2025 has been a binge-watcher’s paradise, full of exciting new releases across every genre. From laughs to thrillers, these shows have hooked viewers all around the world from the very first episode.
Let’s have a look at the list we have compiled for some of the most universally loved shows of 2025.
1. When Life Gives You Tangerines
The crown jewel of our list is When Life Gives You Tangerines. Set in Jeju Island, the series is a romance and slice-of-life drama heavily praised for its heartfelt themes and meaningful life lessons. It follows Ae-sun (IU), a spirited young woman who dreams of becoming a poet, and Gwan-sik (Park Bo-gum), a quiet and devoted man who stands by her through life’s ups and downs. Their decades-long journey captures love, heartbreak, and resilience in rural Korea.
Globally adored for its emotional storytelling and stunning visuals, the series earned widespread acclaim, multiple Baeksang Awards, and a place at the top of Netflix’s global charts.
IMDb rating: 9.1/10
Where to stream: Netflix
2. Adolescence
This Emmy-winning crime drama quickly became a global favorite, capturing hearts across the world. Released in March 2025 on Netflix, the show captured viewers’ attention with its intriguing storytelling and the exceptional performance delivered by the cast, especially by Owen Cooper (Jamie Miller), who was only 14 years old at the time of filming.
This drama not only broke viewing records but also sparked widespread conversations about the complexities of modern adolescence. It made history at the Emmys, with Cooper becoming the youngest actor to win a Supporting Actor Emmy. His co-stars, Stephan Graham and Erin Doherty, also earned Emmy wins, making the show a true cultural phenomenon.
IMDb rating: 8.1/10
Where to stream: Netflix
3. Pee-wee as Himself
Released in May 2025, this quirky two-part documentary follows Paul Reubens, a comedic icon usually out of the spotlight, as he navigates everyday situations through his alter ego, Pee Wee Herman.
Produced by Matt Wold, Pee-wee as Himself blends humor, nostalgia, and a behind-the-scenes look at Reubens’ hilarious everyday life. Fans have been loving every moment, praising its nostalgic charm, Pee Wee’s unique energy, and great humor.
IMDb rating: 8.4/10
Where to stream: HBO and Max.
4. The Pitt
Created by R. Scott Gemmill, The Pitt is a gripping medieval drama set during a single 15-hour shift at a Pittsburgh trauma center, exploring the high-pressure world of healthcare professionals. The series features some well-known stars like Noah Wyle, Kathrine LaNasa, and Taylor Dearden.
Praised for its realism and compelling storytelling, the show has earned widespread acclaim, which hooked audiences and critics. At the 2025 Primetime Emmy Awards, the show bagged the Outstanding Drama Series award as well as awards for its main cast.
IMDb rating: 8.9/10
Where to stream: Prime Video
5. Dept. Q
A crime thriller about Carl Morck (Matthew Goode), a brilliant detective with personal demons, who’s tapped to head a newly formed cold case unit (Department Q) in Edinburgh. The series follows Morck and his team as they reopen old cases, uncovering new evidence and exposing corruption within the system.
Praised for its suspenseful mysteries, this series has viewers captivated, becoming Netflix’s most-watched Scottish title in 2025 and earning a Primetime Emmy nomination for Outstanding Original Main Title Theme Music.
IMDb rating: 8.2/10
Where to stream: Netflix
6. The Narrow Road to the Deep North
This historical fiction had viewers buzzing when Prime released its first season in April 2025. It is an adaptation by Justin Kurzel of Richard Flanagan’s novel, and is being described as “masterfully crafted” with emotional depth and historical accuracy.
Jacob Elordi portrays an Australian surgeon, Dorrigo Evann. This is a story that revolves around the lasting psychological impact of war, exploring themes like guilt, romance, and tragedy. Along with Elordi, Odessa Young portrays Amy Mulvaney, married to Dorrigo’s uncle, who develops a deep connection with Dorrigo that eventually becomes an affair.
IMDb rating: 7.2/10
Where to stream: Prime Video
We’ve rounded up 2025’s best TV shows. What’s your favorite? Drop it in the comments!
