When we think of the golden age of television, HBO is often the first name that comes to mind. Since 1990, the premium network has been a trailblazer, pushing boundaries and setting new standards for storytelling. From gritty crime dramas to razor-sharp comedies, HBO has produced an astonishing array of shows that have not only entertained but also reshaped the medium. Here, we rank the 36 best HBO series since 1990, celebrating the ones that truly define the network's legacy.
The Pioneers of Prestige
Before the turn of the millennium, HBO was already experimenting with edgier content. Shows like Oz (1997) broke ground with its unflinching look at prison life, while The Larry Sanders Show (1992) redefined the talk-show parody. But it was The Sopranos (1999) that truly changed the game. David Chase's mob drama, starring the late James Gandolfini, was a cultural phenomenon that proved television could rival cinema in ambition and quality. Its complex antihero, Tony Soprano, became an icon, and the show's influence is still felt today.
The 2000s: A Decade of Masterpieces
The 2000s were a golden era for HBO. The Wire (2002) is often cited as the greatest TV show ever made, a sprawling, unflinching examination of Baltimore's institutions. Deadwood (2004) brought the Old West to life with Shakespearean dialogue and moral complexity. Six Feet Under (2001) blended family drama with existential themes, culminating in one of the most beloved series finales in history. And Curb Your Enthusiasm (2000) proved that Larry David's neurotic humor could sustain a decade-long run.
The 2010s: Epic Fantasy and Political Satire
As the 2010s rolled in, HBO continued to dominate. Game of Thrones (2011) became a global juggernaut, a fantasy epic that broke viewership records and sparked countless debates. Its production values were unprecedented for television, and its ensemble cast became household names. Meanwhile, Veep (2012) offered a biting, profane look at American politics, with Julia Louis-Dreyfus delivering a tour-de-force performance that earned her six consecutive Emmys. Succession (2018) then took the corporate drama to new heights, exploring the ruthless dynamics of a media dynasty with sharp writing and impeccable acting.
Miniseries and Hidden Gems
HBO has also excelled in the miniseries format. Chernobyl (2019) was a harrowing, meticulously crafted account of the nuclear disaster, while The Night Of (2016) delved into the criminal justice system. Watchmen (2019) reimagined the graphic novel with a timely racial allegory. And let's not forget Barry (2018), a dark comedy about a hitman turned actor, which showcased Bill Hader's range. These shows, along with many others, demonstrate HBO's commitment to diverse, high-quality storytelling.
The Ranking
Ranking these shows is no easy task, but after much deliberation, here are our top 10:
- The Sopranos (1999-2007) – The definitive crime drama that started it all.
- The Wire (2002-2008) – A masterpiece of social commentary.
- Game of Thrones (2011-2019) – Epic fantasy at its most ambitious.
- Succession (2018-2023) – A modern classic about power and family.
- Deadwood (2004-2006) – A gritty, poetic Western.
- Six Feet Under (2001-2005) – A profound exploration of life and death.
- Veep (2012-2019) – The sharpest political satire on TV.
- Chernobyl (2019) – A chilling, essential miniseries.
- Barry (2018-2023) – A darkly comedic triumph.
- Watchmen (2019) – A bold, thought-provoking adaptation.
These shows, along with the many others that didn't make the cut, have solidified HBO's reputation as the home of the best television has to offer. Whether you're in the mood for a gripping crime saga, a laugh-out-loud comedy, or a thought-provoking drama, HBO has something for everyone. And with new hits like Line of Duty's upcoming season on the horizon, the network shows no signs of slowing down.
For more on the best of television, check out our list of the most rewatchable thriller series and top-ranked Westerns. And if you're a fan of crime stories, you might enjoy our take on Goodfellas' iconic opening.
