Ranked roundup
The best series of the 2000s
25 ranked · updated June 2026
The 2000s defined a golden age of television where complex moral decay, high-stakes animation, and gritty procedural realism converged to reshape modern storytelling. This curated list captures the decade's most influential narratives, ranging from the dark psychological depths of criminal underworlds to the sweeping power of epic fantasy sagas.
How this ranking works
Ranked by a Bayesian-weighted score combining each title's average rating and rating count (minimum 100 ratings to qualify, weighted toward titles with more votes), filtered to series released in the 2000s.
Breaking Bad
Vince Gilligan
Breaking Bad earns its top spot through a masterful, slow-burn exploration of moral decay and the irreversible consequences of a man's descent into crime.
Avatar: The Last Airbender
Michael Dante DiMartino
Avatar: The Last Airbender secures its position by perfectly balancing epic world-building with a poignant, character-driven coming-of-age journey through a war-torn landscape.
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood
Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood is essential viewing for its profound philosophical inquiry into the cost of redemption and the unbreakable strength of familial bonds.
Death Note
Death Note provides a gripping psychological experience by forcing viewers to confront the dangerous intersection of god-like power and absolute moral ambiguity.
House
David Shore
House remains a standout for its sharp subversion of the medical procedural, anchored by the compelling and abrasive brilliance of its titular misanthropic protagonist.
The Office
Greg Daniels
The Office redefined the workplace comedy by using the mockumentary format to find profound humor and humanity in the mundane details of everyday life.
Band of Brothers
Band of Brothers stands as a definitive historical achievement for its visceral, unflinching portrayal of leadership and the enduring trauma of wartime brotherhood.
The Wire
David Simon
The Wire is a monumental achievement in television, offering an unparalleled look at systemic corruption and the harsh realities of urban societal decay.
Naruto Shippūden
Naruto Shippūden earns its place by showcasing the enduring power of determination and the evolution of friendship throughout a young hero's arduous journey.
InuYasha
InuYasha captivates through its imaginative fusion of feudal Japanese folklore and high-stakes adventure, anchored by the themes of reincarnation and destiny.
Fighting Spirit
Fighting Spirit is a masterclass in the sports genre, focusing on the grueling path of self-improvement and the heart of an underdog athlete.
Malcolm in the Middle
Linwood Boomer
Malcolm in the Middle provides a raw and hilarious look at middle-class life, perfectly capturing the chaotic reality of a dysfunctional yet relatable family.
Planet Earth
Planet Earth is an unparalleled technical triumph that utilizes groundbreaking cinematography to celebrate the vast biodiversity and natural wonders of our world.
The Spectacular Spider-Man
Stan Lee
The Spectacular Spider-Man excels by grounding its superhero action in the authentic struggles of teen life, high school drama, and maintaining a secret identity.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars
George Lucas
Star Wars: The Clone Wars expands the scope of its source material by providing a serious, military-focused examination of war and the Jedi Order.
Ned's Declassified School Survival Guide
Scott Fellows
A standout among the best series of the 2000s.
Common questions
What is the best crime drama series from the 2000s?
According to this list, the best series of the 2000s is Breaking Bad by Vince Gilligan. It is recognized for its intense focus on moral decay, the consequences of crime, and the transformation of its lead character.
Which animated series should I watch from the 2000s?
This list features several top-tier animated series, including Avatar: The Last Airbender, Fullmetal Alchemist: Brotherhood, and Death Note. These shows are highly regarded for their complex world-building, character development, and unique approaches to fantasy and psychological thriller genres.
Are there any good war documentaries or dramas from the 2000s?
Yes, Band of Brothers is the top-ranked military drama on this list, chronicling the experiences of Easy Company during World War II. For a broader look at reality, Planet Earth offers an epic documentary perspective on the natural world.