The Best Drama TV Shows Airing Now

Ranker Community
Updated October 31, 2023 157.8K votes 12.8K voters 241.2K views
Over 12.8K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of Top Dramas on Right Now
Voting Rules
Vote up your favorite TV drama series that are currently airing new episodes.
Latest additions: Black Cake, Django, The Morning Show
Recently, Slow Horses fell out of the top 25, replaced by Evil
Most divisive: Better Call Saul

While some of the best drama TV shows are long gone (we'll never forget you, Breaking Bad), others like Outlander and even American Horror Story keep us interested, toy with our emotions, and certainly keep our DVRs busy as we follow along with the dramatic story lines.

Many of the best, most acclaimed series come from networks like CBS, ABC, NBC, and FOX while others were only available from basic cable stations like AMC and FX. Even others were limited to those with the pay channels like HBO and Showtime or streaming providers like Netflix and Hulu - which make it easy to decide which shows to marathon. Regardless of network, these series get us interested and keep us hooked to all the action throughout the year.

The best drama shows of all time provided a bit of something for everyone. Sci-fi and horror lovers had plenty of options like Stranger Things and American Horror Story while those looking for medical dramas could choose from the likes of Good Sam or New Amsterdam.

Old favorites like NCIS continue to hold strong on network TV, but the best dramatic television shows also include Netflix series such as Ozark, along with cable favorites including Better Call Saul.

So whether you're a fan of the warm and fuzzy dramas or the hard-hitting crime shows or any in between, one or another of the best current dramatic series is sure to keep you crying, cheering, or simply entertained.

Check out more lists like the most loved tv shows of all time, the top premium cable series, and the best sci-fi shows. Or, check out the best new and returning drama TV shows in 2020.

Ranked by
  • Superman & Lois
    1

    Superman & Lois

    Tyler Hoechlin, Bitsie Tulloch, Alexander Garfin
    362 votes
    • Premiered: February 23, 2021
    • Genres: Action,Adventure,Drama,Fantasy
    In a refreshing take on the beloved comic book characters, Superman & Lois navigates the complexities of family life, while still delivering thrilling superhero action. Set in the quaint town of Smallville, the series follows Clark Kent (Tyler Hoechlin) and Lois Lane (Elizabeth Tulloch) as they balance their demanding careers with raising two teenage sons, each grappling with their unique challenges. The show has garnered critical acclaim for its nuanced storytelling and standout performances, earning a nomination for Best Superhero Series at the 2021 Saturn Awards. Viewers can expect an engaging blend of drama, emotion, and adventure, as the iconic couple tackles both supernatural threats and relatable family struggles.
  • Stranger Things
    2

    Stranger Things

    Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Millie Bobby Brown
    854 votes
    • Premiered: July 15, 2016
    • Genres: Drama,Horror,Science Fiction,Thriller
    In a small town shrouded in 80s nostalgia, Stranger Things unravels an enigmatic tale of supernatural occurrences and covert government experiments. The series has garnered numerous accolades for its stellar performances by a talented ensemble cast, including the young telekinetic Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) and dedicated police chief Jim Hopper (David Harbour). Seamlessly blending elements of sci-fi, horror, and coming-of-age drama, the show captivates audiences with its engaging storytelling and memorable characters. With each season, viewers are transported to the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, where they delve deeper into the mysteries that lie beneath the seemingly ordinary surface.
  • The Good Doctor
    3

    The Good Doctor

    Freddie Highmore, Hill Harper, Richard Schiff
    788 votes
    • Premiered: September 25, 2017
    • Genres: Drama
    The Good Doctor presents a refreshing take on the medical drama genre, showcasing the life and career of a young surgical resident, Dr. Shaun Murphy (Freddie Highmore), who happens to be autistic and has savant syndrome. With its engaging narrative and brilliant performances, the show has garnered multiple award nominations, including a Golden Globe nod for Highmore. As viewers follow Dr. Murphy's journey, they witness his daily struggles and triumphs while working at San Jose St. Bonaventure Hospital. The series expertly balances emotional depth with medical intrigue, offering an insightful exploration into the complexities of human relationships and professional dynamics in the world of medicine.
  • Peaky Blinders
    4

    Peaky Blinders

    Cillian Murphy, Natasha O'Keeffe, Paul Anderson
    487 votes
    • Premiered: September 12, 2013
    • Genres: Drama,Drama
    Set against the gritty backdrop of post-WWI Birmingham, Peaky Blinders is a gripping crime drama that delves into the lives of the Shelby family as they navigate the treacherous underworld. Led by the cunning and enigmatic Thomas Shelby (Cillian Murphy), this notorious gang rises to power through a combination of ruthless ambition and calculated moves. With its intense storytelling and stellar performances, the series has garnered numerous accolades, including BAFTA Television Awards. The show's dark atmosphere and rich historical context make it an enthralling watch, while the complex relationships between characters provide additional layers of intrigue.
  • The Boys
    5

    The Boys

    Karl Urban, Jack Quaid, Antony Starr
    136 votes
    • Premiered: July 26, 2019
    • Genres: Action,Adventure,Comedy,Drama,Fantasy
    In a world where superheroes are revered and adored, one television series dares to expose the dark underbelly of these seemingly perfect beings. The Boys, a gripping and subversive drama, delves into the morally complex lives of its characters as they navigate the treacherous waters of power and corruption. With an ensemble cast featuring the likes of Billy Butcher (Karl Urban) and Hughie Campbell (Jack Quaid), the show offers a fresh take on the superhero genre that has captivated audiences around the globe. Garnering critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, this groundbreaking series is a must-watch for those seeking a thrilling yet thought-provoking viewing experience.
  • Ozark
    6

    Ozark

    Jason Bateman, Laura Linney, Sofia Hublitz
    501 votes
    • Premiered: July 21, 2017
    • Genres: Drama
    In the shadowy world of financial crime, Ozark weaves a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. This critically acclaimed drama series, with multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations to its name, follows the perilous journey of Marty Byrde (Jason Bateman) as he navigates the treacherous waters of money laundering for a ruthless drug cartel. Alongside his resourceful wife Wendy (Laura Linney), the couple encounters an array of complex characters and dangerous situations in the seemingly tranquil lakeside town. With its masterful storytelling and captivating performances, Ozark offers a thrilling exploration of morality, family dynamics, and the consequences of one's actions.