150 Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
Since about the early 2000s, TV audiences have been blessed with what many experts call The Golden Age of Television. In other words, TV has never been so darn good or so darn smart. This list features smart TV shows that are currently running new episodes, even if we’re just anxiously awaiting for a fresh season. Here are the best shows with the best writing, characters, and storylines that smart people watch.
There are several reasons why TV has never been better. First, there are more channels that cater to different tastes. Not only are cable networks like AMC and FX churning out Emmy Award-winning dramas, but streaming channels like Amazon and Netflix, are also producing high-caliber programming that are not constricted to the tight guidelines typically associated with network television.
It’s not just about cursing and showing a little nudity, it’s about telling complicated stories that don’t just wind up neat and tidy at the end of a half hour episode. It’s safe to say that television is not just for the masses anymore to simply idle away wasted evenings, a smart TV show is a welcomed form of entertainment in even the most highbrow of houses.
You will see the total gamut of programming on this list. There are even animated comedies. Sure, an eight-year-old can watch The Simpsons or Family Guy and be extremely entertained. But, for the shows to be appreciated, an intellectual mind is needed to pick up on all of the nearly laugh-a-second nuances and understand the less obvious references.
Which smart TV shows are your favorite? Be sure to vote up the TV series you think are the smartest shows on television.
- 1Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Millie Bobby Brown
- Genres: Drama,Horror,Science Fiction,Thriller
A thrilling blend of supernatural mystery and '80s nostalgia, this captivating series follows a group of friends as they uncover the truth behind their friend's disappearance while battling sinister forces from another dimension. With its intelligent plot twists and engaging characters, it's no wonder smart viewers are hooked.
Why It's Smart
This show is a masterclass in blending '80s nostalgia with modern storytelling. It's smart because it takes complex themes like friendship and coming-of-age and mixes them with science fiction and horror elements. The result? A multi-layered narrative that keeps you guessing.
- 2Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Andrew Scott
- Genres: Adventure,Crime,Drama
This modern retelling of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's classic detective stories features Benedict Cumberbatch as the brilliant yet socially awkward sleuth, Sherlock Holmes. His razor-sharp wit and uncanny ability to solve complex cases make this series a must-watch for those who appreciate intellectual entertainment.
Why It's Smart
Sherlock is clever in its intricate plot twists and its fresh interpretation of iconic characters. The dialogue is sharp, and the mysteries are genuinely challenging. It modernizes the classic Sherlock Holmes tale with episodes that challenge what you know, what you thought you knew, and what you had no idea you should have probably known.
- NEW
- Genres: Comedy,Drama,Thriller
- 3Hugh Laurie, Robert Sean Leonard, Omar Epps
- Genres: Drama,Mystery
Driven by Hugh Laurie's charismatic portrayal of the misanthropic medical genius Dr. Gregory House, this show combines intricate medical mysteries with compelling character drama - a perfect prescription for intelligent viewers seeking both intrigue and emotional depth.
Why It's Smart
House is really less about the accuracy of the medical cases and more about being a complex character study about its titular character. The show smartly delves into ethical and philosophical dilemmas that those in the medical profession (and patient's families) face, making you think twice about what's right and wrong in medicine.
- 4Rod Serling, Robert McCord, Jay Overholts
- Genres: Fantasy,Science Fiction,Thriller
Rod Serling's iconic anthology series explores thought-provoking themes through eerie tales that challenge our perceptions of reality, making it an enduring favorite among discerning fans of cerebral television.
Why It's Smart
This is the OG anthology series that explored social and political issues through the lens of science fiction and fantasy. Each episode is a thought experiment, making you question the world around you.
- 5Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn
- Genres: Crime,Drama
Chronicling the transformation of high school chemistry teacher Walter White into ruthless meth kingpin Heisenberg, Breaking Bad is lauded for its impeccable storytelling, complex characters, and unflinching exploration of moral ambiguity - all marks of truly great TV.
Why It's Smart
It's not just about a chemistry teacher turned meth producer. Breaking Bad explores the complexities of morality, choice, and consequence in a way that's both thrilling and intellectually stimulating. There are SO many different layers to this series, and as you rewatch it a second time, you'll catch new details that you missed the first time around.
- 6Evan Rachel Wood, Thandiwe Newton, Ed Harris
- Genres: Drama,Science Fiction
Set in an immersive theme park populated by lifelike robots called "hosts," Westworld delves into deep philosophical questions about consciousness and humanity while delivering mind-bending plot twists that keep even the sharpest viewers on their toes.
Why It's Smart
Westworld takes the concept of AI and runs with it, exploring themes of consciousness, free will, and the ethics of playing god. It's a philosophical rollercoaster.
