on 'Enlightened'.

Prashant Gupta/HBO/Courtesy Everett

One of HBO's most underrated series in its long legacy, *Enlightened* follows Amy Jellicoe (Laura Dern), a California woman who suffers a mental breakdown and is subsequently treated at a wellness facility. She emerges renewed as she returns to work, where she uncovers corporate malfeasance and becomes a self-proclaimed "agent of change." Dern has arguably never been better in her portrayal of all the beautiful complexities of Amy's messy life. —*K.J.*

Where to watch *Enlightened*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Laura Dern, Luke Wilson, Diane Ladd, Sarah Burns, Timm Sharp, Mike White

Euphoria (2019–present)

Nika King as Leslie Bennett and Zendaya as Rue Bennett on 'Euphoria'. Eddy Chen/HBO

Sam Levinson's signature series profiles a cadre of high schoolers living on the absolute razor's edge of humanity, indulging in drug use and sexual situations that would curl even Caligula's toes. It's harrowing viewing, and occasionally uncomfortable for the wrong reasons, but you'd be hard-pressed to stop watching. Season 3 is set to premiere in 2026. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Euphoria*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** B (read the review)

**Cast:** Zendaya, Sydney Sweeney, Hunter Schafer, Alexa Demie, Barbie Ferreira, Maude Apatow, Angus Cloud, Jacob Elordi

Fantasmas (2024–present)

Julio Torres as himself on 'Fantasmas'.

Julio Torres delivers his unique brand of surrealism in this eye-popping, mind-bending comedy. The multihyphenate stars in the series as himself, a writer living in a heavily corporatized future who must go on a quest to prove his existence or else be evicted from his home. The absurdism of the premise is a feature, not a bug, and Torres brings a similar level of imaginative style as his previous HBO series (*Los Espookys*) and his critically acclaimed film, *Problemista* (2024). Plus, be ready to spot numerous famous faces including Emma Stone, Natasha Lyonne, and Bowen Yang. —*K.J.*

Where to watch *Fantasmas*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Julio Torres, Martine Gutierrez, Tomas Matos, Joe Rumrill

Friends (1994–2004)

Matt LeBlanc as Joey Tribbiani, Courteney Cox as Monica Geller, Lisa Kudrow as Phoebe Buffay, Matthew Perry as Chandler Bing, Jennifer Aniston as Rachel Green, and David Schwimmer as Ross Geller on 'Friends'. Danny Feld/NBCU Photo Bank

The classic sitcom about six chums tryin' to make it in the Big Apple is available in its entirety on Max for all of your bingeing purposes. Not all of it has aged brilliantly, but some of it is funnier than you might remember. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Friends*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** A– (read the review)

**Cast:** Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, Lisa Kudrow, Matt LeBlanc, Matthew Perry, David Schwimmer

Full Circle (2023)

Zazie Beetz as Mel Harmony (right) in 'Full Circle'.

Steven Soderbergh directed this magnetic limited series — about a kidnapping in New York City and its ripple effects — is a tight, six-episode punch. Soderbergh is ultimately a humanist filmmaker, and that rings truer than ever in this labyrinth mystery which places its characters first. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Full Circle*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Claire Danes, Timothy Olyphant, Zazie Beetz, CCH Pounder, Dennis Quaid

Game of Thrones (2011–2019)

Emilia Clarke as Daenerys Targaryen on 'Game of Thrones'. HBO

The groundbreaking fantasy series about the various dynasties struggling for power over the Seven Kingdoms of Westeros is perhaps the network's best-known output after *The Sopranos*. Based on George R. R. Martin's tomes, *Game of Thrones* continues to captivate audiences. Now that the smoke has settled from its controversial final season, the show can be enjoyed on its own merits — which are substantial. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Game of Thrones*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** B (read the review)

**Cast:** Peter Dinklage, Kit Harington, Rose Leslie, Gwendoline Christie, Maisie Williams, Sophie Turner, Emilia Clarke, Lena Headey

Get Millie Black (2024)

Tamara Lawrance as Millie Black in 'Get Millie Black'.

Fernandez Hevia/HBO

"This crime story is old, but people make it new every day." So says Millie Black (Tamara Lawrance) in this engrossing limited series about a former Scotland Yard detective who returns to her Jamaican home. Joining the local police force, Millie is tasked with investigating the disappearance of a teenage girl named Janet, discovering a disturbing criminal underworld in the process. Lawrance's charismatic performance as the assertive Millie propels the five-episode series forward, and writer Marlon James is keenly interested in crafting a compelling character piece on top of a crime mystery. —*K.J.***

Where to watch *Get Millie Black*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Tamara Lawrance, Joe Dempsie, Gershwyn Eustache Jnr

The Gilded Age (2022–present)

Christine Baranski as Agnes van Rhijn on 'The Gilded Age'. Barbara Nitke/HBO

For those with a *Downton Abbey*-shaped hole in their heart, its creator Julian Fellowes has returned with this delicious, Emmy-nominated period piece. Set during the financial boom of New York City in the late-1800s, *The Gilded Age* centers on the conflict between old money and new money, as represented by sisters Agnes (Christine Baranski) and Ada (Cynthia Nixon) and married couple Bertha (Carrie Coon) and George (Morgan Spector), respectively. In the middle of it all is Agnes and Ada's niece Marian (Louisa Jacobson), who tries to maneuver the strict social mores of the time.

With "glitz, gorgeous costumes and sets, soapy drama, and biting one-liners," *The Gilded Age* is escapist fun for costume drama enthusiasts. Season 3 premiered on June 22, with a new episode airing every Sunday night through Aug. 10. —*K.J.***

Where to watch *The Gilded Age*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Carrie Coon, Morgan Spector, Louisa Jacobson, Cynthia Nixon, Christine Baranski, Denée Benton, Taissa Farmiga, Harry Richardson, Blake Ritson, Thomas Cocquerel, Simon Jones, Jack Gilpin

Hacks (2021–present)

Jean Smart as Deborah Vance and Hannah Einbinder as Ava Daniels on 'Hacks'. Karen Ballard/HBO Max

Jean Smart reinvigorated her career in the clever, barbed portrait of a Joan Rivers-style comedian trying to get her act back on track while mentoring a millennial (Hannah Einbinder) with a bad attitude. It walks a brilliant line between nostalgic showbiz paean and modern cringe-comedy. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Hacks*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** A– (read the review)

**Cast:** Jean Smart, Hannah Einbinder, Mark Indelicato, Paul W. Downs, Megan Stalter**

Harley Quinn (2019–present)

Harley Quinn (voiced by Kaley Cuoco) in the 'Harley Quinn' season 3 episode 'Batman Begins Forever'.

HBO/Courtesy Everett Collection

Much like 2020's *Birds of Prey*, *Harley Quinn* manages to get what was always so tantalizing about the character exactly right. Consistently, it seems, the best versions of superheroes are their animated counterparts. Kaley Cuoco makes a brilliant fit as the voice of Harley Quinn, a queenpin trying to carve out her independence in Gotham City. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Harley Quinn*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** A (read the review)

**Cast: **Kaley Cuoco, Lake Bell, Alan Tudyk, Tony Hale, Christopher Meloni

I Hate Suzie (2020–2022)

Billie Piper as Suzie Pickles (center) on 'I Hate Suzie'. HBO

Billie Piper stars as Suzie Pickles, a singer-turned-actress (like Piper) who has some nude photos of her leaked onto the internet (unlike Piper). The ensuing show is a darkly comic meditation on modern womanhood, celebrity, and the often uneasy entwinement of the two. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *I Hate Suzie*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** A (read the review)

**Cast:** Leila Farzad, Billie Piper, Daniel Ings, Nathaniel Martello-White, Chelsea Edge

I May Destroy You (2021)

Michaela Coel as Arabella Essiedu in 'I May Destroy You'. HBO

Michaela Coel's phenomenal, groundbreaking work stands as one of the most staggeringly original series HBO has shepherded. It's a powerful testament to recovery, friendship, and the power of writing as it follows Arabella (series creator and writer Coel) in the aftermath of a sexual assault. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *I May Destroy You*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** B (read the review)

**Cast:** Michaela Coel, Paapa Essiedu, Marouane Zotti, Weruche Opia, Lewis Reeves

Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show (2024–present)

Jerrod Carmichael on 'Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show'.

Courtesy of HBO

Following his coming out as gay in his 2022 comedy special *Rothaniel*, Jerrod Carmichael opens up his life to public scrutiny in this eye-opening reality series. The documentary series focuses on Carmichael embracing his sexuality more openly, figuring out his priorities, and struggling to find acceptance from his devoutly religious mother. "*Reality Show* feels like Carmichael’s attempt to force himself to change through radical, often excruciating transparency," EW's critic writes, "It's part performance art, part cognitive behavioral therapy." —*K.J.***

Where to watch *Jerrod Carmichael Reality Show*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** A– (read the review)

**Cast:** Jerrod Carmichael

The Knick (2014–2015)

Clive Owen as Dr. John W. 'Thack' Thackery (center) on 'The Knick'.

Steven Soderbergh's credible, rollicking tale of surgeons at New York's premier hospital at the turn of the 20th century might be the most underrated show here. It's equal parts historical drama, medical thriller, and body-horror — *Boardwalk Empire* by way of Cronenberg. It's the greatest television work yet from Soderbergh, one of the finer American filmmakers by some distance. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *The Knick*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** B+ (read the review)

**Cast:** Clive Owen, André Holland, Juliet Rylance, Jeremy Bobb, Eve Hewson

The 50 best movies on Max to make you a well-rounded cinephile

The 39 best TV shows to binge-watch right now

The Larry Sanders Show (1992–1998)

Rip Torn as Arthur, Garry Shandling as Larry Sanders, and Jeffrey Tambor as Hank Kingsley in a promotional photo for 'The Larry Sanders Show'. HBO

The original meta-comedy, *The Larry Sanders Show* details the narcissistic machinations of the eponymous character behind the scenes of his fake talk show. It's ground zero for many soon-to-be-influential comedians, including Judd Apatow and Janeane Garofalo. As the anchor, Garry Shandling is unimpeachable. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *The Larry Sanders Show*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Garry Shandling, Rip Torn, Jeffrey Tambor, Janeane Garofalo, Penny Johnson

The Last of Us (2023–present)

Pedro Pascal as Joel Miller and Bella Ramsey as Ellie on 'The Last of Us'. Liane Hentscher/HBO

This buzzy, apocalyptic zombie series — perhaps one of the best works ever based on a videogame — lit up HBO during its first season with unexpected storytelling and primal central chemistry between Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey. Season 2, which features a buzzy, game-changing moment in episode 2, concluded in May. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *The Last of Us*: HBO Max

**Cast: **Pedro Pascal, Bella Ramsey

Last Week Tonight With John Oliver (2014–present)

John Oliver hosting 'Last Week Tonight With John Oliver'. Eric Liebowitz/HBO

Comedian/commentator John Oliver has collected a boatload of Emmys for bringing his righteous, riotous perspective to the issues plaguing the world today, including hot-button topics like income inequality, ongoing wars, and reproductive rights, and deeper dives into the world of cryptocurrencies and televangelism. —*K.J.*

Where to watch *Last Week Tonight With John Oliver*: HBO Max

**Cast:** John Oliver

The Leftovers (2014–2017)

Regina King as Erika Murphy on 'The Leftovers'. Van Redin/HBO

Damon Lindelof's series details the aftermath of a mass event in which a small portion of the world's population suddenly disappears into thin air. Those that are left, are, well…you get it. The show spun three seasons of cerebral, compelling world-building which managed to more or less stick its landing without letting down the audience. It remains one of Justin Theroux's finest performances, a tantalizing mix of traditional leading-man bravado and humble vulnerability. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *The Leftovers*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** N/A (read the review)

**Cast:** Justin Theroux, Carrie Coon, Margaret Qualley, Amy Brenneman, Liv Tyler

Mare of Easttown (2014–2015)

Kate Winslet as Mare Sheehan (right) looks on as Julianne Nicholson as Lori Ross hugs Cameron Mann as Ryan Ross in 'Mare of Easttown'. Michele K. Short/HBO

Kate Winslet's brilliant performance (and another by Jean Smart) highlights this creepy, tragic examination of family grief. As the town detective, Mare (Winslet) traverses a fresh murder case that may link to a cold case — and could tie closer to her family than she ever considered. Director Craig Zobel infuses *Mare of Easttown* with such a specific sense of time and place that by the time you get to the end, you'll be craving a walk around the block in bright sunlight. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Mare of Easttown*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Kate Winslet, Angourie Rice, Evan Peters, Julianne Nicholson, Jean Smart

Olive Kitteridge (2014)

Frances McDormand as Olive Kitteridge in 'Olive Kitteridge'. Jojo Whilden

A cantankerous older woman impacts the lives of those in her small town in this four-part series. Adapted from Elizabeth Strout's Pulitzer Prize-winning novel of the same name, *Olive Kitteridge* tells the story of its title character (Frances McDormand) and her appeasing husband, Henry (Richard Jenkins), over multiple decades. Olive's bluntness has both positive and negative effects on those in her community and within her own home. Centering on relationships and the difficulties of life, the miniseries takes an understated, character-driven approach that rings true. *Olive Kitteridge* won eight Emmys, including Outstanding Limited Series. —*K.J.***

Where to watch* Olive Kitteridge*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Frances McDormand, Richard Jenkins, Zoe Kazan, Rosemarie DeWitt, John Gallagher Jr., Jesse Plemons, Bill Murray, Peter Mullan

Our Flag Means Death (2022–2023)

Taika Waititi as Edward Teach/Blackbeard and Rhys Darby as Stede Bonnet on 'Our Flag Means Death'. Aaron Epstein/HBO Max

This two-season favorite puts a comedic spin on the story of Stede Bonnet (Rhys Darby), a.k.a. the Gentleman Pirate. Forgoing his privileged life, Stede opts for one on the high seas as the captain of the *Revenge*. On their hapless adventures, Stede and his crew meet the notorious captain Blackbeard (Taika Waititi), but unexpected feelings emerge between the two very different leaders. The series quickly amassed a passionate fanbase throughout its first season, particularly for its depiction of LGBTQ characters. "What starts as a seemingly goofy sitcom soon reveals itself as something far more amorous," EW's critic writes, "and with far more heart." —*K.J.***

Where to watch* Our Flag Means Death*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Rhys Darby, Taika Waititi, Ewen Bremner, Joel Fry, Samson Kayo, Nathan Foad, Vico Ortiz, Matthew Maher, Kristian Nairn, Rory Kinnear, Con O'Neill, Guz Khan, David Fane, Samba Schutte

The Pitt (2025–present)

Noah Wyle as Dr. Michael 'Robby' Robinavitch and Shawn Hatosy as Dr. Jack Abbott on 'The Pitt'.

Warrick Page/Max

Not every medical drama, even those with long legacies, hits the ground running. *The Pitt*, on the other hand, feels fully formed as early as its first episode. The series finds *ER* star Noah Wyle returning to the world of medicine as Dr. Michael "Robby" Robinavitch, a senior attending physician supervising a chaotic Pittsburgh emergency room.

The first season takes place over the course of a single shift, where every split-second decision has life-or-death stakes. Told with bracing realism and populated with instantly memorable characters, *The Pitt* "takes a ruthlessly realistic approach to its depiction of our beleaguered/broken healthcare system," writes EW's critic. —*K.J.***

Where to watch *The Pitt*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** A– (read the review)

**Cast:** Noah Wyle, Tracy Ifeachor, Patrick Ball, Katherine LaNasa, Supriya Ganesh, Fiona Dourif, Taylor Dearden, Isa Briones, Gerran Howell, Shabana Azeez

Pushing Daisies (2007–2009)

Anna Friel as Charlotte 'Chuck' Charles and Lee Pace as Ned on 'Pushing Daisies'.

ABC/Adam Taylor

Peruse any list of shows that were canceled too soon and you're bound to find this shining gem that ended after two seasons on ABC. *Pushing Daisies* follows a gentle pie-maker named Ned (Lee Pace), who has the power to regenerate the dead for one minute without consequence — so long as he sticks to the time limit. He teams up with a private investigator to solve crimes, but things become complicated when Ned revives his childhood crush, Chuck (Anna Friel), and refuses to let her die permanently. Sugary-sweet with just the right hints of tart, *Pushing Daisies* is a visually arresting series that still lives on in our hearts. —*K.J.***

Where to watch* Pushing Daisies*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Lee Pace, Anna Friel, Chi McBride, Kristin Chenoweth, Ellen Greene, Swoosie Kurtz

The Rehearsal (2022–present)

Nathan Fielder as himself (center) on 'The Rehearsal'. HBO

Nathan Fielder's uproarious, genuinely unbelievable show — in which he prepares everyday people for uncomfortable conversations and personal milestones by holding a rehearsal of the event — lies somewhere between a sketch program and hidden camera show. It unfolds in such a way that it is indescribable. However, it's sure to get you both laughing and cringing in equal measure. After a three-year break, *The Rehearsal* returned for season 2 in April. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *The Rehearsal*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Nathan Fielder

Sex and the City (1998–2004)

Cynthia Nixon as Miranda Hobbes, Kristin Davis as Charlotte York, Sarah Jessica Parker as Carrie Bradshaw, and Kim Cattrall as Samantha Jones in a promotional photo for 'Sex and the City'. Patrick Demarchelier/HBO

Though it began as a hipper, more barbed comedy than the fairy tale it would become, *Sex and the City* managed to remain consistent throughout its six seasons. It was somewhat radical in its depiction of Miranda's (Cynthia Nixon) unwary motherhood, while Carrie's (Sarah Jessica Parker) indecision over Mr. Big (boo, and indeed hiss) and Aidan (The One) can still generate conversation. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Sex and the City*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis, Cynthia Nixon

Six Feet Under (2001–2005)

(Clockwise from lower left): Freddy Rodriguez as Federico Diaz, Mathew St. Patrick as Keith Charles, Michael C. Hall as David Fisher, Lauren Ambrose as Claire Fisher, Peter Krause as Nate Fisher, Richard Jenkins as Nathaniel Fisher Sr., Rachel Griffiths as Brenda Chenowith, and Jeremy Sisto as Billy Chenowith in a promotional photo for 'Six Feet Under'. Everett Collection

Being depressed was never quite as fun as it was on *Six Feet Under*. Creator Alan Ball's tale of the Fisher family, who own a particularly busy funeral parlor in Los Angeles, is his masterwork. It's a perfect combination of his morose whimsy and dark social satire. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Six Feet Under*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** N/A (read the review)

**Cast:** Peter Krause, Frances Conroy, Lauren Ambrose, Michael C. Hall, Rachel Griffiths

Somebody Somewhere (2022–2024)

Jeff Hiller as Joel and Bridget Everett as Sam on 'Somebody Somewhere'.

Sandy Morris/HBO

Sam (Bridget Everett) is a woman in her 40s who feels out of place in her Kansas hometown. Following the death of her older sister, she struggles emotionally, until she finds comfort in her co-worker Joel (Jeff Hiller) and goes on a path of self-discovery and finds a sense of belonging. What could have been cheesy and sentimental is instead a quietly humanistic dramedy about the bonds we make, the need for platonic friendship, and the power of putting yourself out there. —*K.J.***

Where to watch *Somebody Somewhere*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Bridget Everett, Jeff Hiller, Mary Catherine Garrison, Danny McCarthy, Mike Hagerty, Murray Hill**

The Sopranos (1999–2007)

James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano and Michael Imperioli as Christopher Moltisanti in a promotional photo for 'The Sopranos'. Anthony Neste/Getty

A show about gangsters and the mafia for those who aren't at all interested in either subject, *The Sopranos* still remains HBO's landmark series. It's fantastically well written, occasionally hard to watch, but often surprisingly warm and funny. Taking the standard Scorsese model and transposing it into a warped suburban dramedy, the lauded saga follows mobster Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini) as he navigates panic attacks in therapy, home life with his fiery wife Carmela (Edie Falco), and New Jersey's criminal underworld. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *The Sopranos*: HBO Max

**EW grade: **A

**Cast:** James Gandolfini, Edie Falco, Michael Imperioli, Tony Sirico, Lorraine Bracco

South Park (1997–present)

Stan (voice: Trey Parker), Kyle (voice: Matt Stone), Cartman (voice: Trey Parker), and Kenny (voice: Matt Stone) on 'South Park'. Comedy Central

Trey Parker and Matt Stone's everlasting series about a cadre of foul-mouth school chums has spoofed current events — seemingly in real time — since 1997 (plus a movie). You'd be hard-pressed to find a show that has more cultural relevance or staying power than *South Park*. The work has a reputation for being ceaselessly vulgar (which, in fairness, it is) but what many people don't discuss is how clever it is, too. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *South Park*: HBO Max

**Cast: **Trey Parker, Matt Stone, Isaac Hayes, April Stewart, Adrien Beard**

Station Eleven (2021–2022)

Hamish Patel as Jeevan Chaudhary and Matilda Lawler as Young Kirsten in 'Station Eleven'. Parrish Lewis/HBO Max

Based upon Emily St. John Mandel's novel of the same name, this all-too-credible postapocalyptic drama follows survivors of a devastating pandemic as they try to rebuild what's left of society. The show is patiently paced, mirroring its source material, and though the premise is largely horrific, *Station Eleven* is guided by a sense of hope and optimism. Perhaps its biggest asset is how eminently bingeable it is, though you wouldn't think that at first brush. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Station Eleven*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Mackenzie Davis, Himesh Patel, Daniel Zovatto, David Wilmot, Matilda Lawler

Succession (2018–2023)

Kieran Culkin as Roman Roy on 'Succession'. Macall B. Polay/HBO

The saga of the Roy (definitely not Murdoch) family, which unfolded over four fraught seasons, provided Max viewers on the internet at large with much to discuss. We won't spoil anything here, because it's all just so good. *Succession* is modern-day Shakespeare with better suits. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Succession*: HBO Max

**EW grade: **A (read the review)

**Cast:** Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook, Kieran Culkin, Matthew Macfadyen

True Detective (2014–present)

Woody Harrelson as Det. Marty Hart in season 1 of 'True Detective'. Jim Bridges/HBO

No one will argue that *True Detective* is consistent across its anthology seasons, but all four have their attributes. Season 1 is undoubtedly the best, a cryptic and chilly serial killer thriller with dashes of the occult and supernatural. But seasons 2 and 3, which follow more traditional pulp trajectories, contain boundless thrills and some genuinely innovative narrative turns. Then there's season 4, subtitled *Night Country*, which embraces the supernatural and centers primarily on women, compared to its masculine-heavy predecessors. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *True Detective*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** A

**Cast:** **season 1:** Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson; **season 2:** Colin Farrell, Rachel McAdams, Taylor Kitsch, Vince Vaughn; **season 3:** Mahershala Ali; **season 4:** Jodie Foster, Kali Reis

Veep (2012–2019)

Gary Cole as Kent Davison and Peter MacNicol as Jeff Kane on 'Veep'. HBO

If *The West Wing* is too saccharine for you, try *Veep*. Julia Louis-Dreyfus anchors this over-the-top satire as an under-appreciated vice president who seems to be met by embarrassment at every turn. Its depiction of bumbling, fumbling White House staff used to seem gleefully exaggerated until 2016, when real headlines quickly eclipsed *Veep*'s manic imagination. As foul-mouthed ensemble comedies go, there really isn't anything better. *Veep* gives you something to chew on while providing the giggles of an over-caffeinated adolescent. *—D.G*

Where to watch *Veep*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** B+ (read the review)

**Cast:** Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Anna Chlumsky, Matt Walsh, Tony Hale, Timothy Simons

Watchmen (2019)

Regina King as Angela Abar in 'Watchmen'. Mark Hill/HBO

Quite possibly the best thing to have Damon Lindelof's name on it, this adaptation of Alan Moore's seminal graphic novel redeems the much-derided 2009 movie. In a world where superheroes have been outlawed, the eponymous vigilantes struggle to fight for what's right. Featuring yet another terrific performance by Jean Smart, along with wonderful Emmy-winning turns by Regina King and Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, *Watchmen* sucker-punched audiences with its potent blend of popcorn entertainment and social commentary. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Watchmen*: HBO Max

**EW grade:** A– (read the review)

**Cast: **Regina King, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Jean Smart, Don Johnson, Jeremy Irons

The West Wing (1999–2006)

Richard Schiff as Toby Ziegler, Dulé Hill as Charlie Young, Allison Janney as C.J. Cregg, John Spencer as Leo McGarry, Martin Sheen as Jed Bartlet, Rob Lowe as Sam Seaborn, Janel Maloney as Donna Moss, and Bradley Whitford as Josh Lyman in a promotional photo for 'The West Wing'. NBCU Photo Bank/Getty Images

The show that single-handedly revitalized walking and talking in hallways, Aaron Sorkin's whip-smart dramedy follows the president (Martin Sheen) and his White House staffers. *The West Wing* fashions a world of politics we all wish was real. Sure, there are disagreements, but it's nothing a quickly delivered, inspired monologue can't handle. Plus, everyone looks so damn handsome doing it. —*D.G.*****Where to watch *The West Wing*: HBO Max******Cast:** Martin Sheen, Rob Lowe, Allison Janney, Bradley Whitford, Richard Schiff

The White Lotus (2021–present)

Jon Gries as Greg Hunt and Jennifer Coolidge as Tanya McQuoid on 'The White Lotus'. Photograph by Fabio Lovino/HBO

Mike White's series about privileged vacationers descending on a gorgeous but unlucky locale is predominantly spoken of for Jennifer Coolidge's involvement, but it must be said that each season is one of the finest ensemble drama/comedy/mystery mash-ups in recent memory. Plus, the scenery can't be beat. The Thailand-set third season concluded in April. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *The White Lotus*: HBO Max

**EW grade: **B+ (read the review)

**Cast:** Jennifer Coolidge, Natasha Rothwell, Murray Bartlett, Connie Britton, Alexandra Daddario, Jake Lacy, Sydney Sweeney; **season 2:** F. Murray Abraham, Meghann Fahy, Michael Imperioli, Theo James, Haley Lu Richardson, Will Sharpe; **season 3:** Leslie Bibb, Carrie Coon, Walton Goggins, Jason Isaacs, Michelle Monaghan, Parker Posey, Patrick Schwarzenegger

Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty (2022–2023)

DeVaughn Nixon as Norm Nixon, Quincy Isaiah as Magic Johnson, and Delante Desouza as Michael Cooper on 'Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty'. Warrick Page/HBO

Adam McKay's propulsive, imaginative series about the rise of the Lakers under Jerry Buss is a spirited recollection of the period. It's brilliantly shot to evoke its era, features some of John C Reilly's most nuanced work, and is sorely missed in the wake of its premature cancellation. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *Winning Time: The Rise of the Lakers Dynasty*: HBO Max

**Cast: **John C. Reilly, Quincy Isaiah, Gaby Hoffmann, Jason Clarke, Adrien Brody, Rob Morgan, Jason Segel, Sally Field

The Wire (2002–2008)

Dominic West as Jimmy McNulty on 'The Wire'. HBO

David Simon's bracing, quintessentially gritty urban thriller following cops and criminals on the streets of Baltimore is one of the most understated police dramas to air on television. It's also one of the most richly played, supplying all characters big and small with complete, satisfying arcs. *—D.G.*

Where to watch *The Wire*: HBO Max

**Cast:** Dominic West, Michael K. Williams, Lance Reddick, Felicia Pearson, Idris Elba

Original Article on Source

Source: “AOL TV”