Anyone fancy taking part in a Top 50 TV shows poll?

[CHK DeWilSon]

@Taake Wrong! 😁🙃
The blonde chick who is Olivia Wilde (who was around 20 When she was in the role) played a character called Alex who dated Seth first and then........
Marissa!

 

[Mr Trick]

39. Cheers (1982-1993)

One of the staples of the new wave of US Sitcoms. And probably one of the most beloved influential shows of all time. So much so than the Cheers bar is a landmark in of itself in the show's Boston setting. A show so cool and quotable it is referenced constantly throughout Nick Hornby's novel High Fidelity The style and setting of the show was said to be inspired by Fawlty Towers (John Cleese had a cameo in S5). But the team of Glen Charles, Les Charles and James Burrows (who later created spin-off series Frasier), took the every day musings and anxieties of working and middle class American and turned it into some of the funniest, charming, but dark and compelling comedies of all time. The Cheers bar became like a distinct character in itself. It was not only a very identifiable location for people come and share their every day troubles and stories, but also a great stage for the characters to bounce off and use for great physical comedy. Cheers was one of the first sitcoms to really embrace the ensemble casting and had this great sense of family and community among the cast. Something which is one of the big appeals of the modern golden era of television.

The series made Ted Danson officially one of the coolest guys on the planet His role as ex-baseball star turned bar owner Sam "Mayday" Malone made Danson one of the hottest comedy actors on TV and landed him some plum film gigs (3 Men and a Baby). Danson was naturally charismatic, charming but flawed as the womanizing Malone who seemed only a step or two away from falling under the spell of drink. Danson said it was the pathos of the character being a washed up ex-baseball player who owns a bar which attracted him to the part. Enter into Sam's bar a collection of misfits, including accountant and classic underdog "Norm" Peterson (George Wendt), nerdy postman Cliff Clavin (John Ratzenberger) (armed with his most know facts), and Dr. Frasier Crane (Kelsey Grammer), one of the most entertaining TV snobs who of course had even greater success with his own show. And that's before I even get to the bar staff. Shelley Long as barmaid Diane Chambers who wanders into the bar in the very first episode is the perfect foil for the lead. The Chambers character was ahead of her time for female characters in sitcoms as a highly educated, bright, sweet, and ambitious, but sometimes snob who is often set up to be the butt of the joke. But that's what's really progressive about Diane. She gets to be one of the guys and have egg on her face, but is also a lot smarter and have her own moments to pull one over them (see the episode when she hires two actors to pretend to be gay to call the gang out on their dated attitudes). For five seasons Long gives a inch perfect performance, with dynamite chemistry between her and Danson. Sam and Diane are simply one of TV's great on again, off again couples. Props to Kirstie Alley who as business woman and Cheers co-owner in the later seasons had a slow start, but soon found her groove with Sam and the rest of the gang. Barmaid Carla Tortelli (Rhea Perlman) brings another side of femininity, and has a lot of fun scenes rubbing up Diane the wrong way (and visa versa), and sweet bond with Sam and the rest. Sam's former coach Ernie Pantusso (the late Nicholas Coasanto (nutty, but likable), and the naive boyish wildcard Woody Boyd (Woody Harrelson's first big break) make out a fun a list of ensemble characters. But there are still small gems like Dan Hedaya's dumb bully Nick Tortelli, Harry the "Conman" (Harry Anderson), and Lilith Sternin (the criminally underrated Bebe Neuwirth) in the supporting cast.

Cheers ran for 11 seasons and is one of most successful sitcoms of all time. It had the plus of starting strongly, but then getting better in later seasons rather than declining like many shows. The episodes "Thanksgiving Orphans" and "Home is the Sailor" were ranked number 7 and 45 on TV Guide's 1997 list of Greatest TV Episodes ever (and that ten years after they aired). In 2002, the Guide also ranked Cheers no. 18 in its all-time TV shows list. Its blend of quirky characters, realism and charm has made a big influence on a number of sitcoms from the Office to Community. And on did I mention that Gary Portnoy's theme is one of the best of all time

- The Office (US) (2005-2013)

And sharing the number 39 spot with Cheers is one of the best of the modern sitcoms. There were a lot of doubters when NBC and award winning TV writer Greg Daniels (The Simpsons, King of the Hill) decided to re-do Ricky Gervais and Stephen Merchant's popular British comedy (which left many American audiences cold). But after a ropy pilot (basically a line for line read of the original British pilot), the show started finding its feet and did what any great follow on should do, and that is take the concept of the original, pay tribute do it (the assistant to the manger gag) but at the same time do something which feels completely different. Giving us bigger character arcs and more likable characters. Steve Carell like David Brent was a slimy boss who took advantage of the power he had over his employees, but unlike Brent Michael Scott is actually likable in a dopey but charming underdog kind of way. Plus he's actually quite good at his job when he puts his mind to it . The will they won't they between Jim and Pam manages to be even more charming than Tim and Dawn's in the Brit version. John Krasinski proving the most adorable charming and witty everyman (now a hit director with A Quiet Place), and Jenna Fischer the perfect girl next door. Rainn Wilson has the perfect energy and physical comedy to make Dwight into a even more eccentric nerd than Gareth, but with subtle hints of a human underneath. Its a credit to the writing than even the supporting characters have their own arcs and become fully rounded characters. What we get as a result is a diverse mix of characters (think Mindy Kaling as Kelly, Angela Kinsey as Angela Martin, or B.J. Novak as Ryan the temp), and that natural sense of a workplace setting becoming like an extended family. As such it is fitting that many of the stand out episodes are set around classic holidays or cultural traditions. The Christmas episodes from S2 & 3 are both must sees, as is S2's Booze Cruise and 3's Beach Games. The writing skillfully goes from light to dark, and to a place in between (see Michael's planned fake suicide in Safety Training). Okay for many (me included) the later seasons lost the plot big time. But for the opening 4 to 5 seasons the US Office was just about comedy gold. Is it better than the British original? I think it just might be. Will the British original still have the last laugh by appearing on this list? You'll just have to wait and see...

Both the Office and Cheers got 26 points were voted for by about 4-5 people.

38 should be up later.

 

[Mr Trick]

38. Sons of Anarchy (2008-2014)

Record setting biker drama created by Kurt Sutter (who also starred in the show). SOA proved to have far more mileage than anyone would ever expect from its premise. The turning point was the show's third season which attracted on average 4.9million at the time FX's highest ratings. The show's success peaked with the 4th and 5th season premieres which scored Fox's highest ratings for a telecast. Sutter's series finally hit the breaks after a further two seasons. Set in a fictional California town, Jackson "Jax" Teller (a then unknown Charlie Hunnam) takes over as President of a Motorcycle club when stepfather and former president Clay Morrow (Hollywood character actor Ron Perlman, Hellboy) is demoted when a challenged vote is questioned by the club. Jackson starts questioning the club and himself. Promoted as a gritty macho drama, SOA had a bit more than that going on exploring vigilantism, government corruption and racism. A solid supporting cast included Jimmy Smits (L.A. Law, The West Wing), Mark Boone Junior and Tommy Flanagan. The critical response was decent too. Late last year SOA spin-off Mayans M.C. debuted on FX. Is the spin-off a step to far? Someone else will have to answer that. The surprise success of the original show is probably a classic example of the niche nature of modern TV. It's placing on this list has certainly surprised me.

www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qd9ULJf2jqU

 

[Mr Trick]

37. Daredevil (2015-2018)

One of the more positively received of the Marvel Netflix's shows. Created by Buffy and Cabin in the Woods writer/director Drew Goddard. The cast are one of the best of any superhero show. Established actors like Vincent D'Onofrio, Scott Glenn and Joanne Whalley bring added credibility. Charlie Cox made a name for himself and earned critical praise for his portrayal Matt Murdock/Daredevil, a blind lawyer who fights crime as a masked vigilante by night. Promising young star Deborah Ann Woll (True Blood, recent horror Escape Room), and Rosario Dawson also star. In 2016, Netflix ordered a spin-off starring Jon Bernthal's Frank Castle/Punisher. The spin-off was not very well recieved and died an ugly death after 2 seasons. Will Daredevil be the king of superhero shows on this list? Can something possibly touch it? Well stay tuned to find out?...

 

[Mr Trick]

36. Big Love (2006-2011)

Debuting at a respectable number 36 on this list IMO one of the most underrated of the HBO shows (and one of their best too). Big Love was one of the leading lights for this current golden age of television. Its worth pointing out that it has one of the best uses of The Beach Boys "God Only Knows" in film or TV in the opening credits.

A wonderful ensemble cast juggle so many dramatic changes and plot turns over a fantastic 5 seasons. Its one of the best recent dramas for character growths. The writing skillfully weaves satire, tragedy and the odd very moving moment. What's even more impressive about the writing is how non-judgemental it is on subject of fundamentalist Mormons. The characters are full of light and dark, just like in any great TV show. With this being HBO the series is so cinematic and bold too. The late Bill Paxton gives maybe his best performance (certainly in a drama) in the lead. The show confirmed Jeanne Tripplehorn (she's underrated damn it!), Chloe Sevigny and Ginnifer Goodwin as three of the most badass actresses working all playing a diverse part as Bill's three wives. The supporting cast is to die for too. With Lynchverse legends Grace Zabriskie (she's underrated damn it! ) and Harry Dean Stanton (RIP) once again knocking it out of the park. The likes of Sissy "Carrie" Spacek (I believe she was in a Lynch movie too?), Mary Kay Place, Ellen Burstyn and Philip Baker Hall again sell the depth of the casting. BL rightly received a number of award nominations and critical responses. It remains underrated IMO. Plus the finale's awesome!

- Tru Calling (2003-2005)

Sharing the number 36 spot with Big Love (both getting 29 points and between 4-5 votes) is a completely different sort of show. TC of course is another link to the Buffyverse with Eliza Dushku red hot at the time (she also appeared in horror movie Wrong Turn around this time), leading this high concept mix of soap, and supernatural fantasy. A slow burner which really became addictive once it got into its groove, but was cruelly cancelled before its peak (with a cliff hanger at the end of season 2).

Here to explain more is @RachM
Tru Calling was a short-lived series which starred Eliza Dushku as Tru Davies, a young morgue attendant who had the ability to relive days when asked by corpses for help in saving them from premature deaths. What unfolded was an intriguing and entertaining series which posed questions about life and death, destiny, fate and the morality of letting someone die who was already fated to do so. Tru was an endearing protagonist who carried a big weight on her shoulders and struggled against fate in order to save those who asked her to, while simultaneously juggling her inter-personal relationships with her estranged family, her quirky best friend Lindsey and her love interest Luc. Helping her in her mission was mortician Davis, initially the only person who knew her secret.

The formula of the show allowed Tru to encounter many different people from all walks of life, and as the series unfolded, she was faced with more and more complex and sometimes confusing requests for help. Learning that "Help me" didn't always me "Save me", True was forced to watch people die and let fate unfold naturally, in order to help the person who actually needed it, such as an episode in which she had to make sure that a man died without any damage to his heart, in order for him to donate his heart to his dying daughter. Later episodes introduced Jack Harper, eventually revealed to be an opposing force to Tru, who raised questions regarding destiny and fate's design and questioned the bigger picture and the ripple effects of Tru's actions.

The show was interesting and fresh and Dushku was charming in the lead and surrounded by a solid supporting cast, which included a toned-down Zach Galifianakis as Davis, a wonderfully droll Jason Priestly as Jack and a charming Shawn Reeves as Tru's younger brother Harrison. The characters were rich and well-developed, each endearing in their own way, and all wonderful to watch. Tru's personal relationships added a charm and warmth to the series and helped to keep her character grounded. The series was disappointingly cut short six episodes into its second season, just as the show was starting to expand and grow its mythology and it is a real pity that we never got to see the potential of the series and its premise blossom. As it is, the first season is still a solid and fun (and often bittersweet) ride and the six episodes we did receive of Season 2 were some of the best of the show. All up, a great series, sadly cut down in its prime.

Coming next time a classic piece of female escapism and a high class period drama.

 

[Mr Trick]

35. Gilmore Girls (2000-2007 & 2016)

Landing at the number 35 spot one of the most likable, watchable and consistently entertaining coming of age shows probably ever. Centering on the relationship between the 16 year old Rory and her single mother Lorelai Gilmore (Alexis Bledel, and the insanely charming Lauren Graham) and their lives in fictional Connecticut town Stars Hollow. As well as Rory's experiences in higher education. It appeals for its pure escapism with its main setting like a character in itself, working to its own logic. But there's still some relatable story lines. There are a number of really entertaining and likeable supporting characters including Kirk (GG's answer to Kramer), deadpan love interest Luke and Rory's close friends Lane and Paris (more different they couldn't be ). Of course I love it for its quick wit and pop culture references. Here's why @Taake loves it,
On my top list because it's a show that's basically built around talking. I don't feel like they make shows like this anymore, it's all about witty dialogue and relationships - most of them with family. There's not actually that much that 'happens' in the show, but that's what I love about it. It's a very simple, but entertaining, concept. GG also has one of the best theme tunes of any show IMO. Carol King even made cameos in the show. After originally running for 7 seasons, the series was revived for four feature length episodes Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life in 2016 by Netflix. Only time will tell if there will be more adventures from Stars Hollow.

- Pride Prejudice (1995)

Also at 35 one of the most loved and respected Austin adaptations. The mini-series which probably invented the term mini-series, gave the BEEB its reputation for quality period dramas, and introduced us all to the charms of Colin Firth. Once again here's @Taake with more, It is just such a brilliant adaption of the book. They take their time, hit all the important points of the narrative, and is true to the narrative. It is incredibly entertaining and satisfying as a fan, there's no need to add in any dramatic over-the-top "it was always you"-kiss in the rain scenes. All you need is Colin Firth's passionate gazes! The actors are perfectly cast, they look like they could be these characters but they also look like real people. It's just the best adaptation of this book, I never get tired of watching it.

Coming next time a more recent BBC classic.

 

[Mr Trick]

34. Sherlock (2010-2017)

One of the BBC's biggest hits of recent years. This anthology series based on Arthur Conan Doyle's unconventional sleuth which made the odd couple of Holmes and Watson fashionable again. The team of Steven Moffat (Doctor Who) and Mark Gatiss (The League of Gentlemen) bring their love for Sherlock to the small screen in a modern take the character. Benedict Cumberbatch proved a perfect fit for the Detective in a star making role (the movie offers started flooding in around this time). And Martin Freeman is the perfect foil bringing his deadpan charms and wit to the part of Doctor John Watson. The supporting cast over 4 series and a feature length one-off included Rupert Graves, Gatiss himself, Andrew Scott, Amanda Abbington and Gemma Chan. The series earned a host of nominations from the Emmys, BAFTAs and Golden Globes. The show won three awards at the 66th Prime Time Emmy's including wins for both the leads. Series 3 peaked with a 6.6 viewer rating on the BBC.

Coming next time at number 33, some more classic sitcoms (from both sides of the pond), a popular network crime series and a recent netflix horror hit.

 

[Mr Trick]

For shows at 33 with 32 points each.

33. Blackadder (1983-1989, 1999)

The classic British period sitcom created by star Rowan Atkinson and Richard Curtis. It made a name of many of its stars and is often talked up as one of the very best sitcoms. It played with comedy conventions, and had the classic black comedy British and fence. Fun lines, like Baldrick's "I have a cunning plan" which becomes a fun recurring joke. The classic finale at the end of Blackadder Goes Forth proved that comedy can be moving too. It was also the perfect payoff for fans who had followed the series from the start. Its worth pointing out that series 1 isn't great. Partly because Atkinson as Blackadder is too much of a wimp and not nasty enough. It's that change in the character from series 2 (when Ben Elton came in to add a lighter touch to the writing), which made the character so much more entertaining. It made him the perfect pantomime villain set up for classic pratfalls. It has some of the best supporting characters of any British comedy, best of all maybe Miranda Richardson's manic playful Queenie. Blackadder's Christmas Carol (1988) has become a staple of Christmas viewing in the UK.

Even the one off comeback episode Blackadder: Back & Forth a Sky Production from 1999 was respectable considering the decade the show had been off the air. Then you have the ever changing theme tune. Which is another thing? Was Blackadder the first to do different versions of its own theme tune?...

- Criminal Minds (2005-)

Jeff Davis's hit crime series has proved one of the most popular procedural of recent television. The show to date with 14 seasons and over 300 episodes (and a few spinoffs) stands out from the standard Law & Order format because each character having their own distinct characteristic and the use of season long arcs, and soapy subplots. There's even a cool "hit television show" link with Nicholas Brendon making cameos as the boyfriend of quirky computer nerd Penelope Garcia (Kirsten Vangsness). A cast shakeup for the later seasons has seen the show attract such names as Jeanne Tripplehorn (a second appearance for her on this list after Big Love), and Jennifer Love Hewitt (I Know What You Did Last Summer, Ghost Whisperer). The later seasons are not so well thought of by fans.

- Seinfeld (1989-1998)

The original show about nothing! Alongside Frasier and Cheers, Seinfeld was at the forefront of the cutting edge new wave of US sitcoms. It is a show where the characters are nasty and superficial, but somehow still very funny and relatable. The trick to Seinfeld (unlike Friends) was that the four leads were made up of people who looked just like ordinary people, and sat around critiquing everyday issues and situations. The format was ahead of its time, with the standup scenes of the lead character performing stand up routines (relating to what was happening in the episode) bookending the story. The first season is weak (just the six episodes), and the last couple a bit rough (though the finale is genius). But season 2 & 3 are big improvements, and S4-7 are some of the greatest TV comedy you'll ever see (IMO). For many fans season 6 is the greatest and it has the best episode ever for me in The Label Maker (with Breaking Bad's Bryan Cranston appearing). George's engagement arc of S7 is a highlight of the show. Nowadays sitcoms are full of arcs. Seinfeld was one of the first to do it.

The Haunting of Hill House (2018)

Another Netflix success story this time crossing over into the horror genre. Adapting the old classic novel and 1950's movie, Mike Flanagan (Hush, The Invitation) opens up the story of the haunted house to the lives of five siblings still dealing with the trauma of losing their mother in the house of title all those years ago. The miniseries has fantastic character depth, subtly deals with powerful real world issues. The pacing is spot-on and its cinematic and terrifying when it needs to be. The cast are very good too with Kate Siegel the standout as moody, but sensitive child psychologist Theodora "Theo" Crain. Theo's younger self is played in flashbacks by McKenna Grace (Annabelle Comes Home), another promising talent. One of the best reviewed shows of 2018. There will be another haunting story from the same director coming in 2020.

 

[Mr Trick]

In at number 32 with 33 points we have...

Jane the Virgin (2014-2019)

The CW romantic series which most likely started the whole dramedy craze! It mange to stand out from the crowd by having a more satirical edge than most other shows of its kind. And a likeable lead in Gina Rodriguez. Rodriguez starred as the title character, Jane from a strict religious background whose vow to remain a virgin until her marriage is complicated when a doctor mistakenly artificially inseminates her during a check-up. The biological father is a rich former playboy, cancer survivor who happens to be the new owner at the hotel Jane works at. The series ran for 5 seasons with 100 episodes. It also had great success at both the high and lower brow awards. It can be viewed on UK Netflix BTW.

 

[Mr Trick]

Well its fair to say @HowiMetdaSlayer isn't a fan of the last show?

 

[HowiMetdaSlayer]

Beginning to think that this list won't be done till 2025.

 

[Mr Trick]

At 31 another popular recent Crime show.

31. Castle (2009-2016)

For eight seasons Nathan Fillion who starred in "the hit television show" Buffy the Vampire Slayer and played the lead in Whedonverse show Firefly (something tells me they may still appear on this list ) plays the title role as Richard Castle a best-selling crime novelist who is partnered with homicide detective Kate Beckett (Stana Katic) to solve a series of unusual murders in New York. In classic screwball fashion, the pair start off at each others throats both slowly develop feelings. Another long term plot involves the cast of Beckett's murdered mother.

 

[Mr Trick]

My mistake! There's actually a couple more entries at number 31. Both scoring 34 points. One of them's a biggie!

31. The Twilight Zone (1959-64, 1985-89, 2002-03, 2019-present)

One of the most influential TV shows in history. One of the most distinct influences on storytelling. It's worth pointing out that it dealt with some interesting themes. And that theme, oh that eerie theme... Here to tell us a little more about the Twilight Zone our good friend @ItMustBeBunnies

"I grew up watching The Twilight Zone. It was one of my Mother’s favorite shows when she was a child that she then passed on to me, so my choice is definitely colored by nostalgia. Creepy, and sometimes amusingly campy, it has a somewhat timeless quality to it. Some episodes are definitely dated, but a large number of episodes I feel still hold up to this day.

I like that the episodes are self-contained. I also quite like that it is in black and white, it helps to create that ominous atmosphere.

It’s a show so ingrained in pop culture whose influence is very apparent in so many shows that are on today. Classic episodes such as Nightmare at 20,000 Feet and Time Enough at Last are so often parodied. Some of my favorite episodes are The Masks, Eye of the Beholder, The Monsters Are Due on Maple Street and The After Hours."

- Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (2015-2019)

A sleeper hit for the CW in recent years. This musical, romantic-comedy, drama ran for 4 seasons recently ending. It was co-created by Rachel Bloom who also stars in the lead role as Rebecca Bunch, a lawyer who moves from New York to California to pursue her High School boyfriend. Bunch has struck a chord with fans of the show (and may or may not appear in the Best TV characters list). The series has also been praised for its dealing of mental health issues including from those who work within the medical profession. It makes a very respectable debut on this poll. All episodes can be viewed on Netflix.

 

[Mr Trick]

Into the top 30! All these scored 35 points. Each got about 4-5 votes.

30. Orphan Black (2013-2017)

A slow burn, but this perfectly paced, and unique Sci-Fi thriller ended up being one of the most compelling, entertaining and ambitious shows of recent years. Co-created by Canadian director John Fawcett (Ginger Snaps), Tatiana Maslany gives one of the most note perfect performances probably ever on TV as the multiple clones which sends the viewer down a rich, twisty turning rabbit hole across five wonderfully action packed, funny and touching seasons. In 2016 Maslany finally won a Prime Time Emmy for leading actress in 2016, and has been nominated and won countless other awards. IMO Orphan Black is not only one of the best shows of recent TV but one of the best shows ever.

- Dexter (2006-2013)

Adapted from Jeff Lindsay's Darkly Dreaming Dexter novel (2004), this stylish black comedy twist on the procedural/serial killer genre made lead Michael C. Hall a bankable name. Following his critical acclaimed role in Six Feet Under, Hall proved perfect casting as the tense and neurotic forensic specialist by day, serial killer by night Dexter Morgan. Matched with some impressive co-stars and villains, with John Lithgow's unstable Arthur Mitchell being perhaps the stand out. Dexter was a huge ratings hit with season four's finale, grabbing 2.6 million viewers making it the most watched episode of any show on Showtime at the time. For many Dexter staggered on for too long (eight seasons), and the later seasons were met with large in-difference. The very final episode is often listed as one of the worst season finales ever. When it was good, it was very good.

Roswell (1999-2002)

Jason Katims adaptation of Melinda Metz's pocket sized teen series of novels is a unmistakably 90's series. A Sci-Fi romance taking advantage of the popularity of a certain hit television with a little bit of John Carpenter's Starman thrown into the mix. The first season struck a chord with the target audience, with its clever device of being narrated by lead character Liz Parker (the adorable Sheri Appleby) from her diary entries about the adventures, life lessons and close encounters of her and her friends, Maria (Majandra Delfino), Alex (Colin Hanks) and Kyle (Nick Wechsler) with those from another planet Max (Jason Behr), Michael (Brendan Fehr) Isabel (Katherine Heigl) and Tess (LOST star Emilie de Raven). A choice list of guest stars included reliable character actor William Sadler as gruff Sheriff Jim Valenti, Buffy, Angel and Dexter star Julie Benz and Jonathan "Star Trek" Frakes. The first season was a nicely plotted and enjoyable melodrama (the pilot especially impressive), the second a baffling, but oddly watchable mythology fest, the third a shallow mess as the series fought and ultimately lost its battle to get renewed. For those who think the original series was a bit rubbish, I promise you none of it was as bad as the tedious pilot for the 2019 reboot Roswell, New Mexico.

Skins (2007-2010)

A much edgier and satirical coming of age teen drama. Focusing on a group of teens in Bristol, Skins dealt with themes of sexuality, mental health, bullying and gender with a brutal honesty. A channel 4 production (screening on E4), the series became one of the broadcasters most successful shows of recent years and struck a chord with a whole new generation of teens. It gave breaks to some major young talents including Dev Patel, Nicholas Hoult, Kaya Scodelario and Daniel Kaluuya). No doubt it had some influence on the much talked about recent HBO series Euphoria. Skins was re-made unsuccessfully in the US with just one season of the re-boot airing on MTV in 2011.

 

[Mr Trick]

36 points each for these shows.

29. How I Met Your Mother (2005-2014)

CBS sitcom which returned the traditions of the old studio comedies (single camera, live audience, friends hanging out in bars and their apartments etc..), but with a twist. In the pilot we are introduced to Ted (Josh Radnor) in the year 2030 recounting to his children the events which led to him meeting their mother. We then jump back to the past and follow those events as Ted interacts with his college roommate Marshall (Jason Segel), Marshall's long time girlfriend Lily (Alyson Hannigan), roguish womaniser Barney (Neil Patrick Harris) and on and off love interest Robin (Cobie Smulders). It is the flash back and forth format and the playing with storytelling and character growth which gives the show a fresh feel. It also helps that the characters feel like real people, have relatable conversations. The casting is really smart too. It has proved one of the most successful post-Friends sitcoms, running for nine seasons. For some the finale was a big misstep.

- The Originals (2013-2018)

Spin-off to the hugely successful and influential The Vampire Diaries (stay tuned to see if that makes the list!). Originals ran for five seasons on the CW and followed vampire-werewolf hybrid Klaus Mikaelson as he and his family become embroiled in the supernatural politics of the French Quarter of New Orleans.

- Medium (2005-2011)

NBC Supernatural procedural thriller which was a big comeback hit for creator Glenn Gordon Caron (Moonlighting). The series which ran for seven seasons (the last two on CBS) was also produced by Kelsey "Fraiser" Grammer's Grammnet Producers. Much of its success has to be because of the presence of future Oscar Winner Patricia Arquette in the lead. Arquette stars as Allison DuBois, the Medium of the title employed as a consultant for the Phoenix, Arizona District attorney's office. Each episode Allison would work a different supernatural themed case. Much of the drama also focused on Allison's home life and the impact of the profession on her family. The character is said to be loosely based on the real life Allison DuBois who claims to have worked with Law Enforcement agencies throughout the US.

Coming next time one of the most hyped shows of modern times.

 

[Mr Trick]

37 points for this Netflix big hitter!

28. Stranger Things (2016-present)

Debuting at number 28 on this list is just another example of Stranger Thing's impact on popular culture since first appearing as a modest Spielbergian teen Sci-Fi show 4 years ago. The series changed the game for Netflix and led to current craze of 80's filled nostalgia filled TV and films. Its IMO one of the best shows the last ten years with the recent third season probably its best. Here to tell you more is Stranger Things super fan @HowiMetdaSlayer
"that not so little cult Netflix show chock full of nostalgia, sci-fi, horror, D&D, and with enough 80's pop culture references to light up a christmas tree wall. I can think of about 10, er 11 things to ♥ about this series. So break out your Eggo waffle's, grab your 'morning's are for coffee & contemplation' mug, put on your best #justiceforbarb shirt, and get ready to kiss yer weekend goodbye. Cause this is gonna be a serious binge!"

and onto 27 seven I roll with....

27. The Americans (2013-2018)

Spy thrillers are an acquired taste, and most leave me cold. But this Fox series makes for some engrossing drama, full of rich characters, great pacing and sharp twists. Its saying something that it beat ST. Here again to tell you me is @HowiMetdaSlayer another fantabulous recent series set in the 80's, but this one's more of a realistic character driven slow burn spy noir with incredible performances by stars Keri Russell, Mathew Rhys, Noah Emmerich, and newcomer Holly Taylor. And just like Tiny Dancer in Almost Famous, it will either ruin, or change just how you think of many an 80s song by it's inclusion in an unforgettable scene(s). Back in the USSR...er A, you don't know how lucky you are... It scored 38 points BTW.

Coming next time another big Sci-Fi series, another modern big hitter and one of my favourite UK sitcoms.

 

[Mr Trick]

At number 26 3 entries all with 39 points.

26. The Walking Dead (2010-present)

The AMC sprawling Zombie Apocalypse epic adapted from the popular comic book series by Robert Kirkman, Tony Moore, and Charlie Adland. Originally created by Frank "Shawshank/The Green Mile" Darabont. Darabont directed the pilot which is a masterclass in suspense and character drama. Over the course of ten seasons and nearly a decade on air the ensemble cast has seen some of the best TV actors around appearing. But at this stage opinion is divided. Like Game of Thrones TWD is either one of the most exciting, cutting edge shows ever, or a bloated, self-indulgent soap opera. Depending on who you talk to So you guys be the judge. Too high? Too low?

- Black Books (2000-2004)

Second Graham Linehan appearance on this list. This was the Irish comedian-writer's follow up to the much loved Father Ted. Linehan created it with fellow comic Dylan Moran who is unleashed into the lead role as eccentric, grumpy bookstore owner Bernard Black aka The Scrooge of bookstore owners As perfect as Moran is for the role, he is equally well matched by likeable but naive oddball Manny (Bill Bailey) and long time and long suffering best friend Fran Katzenjammer (see even her last name is funny!), played by Tamsin Creig. This perfectly missed matched comedy trio along with Linehan's and Moran's playful, surreal deadpan humour make for three series of some of the best of British sitcom. Black Books is a great example of why Channel 4 is often the place for cutting edge and hilarious comedy. Its a classic.

- Star Trek Voyager (1995-2001)

The fifth series in the Star Trek TV franchise. Voyager is the second of those five to appear on this list (will there be more? Stay tuned!). Already known for being ahead of the game for diversity in Science fiction, Voyager goes a step father by introducing a female Captain as the lead character. Commanding Officer Kathryn Janeway (whip sharp Kate Mulgrew) became a feminist icon among the still very masculine leads of 1990's genre TV as the Captain of the USS Voyager attempting to return home after being stranded in the Delta Quadrant (on the far side of the Milky Way). The new Galaxy setting gave the writers a chance to expand on the Trek Universe introducing such diverse Alien species as Kazon, Vidiians and Hirogen. The series was a hit with both fans and critics (though it tends to divide many nowadays). It ran for seven seasons and 172 episodes. It says something that its a fair bit higher than the Original series. Again, fair, not fair? You be the judge. Oh and without the doubt the dreamy opening title theme by Jerry Goldsmith is one of the best TV themes ever

Coming next time I hit the top twenty five with a Big Bang amongst other things... sorry couldn't resist

 

[Mr Trick]

@RachM I can see that with ST. Its probably lower than you might expect because its still a newer show with less seasons under its belt than some of other much loved shows. Also I think voting would a have finished before the release of S3 which might have made a difference. There are still some big shows to come, but also some surprises.

 

[Mr Trick]

Sorry to ask you guys this! But I've lost the pendrive with the rankings for the poll. Those of you who voted originally if you still have your lists could you PM them to me again. You can either send me the same list again or you could send me slightly different ones without the shows which have already appeared on the list (if that makes sense!). Just keep it to 20-25. New lists from other people are welcome, but please remember I've already done half the list. Probably will need you do the same with the characters poll, but that can wait. Once I have the lists again and have worked out the top 25 I will post them ASAP. Very sorry once again! Thanks.

 

[Mr Trick]

Some 40 pointers open the top 25.

25. The Big Bang Theory (2007-2019)

CBS and producer Chuck Lorre scored one of the biggest comedy hits of recent Television with this Friends for nerds sitcom. It made stars of the cast including Johnny Galecki (I Know What You Did Last Summer, The Opposite of Sex), Jim Parsons, Kaley Cuoco and Kunal Nayyar. TBBT ran for a massive 279 episodes over 12 seasons. Its spin-off The Young Sheldon appeared earlier on the list.

- Black Mirror (2011-present)

Charlie Brooker's ambitious, darkly visionary anthology series inspired by the social themes of the Twilight Zone. Alongside show runner Annabel Jones, Brooker created a satire hitting hard on such contemporary themes as reality TV, social media, advance technology and greed. Starting with a committed cult following when debuting on Channel 4 in 2011. The series has grown in reputation ever since and is now one of Netflix's most talked about originals. Future stars including the current Doctor Who Jodie Whitaker, Get Out star Daniel Kaluuya and Planet of the Apes star Toby Kebbell featured in the first season, alongside Downton's Jessica Brown Findlay, Lindsay Duncan and Julia Davis. Andrea Riseborough is another notable name to appear in a later season. The great Jodie Foster no less directed 2017 episode Arkangel

- That 70's Show (1998-2006)

Novelty Fox sitcom which stood out from the crowd because of its period setting and a mix of fresh faces and experienced character actors. Without it no one would know the difference between Ashton Kutcher and the avenge High School jock (I'll let you decide if that's a good thing?). Bad Moms and Black Swan's Mila Kunis made an early appearance. Topher Grace for awhile at least seemed one of Hollywood's brightest prospects. The Badass Kurtwood Smith (Robocop), Debra Jo Rupp and Bond Girl Tanya Roberts make up some of the oldler cast.