Unforgettable TV: The Best Shows Of The Last 5 Years

In an era often dubbed the "golden age of television," the sheer volume of high-quality, compelling narratives available to viewers is nothing short of astounding. Gone are the days when a handful of network shows dominated the cultural conversation; today, we navigate a vast ocean of content, with streaming platforms and traditional broadcasters alike vying for our attention. This explosion of creativity means that identifying the true standouts – the very best shows of the last 5 years – has become both a delightful challenge and a necessary quest for anyone looking to invest their precious viewing time wisely.

From tightly woven miniseries that deliver complete stories in a few episodes to sprawling fantasy epics that build entire worlds, the past half-decade has gifted us with an unparalleled array of storytelling excellence. With an astonishing 600 original scripted shows airing in 2022 alone, the task of sifting through the good, the great, and the truly exceptional can feel overwhelming. Yet, it's a luxury born from an abundance of talent and innovation. This article aims to guide you through the cream of the crop, highlighting the series that have captivated critics and audiences alike, solidifying their place among the best shows of the last 5 years.

Table of Contents

• The Unprecedented Deluge of Quality Television
• Miniseries: The Art of the Tightly Woven Narrative
• Thriller Series: Keeping Us on the Edge of Our Seats
• Sitcoms: Finding Laughter in a Complex World
• Docuseries: Unveiling Real-Life Stories
• Anime: A Global Phenomenon
• Fantasy & Sci-Fi Epics: Building New Worlds
  • The Mandalorian: A Star Wars Saga Reimagined
  • The Witcher: Dark Fantasy Done Right
  • Kingdom: Zombies in Feudal Korea
• Unique & Genre-Bending Masterpieces
  • The Traitors UK: A Masterclass in Deception
  • Other Standouts: Beyond the Mainstream
• Conclusion: The Ever-Evolving Landscape of Television Excellence

The Unprecedented Deluge of Quality Television

The landscape of television has transformed dramatically over the past five years. What was once a relatively contained industry has exploded into a global content powerhouse, churning out an astonishing number of original productions. As one data point reveals, there were "600 original scripted shows airing on broadcast, cable and streaming in 2022 alone." This statistic alone underscores the immense challenge in compiling a definitive list of the best shows of the last 5 years. It’s a testament to the creativity and investment pouring into the medium that such a high volume of compelling narratives can coexist. This sheer abundance means that viewers are constantly discovering new favorites, and the conversation around "what's on TV" is richer and more dynamic than ever before. It's a true luxury to have so many critically acclaimed options at our fingertips, making the selection process for the ultimate list of the best shows of the last 5 years a truly demanding, yet rewarding, endeavor.

Miniseries: The Art of the Tightly Woven Narrative

In recent years, television has experienced a significant shift, with a particular emphasis on captivating miniseries. These self-contained narratives offer a unique appeal: they deliver a complete, tightly woven story without the commitment of multiple seasons. This format allows for focused storytelling, often with high production values and top-tier talent, ensuring that every episode is essential to the plot. The "10 best miniseries of the last 5 years" have consistently demonstrated the power of this format, proving that a shorter run can often lead to a more impactful and memorable viewing experience. Viewers seeking deeply immersive yet concise storytelling have found their niche here. From historical dramas to contemporary thrillers, miniseries have become a go-to for those who appreciate a definitive beginning, middle, and end, solidifying their place among the best shows of the last 5 years for their narrative precision and emotional punch.

Thriller Series: Keeping Us on the Edge of Our Seats

Few genres grip an audience quite like the thriller, and the past five years have seen an explosion of exceptional series designed to keep us on the edge of our seats. As "more and more new thriller shows premiere," the competition to deliver suspense, intricate plots, and shocking twists has intensified, resulting in some truly standout productions. Our ranking of the "best thriller series since 2019" includes shows that masterfully build tension, create compelling mysteries, and often delve into the psychological depths of their characters. A prime example that has garnered significant attention is Lupin, a French mystery thriller that combines clever heists with a charming protagonist, captivating audiences worldwide. These series often explore themes of deception, justice, and the dark corners of human nature, making them incredibly compelling. The best way to enjoy these thrillers is to surrender to their twists and turns, allowing them to unravel at their own pace, proving why they are consistently counted among the best shows of the last 5 years.

Sitcoms: Finding Laughter in a Complex World

Amidst the high-stakes dramas and intense thrillers, the humble sitcom continues to hold a vital place in the television landscape, offering much-needed levity and comfort. The past five years have proven that the format is far from stale, with a fresh wave of comedies earning their spot among the "best sitcoms since 2019." These shows demonstrate the enduring power of laughter, whether through witty dialogue, relatable characters, or absurd situations. They often serve as a mirror to contemporary life, tackling social issues with humor and heart, or simply providing an escape into a world of pure comedic joy. The best sitcoms of this period have managed to innovate within the traditional multi-camera or single-camera formats, finding new ways to make us laugh, reflect, and sometimes even shed a tear. Their ability to consistently deliver engaging characters and memorable punchlines makes them an essential component of any list celebrating the best shows of the last 5 years, reminding us that sometimes, the best way to deal with life's complexities is with a good laugh.

Docuseries: Unveiling Real-Life Stories

The last few years have witnessed a remarkable surge in the popularity and quality of docuseries, transforming the way we consume non-fiction storytelling. These extended documentary formats delve deep into real-life events, true crime, historical narratives, and social phenomena, often with unprecedented access and compelling narrative structures. With "over 300 TV viewers" voting on the "900+ shows on best docuseries of the last few years," it's clear that this genre has struck a chord with audiences eager for insightful and often shocking glimpses into reality. Series like Escaping Twin Flames and Keep Sweet: Pray and Obey, mentioned in the data, exemplify the kind of gripping, investigative storytelling that defines the best of this category. They tackle sensitive and complex subjects with journalistic rigor, shedding light on hidden worlds and challenging our perceptions. The rise of the docuseries highlights a collective interest in understanding the world around us, making these factual explorations indispensable when discussing the best shows of the last 5 years.

Anime: A Global Phenomenon

Once considered a niche interest, anime has firmly established itself as a global cultural phenomenon, with its intricate storytelling, diverse genres, and stunning animation captivating audiences worldwide. The past five years have been particularly fruitful for the medium, producing a wealth of critically acclaimed and hugely popular series. Our data highlights "The 15 best anime series from the past 5 years, ranked," underscoring the immense quality and variety available. From action-packed shonen to introspective slice-of-life dramas, and complex fantasy epics, anime offers something for every taste. Its unique visual language and often profound thematic depth set it apart, pushing the boundaries of what television storytelling can achieve. The global accessibility of streaming platforms has played a crucial role in its explosion in popularity, allowing these vibrant narratives to reach new audiences. The consistent innovation and storytelling prowess make anime an undeniable force among the best shows of the last 5 years, proving its universal appeal.

Fantasy & Sci-Fi Epics: Building New Worlds

The past five years have continued the tradition of grand-scale fantasy and science fiction epics, building on the legacy of groundbreaking series and introducing new worlds for viewers to get lost in. These shows often represent the pinnacle of television production, combining intricate lore, stunning visual effects, and compelling character arcs. While Game of Thrones concluded within this five-year window, its influence on shows like Vikings, Shadow and Bone, and The Last Kingdom is evident in their ambitious world-building and complex narratives. These series transport us to reimagined pasts or near futures, where "every human appetite can be indulged without consequence," or where "a family saga with a supernatural twist" unfolds. They are often the most talked-about and highly anticipated releases, proving that the appetite for escapist, immersive storytelling is stronger than ever. These sprawling sagas are consistently recognized among the best shows of the last 5 years for their sheer ambition and often breathtaking execution.

The Mandalorian: A Star Wars Saga Reimagined

Emerging from the beloved Star Wars universe, The Mandalorian quickly became a cultural touchstone, redefining what a space western could be. Its episodic structure, compelling lone-wolf protagonist, and the undeniable charm of Grogu (Baby Yoda) captured the hearts of millions. The series expertly blends classic Western tropes with the rich lore of Star Wars, delivering a fresh yet familiar experience. Its groundbreaking use of virtual production technology also set new standards for television, allowing for stunning visual effects and expansive environments. The Mandalorian proved that the best way to expand a beloved franchise is often by focusing on new characters and smaller, more personal stories within its vast universe, cementing its status as one of the best shows of the last 5 years.

The Witcher: Dark Fantasy Done Right

This adaptation of the popular book series by Andrzej Sapkowski, and the wildly successful video games, plunged viewers into a gritty, morally ambiguous world filled with monsters, magic, and political intrigue. The Witcher quickly distinguished itself with its compelling characters, particularly Geralt of Rivia, and its non-linear storytelling in its early seasons. It embraces the dark and often brutal nature of its source material, offering a mature take on fantasy that resonates with a broad audience. The series has successfully translated the complex lore and rich character development from its literary origins to the screen, making it a powerful contender among the best shows of the last 5 years for fans of epic, character-driven fantasy.

Kingdom: Zombies in Feudal Korea

A truly unique entry, Kingdom brilliantly merges historical drama with the zombie apocalypse genre, setting its terrifying narrative in feudal Korea. This series stands out for its stunning cinematography, intricate political conspiracies, and truly terrifying zombie hordes. It's a masterclass in tension-building and character development, exploring themes of power, class, and survival against a backdrop of breathtaking historical detail. Kingdom is a testament to the global reach and diverse storytelling capabilities of modern television, offering a fresh take on a familiar monster genre by grounding it in a rich historical setting. Its innovative blend of genres and high production values make it a memorable and impactful addition to the list of the best shows of the last 5 years.

Unique & Genre-Bending Masterpieces

Beyond the established genres, the last five years have also given us a host of shows that defy easy categorization, pushing the boundaries of television storytelling. These are the series that experiment with format, blend genres, or simply offer a perspective so fresh and original that they stand alone. They often become critical darlings and cult favorites, proving that innovation is still at the heart of the medium. Whether it's a groundbreaking game show or a quirky dramedy, these unique masterpieces contribute significantly to the richness of the current TV landscape. Their ability to surprise and delight audiences with their unconventional approaches ensures their place among the best shows of the last 5 years, demonstrating that sometimes, the best way to capture attention is to break the mold entirely.

The Traitors UK: A Masterclass in Deception

Sometimes, the best shows aren't scripted dramas at all. The Traitors UK has been hailed as "the best game show of the last few years," and for good reason. It starts with 22 contestants who must complete a number of challenges to win a substantial cash prize, but with a crucial twist: a few "traitors" are secretly among them, tasked with "murdering" other contestants. The show is a fascinating psychological experiment, a thrilling blend of strategy, deception, and social dynamics. Its success lies in its ability to create genuine suspense and compelling human drama, making viewers question everyone's motives. The sheer entertainment value and the brilliant execution of its premise make The Traitors UK a surprising but deserving entry among the best shows of the last 5 years, proving that reality television, when done right, can be just as captivating as any scripted drama.

Other Standouts: Beyond the Mainstream

While we've touched upon major genres and specific examples, the sheer volume of quality television means countless other series deserve recognition. From "the 10 best British TV shows of the last decade" to critically acclaimed movies that have crossed over into series, the depth of content is staggering. Many personal "favorite shows from the last decade were Netflix originals that got cancelled with no (or very bad and rushed) resolutions," highlighting the bittersweet nature of the streaming era. Yet, even with these disappointments, the overall quality remains high. These "other standouts" might include innovative animated series for adults, thought-provoking sci-fi anthologies, or intimate character studies that resonate deeply. They are the hidden gems and the quiet triumphs that collectively elevate the entire medium, ensuring that the list of the best shows of the last 5 years is always expanding and evolving.

Conclusion: The Ever-Evolving Landscape of Television Excellence

Navigating the vast and vibrant world of television in the last five years has been an exhilarating journey. From the tightly crafted narratives of miniseries to the expansive worlds of fantasy epics, and from the psychological thrills of crime dramas to the comforting embrace of sitcoms, the sheer quality and diversity of content have never been greater. The challenge of identifying the "best shows of the last 5 years" is a testament to this golden age of storytelling, where innovation flourishes and creative boundaries are constantly being pushed.

Whether you're drawn to the intense realism of docuseries, the global appeal of anime, or the intricate web of a good thriller, there's undoubtedly a masterpiece waiting for you. We've highlighted just a fraction of the incredible talent and dedication that goes into creating these unforgettable viewing experiences. Now, it's your turn: which series have captivated you the most? What do you consider to be the best shows of the last 5 years? Share your thoughts in the comments below, or better yet, pick one of the shows mentioned and embark on your next binge-watching adventure. The best way to appreciate this era of television is to dive in and discover the stories that resonate most with you. Happy watching!