Streaming would be popularized in the 1990s, but it wasn’t until 2007 that the juggernaut that isNetflixwould enter the scene. Offering some of the best shows on Television, such asBreaking Bad, this streaming service was the one to rule them all, as nearly everybody has, or had, a subscription.
However, Netflix is now more known for its original content, but with over a decade of new shows, it can be challenging to find the perfect one. That is whythis list will rank the 20 best Netflix original TV shows that everyone should watch at least once. From comedies to dramas to action series, this list will cover a variety of the top shows on the platform that are a must-watch.
20’The Witcher' (2019-)
Video game adaptations are known for their inconsistent quality, but they have been getting better over the years. One of the more popular ones isThe Witcher, which follows the books and video games. Geralt (Henry Cavill) has the thankless job of getting rid of the worst creatures in the land, but he gains new purpose when Ciri (Freya Allan) is in need of guidance.
The Witcherisn’t exactly the best show on Netflix, and many faithful fans will highlight its poor writing and lack of respect for the source material. However, for new fans, this series can be an entertaining fantasy romp that has become a staple on Netflix. Fans may have to get used to a switch, asLiam Hemsworth will be Geraltgoing forward after Cavill left the project.
19’The Umbrella Academy' (2019-2024)
While the superhero craze seems to be dying down after underwhelming box office numbers, it was at its peak during 2019, the same year thatThe Umbrella Academycame out. Following a dysfunctional superpowered family, they may get a chance to actually save the world when the apocalypse looms, but how do they know they aren’t the ones causing it?
The ending may be a horrible mess, but that doesn’t take away from the rest of the show, which was one of the most unique, imaginative, and creative shows on the platform.Each character is distinct, full of life, and has a well-written arc, serving a purpose in this family that everyone can relate to.The Umbrella Academycould have been higher if it had stuck the landing, but its gritty humor and fun cast are enough to make it a must-watch.
18’Wednesday' (2022-)
One of Netflix’s more recent streaming hits isWednesday, which just released the first part of its second season, leaving fans desperate to know what happens next in the final two episodes. Everyone knowsThe Addams Family, but this series follows the titular daughter as she attends Nevermore Academy and the mysteries she faces.
Wednesdayseason two is starting off nicely, bringing back that eerie Halloween goodness with an exceptionalTim Burtonclaymation short picture.Jenna Ortegais phenomenal in this role, delivering a performance befitting of one of the spookiest franchises. Despite being a newer series,Wednesdayhas already made a name for itself, becoming one of the biggest domestic Netflix series of all time.
17’Cyberpunk: Edgerunners' (2022-)
Anime is quickly becoming one of the largest mediums in the world, and Netflix hopped on the hype train without a second thought, adding new, original, and old anime series on the platform.Cyberpunk: Edgerunnersis arguably their biggest original project, following David Martinez joining a gang in a hopeless futuristic city, hoping to get revenge on the corporations that ruined his life.
Netflix has many incredible original anime, but after therecently announced second season and Anime of the Year win in 2022,Cyberpunk: Edgerunnershas proved its worth. With in-your-face animation, dazzling colors, gruesomely bizarre moments, and an unpredictable plot,Cyberpunk: Edgerunnersis one ofthe best anime series of all time.
16’Narcos' (2015-2017)
Everyone loves a biographical crime drama, and it doesn’t get much better thanNarcos, which follows the infamous Medellín cartel,Pablo Escobar (Wagner Moura), and the law enforcement trying to stop them. It highlights the rise and fall of an empire and a kingpin, showing both sides of this gritty, realistic story, which dramatizes most of the events.
Despite not being 100% accurate,Narcosmakes up for it in dramatic moments and perfect writing, alongside being one of the best-acted shows on Netflix.This enthralling masterpiece has a star-studded cast with a riveting storylinethat will hook anyone, making it a must-watch on Netflix and one of their earliest shows.
15’Orange is the New Black' (2013-2019)
It wasn’t until 2012 that Netflix started making their own shows, meaningOrange is the New Blackwas one of the first original projects. When Piper Chapman’s (Taylor Schilling) past association with a drug runner reemerges, she is sent to a minimum security prison where she makes her way through the corrections system alongside many other eccentric characters.
While Netflix was popular before this show, the streaming service skyrocketed after the success ofOrange is the New Black, becoming the biggest series on the platform for a while. Its group of endearing characters, goofy misadventures, and hilarious moments provide forone of the best modern comediesthat had some of the best moments on the platform.
14’The Crown' (2016-2023)
Image via Netflix
Adapting British drama and history is an easy way to attract a large audience, andThe Crownproved that by being one of the best shows on Netflix. Played byClaire Foy, Olivia Coleman,andImelda Staunton, this show chronicles the life of Queen Elizabeth II, from her accession to the throne to the many tragedies and memorable moments of her life.
While it does take creative liberties,The Crownis still a faithful and masterfully produced biographical drama that is one of the most expensive series Netflix has ever produced. This important historical drama is a must-watch for history buffs and soap opera fans alike, but anyone can find entertainment in it, asThe Crownis one ofthe best TV series based on real life.
13’Daredevil' (2015-2018)
Marvel content may be on Disney+, but Netflix had their own Marvel universe before Disney acquired all the rights. Of the many superhero shows Netflix produced,Daredevilis by far the best. The titular hero is born when he realizes the law isn’t enough to punish villains, taking him on a journey of highs and lows as he faces some of New York’s deadliest criminals.
Daredevil: Born Againbrought back the characters and story of this fan-favorite TV show. Unfortunately, it doesn’t live up to its predecessor. Setting itself apart from other superhero shows by showcasing Matt Murdock’s (Charlie Cox) humanity and inner struggle,Daredevilis a perfect superhero show.
12’The Haunting of Hill House' (2018)
Everyone loves a good horror show, especially during Halloween, and Netflix’s best isThe Haunting of Hill House, made byMike Flanagan, who also wrote the upcomingClayfacemovie. When a group of siblings must return to their childhood home to face past ghosts, they realize the ghosts may not just be in their heads, but also the house.
Netflix doesn’t have many acclaimed horror series, makingThe Haunting of Hill Housethat more essential, as it isone of the scariest and most gripping entries on this list. With growing suspense, the anticipation becomes almost unbearable, producing a riveting horror series with a fantastic build-up and an incredible payoff.
11’Dark' (2017-2020)
Netflix is mainly comprised of American and British productions, but Japanese, Korean, Chinese, and Indian shows are on the rise. However,Darkwas the first German-produced TV series on Netflix, opening up a new market. After the disappearance of two children, four dysfunctional families learn the dark truth of themselves and the town, the deeper they search.
Darkisn’t an easy watch, and by that, I mean that it is a mind-bending series with a complicated time travel plot that fans can get lost in. Still,this enthralling sci-fi series is a masterpiecethat will leave the audience confused (in a good way), stunned, and on the edge of their seats. The critical acclaim and success alone speak for its entertainment value, but fans won’t know until they give this series a chance.
