The Best New TV Dramas Of The Last Few Years

Updated September 18, 2023 84.6K votes 7.7K voters 132.9K views

Over 7.7K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best New TV Dramas Of The Last Few Years

Voting Rules

Vote up the best television dramas that premiered their first season on or after January 1, 2019.

Latest additions: Neighbours: A New Chapter, Thursday's Widows, Charité at War

Most divisive: Outer Banks

With so many great TV series currently airing, we’re ranking the best new dramas since 2019. Our list of the highest-rated dramas of the past few years is ranked by viewers from everywhere, so make sure you vote up the best new drama series on television. What is the best new drama on TV?

Featuring new Netflix dramas, Hulu original dramas, critically acclaimed miniseries, and more, the best recent dramas include Outer Banks, The Outsider, Normal People and Sweet Magnolias. HBO miniseries Mare of Easttown is considered to be one of the most binge-worthy shows today, while the HBO adaptation of the Perry Mason short stories is another crime drama that is easy to binge.

Vote up the best new dramas that have premiered recently.

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1
1883
Sam Elliott, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill
48 votes
- Premiered: December 19, 2021
1883, a gripping historical drama, transports viewers to the rugged American frontier as it follows the perilous journey of the Dutton family seeking a better life. With its top-notch ensemble cast led by Tim McGraw (James Dutton) and Faith Hill (Margaret Dutton), the series offers an authentic portrayal of 19th-century life, allowing audiences to witness the raw determination and resilience of early settlers. Skillfully navigating complex relationships and unforeseen challenges, the show has earned critical acclaim along with numerous award nominations. 1883 effectively immerses viewers into an era of grit, perseverance, and the relentless pursuit of the American Dream.
- #17 of 565
  The Best New Series That Have Premiered In The Last Few Years
- #14 of 84
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- #13 of 966
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2
Mare of Easttown
Kate Winslet, Julianne Nicholson, Jean Smart
97 votes
- Premiered: April 18, 2021
Mare of Easttown unfolds as a gripping crime drama that delves into the complexities of human relationships and small-town secrets. The HBO limited series, which has received critical acclaim and numerous award nominations, stars Kate Winslet as Detective Mare Sheehan, who is tasked with solving a harrowing murder case while grappling with her personal demons. Set against the backdrop of a tight-knit Pennsylvania community, the show masterfully intertwines elements of mystery, suspense, and emotional depth. The ensemble cast, featuring standout performances from Julianne Nicholson and Jean Smart, elevates the storytelling, resulting in a thought-provoking and compelling viewing experience.
- #28 of 70
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- #11 of 68
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- #2 of 100
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3
Shadow and Bone
Jessie Mei Li, Archie Renaux, Ben Barnes
60 votes
- Premiered: April 23, 2021
In a world torn apart by dark forces, Shadow and Bone seamlessly weaves together elements of fantasy, romance, and adventure. The series, based on Leigh Bardugo's bestselling novels, has garnered critical acclaim for its intricate storytelling and stellar performances. Alina Starkov (Jessie Mei Li) discovers her latent magical abilities, setting off a chain of events that will change the fate of her war-torn country. Alongside a diverse ensemble of characters, Alina navigates the treacherous political landscape and confronts her own personal demons. With its breathtaking visuals and compelling narrative, Shadow and Bone has earned a dedicated fan base worldwide.
- #16 of 555
  The Best New Netflix Originals Of The Last Few Years
- #222 of 2,384
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- #7 of 16
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4
Bridgerton
Jonathan Bailey, Ruby Barker, Harriet Cains
154 votes
- Premiered: December 25, 2020
Set against the backdrop of Regency-era England, this period drama weaves an enchanting narrative centered on the lives of the esteemed Bridgerton family. The series, which has garnered numerous award nominations, skillfully combines romance and societal intrigue with a fresh, modern twist. Each season follows another of the Bridgerton clan as they navigate London's elite for love and marriage. With Phoebe Dynevor as Daphne, Regé-Jean Page as Simon, Jonathan Bailey as Anthony, Simone Ashley as Kate, and Julie Andrews as the voice of Lady Whistledown, Bridgerton displays an array of lavish costumes, grandiose settings, and memorable performances from the talented ensemble cast, making this show a must-watch for fans of historical fiction and romance alike.
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5
The Outsider
Ben Mendelsohn, Jason Bateman, Julianne Nicholson
139 votes
- Premiered: January 12, 2020
The Outsider, a gripping television adaptation of Stephen King's novel, masterfully weaves together elements of mystery and horror, earning itself a Primetime Emmy Award nomination. The show delves into the perplexing investigation of a gruesome murder in a small town, where the prime suspect, Terry Maitland (played by Jason Bateman), appears to have an unshakeable alibi. As Detective Ralph Anderson (Ben Mendelsohn) grapples with the eerie evidence, he is joined by unconventional private investigator Holly Gibney (Cynthia Erivo) in the pursuit of an otherworldly force at play. This chilling tale keeps viewers on edge, as it artfully explores the line between reality and the inexplicable.
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6
Squid Game
Lee Jung-jae, Park Hae-soo, Oh Yeong-su
127 votes
- Premiered: September 17, 2021
In the realm of television, there occasionally emerges a show that transcends borders and becomes a global phenomenon. Squid Game is a prime example of this, with its gripping narrative centered around a deadly competition that unfolds within a dystopian society. The South Korean thriller, directed by Hwang Dong-hyuk, has captivated audiences worldwide, earning critical acclaim and several award nominations. Through its intricate storytelling and compelling character development, particularly that of Seong Gi-hun (Lee Jung-jae) and Cho Sang-woo (Park Hae-soo), Squid Game delves into themes of morality, social inequality, and survival, all while maintaining an air of suspense that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
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1883

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Mare of Easttown

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Shadow and Bone

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Bridgerton

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The Outsider

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Squid Game

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