The world of television has evolved dramatically over the past five decades, with each era producing iconic series that have left an indelible mark on popular culture. Here’s a look at the biggest TV series from each of the last six decades, perfect for someone who has never seen or heard of these shows.
1970s: "All in the Family"
"All in the Family" was a groundbreaking sitcom that aired from 1971 to 1979. It followed the life of Archie Bunker, a working-class bigot, and his family. The show was revolutionary for its time, addressing controversial issues such as racism, sexism, and politics with humour and poignant insight. Carroll O'Connor's portrayal of Archie Bunker became iconic, and the series is credited with changing the landscape of American television by tackling social issues head-on.
1980s: "Cheers"
"Cheers" ran from 1982 to 1993 and was set in a Boston bar where "everybody knows your name." The show revolved around the bar's regulars and staff, including Sam Malone, a former baseball player turned bartender, and Diane Chambers, a pretentious waitress. Known for its witty dialogue and memorable characters, "Cheers" became a cultural phenomenon and is often cited as one of the greatest TV shows of all time.
1990s: "Friends"
"Friends" aired from 1994 to 2004 and followed the lives of six friends living in New York City. The show became a defining series of the 1990s, known for its humour, relatable characters, and iconic catchphrases. The ensemble cast, including Jennifer Aniston, Courteney Cox, and Matthew Perry, became household names. "Friends" remains popular through syndication and streaming, continuing to attract new generations of fans.
2000s: "The Sopranos"
"The Sopranos," which aired from 1999 to 2007, is often hailed as one of the greatest TV dramas ever made. The series follows Tony Soprano, a New Jersey mob boss, as he navigates the complexities of his criminal organisation and family life. Known for its deep character development, psychological themes, and groundbreaking storytelling, "The Sopranos" set a new standard for television dramas and has had a lasting impact on the genre.
2010s: "Game of Thrones"
"Game of Thrones" aired from 2011 to 2019 and became a global phenomenon. Based on George R.R. Martin's "A Song of Ice and Fire" novels, the series is set in the fictional continents of Westeros and Essos. It follows the power struggles among noble families as they vie for control of the Iron Throne. Known for its complex characters, intricate plots, and high production values, "Game of Thrones" captivated audiences worldwide, despite its controversial final season.
2020s: "Ted Lasso"
"Ted Lasso" premiered in 2020 and quickly became a beloved series. The show follows Ted Lasso, an American college football coach who is hired to manage AFC Richmond, a struggling English Premier League soccer team, despite having no experience with the sport. Ted's optimistic personality and unconventional coaching methods win over the team and fans alike. The series is praised for its heartwarming and humorous take on sports, as well as its exploration of mental health issues. With Jason Sudeikis in the lead role, "Ted Lasso" has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.
Resources
- https://www.cbr.com/best-written-tv-shows-2020s-ranked/
- https://editorial.rottentomatoes.com/guide/best-tv-shows-of-2020/
- https://likewise.com/list/20-most-watched-shows-of-the-2020s-647fa3a801538900625ee514
- https://www.theguardian.com/tv-and-radio/2020/dec/03/the-50-best-tv-shows-of-2020
- https://agoodmovietowatch.com/best-shows-2020s/
- https://imdb.com/list/ls096130389/
- https://imdb.com/list/ls560603916