The Best Showtime Shows Of All Time, Ranked
At their peak, the best Showtime shows and series are on par with some of the best big screen movies and HBO original series. While movies only have two or three hours to introduce characters and develop a plot, Showtime shows are given many hours to present characters and storylines. This gives the audience a stronger connection to characters that isn’t replicated in film. But that doesn’t mean all Showtime series are exactly film-quality. So to find out which original Showtime show is the best, fans have voted for their favorites below.
Though Showtime still broadcasts plenty of films, more and more people are turning to them for original series content. Shows such as Dexter and Homeland drew in millions of viewers and have had multiple seasons. In fact, Dexter is probably one of the most popular Showtime shows of all time, peaking at 3 million views for the season eight premiere.
They have no sign of slowing down, with new shows premiering and old shows returning every Fall season. Recently, their hit shows have included Ray Donovan, Shameless, Homeland, and House of Lies. Not only are they some of the best Showtime shows ever, they’re among the best TV shows ever. All three have starred actors that have won or been nominated for awards. For a more recent look at the best Showtime shows, you’ll want to check out this ranking of Showtime's current lineup.
As for the best Showtime series ever however, this list is the one to look at. Below, vote for your favorite shows that originally premiered on the Showtime network. Looking for a particular show? Use the search box at the top of the list to find it.
Start watching Showtime today with a free trial.
- 1Michael C. Hall, Jennifer Carpenter, C.S. Lee
- Premiered: October 1, 2006
Delve into the life of Dexter Morgan, a blood-spatter analyst by day and a vigilante serial killer by night, as he navigates his dual identity while trying to maintain a semblance of normalcy with his sister Debra. This dark yet captivating series explores complex family dynamics and moral dilemmas through the lens of its enigmatic protagonist, played masterfully by Michael C. Hall. Watch as Dexter's unorthodox methods challenge conventional notions of justice and familial bonds.
- 2Claire Danes, Mandy Patinkin, Maury Sterling
- Premiered: October 2, 2011
CIA officer Carrie Mathison (Claire Danes) takes center stage in this thrilling drama that delves into the intricate world of counter-terrorism and espionage. As she struggles with her bipolar disorder, Carrie is constantly torn between loyalty to her country and protecting those closest to her - including fellow agent Saul Berenson (Mandy Patinkin). Homeland showcases the sacrifices made for family amidst high-stakes situations that test even the strongest relationships.
- NEW
- 3William H. Macy, Jeremy Allen White, Cameron Monaghan
- Premiered: December 12, 2010
The chaotic Gallagher clan invites you into their world as they navigate poverty, addiction, love, and loss on Chicago's South Side. Led by Emmy Rossum's Fiona Gallagher - who shoulders responsibility for her five younger siblings – this unconventional family battles adversity with humor and resilience despite their alcoholic father Frank (William H. Macy) wreaking havoc at every turn. Shameless offers an unapologetic portrayal of raw family dynamics that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
- 4Corey Stoll, Paul Giamatti, Maggie Siff
- Premiered: January 17, 2016
The fierce battle between U.S Attorney Chuck Rhoades (Paul Giamatti) and billionaire hedge fund manager Bobby Axelrod (Damian Lewis) drives this gripping drama about power, politics, greed – but also loyalty within each character’s inner circle. As these titans clash in pursuit of wealth and influence in New York City's financial district, Billions reveals how both men fiercely protect their families amidst ruthless ambition; demonstrating that even Wall Street warriors have loved ones they'll fight for.
- 5Liev Schreiber, Jon Voight, Eddie Marsan
- Premiered: June 30, 2013
Step into the gritty world of Ray Donovan (Liev Schreiber), a professional "fixer" who makes high-profile problems disappear for Hollywood's elite. As he struggles to balance his tumultuous career with the demands of his deeply troubled family - including an ex-con father played by Jon Voight - Ray must confront long-buried secrets that threaten to unravel everything. This intense drama showcases how even in the darkest corners of life, family ties can be both a lifeline and a curse.
- 6Mary-Louise Parker, Kevin Nealon, Justin Kirk
- Premiered: August 7, 2005
Nancy Botwin (Mary-Louise Parker) is your not-so-typical suburban widow who resorts to selling marijuana to support her family after her husband's sudden death. As she navigates through life's challenges with humor and resilience, Weeds paints a unique picture of how far one mother will go to keep her family together. With its dark comedic undertones and engaging plotlines, this series redefines what it means to be a modern-day American family.
