The Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
The best cable series on premium cable includes some of the greatest TV shows in history. This list of premium cable original programming is ranked by TV fans around the world. What are the best original shows on cable? These are all the best cable series, past and present, that ever aired. The best premium cable series are often good enough to persuade consumers to pay extra money to watch them. Shows like Game of Thrones, The Wire, and The Newsroom have such loyal followings that single episodes can affect entertainment news cycles. For television lovers, many of these top cable series are must-see.
This list of original programs on premium cable feature the best dramas and comedies according to ratings, awards, and fan bases. Even though Showtime's crime drama series Dexter ended with a poorly received season, the overall response was mostly positive, making it high on this list. Even shows that were canceled like Penny Dreadful and Dead Like Me are found on list of the best premium cable TV series of all time.    Â
What are the best premium cable TV series? Vote for your favorites - comedy, sports, or drama - and for real impact on the list order, rank your own list of series or just nominate a show you think should be represented. Networks like HBO and Showtime have been churning out some of the highest rated programming in recent history, so much so that these channels have begun to sweep many of Hollywood's most prestigious award. But the only metric that really matters is your opinion. Which of the most popular premium cable shows are you willing to pay big bucks for? Vote for your favorite below!
- 1Peter Dinklage, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Lena Headey
- Premiered: 2011
- Network: HBO
In a world where summers span decades and winters can last a lifetime, various noble families battle it out for control of the Iron Throne. With loyalties constantly shifting and characters you either love or love to hate, you'll be at the edge of your seat, rooting for your favorite contender and wondering who will win the ultimate game.
- 2Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn
- Premiered: January 20, 2008
- Network: AMC
Breaking Bad captivated audiences with its gripping narrative following the transformation of high school chemistry teacher, Walter White, into a ruthless drug lord. Lauded for its exceptional writing, outstanding performances, and powerful character development, the series is often regarded as one of the greatest TV dramas of all time.
- 3James Gandolfini, Lorraine Bracco, Edie Falco
- Premiered: January 10, 1999
- Network: HBO
What's it like to be a mob boss while also juggling the struggles of family life? This groundbreaking drama gives you a peek behind the curtain, showing that even the toughest of crime lords can have a sensitive side. Therapy sessions, "whackings," and unforgettable characters make this series a must-watch.
- 4Damian Lewis, Ron Livingston, Rick Gomez
- Premiered: September 9, 2001
- Network: HBO
Based on the true experiences of World War II soldiers, this powerful miniseries follows the men of Easy Company as they fight their way through Europe. Through their harrowing journey, you'll grow attached to these brave individuals as they learn the true meaning of brotherhood and sacrifice.
- 5Katheryn Winnick, Moe Dunford, Josefin Asplund
- Premiered: March 3, 2013
- Network: History
Hold onto your helmets and prepare for a thrilling ride as you follow legendary Norse hero Ragnar Lothbrok and his band of warriors. From conquering new lands to navigating treacherous politics, you won't want to miss a moment of their saga.
- 6Mahershala Ali, Stephen Dorff, Carmen Ejogo
- Premiered: January 12, 2014
- Network: HBO
This anthology series reinvents itself each season by introducing a new cast, setting, and mystery. Dive headfirst into these complex cases and watch as detectives struggle not only to solve crimes but also confront their personal demons.
