The Best Drama TV Shows You Need to Watch

Drama TV shows have been a staple in television entertainment for decades. They offer an escape from reality and provide viewers with a glimpse into the lives of characters facing challenges and overcoming obstacles. In this article, we will discuss the best drama TV shows that you need to watch, whether you are a fan of romance, crime, or politics.

Introduction

TV shows have become a popular form of entertainment in recent years, and drama TV shows have been at the forefront of this trend. Drama shows offer a diverse range of themes and emotions that viewers can relate to, making them an excellent source of entertainment. Whether you are in the mood for a crime thriller or a romantic drama, there is a show out there for you. In this article, we will explore some of the best drama TV shows that you need to watch.

The Importance of Drama TV Shows

Drama TV shows have a significant impact on society, from influencing fashion trends to raising awareness about social issues. They provide viewers with a glimpse into different cultures, lifestyles, and perspectives, creating a space for dialogue and understanding. Moreover, they offer a form of escapism, allowing viewers to immerse themselves in different worlds and forget about their problems for a while. Drama TV shows also provide a platform for talented actors, writers, and directors to showcase their skills and make an impact in the industry.

Best Drama TV Shows

In this section, we will discuss some of the best drama TV shows that you need to watch. These shows cover a wide range of genres, from crime to politics to romance, ensuring that there is something for everyone.

A. Crime Drama TV Shows

1. Breaking Bad

Breaking Bad is a crime drama TV show that premiered in 2008 and ran for five seasons. The show follows the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who turns to cooking and selling meth to provide for his family after being diagnosed with cancer. The show is known for its gripping storyline, excellent acting, and dark humor. Bryan Cranston, who plays Walter White, won several awards for his performance, including four Primetime Emmy Awards for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Drama Series.

2. The Sopranos

The Sopranos is a crime drama TV show that premiered in 1999 and ran for six seasons. The show follows the story of Tony Soprano, a New Jersey-based Italian-American mobster who struggles to balance his family life with his criminal activities. The show is known for its realistic portrayal of the mafia, as well as its exploration of themes such as mental health and family dynamics. The show won multiple awards, including 21 Primetime Emmy Awards.

3. Dexter

Dexter is a crime drama TV show that premiered in 2006 and ran for eight seasons. The show follows the story of Dexter Morgan, a blood-spatter analyst for the Miami Metro Police Department who moonlights as a serial killer. The show is known for its complex characters, excellent storytelling, and suspenseful plot twists. Michael C. Hall, who plays Dexter, received critical acclaim for his performance, including five Primetime Emmy Award nominations.

B. Political Drama TV Shows

1. House of Cards

House of Cards is a political drama TV show that premiered in 2013 and ran for six seasons. The show follows the story of Frank Underwood, a ruthless and ambitious politician who will stop at nothing to climb the ranks of power in Washington D.C. The show is known for its intricate plot, masterful acting, and exploration of themes such as corruption and power dynamics. Kevin Spacey, who played Frank Underwood, won multiple awards for his performance, including a Golden Globe Award for Best Actor in a Television Series – Drama.

2. Scandal

Scandal is a political drama TV show that premiered in 2012 and ran for seven seasons. The show follows the story of Olivia Pope, a crisis manager and political fixer who helps the rich and powerful navigate their personal and professional problems. The show is known for its fast-paced plot, diverse cast, and exploration of themes such as race, gender, and power. Kerry Washington, who plays Olivia Pope, received critical acclaim for her performance, including two Primetime Emmy Award nominations.

3. The West Wing

The West Wing is a political drama TV show that premiered in 1999 and ran for seven seasons. The show follows the story of President Josiah Bartlet and his staff as they navigate the challenges of running the United States government. The show is known for its witty dialogue, sharp writing, and exploration of themes such as patriotism, leadership, and morality. The show won multiple awards, including 26 Primetime Emmy Awards.

C. Romance Drama TV Shows

1. Grey’s Anatomy

Grey’s Anatomy is a romance drama TV show that premiered in 2005 and is still airing. The show follows the story of a group of doctors at Seattle Grace Hospital as they navigate their personal and professional lives. The show is known for its diverse cast, realistic portrayal of medical procedures, and exploration of themes such as love, loss, and resilience. Ellen Pompeo, who plays the lead character Meredith Grey, has received critical acclaim for her performance, including a Screen Actors Guild Award for Outstanding Performance by a Female Actor in a Drama Series.

2. This is Us

This is Us is a romance drama TV show that premiered in 2016 and is still airing. The show follows the story of the Pearson family as they navigate their lives and relationships over several decades. The show is known for its emotional depth, excellent writing, and exploration of themes such as family dynamics, identity, and grief. Sterling K. Brown, who plays Randall Pearson, won two Primetime Emmy Awards for his performance.

3. Outlander

Outlander is a romance drama TV show that premiered in 2014 and is still airing. The show follows the story of Claire Randall, a World War II nurse who is transported back in time to 18th-century Scotland, where she falls in love with a Scottish warrior named Jamie Fraser. The show is known for its breathtaking scenery, strong performances, and exploration of themes such as time travel, cultural identity, and love across different eras. Caitriona Balfe, who plays Claire Randall, has received critical acclaim for her performance, including a Golden Globe nomination.

D. Period Drama TV Shows

1.Downton Abbey

Downton Abbey is a period drama TV show that premiered in 2010 and ran for six seasons. The show follows the story of the Crawley family, who live in a grand estate in England in the early 20th century. The show is known for its lavish production design, stellar performances, and exploration of themes such as social class, gender roles, and changing times. The show won multiple awards, including three Golden Globe Awards and 15 Primetime Emmy Awards.

2. The Crown

The Crown is a period drama TV show that premiered in 2016 and is still airing. The show follows the story of Queen Elizabeth II and her reign, from her early days as a young princess to her present-day role as the longest-reigning monarch in British history. The show is known for its meticulous attention to detail, exceptional writing, and exploration of themes such as duty, family, and power. The show has received critical acclaim and won multiple awards, including two Golden Globe Awards and 11 Primetime Emmy Awards.

3. Mad Men

Mad Men is a period drama TV show that premiered in 2007 and ran for seven seasons. The show follows the story of Don Draper, a creative director at a prestigious advertising agency in New York City, and his colleagues as they navigate the changing times of the 1960s. The show is known for its stylish production design, excellent writing, and exploration of themes such as identity, consumerism, and gender roles. The show won multiple awards, including five Golden Globe Awards and 16 Primetime Emmy Awards.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are many excellent drama TV shows out there, each with its own unique style and themes. Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas, romance dramas, political dramas, period dramas, or something else entirely, there is something for everyone. These shows offer complex characters, compelling storylines, and a chance to explore the human condition through the lens of television. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and enjoy some of the best drama TV shows of all time.

FAQs

A: A drama TV show is a type of television program that focuses on fictional stories and characters, often with serious or emotional themes.

A: Some common themes in drama TV shows include love, loss, power dynamics, morality, and social and political issues.

A: Some of the best drama TV shows of all time include The Sopranos, Game of Thrones, The West Wing, Downton Abbey, The Crown, Mad Men, Breaking Bad, The Wire, and Fargo.

A: A good drama TV show typically has compelling characters, a well-written storyline, and explores themes that resonate with viewers. It also often has strong acting and production values.

A:  Not all drama TV shows are suitable for all ages. Many dramas deal with mature themes and can contain violence, sex, and adult language. It’s important to check the rating and content warnings before watching a show to determine if it’s appropriate for you or your family.