House stood out from other medical dramas with its sharp, cynical lead, who cared more about solving the mystery than bedside manners. Hugh Laurie’s performance turned Gregory House into one of TV’s most unforgettable characters, equal parts brilliant and abrasive. With every case bringing new puzzles and moral dilemmas, the show kept audiences hooked for years. | © Fox
Futurama took the sharp wit of The Simpsons and pushed it into a wild sci-fi future. Following Fry, Bender, and Leela through space deliveries and bizarre inventions, the show mixed clever humor with surprisingly heartfelt moments. Its quirky cast and smart writing made it one of the most memorable animated comedies of the 2000s. | © 20th Television
Prison Break hooked audiences with the story of two brothers, one on death row for a crime he didn’t commit, the other masterminding a plan to break him out. Michael Scofield’s genius schemes, along with a cast of memorable allies and enemies, made every episode tense and addictive. Even after the escape, the chase and deeper conspiracy kept the show thrilling through its run. | © 20th Television
Arrested Development became a cult hit thanks to its sharp writing and perfectly cast ensemble. Jason Bateman grounds the chaos as Michael Bluth, trying to hold together his wildly dysfunctional family, while characters like GOB, George Sr., and George Michael bring constant absurdity. Packed with running gags, clever jokes, and fast-paced humor, it’s one of the smartest comedies of the 2000s. | © Fox Network
Gossip Girl was messy, addictive, and impossible to turn off once you started. The mix of betrayals, secrets, and backstabbing could get repetitive, but the drama always found a way to pull you back in. Between the glamorous setting, surprising twists, and a cast full of rising stars, it became one of the most talked-about shows of the 2000s. | © Warner Bros. Television
Gilmore Girls stood out for its sharp writing and the rare, open bond between a mother and daughter at its center. Lorelai and Rory’s quick banter, along with the quirky residents of Stars Hollow, made the show warm and endlessly entertaining. Between small-town festivals, high-society drama, and heartfelt relationships, it captured both humor and heart in a way that still feels comforting to watch. | © Warner Bros. Television
Scrubs was more than just a goofy hospital sitcom; it mixed quick, offbeat humor with some of the most heartfelt TV moments of the 2000s. J.D.’s fantasies and constant narration gave the show its own quirky style, while the Janitor and other side characters kept things unpredictable. For all the laughs, episodes like My Screwup or My Lunch showed it could break your heart just as easily as it made you laugh. | © ABC
Six Feet Under stands out for how honestly it captures every part of life: love, loss, anger, and everything in between. Each episode pulls you deeper into the Fisher family’s world, where even the strangest moments feel real and relatable. Its unforgettable finale cemented the series as one of the most powerful dramas ever made. | © HBO
Lost kept viewers hooked for six seasons with its mysteries, twists, and countless hidden details that demanded full attention. The ending may have divided fans, but it doesn’t erase how gripping and entertaining the journey was. With over 120 episodes of suspense, drama, and unforgettable moments, it remains one of TV’s most iconic series. | © ABC
Mad Men takes its time, letting the slow rhythm pull you deep into the lives of its characters. The ad agency setting is just a backdrop, with the real focus on complex people whose choices drive the story more than big plot twists. Rich period detail, from costumes to sets, makes the 1960s world feel authentic and keeps the drama endlessly fascinating. | © Lionsgate Television
Breaking Bad is often ranked among the greatest shows ever, and it’s easy to see why. Walter White’s transformation from teacher to drug kingpin is told with sharp writing, powerful performances, and tension that never lets up. Each season builds on the last without dipping in quality, making it a must-watch for anyone who loves great television. | © Sony Pictures Television
The Office made everyday work life hilarious and strangely relatable, with every character bringing something memorable to the table. Michael Scott could be over the top, but his awkward charm made him impossible to forget. It’s the kind of show you can rewatch endlessly and still feel attached to the people you laughed with and rooted for. | © NBC
The Sopranos redefined TV drama with its mix of mob life and family struggles, centered on the unforgettable Tony Soprano. James Gandolfini’s performance made a violent mafia boss strangely relatable, turning him into one of television’s most iconic characters. With bold storytelling, sharp writing, and a cast full of memorable figures, the series set a new standard for what TV could be. | © HBO
Avatar: The Last Airbender blends anime-inspired visuals with sharp American storytelling, creating a world that feels alive and believable. Following Aang, Katara, and Sokka on their journey to restore balance, the show mixes humor, action, and heartfelt moments with ease. Its characters, plots, and stunning animation make it one of the rare TV series that truly works for all ages. | © Nickelodeon
The Wire isn’t just about cops and dealers, it’s about the entire city of Baltimore and how all its parts connect. Each season shifts focus to a different layer of the city, from politics to schools, while weaving in unforgettable characters. The writing and detail are so sharp that it quickly earns its place as one of the greatest shows ever made. | © HBO
The 2000s gave us some of the most talked-about shows in TV history, the kind people still recommend years later. From groundbreaking dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, these series defined a decade of binge-worthy television. Here are 15 shows everyone seemed obsessed with back then, and many are still just as good today.
