NBC was the second major American television network, and it continues to be a leading source of popular TV shows in the United States. It’s brought many iconic programs into American homes, including groundbreaking science fiction and beloved comedies.
NBC has created many of television’s most beloved and influential shows. They pioneered the police procedural format and later produced a highly praised crime drama for modern audiences. Beyond that, the network is known for successful dramas focusing on law, medicine, and sports, as well as early hits in the Western and spy genres, and groundbreaking historical miniseries.
It’s rare to find a network with such a long and varied history of popular TV shows. Now, many of NBC’s most beloved series are available on Peacock, their streaming service – a name inspired by the network’s iconic blue logo, first used in 1956. Here are some of the highlights.
The Man from U.N.C.L.E.
1964–1968
The Man from U.N.C.L.E. was a distinctive spy series, just as unusual as its name. It featured sleek visuals, advanced gadgets, and a playful sense of humor that stood alongside the James Bond films of the era. Robert Vaughn and David McCallum became 1960s stars playing secret agents navigating the tensions of the Cold War.
The Good Place
2016–2020
Okay, let me tell you, going into The Good Place, try to know as little as possible about that first season twist – it really packs a punch when it hits you. But honestly, the show gets better on a rewatch. It’s a really smart comedy, but it’s not just funny – it throws all these fascinating philosophical questions at you while still being hilarious. And the cast? Fantastic. Kristen Bell, Ted Danson, and William Jackson Harper are all perfectly cast and deliver truly excellent performances. It’s a show that makes you laugh and think, which is a rare and wonderful thing.
Will & Grace
1998–2006, 2017–2020
At its peak, Will & Grace was a groundbreaking sitcom about a gay man and a straight woman sharing a life in New York, and it felt like the next big thing after Seinfeld and Friends in the late 90s. It’s probably best that the show isn’t being revived again – the original series was so good that its reputation should remain largely untouched.
The Blacklist
2013–2023
While not every season of The Blacklist is fantastic, the show is still worth watching, especially considering how strong it was earlier on. James Spader delivers a career-defining performance as the captivating and mysterious Raymond Reddington, and that’s what really keeps viewers hooked.
This Is Us
2016–2022
The TV show This Is Us is considered one of the best family dramas ever made, and its ending beautifully wraps up the stories of its characters. The show is incredibly relatable, making it easy to connect with each member of the Pearson family. Creator Dan Fogelman and his team crafted so many powerful and realistic moments that it felt like a complete and fulfilling life story.
Shōgun
1980
Long before FX’s recent remake, the original Shōgun series on NBC was groundbreaking for television. It foreshadowed the era of high-quality, detailed dramas with its careful attention to the time period and intricate storyline. Even today, it remains a beautifully made show, despite valid criticism from Japanese reviewers regarding its historical inaccuracies.
Frasier
1993–2004, 2023–2024
The most memorable episodes of Frasier feature exceptionally witty and intelligent dialogue, ranking among the best in sitcom history. The rapid-fire banter between Frasier and Niles Crane is particularly brilliant, but the show is also smartly balanced with supporting characters who keep the brothers grounded.
Bonanza
1959–1973
Often considered one of the greatest classic Western TV shows, alongside Gunsmoke, Bonanza stood out from its rivals. While other Westerns typically featured a different villain each week, Bonanza focused on the relationships and lives of a single, prosperous ranching family.
The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air
1990–1996
I absolutely love The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air! Beyond having one of the most iconic theme songs ever, the show is genuinely heartwarming. What really struck me is how it wasn’t afraid to deal with important issues – it was surprisingly progressive for a comedy back then. And Will Smith? He’s just so charismatic and full of energy, you can’t help but be drawn in by his personality. It’s a show that really stays with you.
Law & Order
1990–2010, 2022–Present
With so many Law & Order shows now available, it’s easy to get lost in the franchise. But the very first Law & Order remains the best. This show practically defined the police procedural genre and became a staple of American TV, expertly weaving together police investigations and courtroom drama in each self-contained episode for over twenty years.
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2025-10-28 15:11