30 Best Netflix Original Series of All Time

Since 2013, Netflix has consistently rolled out an impressive array of original content, blending quality with quantity. In 2021 alone, Netflix’s original programming clinched 44 Emmy Awards, surpassing all other production companies. While the streaming giant has had its fair share of misses, several standout shows like BoJack Horseman and Black Mirror have cemented their status as television greats.

Netflix’s substantial budget has allowed it to create large-scale productions featuring big-name stars, rivaling the best of HBO and AMC. The platform’s most acclaimed series span a wide array of genres, from sci-fi and comedy to historical drama and crime.

If you’re considering canceling your subscription, hold off until you’ve seen these top 30 must-watch Netflix original series.

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Sense8 is a groundbreaking science fiction drama series created by Lana and Lilly Wachowski, the visionary directors behind the Matrix franchise. The show follows eight individuals from around the globe who discover they are “sensates,” humans connected both emotionally and telepathically. This unique connection allows them to share skills, languages, and experiences, creating a profound and unbreakable bond.

Sense8 ran for two seasons before its unexpected cancellation. However, due to an overwhelming fan response and the unresolved cliffhanger at the end of season two, Netflix released a two-and-a-half-hour finale in June 2018. This special episode provided a satisfying conclusion to one of the most emotionally resonant and joyfully inclusive series ever created.

Is it surprising that a teen drama about royalty would receive such high praise? Young Royals is set in the fictional elite boarding school Hillerska and centers on Prince Wilhelm (Edvin Ryding) as he navigates the pressures of royal duties alongside his personal desires. Wilhelm soon finds himself torn between his obligations and his undeniable feelings for a fellow student, Simon (Omar Rudberg).

Packed with all the tropes that make teen dramas irresistible, Young Royals succeeds without attempting to reinvent the genre. The series features relatable characters who look refreshingly real, with actors of appropriate ages and natural appearances, blemishes and all. While the plot may be somewhat predictable, fans aren’t watching for groundbreaking twists but for the heartfelt stories that capture the highs and lows of adolescence.

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A standout sex comedy-drama on Netflix, Sex Education captures the lives of teens in the fictional town of Moordale. The series follows Otis Milburn (Asa Butterfield), a socially awkward teen whose extensive knowledge of sex, thanks to his sex therapist mom, becomes unexpectedly useful at school. Partnering with the sharp-witted Maeve Wiley (Emma Mackey), Otis starts an underground sex clinic, offering advice to fellow students.

Sex Education revitalizes the teen comedy-drama genre with its contemporary and realistic portrayal of high school life. While the show is filled with humor and lighthearted moments, it delves into deeper drama when Otis develops feelings for Maeve, setting off a complex and engaging will-they-won’t-they dynamic.

Money Heist is a Netflix series that has become a global sensation. Originally on the brink of cancellation, this Spanish heist drama skyrocketed to fame, becoming one of Netflix’s most-watched shows. The series centers on a group of criminals recruited by a mastermind known as “The Professor” (Álvaro Morte). The first season chronicles their meticulous planning and execution of a heist at the Royal Mint of Spain, where they print billions of euros before making a daring escape.

While Money Heist is packed with action, including intense robberies, shootouts, and high-stakes scenarios, it is the evolving relationships and character arcs that truly captivate audiences. The dynamic ensemble cast, featuring Úrsula Corberó (Tokyo), Itziar Ituño (Lisbon), and Pedro Alonso (Berlin), brings depth and intrigue to the storyline, ensuring viewers are hooked from start to finish.

Hailed as one of the best live-action adaptations of a manga series, 2023’s One Piece burst onto the scene, captivating both long-time fans and newcomers alike. This fantasy adventure series chronicles the journey of Monkey D. Luffy (Iñaki Godoy) and his pirate crew as they traverse the seas in pursuit of the ultimate treasure called ‘One Piece’. Along the way, they encounter numerous challenges in their quest for the coveted title of Pirate King.

The show features a talented ensemble cast bringing the beloved Straw Hat Pirates to life, earning praise for their outstanding performances. The stunning visuals and high production value further elevate the series, showcasing a dedication to quality that resonates with viewers.

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Margaret Qualley soared to stardom with her stellar performance in the 2021 miniseries Maid. Based on Stephanie Land’s memoir, Maid: Hard Work, Low Pay, and a Mother’s Will to Survive, the series tells the story of a young mother who escapes an abusive relationship and takes up housecleaning to support her infant daughter. Through her journey, the show vividly depicts the struggles and hardships she faces as a single mother burdened by a painful past.

Critics hailed Maid as one of Netflix’s finest miniseries, applauding its sensitive, empathetic, and insightful portrayal of abuse and adversity. Qualley’s portrayal of the determined young mother garnered widespread acclaim, earning her nominations for Emmy, Golden Globe, and SAG awards. The series’ powerful writing and its intense yet uplifting narrative resonated deeply with both critics and viewers, solidifying its status as a standout show.

Based on the beloved video game series, Netflix’s Castlevania had high expectations from its skeptical fanbase. Fortunately, the series exceeded those expectations, vividly bringing the dark and gothic world to life. The story follows Trevor Belmont (Richard Armitage), the last surviving member of the disgraced Belmont clan, as he battles the formidable vampire Count Dracula (Graham McTavish). Teaming up with the powerful mage Sypha Belnades (Alejandra Reynoso) and the dhampir Alucard (James Callis), Trevor must thwart Dracula’s plans and save humanity from annihilation.

Castlevania masterfully blends horror, action, and fantasy, creating a deliciously dark yet accessible series for newcomers and long-time fans alike. The show’s striking animation and intense storyline captivate viewers, offering a thrilling experience from start to finish.

Its sequel, Castlevania: Nocturne, may not entirely reach the high bar set by the original, but it still delivers an engaging continuation for those who loved the initial series.

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Set in a 16th-century, medieval-inspired Joseon, Kingdom is a South Korean period horror series that masterfully unravels a conspiracy threatening the entire nation. The story follows Crown Prince Lee Chang (Ju Ji-hoon) as he navigates the deceit within the royal court, only to find himself confronting a mysterious epidemic that causes the dead to rise and wreak havoc. Alongside him are physician Seo-bi (Bae Doona) and the enigmatic warrior Yeong-shin (Kim Sang-ho), who become crucial allies in the fight against the undead.

Kingdom may not be the first series to merge period drama with the zombie genre, but it certainly sets a high standard. The show excels on all fronts, from the Crown Prince’s struggle with his royal duties and the future of the throne to the riveting discoveries and twists surrounding the “resurrection plant” and the undead.

Oscar-nominee and Emmy winner Toni Collette joins forces with Emmy winner Merritt Wever in the critically acclaimed 2019 true-crime miniseries Unbelievable. The show dramatizes a series of sexual assaults committed in Washington and Colorado between 2008 and 2011, focusing on Marie, a young woman wrongfully charged with lying about being raped. As two detectives dig deeper, they uncover a shocking and disturbing truth.

Unbelievable received universal acclaim from critics and audiences alike. Collette and Wever’s performances were highly praised, as was Kaitlyn Dever, whose portrayal of Marie was hailed by several critics as one of the best of the 2019-2020 season. The series garnered numerous nominations, with all three actresses receiving Golden Globe and Critics Choice nods.

An anime-original story and video game tie-in, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners stands out as one of the best achievements in Netflix’s anime catalog. Animated by the renowned studio Trigger and set within the universe of CD Projekt’s Cyberpunk 2077, the series follows a boy in a dystopian metropolis who transitions from a promising student at Arasaka Academy to a life among Edgerunners—cybernetically enhanced mercenaries and criminals—after his mother’s tragic death.

Trigger, celebrated for its jaw-dropping visuals and emotionally charged storytelling, brings Cyberpunk: Edgerunners to life with its signature flair. The series delivers relentless intensity and a deeply engaging cast of characters, blending style and substance seamlessly. Each episode is packed with stunning animation and a narrative that grips viewers from start to finish.

Cyberpunk: Edgerunners not only expands the world of Cyberpunk 2077 but also stands on its own as a compelling story of survival, rebellion, and the human spirit in a high-tech, low-life world. Whether you’re a fan of the video game or new to this universe, Cyberpunk: Edgerunners offers an unforgettable journey through a visually spectacular and emotionally resonant dystopia.

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After Life is a remarkable comedy series that tugs at viewers’ heartstrings while delivering gut-busting laughs. Created by and starring Ricky Gervais in one of his most poignant roles as Tony Johnson, the series delves into the protagonist’s journey through grief following the death of his beloved wife. To cope with his immense pain, Tony disregards societal norms and opts for brutal honesty, often at the expense of others’ feelings. However, as time passes, Tony’s perspective on life and grief begins to shift.

The series masterfully uses dark humor to tackle heavy topics with a deft touch. Ricky Gervais’ impeccable writing and standout performance make After Life a must-watch. Viewers can expect a rollercoaster of emotions, oscillating between laughter and tears as they follow Tony’s winding path to healing. After Life offers a profound exploration of grief and the human experience, blending comedy and heartbreak to create a truly unique viewing experience.

Now rightly considered among the best anthology series ever made, Love, Death & Robots brings to life numerous incredible stories that seamlessly blend sci-fi, fantasy, horror, and more. Created by Tim Miller, this Netflix original series presents bite-sized tales that delve into the darker aspects of humanity. From dystopian worlds where robots examine the remnants of society to utopias ruled by sentient yogurt, the series spans a wide array of captivating narratives.

One of the standout features of the show is its novel animation techniques and mesmerizing visual styles, showcased with stunning variety across episodes. Each installment is unique, with different animation studios and artists contributing their distinctive talents. This diversity ensures that every episode offers something fresh and exciting.

Favorites among fans vary widely, but Love, Death & Robots has produced some truly iconic episodes. Stories like “Bad Travelling” and “Beyond the Aquila Rift” have earned their place in TV history, highlighting the series’ ability to captivate and entertain.

Following the immense success of Narcos, Netflix expanded the franchise with Narcos: Mexico, originally intended as the fourth season but ultimately evolving into a companion series. This show delves into the origins of the Mexican drug war, a period marked by chaotic trafficking and the rise of drug cartels. The series follows Miguel Ángel Félix Gallardo (portrayed by Diego Luna) as he attempts to consolidate power and build a formidable drug empire. His success attracts the attention of authorities, especially after the murder of DEA agent Kiki Camarena (played by Michael Peña), which becomes a pivotal moment in the narrative.

Though Narcos: Mexico might not have reached the same popularity levels as its predecessor, it offers a compelling and intense continuation for fans of the original series. The show benefits from the same dramatic tension, intricate storytelling, and dynamic atmosphere that made Narcos a hit. By exploring a new chapter in the history of the drug trade, Narcos: Mexico provides a richer, more comprehensive understanding of the complex and often brutal world of narcotics trafficking.

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While Ozark may have been slow to capture the attention of Netflix’s audience, it has now firmly established itself as one of the best crime dramas in recent TV history. Jason Bateman stars as Marty Byrde, a financial planner who is forced to assist a drug cartel in exchange for his family’s safety after a money laundering scheme goes wrong.

Drawing comparisons to Breaking Bad, Ozark delves into family drama with a unique twist. Rather than focusing solely on dominating the drug world, the series emphasizes the lengths one will go to protect their loved ones. This nuanced approach translates exceptionally well on-screen, captivating viewers with its intense, suspenseful narrative.

Transporting audiences into the turbulent world of 9th-century England, The Last Kingdom centers on the compelling tale of Uhtred of Bebbanburg (Alexander Dreymon), a Saxon nobleman captured and raised by Vikings. As he matures, Uhtred seeks vengeance for his father figure’s untimely death but finds himself torn between two worlds. His journey unfolds amidst historical events, political intrigue, and shifting alliances of the Viking Age.

This series offers a vivid portrayal of medieval life, showcasing brutal battles and royal court drama. The Last Kingdom paints a rich, engaging picture of the era, embellished with intense drama and meticulously choreographed violence. The British historical fiction series gained immense popularity and a dedicated fanbase, leading to a feature-length sequel (The Last Kingdom: Seven Kings Must Die) on Netflix after its conclusion.

The Haunting of Hill House, directed by Mike Flanagan, is a masterful adaptation of Shirley Jackson’s 1959 novel. The series follows five adult siblings whose lives are forever altered by their paranormal experiences at Hill House 26 years prior. The narrative seamlessly alternates between two timelines—the summer of 1992, when the Crain family moves into Hill House, and the present day, where the now-adult Crain siblings and their estranged father reunite after a family tragedy.

Critics have lauded The Haunting of Hill House for its stellar acting, expert direction, and high production values. While the show delivers some effective jump scares, its true strength lies in its psychological horror elements. The series delves deep into the characters’ minds, exploring themes of grief, trauma, and the lasting impact of past experiences.

The Karate Kid franchise, despite its numerous sequels and remakes, found new life and a fresh perspective with Cobra Kai. This series brilliantly reinvents the martial arts universe by bringing back Ralph Macchio and William Zabka to reprise their iconic roles as Daniel LaRusso and Johnny Lawrence. Now adults dealing with midlife crises, their rivalry is reignited when Johnny decides to reopen the infamous Cobra Kai dojo, attracting a new generation of talented students.

For the first few seasons, Johnny and Daniel’s ongoing feud provides plenty of drama and nostalgia for long-time fans. However, the series takes an exciting turn when the two adversaries join forces to confront common enemies, Kreese and Silver. This alliance adds depth and intrigue to the storyline, making the show even more compelling.

Cobra Kai is not just a trip down memory lane for Karate Kid enthusiasts; it’s a dynamic series filled with humor, action, and heartfelt moments. The show’s ability to blend nostalgia with fresh, engaging content makes it a standout in the realm of reboots.

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Although Anya Taylor-Joy was already well-known before The Queen’s Gambit, the series catapulted her to international stardom. This seven-episode period miniseries follows Beth Harmon, a fictional chess prodigy, whose career rapidly advances as she grapples with intense alcohol and drug addiction.

Widely regarded as one of Netflix’s flagship series, The Queen’s Gambit received unanimous acclaim. Critics lauded Anya Taylor-Joy’s performance, earning her a Golden Globe, Critics Choice, and SAG Awards, along with an Emmy nomination. The show’s production values, writing, and supporting performances also garnered universal praise, culminating in several awards, including the 2021 Emmy for Outstanding Limited Series.

The Crown is a mesmerizing historical series that delves into the life of Queen Elizabeth II, chronicling her journey from the early years on the throne in the 1950s to the 21st century. Over its four seasons, the show has featured three remarkable actresses portraying the Queen at different stages of her life: Claire Foy, Olivia Colman, and Imelda Staunton. Each performance is a masterclass, offering unique and nuanced interpretations of the monarch.

While The Crown has faced criticism for historical inaccuracies and occasional hagiographic tones, it remains a meticulously crafted drama. The narrative is surprisingly gripping, weaving through political scandals, attempted coups, and terror plots that have shaped the royal family’s legacy. The show’s stunning cinematography and meticulous set design vividly recreate the period settings, from opulent palaces to grand manors, immersing viewers in the era’s elegance.

Daredevil features one of television’s most iconic blind characters, Matt Murdock (Charlie Cox). By day, Matt is a dedicated lawyer, and by night, he transforms into the titular masked vigilante, Daredevil. Blinded as a child, Matt has honed his remaining senses to superhuman levels, enabling him to protect the streets of Hell’s Kitchen from powerful enemies like Wilson Fisk (Vincent D’Onofrio).

The Netflix series stands out with its flawlessly choreographed fight scenes and a compelling narrative centered on Matt’s complex journey. As Daredevil, he navigates a seedy criminal underbelly, balancing his pursuit of justice with the burdens of his troubled past. The series delves into Matt’s internal struggles, exploring the moral and emotional challenges he faces as both a lawyer and a vigilante.

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Mindhunter is an essential watch for fans of psychological crime thrillers. This riveting series delves into the early days of criminal profiling by following two dedicated FBI agents, Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany). Their mission is to interview incarcerated serial killers, aiming to understand their motives, experiences, and psychological patterns, which could provide crucial insights for solving active cases. Alongside them is the brilliant but underappreciated psychologist Wendy Carr (Anna Torv), who aids in developing essential resources for future agents.

The show’s intense atmosphere and intriguing concepts make it easy to become engrossed in Mindhunter‘s chilling world. The tension is palpable as the profilers confront one twisted criminal after another, each interview peeling back the layers of the darkest human minds. The series shines in its portrayal of infamous serial killers, including the likes of David Berkowitz, also known as Son of Sam, and Charles Manson. These fictionalized encounters are hauntingly realistic, adding depth and authenticity to the narrative.

Heartstopper premiered to critical acclaim and quickly became one of the most popular Netflix original series upon its release. Based on Alice Oseman’s beloved webcomic and graphic novel, this coming-of-age romcom follows Charlie Spring (Joe Locke), a schoolboy who finds himself falling for his classmate, Nick Nelson (Kit Connor).

Heartstopper stands out for its heartwarming narrative, well-developed characters, and stunning comics-inspired visuals. The series has since expanded to include other endearing characters like Tao Xu (William Gao) and Darcy Olsson (Kizzy Edgell). These characters add depth and diversity to the narrative, ensuring that there’s something for everyone.

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Black Mirror, one of Netflix’s standout originals, delves deep into the dark side of the digital age. This anthology series explores dystopian near-futures where technology often spells disaster for humanity. With its high-concept premises and impressive range, Black Mirror has captivated audiences worldwide.

Each episode of Black Mirror is a self-contained story, allowing for a diverse array of tones and themes. Some episodes are bleak and violent, while others are comedies, satires, or even touching love stories. The series has become known for its terrifyingly familiar settings and premises, from killer robot bees to a society where social status is determined by digital points.

“Nosedive,” featuring Bryce Dallas Howard, is a highlight that serves as a parable about the dangers of seeking approval on social media. Another standout, “San Junipero,” tells a heartwarming romance set in a virtual reality space for the elderly, showcasing the series’ emotional depth and versatility.

Dark is a groundbreaking German sci-fi series that captivates with its intricate time-travel narrative and atmospheric storytelling. Set in the small town of Winden, the plot kicks off with the mysterious disappearance of two local children, unraveling a complex web that spans multiple generations and intertwines the lives of four families.

Initially framed as a murder mystery, Dark quickly evolves into a sprawling, interconnected time travelling saga. The show masterfully explores the hidden secrets of Winden, turning the town itself into a character teeming with enigmatic histories and cryptic connections to the missing children.

While Dark shares some surface similarities with Stranger Things, it is grittier and more intense. A more fitting comparison would be David Lynch’s Twin Peaks, with Dark’s eerie atmosphere and unsettling moments. The series is ambitious, delving into a labyrinthine plot that remains compelling and accessible, even as it becomes increasingly complex in Seasons 2 and 3.

Blue Eye Samurai is an netflix original animated series that has quickly captivated audiences with its unique blend of action, adventure, and heartfelt storytelling. Set in Edo-period Japan, the show follows the journey of Mizu, a half-Japanese, half-European samurai who seeks vengeance against four British men (one of whom may be her father). With her striking blue eyes, Mizu faces constant discrimination but uses her exceptional swordsmanship to carve out her own destiny.

What sets Blue Eye Samurai apart is its rich cultural backdrop and the intricate development of its characters. The series dives deep into themes of identity, acceptance, and perseverance, making it more than just a typical action-packed anime. Each episode reveals more about Mizu’s past and the challenges she must overcome, keeping viewers hooked and emotionally invested.

When Stranger Things premiered in 2016, it took the world by storm despite minimal marketing. Set in the ’80s, this TV series masterfully blends elements from classic films and shows like E.T., Rambo, and The Goonies. The result is a captivating story filled with monsters, friendship, alternate dimensions, and government conspiracies.

Unlike many shows that rely on nostalgia for its own sake, Stranger Things uses its ’80s setting to enhance its storytelling. The series immerses viewers in a compelling narrative that keeps them hooked from the first episode to the last. The characters’ deep friendships and the show’s intricate plot make it more than just a trip down memory lane.

Stranger Things expertly balances eerie suspense with heartfelt moments, creating a unique viewing experience. Its blend of supernatural thrills and relatable, emotional arcs has made it a global phenomenon. Whether you’re a fan of ’80s culture or just love a good mystery, Stranger Things offers something for everyone. Dive into this thrilling adventure and discover why it continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

One of Netflix’s most-watched yet often underrated shows is Narcos. This gripping series delves into the notorious Colombian drug cartels, focusing on figures like Pablo Escobar and the Cali Cartel, and their intense conflict with the DEA. While the show features some seemingly gratuitous violence, its compelling narrative keeps viewers on the edge of their seats throughout each season.

The strength of Narcos lies in its storytelling and acting. The plot is both gripping and unsettling, drawing viewers into the dangerous world of drug trafficking. The performances are incredibly convincing, adding depth and authenticity to the complex characters.

Unlike its big-screen counterparts like Sicario, Narcos differentiates itself by balancing realism with thrilling dramatization. This blend allows the show to explore the high-stakes world of drug cartels while maintaining an engaging and entertaining pace.

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A showbiz comedy about a self-destructive ’90s sitcom star who happens to be a horse isn’t an easy sell. Yet, BoJack Horseman defied expectations to become one of the most beloved and critically acclaimed shows on television. Set in a world of humanoid animals, BoJack Horseman is a stark meditation on depression, greed, addiction, fame, obsession, abuse, and generational trauma.

What sets BoJack Horseman apart is its unique blend of dark themes and sharp humor. The show is rife with visual gags, witty wordplay, and unafraid to explore deep emotional depths, only to rebound with moments of tenderness. It’s a series that makes you laugh out loud one moment and hits you with gut-wrenching narrative twists the next.

Miraculously, BoJack Horseman stuck the landing, concluding on a high note with the reflective and heartbreaking season 6. The final season brought a poignant closure to BoJack’s tumultuous journey, balancing moments of despair with glimmers of hope.

Ava DuVernay’s miniseries When They See Us was highly anticipated and received critical acclaim for its powerful portrayal of the 1989 Central Park jogger case. The series garnered widespread praise, earning Jharrel Jerome an Emmy for his outstanding performance.

When They See Us recounts the harrowing true story of five teenagers wrongfully accused of assaulting and raping a woman in Central Park. The show meticulously depicts their journey from the initial accusation through their exoneration, highlighting the systemic injustices they faced.

Complementing the series was Oprah Winfrey Presents When They See Us Now, a special that delved deeper into the impact of the case and the making of the series, drawing significant attention and furthering the conversation about wrongful convictions.

With the highest IMDb rating of any Netflix Original series and four Primetime Emmy wins, it’s hard to overstate the impact that Arcane has had since its release in 2021. The animated series has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base, yet it remains surprisingly underrated and underseen. Based on the immensely popular video game League of Legends, Arcane follows the tumultuous journey of two sisters, Vi and Jinx, as they grapple with their strained familial ties amidst a dark conflict over resources and power between the shadowy underground city of Zaun and the insidious utopian city of Piltover.

Even if you have no prior knowledge of League of Legends, Arcane stands on its own as a captivating story. The series has received high praise from both critics and fans, particularly for its stunning animation that beautifully complements the deeply moving and emotional narrative.

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