TV|TV Programs

The Best Serial Dramas of the 21st Century

Jeanette Hamlin
Updated March 17, 2026 92 items
Ranked By
2.8Kvoters15.5Kvotes
11reranks
Voting Rules
Vote up the greatest serial drama series that have premiered in the new millennium.
Latest additions: The Forsytes, Marshals, The Abandons
Most divisive: Hannibal
Over 2.8K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Serial Dramas of the 21st Century
This list is dynamically ranked based on user voting. The order reflects the consensus of our voters and is not influenced by paid placements or editorial bias.

As opposed to most sitcoms, and even action TV shows, there's something about serial dramas that's so much more captivating. Oh that's right, it's the fact each episode plays off the last, stringing you along for an entire season—in a good way. In essence, it's a lot like watching a 20+ hour movie in periodic segments. That is, unless you're binge watching an entire series, which really isn't unheard of in the 21st century. In fact, it's actually more heard of. We all love binge watching our favorite shows, and the same goes for the best serial dramas since the new millennium. 

Since the year 2000, television has seen an array of fantastic dramas come and go, and even come back again. These top serial dramas of the 21st century are enthralling to say the least, spanning across a broad range of plots and settings. From top serial dramas like Game of Thrones to Dexter and everything in between, these shows are always intriguing to say the least. 

Take a look at the best serial dramas of recent memory below and be sure to up vote your favorites. You can also add any serial dramas after the year 2000 that aren't on the list. If you're a movie buff, check out the best movies of the 2000s.

Ranked by