The 100 Best TV Shows of the 21st Century

A widespread critical discussion has emerged following a list released by The New York Times identifying the 100 best TV shows of the 21st century. According to coverage from Newser and Kottke.org, the list aims to categorize the definitive television works of the current century. The Albuquerque Journal and MovieWeb report that Breaking Bad has been officially declared the top TV show of the 21st century. Other highlighted programs include Ted Lasso, which Yahoo and Esquire note was voted as a top ten show. Additionally, TheGrio and Yahoo have highlighted the inclusion of Black-led series such as Atlanta and Insecure among the century's best works. Major media outlets are focusing on the methodology and the resulting controversies of the rankings.

The New York Times provided a platform for readers to vote on their top ten favorites and hosted discussions involving three critics regarding their voting processes. However, the list has faced scrutiny for certain omissions. Parade.com and Yahoo report that The Sopranos was snubbed from the top 100 list specifically due to eligibility rules. This exclusion has led to significant conversation regarding the criteria used to determine which shows qualified for the 21st-century timeframe. The broader context of this trend reflects a shift in how television is perceived as a medium. A post from facebook.com notes that over the last 25 years, there has been a movement toward treating TV more seriously as an art form.

The Bulwark examines this evolution through the lens of the age of antiheroes, while the National Review references specific characters like Jack Bauer in the context of these discussions. This critical reassessment of the medium's history has also prompted practical inquiries, with PCWorld examining the current streaming costs associated with accessing the top 100 shows mentioned in the list. Future attention will likely remain on the ongoing reactions to the rankings and the specific eligibility rules that governed the selection. While The New York Times continues to engage its audience with quizzes and opinion pieces about the list, other entertainment news is emerging. Variety, IMDb, and Film Focus Online are reporting on the premiere of a new Freeform series titled Coven Academy, with coverage focusing on the creator's plans for a potential second season and the role of Graves as Briar's mom. This suggests a continuing interest in both the historical canon of television and new premieres.