HBO has been a powerhouse of original programming since the early 1980s, earning a reputation for producing some of the most acclaimed dramas and comedies in television history. Long before the streaming era brought us Max, the network delivered masterpieces like Six Feet Under and The Sopranos. These shows have left an indelible mark on pop culture, inspiring countless series that followed. According to IMDb's Top 250 TV Shows list, HBO dominates with entries that have become benchmarks for quality storytelling. Here's a look at the top 10 HBO series, ranked by IMDb user ratings.
10. 'Oz' (1997–2003) — IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
Despite its name, Oz has nothing to do with the Wizard of Oz—unless you count the prison's nickname, Emerald City. This gritty drama was HBO's first one-hour series, running for six seasons. Set in the fictional Oswald State Correctional Facility, it launched the careers of J. K. Simmons and featured Edie Falco. Unlike other prison shows, Oz portrayed all inmates as guilty, adding a layer of moral complexity. Its raw intensity paved the way for later HBO hits.
9. 'Rome' (2005–2007) — IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
A co-production with the BBC, Rome was one of HBO's most expensive series, costing $10 million per episode. It chronicled the rise of the Roman Empire in the 1st century BC, blending historical figures like Julius Caesar and Cleopatra with the stories of two soldiers, Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo. Despite winning four Emmys, the show was canceled after two seasons due to high costs and declining viewership. Plans for a film sequel never materialized.
8. 'Six Feet Under' (2001–2005) — IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
Widely praised for having one of the best series finales ever, Six Feet Under follows the Fisher family as they run a funeral home after the patriarch's death. This dramedy balances grief with dark humor, earning nine Emmys and a Peabody Award. The cast includes Peter Krause, Michael C. Hall (later of Dexter), and Justina Machado. It's a show that makes you laugh while contemplating life and death.
7. 'Curb Your Enthusiasm' (1999–2024) — IMDb Rating: 8.8/10
Larry David's semi-autobiographical comedy ran for 12 seasons, with most dialogue improvised from loose storylines. The show features celebrity guests playing exaggerated versions of themselves, alongside a regular cast including Cheryl Hines and Jeff Garlin. Despite 55 Emmy nominations, it won only twice, but its influence on improvisational comedy is undeniable.
6. 'Succession' (2018–2023) — IMDb Rating: 8.8/10
This Shakespearean drama about the Roy family's battle for control of a media empire became a cultural phenomenon. Brian Cox leads as Logan Roy, with Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook, and Kieran Culkin delivering powerhouse performances. The show's biting satire of wealth and power, combined with intense emotional stakes, made it a critical darling. For more top-tier TV, check out our list of Top 10 Thriller TV Series of the Past Decade, Ranked.
5. 'Band of Brothers' (2001) — IMDb Rating: 9.4/10
This miniseries about Easy Company during World War II is often hailed as one of the greatest war dramas ever. Produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, it earned critical acclaim for its realism and emotional depth. Its IMDb rating reflects its enduring legacy.
4. 'The Wire' (2002–2008) — IMDb Rating: 9.3/10
Set in Baltimore, The Wire explores the drug trade, law enforcement, and systemic issues with unparalleled depth. Each season focuses on a different facet of the city, from the docks to the schools. Its realistic portrayal and complex characters have made it a favorite among critics and fans alike.
3. 'The Sopranos' (1999–2007) — IMDb Rating: 9.2/10
Tony Soprano's journey as a mob boss struggling with anxiety redefined television antiheroes. The show's blend of family drama and organized crime, along with its iconic ending, cemented its place in TV history. It won 21 Emmys and remains a benchmark for prestige TV.
2. 'Game of Thrones' (2011–2019) — IMDb Rating: 9.2/10
Based on George R.R. Martin's novels, this fantasy epic became a global phenomenon. Its intricate politics, shocking twists, and massive scale drew millions of viewers. Despite a divisive final season, its earlier seasons are considered some of the best TV ever made.
1. 'Chernobyl' (2019) — IMDb Rating: 9.3/10
This miniseries about the 1986 nuclear disaster is a harrowing look at human error and cover-ups. With a 9.3 rating, it's the highest-ranked HBO show on IMDb. Its meticulous storytelling and haunting visuals earned it numerous awards, including 10 Emmys.
These shows represent the best of HBO's legacy, from groundbreaking dramas to unforgettable comedies. For more great TV, explore our ranking of Netflix's Best Miniseries Under 6 Episodes.
