There’s no tradition I enjoy more than picking out my top 10 shows of the year. While you’re here, be sure to check out my top 10 for 2017 and 2016! 

10 – The Rain (Season 1)

Netflix’s foreign productions have been an absolute delight. In 2017, I bingewatched La Casa De Papel and Dark, and in 2018 I discovered The Rain – a show from Denmark about a deadly virus that’s transported via rain. It’s a crazy concept, and it births one hell of an apocalyptic show that never loses sight of the family at the center of the story. Read my review of the pilot here and my review of the first season here. 

9 – Homecoming (Season 1)

Julia Roberts for the win! It’s weird that it took so long for a streaming platform to give one of the biggest movie stars of all time her own show, but at least it was worth it! Homecoming‘s debut season is a twisty and eccentric beast that’s an easy watch (ten episodes of 30 minutes each) and wildly engrossing the whole way through. Read my review of season one here. 

8 – Sharp Objects (Season 1)

Not only is Sharp Objects directed by the genius who helmed last year’s best show (Big Little Lies), it’s a very similar show in terms of dark subject matter and impeccably creative editing. This is an unsettling series, but it’s held afloat by Amy Adams’ game-changing performance and an equally-skilled supporting cast (hello Patricia Clarkson in a super creepy turn). Read my reviews of all the episodes here.

7 – The Handmaid’s Tale (Season 2)

The only reason The Handmaid’s Tale isn’t higher on the list is because it’s so darn disturbing to watch. Although I find this show brilliant in every respect, it’s really uncomfortable/depressing/anxiety-inducing to sit through. Nevertheless, Elisabeth Moss (and Yvonne Strahovski) continued to deliver award-worthy performances this year, and the show’s narrative went to some really really shocking places (episode 10 is just plain traumatic). Read my reviews of all the episodes here. 

6 – Westworld (Season 2)

Season one of Westworld was pretty good, but season two was magnificent television. The show became even more confusing this season with its varying timelines, but somehow, it still made perfect sense. In fact, the show improved on season one by taking its dull lead (Dolores) and making her a pseudo-villain. And it all built to a mind-blowing season finale. Bring on season three! Read my reviews of all the episodes here. 

5 – The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel – (Season 2)

While season one of The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel was a delightful surprise, season two is a total knockout in every way. It takes everything that made the show so special in its debut year, and amplifies it with thriving colors. The humor is on point, the production design is unparalleled, and Midge’s journey as a stand-up comic in the 1950’s is a downright joy to watch. Read my review of season two here. 

4 – The Haunting of Hill House (Season 1)

I never expected to love The Haunting of Hill House as much as I did. I thought the show would be just another horror adventure – little did I know it would be a gut-wrenching exploration of grief and loss. In fact, I can’t remember the last time a drama immersed me in the intricacies of loss and pain in such an affecting fashion. You’d think This Is Us is the strongest family drama on TV but you’d be sorely mistaken. Haunting digs deep and it makes for seriously creepy viewing. Here’s hoping season two tackles a completely new story because this year is perfect as is. Read my review of season one here. 

3 – Killing Eve (Season 1)

It took decades, but Sandra Oh finally got a star vehicle worthy of her talents. Killing Eve is just outstanding; this is a captivating cat and mouse story of a serial killer and the female cop on her trail. There’s nothing predictable here; it’s bold, it’s brutal, and it’s simply unforgettable. Read my review of the pilot here and of the first season here. 

2 – The Affair (Season 4)

It’s a miracle really that season four of The Affair is so high up on this list. After a great debut year and a perfect second season, the show really dropped the ball with its messy third season. However, the show’s fourth season was an astounding return to form packed with shocking surprises (I’m looking at you episode 8), and powerful character development. I don’t have high hopes for season five (particularly with the news of so many cast changes), but there’s no denying that this year was a knockout. Read my reviews of all the episodes here.

1 – The Good Fight (Season 2)

The most underrated show on television is also the best as far as I’m concerned. No other show comes close to The Good Fight in terms of consistent writing, immaculate performances, and layered storytelling. Even if you’ve never watched The Good Wife, this spin-off has evolved into a far superior series in the span of only two seasons. The show’s sophomore season pushed aside the somewhat tiresome Rindell scandal from season one and instead focused on showcasing a Trump-infected world. The fact that it could weave legal shenanigans with superb character work and such a timely setting makes it the finest show of the year. If you’re not watching, now’s the time to get hooked. Read my reviews of all the episodes here.