When you sit down to watch TV, are you left with the nagging feeling that everything is kind of the same? This author agrees! With the advent of streaming, and countless platforms vying for your attention, it feels like shows are prioritizing binge-worthy familiarity and franchise building over depth and originality. As a result, modern TV ends up feeling uninspired and clichéd.
So, if you too are on the hunt for groundbreaking, original TV, where do you tune in?
It might help to look back at the (second) Golden Age of Television.
This era, from 1999 to 2015, saw cable networks and studios produce high quality, complex, and diverse programming. Named in homage to the first Golden Age of the 1950s, the second Golden Age transformed TV with morally ambiguous characters, groundbreaking stories and non-episodic storytelling. Better technology and bigger budgets helped give you a cinema quality experience from the comfort of your home. The rise of HBO, Netflix, and Hulu definitely helped contribute to bring unprecedented creativity and diversity to storytelling. So, what shows defined this Golden Age? Let's explore the standout series from each year between 1999 and 2015 - leaving you with an exhaustive watchlist of unparalleled quality!
1999:
"The Sopranos" (HBO) (1999- 2007)
The Sopranos, which kickstarted the Golden Age of TV and is rightfully regarded as one the best TV shows of all time; is a gritty, critically acclaimed drama about the personal and professional struggles of New Jersey mob boss Tony Soprano.
2000:
"Curb Your Enthusiasm" (HBO) (2000- present day)
This hilarious comedy series featuring dead pan, self-deprecating humor and improvisation, is the brainchild of comedic genius Larry David, who also stars in it.
2001:
"24" (Fox) (2001 -2010)
Introducing, a real-time 24-hour format to TV for the first time, “24” follows a counter terrorism agent as he thwarts various terror threats in this action-packed thriller.
2002:
"The Wire" (HBO) (2002-2008)
The Wire is an intricate crime drama, that explores Baltimore’s drug trade through the eyes of both its dealers and the law enforcement. Deep storytelling and nuanced social commentary are central to the show, adding to its greatness.
2003:
"Arrested Development" (Fox) (2003-2019)
This unique, fast-paced comedy about the dysfunctional Bluth family who deal with the arrest of their patriarch, blends clever writing with satirical humor.
2004:
"Lost" (ABC) (2004-2010)
Combining science fiction, adventure and character drama in a revolutionary way, this show is set on a mysterious island, following an unfortunate plane crash is a genre bending marvel.
2005:
"The Office" (NBC) (2005- 2013)
A classic among sitcoms, The Office is an American adaptation of the original British mockumentary comedy, featuring lovable characters and rollicking comedy.
2006:
"Dexter" (Showtime) (2006- 2013)
Dexter is a dark drama about a forensic expert who leads a double life as a vigilante serial killer, who hunts down criminals who have evaded justice.
2007:
"Mad Men" (AMC) (2007 - 2015)
A period drama set in the 1960s - in the heyday of the advertising industry, follows the intricate and complicated life of Don Draper, one of Madison Avenue’s best ad men. (This author’s personal favorite - Mad Men is absolutely stellar television with some of the best layered writing and rewatch value.)
2008:
"Breaking Bad" (AMC) (2008 -2013)
TV peaked in the 2000s. Don't believe me? Read on! 4 After a terminal cancer diagnosis, high school chemistry teacher, Walter White turns into a methamphetamine kingpin, and perhaps changes the TV drama landscape forever.
2009:
"Glee" (Fox) (2009 - 2015)
A kitschy musical dramedy that became a pop culture phenomenon, focusing on a high school glee club, has contributed a lot to modern pop culture.
2010:
"The Walking Dead" (AMC) (2010 - present day)
A horror drama about survivors in a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies, centres on human connection in the face of adversity.
2011:
"Game of Thrones" (HBO) (2011 - 2019)
An epic fantasy series known for its complex characters, political intrigue, and shocking plot twists, is an adaptation of George RR Martin’s immersive novels, changed fantasy TV forever.
2012:
"Girls" (HBO) (2012- 2017)
A comedy-drama that offers a candid look at the lives of four young women in New York City, as they navigate life and its challenges.
2013:
"House of Cards" (Netflix) (2013-2018)
A political drama that was one of the first major hits for Netflix, House of Cards follows the rise of a ruthless politician, as he aspires to seek revenge from all those who betrayed him.
2014:
"True Detective" (HBO) (2014 - present day)
True Detective is an anthology crime drama in which police officers and detectives are forced to grapple with dark secrets about themselves and those around them as they investigate various homicides.
2015:
"Mr. Robot" (USA Network) (2015 -2019)
Mr. Robot is a psychological thriller about a young hacker dealing with mental illness and corporate corruption, as he is recruited by a cryptic anarchist.
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