The 7 best shows of 2025 so far – including Stephen Graham’s record-breaking hit and a BBC triumph

We’ve reached the midpoint of the year, which means it’s time for us to carefully select the top shows of 2025 so far. The variety we had to choose from was truly remarkable. While we can’t include every fantastic show, please don’t be disappointed if your favorite doesn’t make the list (a nod goes out to the second seasons of Boarders and Severance, as well as the captivating finale of Andor).

Here’s everything you can currently stream, so feel free to consider it my suggestion if there are any titles on here that you haven’t had a chance to watch yet.

Adolescence

In one swift narrative style, Adolescence offers captivating performances, acting workshops, and the emergence of Owen Cooper as a standout talent, making it a pinnacle of British drama. This series serves as a thought-provoking discussion piece and delves into the contemporary issue of increasing misogyny, portrayed through the tale of a high school student who tragically took a girl’s life.

Without a doubt, Stephen Graham’s drama has been one of the most influential television productions this year, sparking numerous discussions nationwide since its initial airing in March. The four-part series quickly rose to the top of the UK’s weekly TV ratings, breaking new ground as the first streaming show to achieve this feat. Now, “Adolescence” ranks as the second most-watched English language show on Netflix in history.

In our exceptional five-star review, we declared that Adolescence is the outstanding new series of 2025. Our reason being: “Exceptional dramas have an unparalleled ability to deeply affect you emotionally and provoke thoughtful discussions, and Adolescence does exactly that.

Adolescence is available on Netflix.

What It Feels Like for a Girl

Unabashedly true to itself, “What It Feels Like for a Girl” stands out more due to its refusal to compromise. The BBC’s maturing drama is inspired by Paris Lees’ book (who also served as the showrunner), delving into the self-exploration journey of teenager Byron.

Byron found solace and safety in her circle of trans and non-conforming companions, The Fallen Divas, who transformed into her chosen family. The song “What It Feels Like for a Girl” skillfully combines the exuberance of the LGBTQ+ community with the challenges faced in seeking acceptance. In this harmonious blend, it serves as an insightful guide on resistance and endurance.

In our glowing review, we dubbed it as “the highlight of the summer,” and we believe its impact will linger in our conversations for quite some time.

What It Feels Like for a Girl is available on BBC iPlayer.

Reunion

A captivating series hails from the production house known for ‘Adolescence’, and it’s none other than BBC’s ‘Reunion’. This engaging revenge thriller centers around deaf former convict, Daniel Brennan, portrayed by Matthew Gurney.

This remarkable drama offers an insightful viewpoint from the deaf community, blending two languages: British Sign Language (BSL) and spoken English. The compelling narrative unfolds using both methods, boasting a talented ensemble that includes Anne-Marie Duff, Rose Ayling-Ellis, and Eddie Marsan.

In our glowing evaluation, we commented: “Though it carries a strong, obvious political undertone, it ultimately shines as a masterfully acted drama. Rather than lecturing, it stirs emotions, prompting viewers to reconsider their viewpoints from a fresh angle.

Reunion is available on BBC iPlayer.

The Last of Us

The anticipation for HBO’s second installment of their post-apocalyptic series, The Last of Us, was immense following the success of its debut season – however, we found that the intensity and charm of the second season were on par with the first.

Despite not being able to fully express the catastrophic events shown in episode two, the show continues to masterfully interweave emotion and suspense. As usual, it’s the human aspect of the series that proves more chilling and impactful than any monster contaminated with mushrooms could possibly be.

By the way, introducing Dina (Isabela Merced) has made “The Last of Us” even more noteworthy for its thoughtful representation of LGBTQ+ characters.

The Last of Us is available on Sky and NOW in the UK.

Big Boys

This year, after three exhilarating seasons, I found myself saying goodbye to Jack Rooke’s critically-acclaimed sitcom, Big Boys. The bittersweet farewell episode was a fitting end, truly embodying the exceptional quality that earned it the title of “one of the best and most significant British shows of the last decade”.

The Channel 4 series is not just a hilarious sitcom that might make you tumble from your couch in laughter, but it also delves deeply into the complexities of grief and men’s psychological well-being.

You can’t help but fall for the main characters in Big Boys , as pressing play on it is virtually like falling in love. Dylan Llewellyn’s character, Jack, defies the traditional ‘gay best friend’ stereotype by being the narrator himself. His bond with his straight best friend Danny (Jon Pointing) plays a significant role in shaping Jack’s life, making it one of the most impactful relationships.

Big Boys is available on Channel 4.

Hacks

Without a doubt, one of the top comedy shows currently airing – indeed, we assert this – saw its fourth season premiere in April, and oh, what a joy it was to return!

This highly praised series focuses on the dynamic interplay between Deborah Vance, an illustrious comedian portrayed by Jean Smart, and her writer, Ava Daniels (played by Hannah Einbinder). They engage in an intriguing ballet of sorts, showcasing both their deep bond as soulmates and their intense rivalry.

News has arrived confirming that a fifth season is imminent! The announcement assures us that Vance will return with full force after the recent finale’s events. Given his character, this is exactly what we anticipated. We are eagerly awaiting its arrival!

Hacks is available on Sky and NOW in the UK.

Get Millie Black

Offering a novel and invigorating twist on the crime genre, we even went as far as saying it surpassed “Death in Paradise,” a series often compared to it. The recently debuted Channel 4 police drama undeniably left a lasting impression when it premiered in the UK earlier this year.

In Kingston, Jamaica, the story Get Millie Black unfolds around Tamara Lawrance’s character, Millie Black, who is a former Met detective. Upon her return to her hometown, she embarks on a search for a missing girl that rekindles her police career. The ensuing investigation leads the audience through an exploration of various cultural aspects.

Get Millie Black is available on Channel 4.

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2025-06-16 15:19