When it comes to television, HBO is in its own league.
For decades, the network has been the gold standard for storytelling, stunning direction and unforgettable performances.
Whether it’s a mafia, medieval battle, a dystopian future, or a twisted family drama, HBO has consistently pushed the boundaries of television.
It is an impressive catalogue of shows that shaped pop culture, some stand out more than others.
From genre-defining classics to modern masterpieces, these are the 15 best HBO original series that solidifies the network’s legendary status.
Contents
- 1 15. Sex and the City (1998-2004)
- 2 14. The Nightof (2016)
- 3 13. Deadwood (2004-2006)
- 4 12. Boardwalk Empire (2010-2014)
- 5 11. White Lotus (2021-present)
- 6 10. I might destroy you (2020)
- 7 9. Oz (1997-2003)
- 8 8. Reduce your enthusiasm (2000-2024)
- 9 7. True Detective (2014-Present)
- 10 6.6 feet under (2001-2005)
- 11 5. Game of Thrones (2011-2019)
- 12 4. Chernobyl (2019)
- 13 3. Sopranos (1999-2007)
- 14 2. Inheritance (2018-2023)
- 15 1. Wire (2002-2008)
15. Sex and the City (1998-2004)
Few shows have had the cultural influence of sex and the city. The fascinating lives of Carrie, Samantha, Charlotte and Miranda have redefine modern television, bringing women-driven stories, bold discussions about relationships, and high-fashion moments on the small screen. The show has a share of criticism over the years, but its impact on pop culture and the way it shapes conversations about love, friendship and independence cannot be denied.
14. The Nightof (2016)
A hidden gem in HBO’s catalogue, The Night of is an intense and fascinating miniseries that explores the American criminal justice system in brutal detail. The show starring Riz Ahmed and John Turturro examines the emotional sacrifice of illegal incarceration, racial bias, and being trapped in a flawed system. With its stunning writing and unforgettable performance, it’s a wonder of a season that will leave you in your heart for a long time after the credits are rolled.
13. Deadwood (2004-2006)
Deadwood has taken away the Western genre and made it rough, raw, and unforgettable. The show redefines Wild West with morally complicated characters, rich storytelling and poetic dialogue. Though it was shortened after three seasons, its legacy remains alive and its influence can also be seen in modern television dramas that aim to combine historical credibility with strong storytelling.
12. Boardwalk Empire (2010-2014)
If you’re a fan of crime, corruption and the charm of the prohibition era, the Boardwalk Empire is a must-see. Produced by Martin Scorsese, the show is a spectacular visual look at the rise of organized crime in the 1920s. Steve Buscemi’s performance as Nucky Thompson is fantastic, and the show’s mix of true historical figures and fictional stories makes it stand out in the HBO lineup.
11. White Lotus (2021-present)
Who knew that a wealthy man on vacation could make such a persuasive TV? The White Lotus has a sharp, satirical look of privilege, power and social dynamics, all set against the backdrop of a gorgeous resort. The stunning location, all-star cast and chewing social commentary have made this anthology series one of HBO’s most talked about modern shows.
10. I might destroy you (2020)
Michaela Coel’s I May destrol You Is is bold, unscratched, deeply personal. The show tackles sexual assault, trauma and healing at a level of integrity that is rarely seen on television. Koel’s performance as Arabella is a woman who piece together the events of a traumatic night, heartbreaking and powerful. This show is not only a great TV, but it’s an essential viewing.
9. Oz (1997-2003)
Before HBO became the king of Prestige TV, there was Oz. The gritty prison drama set the stage for all the groundbreaking series that followed. With raw storytelling, brutal violence and complex characters, Oz continues to be one of the most influential shows in television history.
8. Reduce your enthusiasm (2000-2024)
Larry David’s nagging, semi-autobiographical comedy has been making audiences laugh (and bend over) for over 20 years. Your enthusiasm thrives with social awkwardness, sarcasm wit and observational humor. With its improvisational form and ability to turn everyday situations into comedy gold, the show has solidified as one of HBO’s best comedies.
7. True Detective (2014-Present)
The first season of True Detective was a game-changer in crime dramas. Starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, he delivered atmospheric cinematography, creepy storytelling and an unforgettable performance. The quality of the following seasons was varied, but the show’s ability to reinvent itself with each new cast and mystery makes it compelling.
6.6 feet under (2001-2005)
Few shows treat life and death beautifully as 6 feet below. Set in a family-run funeral home, the series explores dark humor and deep emotional resonance, sadness, love and personal growth. The series’ finale is widely regarded as one of the best in television history, offering a lasting impact ending.
5. Game of Thrones (2011-2019)
Despite its divisive final season, Game of Thrones is one of the most ambitious television series ever created. With an incredible world of battles, complicated characters and rich fantasy, it defined the era of television. It may have ended up being a controversial note, but its cultural implications cannot be denied.
4. Chernobyl (2019)
Chornobyl is a masterclass in historical storytelling, dramatizing real-life nuclear disasters with unforgettable realism. Its tense atmosphere, attention to detail and great performance make it one of the most fascinating miniseries ever produced.
3. Sopranos (1999-2007)
The soprano, who often thought of shows that changed television forever, blended mob drama with psychological depths, giving him one of the greatest anti-heroes on TV with Tony Soprano. With great writing, complex character research and genre-defining finale, it remains a feature of prestige television.
2. Inheritance (2018-2023)
Few shows balance the satire, dark humor and family dysfunction. The Roy family’s struggle for power saga has given us the most iconic television moment of the last decade. Razor’s insightful writing and unforgettable performances have earned the Supens its position as one of HBO’s most incredible works.
1. Wire (2002-2008)
No show, like wire, captures the rough reality of urban America. Its multi-layered storytelling, deep human characters, and unfiltered social comments are more than just a television show, they are cultural documents. Wire, which is often hailed as the best series ever made, puts this list as HBO’s best achievement.
HBO continues to dominate television, offering some of the most compelling stories ever told. Whether you’re interested in crime dramas, satirical comedies, or historical epics, this list proves that no one is on TV like HBO.