2017 was a busy year for television. Between cable, premium channels, and streaming services like Netflix and Amazon Prime, excellent programming ran throughout the year from all sides of the industry. Our television team had a difficult time narrowing such an impressive year down to ten series, and we had to make some difficult cuts by excluding some fantastic shows such as Mr. Robot, The Leftovers, and Showtime’s new comedy SMILF. But after a long debate, we’ve formed a list of what we consider to be the best of the best from this year. Here it is: mxdwn television’s Top 10 TV shows of 2017.
10. Dr. Who
Our favorite and one of the most popular time lord and his TARDIS fascinated us again this year. It even ended with a fantastic Christmas Special to the next Doctor.
By Samer Alrayes
9. The Last Kingdom
Welcome to 872 England. Son loses his family and then his adoptive family. Enjoy shows like Vikings and Game of Thrones? Then you should definitely check this show out. This is one of the better shows on Netflix.
By Samer Alrayes
8. Insecure
HBO’s Insecure was another hit show this year with Issa Rae’s interpretation of the awkward experiences of a modern-day black woman. This drama-comedy series follows the character of Issa Rae, who is also the creator of this series, along with her friendship with Yvonne Orji’s character Molly. The show also stars Jay Ellis as Lawrence and Amanda Seales as Tiffany. This series is popular with its hilarious and provocative plot and can be relatable to certain audiences.
By Shenelle Charlot
7. The Punisher
Marvel’s The Punisher easily grasped the attention of many Marvel DC Comics fans as it is a spin-off of Marvel’s Daredevil. The series follows the character of Frank Castle (Jon Bernthal), who is a Marine veteran, as he becomes a vigilante known as “The Punisher.” Frank Castle fights crime and seeks revenge on those who is responsible for the death of his family. The series also stars Ben Barnes (Billy Russo), Ebon Moss-Bachrach (David Lieberman), Deborah Ann Woll (Karen Page), and Amber Rose Revah (Dinah Madani).
By Shenelle Charlot
6. Fargo
This year’s installment of Fargo had some big shoes to fill. Both seasons 1 and 2 were considered to be some of the best television of all time, and fans’ anticipation of a new season was at extreme heights come the beginning of 2017. As it turns out, Fargo season 3 might have outdone both of its predecessors. It’s rumored that this year’s season might be the show’s last, but with its freshly new storyline, razor sharp writing, and top-notch performances from its ensemble cast, Fargo season 3 would certainly finish the series on a high note.
By Caitlin Leale
5. The Deuce
This show quickly became a fan-favorite on HBO when it drew in over 2 million viewers for its series premiere. With The Hollywood Reporter calling it “gritty” and having sexual “grimy” appeal, this HBO drama easily received plenty of attention from its viewers throughout its first season. The 70’s-set drama follows the world of the porn industry and prostitution in Manhattan. Created by HBO hard-hitters David Simon and George Pelecranos of The Wire and Treme, this provocative drama stars James Franco (Vincent and Frankie Martino), Maggie Gyllenhaal (Candy), Emily Meade (Lori), and Margarita Levieva (Abigail Parker).
By Shenelle Charlot
4. Twin Peaks: The Return
This was an emotional roller coaster that you want to ride. With a dead homecoming queen and a 25-year time skip this crime show is more than worth its place on this list.
By Samer Alrayes
3. Game of Thrones
Every year, Game of Thrones fans are convinced that the next season couldn’t possibly top the latest episodes. After season 6’s stunning episodes like “Battle of the Bastards” and “The Winds of Winter”, everybody certainly thought this was the case. But season 7 came along and proved everybody wrong. With enormous dragons, elaborate action sequences (who could forget that loot train attack?), and a dazzling season finale, Game of Thrones easily ranks as one of the top series of 2017.
By Caitlin Leale
2. Stranger Things
Stanger Things ended this year with a bang. The supernatural fantasticness continues in season two. If you have not seen this show already, binge it now. I mean the first episode to season 2 is called “MADMAX.”
By Samer Alrayes
1. The Handmaid’s Tale
The Handmaid’s Tale was perhaps one of the most politically relevant shows of the year. Based on a Margaret Atwood novel of the same name, the show discusses such issues as women’s rights, modern day fascism, and the state of American politics as a whole. The show garnered a wave of critical acclaim, and Elizabeth Moss proved that her television presence is more than simply that of Peggy on Mad Men. All of these elements combined established The Handmaid’s Tale as an unquestionable television powerhouse of 2017 and our top show of the year.
By Caitlin Leale