20 TV Shows That Got Better Every Single Season

It’s tough for TV show creators to keep a series consistently good over many seasons. Often, shows start strong but lose steam as their initial ideas run out. However, some shows manage to get better with each season by building on their stories and developing their characters. These shows learn from their early mistakes and often end stronger than they began. This steady improvement turns promising programs into truly iconic television.

‘Breaking Bad’ (2008–2013)

Walter White begins as a struggling high school chemistry teacher, but gradually transforms into a powerful and dangerous drug lord. As he makes increasingly questionable choices, his sense of right and wrong fades, raising the stakes of the story. Creator Vince Gilligan masterfully builds suspense and tightens the plot, culminating in a nail-biting finale. Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul give outstanding performances, grounding the increasingly complex and unpredictable story. This series redefined how characters can develop on television, setting a new benchmark for the genre.

‘Better Call Saul’ (2015–2022)

This series tells the heartbreaking story of how Jimmy McGill became the shady lawyer Saul Goodman. It starts as a lighthearted legal show, but gradually incorporates the dangerous world of drug cartels seen in ‘Breaking Bad’. Bob Odenkirk delivers a powerful performance, adding real depth and sadness to a character who was once mostly known for being funny. The show’s visuals become increasingly impressive and carefully crafted with each season. Ultimately, it stands on its own as a brilliant and unforgettable series, escaping comparison to its predecessor.

‘Schitt’s Creek’ (2015–2020)

Initially, “Schitt’s Creek” introduces us to the Roses – a snobby, rich family who suddenly find themselves broke and living in a small town. What starts as a funny story about wealth versus poverty gradually becomes a touching show about family, love, and becoming a better person. The writers skillfully peel back the Roses’ superficial layers, exposing their insecurities and inner strengths. The show’s creator, Dan Levy, delivers a satisfying and emotional finale, and the final season was celebrated with a record-breaking number of Emmy Awards.

‘The Americans’ (2013–2018)

During the Cold War, a married couple living a seemingly normal suburban life are actually KGB spies. The show expertly blends thrilling spy missions with the challenges of marriage and raising a family. As their FBI neighbor starts to suspect something is wrong, the tension builds. Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys give incredible performances, portraying a couple whose elaborate lies become increasingly difficult to maintain. Many viewers consider the series finale to be one of the most rewarding conclusions ever seen on television.

‘BoJack Horseman’ (2014–2020)

This animated show begins as a funny critique of Hollywood, focusing on a former TV star. But it quickly becomes a deeply honest look at depression and addiction, avoiding simple solutions. The creators use animation to try out new storytelling methods and powerful visuals. The main character’s struggles with taking responsibility feel painfully authentic, proving that adult animation can effectively explore complex and difficult emotional issues.

‘Succession’ (2018–2023)

The Roy family is locked in a fierce struggle for dominance over their massive media company, all while navigating the difficult legacy of their controlling father. Each season, creator Jesse Armstrong delivers increasingly sharp and witty dialogue, crafting a story that feels like a modern tragedy in the style of Shakespeare. As the Roy siblings compete for power and approval, their relationships become tangled with shifting loyalties and betrayals. Jeremy Strong and Sarah Snook deliver outstanding performances, showing the vulnerability and pain hidden beneath the polished exterior of their corporate lives. The show races forward with intensity, culminating in a surprising yet logical ending.

‘The Leftovers’ (2014–2017)

When two percent of the world’s population vanishes unexpectedly, those left behind struggle with constant sadness and uncertainty. The first season is realistic and bleak, but later seasons become more dreamlike and focus on spiritual questions. Creator Damon Lindelof changes the location and overall feel of the show to examine themes of faith and what connects us as humans. Justin Theroux and Carrie Coon deliver powerful performances, carrying the emotional core of the story as it builds towards a satisfying conclusion. Reviewers have consistently applauded the show’s ability to reinvent itself with each new season.

‘Parks and Recreation’ (2009–2015)

The show had a rocky start, initially trying to copy the style of ‘The Office’. However, the writers reworked the character of Leslie Knope, transforming her from an inept worker into a capable and driven leader. The cast members developed great chemistry, leading to a more positive and character-focused brand of comedy. Supporting characters also evolved beyond simple stereotypes, becoming fan favorites. Ultimately, the series found its own voice and left a lasting, feel-good impression.

‘Halt and Catch Fire’ (2014–2017)

This historical drama tells the story of people who shaped the computer revolution of the 1980s and 90s, both in their careers and personal lives. Starting with the early days of copying hardware, the show evolves to explore the rise of online communities and the early internet. It gradually shifts its focus from flawed male characters to the talented female engineers who were key to the era’s breakthroughs. As the story progresses, the characters learn the importance of teamwork. Many viewers consider it a hidden gem that really hit its stride after the first season.

‘Black Sails’ (2014–2017)

This story takes place before the events of ‘Treasure Island,’ revealing the origins of Captain Flint and Long John Silver. While it starts as a typical pirate adventure, it quickly becomes a more intricate story about power, politics, and the fight for freedom. As the series progresses, the production quality and sea battles become much more impressive thanks to a larger budget. Toby Stephens gives a compelling performance as a man driven to war against everyone. The show skillfully combines real historical figures with fictional characters, creating a unified and heartbreaking story.

‘Star Wars: The Clone Wars’ (2008–2020)

This animated series bridges the story between the movies ‘Attack of the Clones’ and ‘Revenge of the Sith.’ While the first few episodes are geared towards younger viewers, the show quickly evolves to explore complex and mature themes of war and dishonesty. As the series progresses, the animation dramatically improves with better lighting and visual detail. A key character, Ahsoka Tano, starts as a controversial addition but becomes a fan favorite throughout the Star Wars universe. The final season offers a heartbreaking look at the downfall of the Jedi.

‘Veep’ (2012–2019)

Veep follows Selina Meyer as she deals with the frustrating and ridiculous world of Washington, D.C., surrounded by her chaotic team. The show’s humor gets darker and more critical as Selina gets closer to becoming president. Julia Louis-Dreyfus brilliantly portrays Selina’s self-centered personality with impeccable comedic timing. Throughout the series, the witty insults and fast-paced conversations become even more complex and hilarious. It’s a consistently funny and biting commentary on the drive for political power.

‘Justified’ (2010–2015)

U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens goes back to his roots in Kentucky, serving up justice his own way. The show goes beyond typical crime dramas, diving deep into the criminal world of Harlan County. Timothy Olyphant and Walton Goggins have incredible on-screen chemistry, driving the main conflict. The snappy, clever dialogue feels like a tribute to Elmore Leonard’s writing style. Each season brings new, fascinating villains who test Raylan’s sense of right and wrong.

‘Fleabag’ (2016–2019)

This show follows a young woman in London as she deals with personal tragedy and a complicated family, all while trying to find love. The first season uses dark humor to explore themes of grief and guilt, told from the perspective of a narrator who isn’t always trustworthy. The second season is even stronger, with Phoebe Waller-Bridge adding a romantic storyline that forces the main character to re-evaluate her beliefs. The show’s unique style of directly addressing the audience starts as a funny quirk but becomes a key part of the storytelling. Ultimately, the show’s two-season format creates a focused and well-paced story about finding forgiveness and moving forward.

‘Avatar: The Last Airbender’ (2005–2008)

A young boy embarks on a journey to learn control over four essential elements, hoping to end a war that has lasted for a hundred years and finally bring peace. As he and his friends travel through different countries, the story reveals the devastating impact of the conflict. The show also offers surprisingly complex and thoughtful development for its villains, like Zuko, which is unusual for children’s television. The action sequences, particularly the martial arts fights, become increasingly impressive and visually engaging as the series progresses. Overall, the show is still considered a high standard for storytelling in Western animated series.

‘Person of Interest’ (2011–2016)

The show follows a reclusive billionaire and a former CIA agent who team up with an AI to stop crimes before they happen in New York City. It starts like a typical crime show, but quickly becomes a complex sci-fi thriller. The series raises thought-provoking questions about surveillance and the dangers of super-intelligent AI. As the story unfolds, the conflict expands to include other government groups and competing AI programs, all vying for power. Throughout the high-tech plot, the characters develop meaningful relationships that add emotional depth.

‘The Shield’ (2002–2008)

The Shield centers on Vic Mackey, who heads a ruthless police unit that bends – and breaks – the law to fight gang crime. The show is fast-paced and full of tension, as each questionable decision the team makes brings them closer to being exposed. Facing scrutiny from internal affairs and threats from rival gangs, the characters feel increasingly trapped and anticipate disaster. Michael Chiklis delivers a powerful performance as a complex man – a devoted father who is also capable of terrible acts. Ultimately, the series concludes with a dark resolution that feels inevitable from the very beginning.

‘Marvel’s Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.’ (2013–2020)

This show follows a team of secret agents dealing with bizarre events in a world of superheroes and aliens. The first season had a rocky start, but a surprising reveal connected to existing movies completely changed the direction of the series. From then on, the show developed its own unique stories, blending elements of fantasy, science fiction, and adventure. Clark Gregg leads a talented cast as they confront dangerous, personal challenges and problems with the flow of time. Ultimately, it demonstrated that a comic book-based show on television could deliver a captivating, ongoing story.

‘Bates Motel’ (2013–2017)

This show is a backstory to the classic film Psycho, focusing on Norman Bates as a teenager and his difficult relationship with his mother. Freddie Highmore and Vera Farmiga give chilling performances, portraying a bond that’s both loving and harmful. The story unfolds slowly, carefully building towards the events we see in the original movie. As Norman struggles with his mental health and loses touch with reality, the tension steadily increases, making him increasingly unpredictable and dangerous. The series honors the original film while also establishing its own unique brand of psychological horror.

‘Six Feet Under’ (2001–2005)

Set in a Los Angeles funeral home, the show follows the Fisher family as they navigate death and the big questions about life. As the characters get older, their personal struggles become more meaningful. The series realistically portrays the ups and downs of family relationships, avoiding overly dramatic storylines. The final season beautifully emphasizes how fleeting life is and how important it is to connect with others. Many critics consider the show’s closing moments to be one of the most memorable scenes ever filmed for television.

Share your favorite TV series that improved over time in the comments.

2025-12-06 19:54