As 2026 begins, Tvline has published its ranking of the 10 best broadcast television series from the previous year. The list highlights standout performances and storylines from shows on ABC, CBS, Fox, NBC, and The CW. It celebrates scripted fare that delivered emotional depth, humor, and innovation throughout 2025.
Tvline's annual roundup, published on January 13, 2026, focuses exclusively on network television, excluding cable or streaming options. The ranking, ordered from solid performers to exceptional standouts, praises series that balanced character-driven narratives with engaging plots.
At number 10, ABC's '9-1-1' grappled with the shocking death of Captain Bobby Nash, portrayed by Peter Krause, leading to powerful performances by Angela Bassett as a grieving widow and Kenneth Choi stepping into leadership. Key moments included a tense confrontation for Maddie and the birth of a new family member, alongside a whimsical space-themed promotion.
Fox's 'Bob's Burgers,' in its 16th season, maintained its quirky charm through the Belcher family's antics, voiced by talents like H. Jon Benjamin and Kristen Schaal.
CBS's 'Ghosts' delivered laughs and surprises in season 4, such as Hetty's revealed abilities, a new character who sees spirits, and a sweet kiss between Alberta and Pete, while uncovering backstories like Alberta's true name.
'Elsbeth' on CBS shone in its second season with Carrie Preston's versatile lead, tackling quirky cases and a serialized plot involving a corrupt judge played by Michael Emerson. Season 3 faced challenges after Carra Patterson's exit.
NBC's 'Chicago Med' thrived on a dramatic love triangle among doctors, shocking twists like a pregnancy reveal, and strong arcs for Oliver Platt and S. Epatha Merkerson's characters.
ABC's 'Abbott Elementary' in season 5 featured Quinta Brunson's creation with hilarious moments, including a crossover with 'It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia' and the school's temporary move to a mall.
CBS's 'Georgie & Mandy's First Marriage' impressed as a 'Big Bang Theory' spin-off, blending emotional weight from prior events with fresh dynamics for Montana Jordan and Emily Osment.
NBC's 'St. Denis Medical' filled a workplace comedy void with eccentric yet relatable hospital tales, led by David Alan Grier and Wendi McLendon-Covey.
ABC's 'High Potential' hooked viewers with Kaitlin Olson's Morgan Gillory solving cases, facing a cunning antagonist played by David Giuntoli, and personal quests.
Topping the list, ABC's 'Will Trent' elevated the crime genre through Ramón Rodríguez's nuanced portrayal, exploring emotional fallout in season 3 with a strong ensemble including Erika Christensen.
The article invites readers to share their own favorites in the comments, underscoring the subjective joy of year-end reflections.
