I love getting sucked into a new TV show—one that’s so good it takes your mind off everything else. I’ve been known to stumble upon a series and power through a couple of seasons in one weekend (impressive, I know!). Sometimes, you just need to dive into a good drama, and HBO is the perfect place to find just that.
What’s even better about picking up a show that's already wrapped is that you know you can binge-watch as much as you want. These series are perfect for a rainy weekend or to pass time during long flights. So, I’ve decided to put my (not-so-useless) TV knowledge to use and provide some suggestions if you’re looking for a good drama to binge on HBO. Below are the 7 Best Drama Series to Watch on HBO, ranked based on pure binge-worthy satisfaction.
1. Game of Thrones
8 Seasons of Pure Entertainment
Game of Thrones sits at the top of my list, with eight seasons of pure intrigue, drama, and jaw-dropping moments. Initially, I resisted watching it because fantasy or sci-fi genres usually aren’t my thing. But Game of Thrones is one of those universally appealing shows. Between the political drama among warring families, the constant threats to society’s existence, and some twisted love stories, there’s something for everyone. It’s a rollercoaster of betrayals, alliances, and power grabs—the sort of drama that leaves you thinking about it long after the screen goes black. Even if you’re skeptical about dragons, trust me: you’ll find yourself rooting for and against characters in ways you wouldn’t expect.
2. Six Feet Under
A Profound and Emotional Journey
I have to be honest—for the longest time, I avoided Six Feet Under. The idea of a show centered around a family-owned funeral home didn’t appeal to me. But when I finally decided to watch it (a good eight years after its original run), I got hooked almost immediately. This five-season series is a deep, emotional exploration of life, death, and everything in between. It’s equal parts quirky, dark, and poignant, offering a raw look at the different ways people handle loss and relationships. Even weeks after I finished the series, I found myself thinking about the characters and their stories. I still get a visceral reaction every time I hear the song “Breathe Me” by Sia, which played during the unforgettable finale.
3. The Sopranos
A Modern Mafia Classic
The Sopranos has been called one of the greatest TV dramas of all time—and for good reason. This six-season series redefined what a TV drama could be, blending crime, family, and existential dilemmas in a way that’s never been replicated. Tony Soprano, played masterfully by the late James Gandolfini, is a mob boss trying to balance his family obligations and his criminal empire while dealing with anxiety. The psychological depth of Tony and the constant high-stakes tension within his mafia world make it a compelling watch. Whether you’re interested in the mob or not, this show draws you in with its storytelling and memorable characters.
4. Big Love
Family Dynamics Like You’ve Never Seen
When I first heard about Big Love, a series about a polygamist man with multiple wives, I wasn’t sure if it was for me. However, I quickly realized that, at its core, it’s not about polygamy—it’s about family, love, and the different ways people navigate relationships. The five-season show explores the complexities of Bill Henrickson’s life as he tries to protect and care for his unconventional family while juggling societal pressures. It’s a look at family from a different lens, and what makes it powerful is the relatability of its themes—love, jealousy, loyalty, and the desire for acceptance. The dynamics between Bill, his wives, and the outside world make for an incredibly engaging drama.
5. The Wire
A Gritty Look at Baltimore
The Wire is one of those iconic HBO series that everybody talks about. Set in Baltimore, the show takes an unflinching look at the city’s drug scene from various perspectives—law enforcement, the dealers, and everyone caught in between. The show features complex storylines, in-depth character development, and some of the most memorable quotes in TV history. It doesn’t shy away from showing the systemic issues that plague urban America, and that’s what makes it so powerful. Even if you think police procedurals aren’t for you, The Wire has a way of gripping you and not letting go.
6. Westworld
A Mind-Bending Sci-Fi Thriller
If you enjoy shows that make you think and question everything, then Westworld is for you. Westworld is set in a futuristic amusement park where guests can live out their fantasies through interactions with hyper-realistic robots. But, as is often the case with AI, things don’t stay under control for long. The show blends elements of drama, suspense, and sci-fi, constantly keeping you guessing with its plot twists and intricate timelines. The philosophical questions it poses about consciousness, morality, and freedom make Westworld more than just a drama—it's a thought-provoking experience.
7. Succession
Power, Wealth, and Dysfunction
Though relatively newer than some of the other classics on this list, Succession has earned its spot among HBO’s best dramas. This show takes a deep dive into the lives of the dysfunctional Roy family—owners of a global media empire. Watching the ruthless power struggles among the Roy siblings and their attempts to earn (or manipulate) their father's approval is utterly captivating. The writing is razor-sharp, with characters who are both despicable and strangely sympathetic. If you like family drama with a mix of dark humor and unrelenting ambition, Succession will not disappoint.
Honorable Mention: Boardwalk Empire
A Slow-Burn Crime Drama
While I ultimately didn't include it in the top seven, Boardwalk Empire deserves an honorable mention. Set in the Prohibition era, this show, led by the charismatic Nucky Thompson (Steve Buscemi), depicts the rise of organized crime in Atlantic City. While the pacing can be slower at times, the intricate storylines and complex characters make it worth the watch—especially if you’re a fan of historical dramas.
Conclusion
There are so many incredible dramas on HBO that it’s almost impossible to choose a definitive list. However, these seven shows are a great place to start. Whether you’re in the mood for gritty realism, philosophical musings, intricate family dynamics, or historical crime sagas, HBO offers it all. So, the next time you're in need of a series to completely get lost in, look no further than these classic HBO dramas. Happy binge-watching!
If you're on the hunt for your next favorite TV show, there's no shortage of resources to help you discover the perfect series tailored to your tastes. Whether you're in the mood for something new or a timeless classic, the following platforms and communities offer a wealth of recommendations and insights:
IMDb: The premier source for movie and TV show information. Visit IMDb
Rotten Tomatoes: A site that aggregates movie and TV show reviews from critics and audiences. Visit Rotten Tomatoes
Metacritic: It compiles reviews and assigns scores to movies, TV shows, and games. Visit Metacritic
Wikipedia: A comprehensive resource for detailed information about various shows, including plot summaries and production details. Visit Wikipedia
TV Guide: A well-known source for television listings and reviews. Visit TV Guide
Entertainment Weekly: Offers entertainment news, reviews, and features on movies and television. Visit Entertainment Weekly
Deadline Hollywood: An online news site focused on the entertainment industry, providing updates and insights. Visit Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter: A leading source for entertainment news, analysis, and reviews in film and television. Visit The Hollywood Reporter
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These resources will keep you well-informed and endlessly entertained as you explore the world of television. Happy watching!
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