Best TV Shows About Rich People, Ranked

Television frequently offers a glimpse into the lives of the very rich, showcasing their unusual problems and challenges. These stories, whether about powerful business families or those with inherited wealth, examine how money affects relationships and control. Viewers are often drawn in by the dramatic situations and extravagant lifestyles of these privileged groups. Here’s a collection of the best shows and movies that focus on wealth and its impact.

‘90210’ (2008–2013)

This show centers on a family who relocates from Kansas to the upscale community of Beverly Hills. It follows the lives of students at West Beverly Hills High as they face typical teenage challenges – relationships, social groups, and issues related to money and class. It’s a fresh take on the popular teen drama from the nineties.

‘Empire’ (2015–2020)

The show revolves around Lucious Lyon, the head of a successful hip hop company, and the intense rivalry between his three sons. He needs to choose one of them to take over his empire, but the situation is complicated by the return of his ex-wife, Cookie. Everyone in the family is fighting for power and status, using any means necessary to climb to the top.

‘Dynasty’ (1981–1989)

This show centers around the incredibly wealthy Carrington family and their oil empire in Denver. It follows Blake Carrington as he navigates business rivals and the reappearance of his ex-wife, Alexis. The series showcases the lavish and over-the-top lifestyles of America’s richest families in the 1980s, filled with ongoing conflicts and struggles for power among the characters.

‘Filthy Rich’ (2020)

When the head of a successful Christian television family dies unexpectedly in a plane crash, his widow uncovers a shocking secret: he had three children outside of marriage, all of whom are included in his will. These previously unknown relatives now arrive, seeking their inheritance and a place within the family. The story explores the complex relationship between faith, wealth, and the consequences of hidden lives.

‘Falcon Crest’ (1981–1990)

This drama follows the intense conflicts within the wealthy Channing family, who own a successful wine business in California. Angela Channing, the powerful head of the family, is determined to maintain control of the estate at any cost. The series explores the cutthroat world of luxury wine production, filled with complicated business deals and personal betrayals. It’s a blend of classic family drama and a story about wealth, land, and the power that comes with it.

‘Riviera’ (2017–2020)

Georgina’s world turns upside down when her billionaire husband dies in a yacht explosion. She quickly uncovers a shocking truth: his wealth was built on lies and criminal activity. Set on the glamorous French Riviera and within the exclusive art scene, the series follows Georgina as she fights to protect herself and her family’s reputation in this treacherous new reality.

‘Inventing Anna’ (2022)

This series tells the real story of Anna Delvey, who tricked New York’s high society into believing she was a rich German heiress. It shows how she used her charm and a false image of wealth to get into exclusive circles, ultimately committing financial fraud and losing everything. The story examines our fascination with status and the drive to be part of the upper class.

‘Palm Royale’ (2024–)

This show, set in 1969, tells the story of Maxine Simmons and her attempt to join Palm Beach’s most prestigious social club. She encounters opposition from the club’s established, well-connected members who fiercely protect their traditions. The series explores how far people will go to fit in with the wealthy, and offers a humorous, colorful look at the lives of Florida’s elite.

‘Revenge’ (2011–2015)

Emily Thorne arrives in the Hamptons and becomes a neighbor to the influential Grayson family. However, she’s secretly Amanda Clarke, and she’s back to avenge her father, who was wrongly accused of a crime. The show delves into the hidden secrets and questionable behavior of the area’s wealthiest residents. Each episode reveals another step in Emily’s carefully planned quest for revenge.

‘The Royals’ (2015–2018)

This drama series offers a glimpse into the lives of a contemporary British royal family, balancing immense wealth with constant public attention. Queen Helena works hard to uphold the family’s reputation, but her children often act out. The show explores the power struggles within the monarchy and the personal sacrifices that come with such a visible position. Expect plenty of betrayal and scandal as the characters compete for power.

‘Dallas’ (1978–1991)

The Ewing family owns a large oil company and a ranch in Texas. J.R. Ewing, the oldest son, is known for his aggressive and often unethical business methods as he fights to stay in charge. The show gained popularity for its suspenseful endings and the constant conflicts between family members. It’s considered a classic example of dramas about rich, complicated families.

‘Riches’ (2022)

When a self-made billionaire unexpectedly passes away, his children from various relationships begin a power struggle for his cosmetics company. Set in London, the family faces challenges from those trying to take over the business, as well as hidden truths within their own ranks. The series explores what it’s like for a successful Black family to operate at the top of the British business world, focusing on the difficulties of inheritance and the burden of upholding a well-known brand.

‘Dirty Sexy Money’ (2007–2009)

I recently stumbled upon this show, and I’m hooked! It follows a lawyer named Nick George who kind of gets stuck taking over his dad’s old job – representing the Darlings, a super-rich but totally chaotic family in New York City. He’s basically damage control for their endless scandals, but while doing that, he starts digging into what really happened to his father. What I love is how it mixes really dark, funny moments with the sheer ridiculousness of how the other half lives. It’s a wild ride!

‘Elite’ (2018–2024)

When three students from working-class backgrounds win scholarships to the prestigious Las Encinas private school in Spain, their presence disrupts the established order. Conflict arises between them and the privileged students already attending, ultimately leading to a murder investigation that uncovers hidden secrets within the school’s elite circles. The show blends typical teen drama with explorations of class differences and the advantages that come with wealth and status.

‘Dynasty’ (2017–2022)

This updated version of the classic soap opera centers on the glamorous and powerful Carrington family in Atlanta. Fallon Carrington, a sharp and ambitious woman, is determined to build her own success and step out from under her father’s control. The series brings the original’s storylines of cutthroat business dealings and intense family rivalries into the present day, exploring the competitive world of the super-rich as they fight for power and control.

‘Industry’ (2020–)

I’m totally hooked on this show about a group of recent grads battling it out for full-time jobs at a top investment bank in London. It’s intense! You really see how much pressure they’re under, dealing with massive amounts of money every single day. What’s fascinating is how far these young people are willing to go – the sacrifices they make and the tough choices they face – to climb the ladder in the world of finance. It really pulls back the curtain on that whole lifestyle – the parties, the competition, and what it takes to become a young millionaire. It’s a wild ride!

‘Bridgerton’ (2020–)

Set in London during the Regency period, the series centers on the Bridgerton siblings and their quests for love. It portrays the competitive world of finding a spouse among the upper class, where social rules are rigid and reputations matter greatly. The show is filled with glamorous balls and beautiful costumes, all while exploring the complicated relationships and lives of the wealthy.

‘Trust’ (2018)

The series tells the story of the 1973 kidnapping of John Paul Getty III in Rome. Despite being the richest man in the world, his grandfather initially refuses to pay the ransom money. The show examines how extreme stinginess and emotional distance can result from having incredible wealth. It’s a historical portrayal of the Getty family and the struggles caused by their enormous fortune.

‘The O.C.’ (2003–2007)

Ryan Atwood, a teenager with a difficult past, finds a new life when he’s taken in by a successful lawyer and his family in the upscale community of Newport Beach. He struggles to adapt to their privileged world of beautiful homes and lavish parties, a stark contrast to the life he once knew. The show became popular for its look at the lives of wealthy families in Orange County and how different their experiences are.

‘Gossip Girl’ (2007–2012)

Okay, so I’m totally hooked on this show about these super-rich teens in Manhattan. It’s crazy! Basically, someone is anonymously blogging about everything they do – all their drama, secrets, and who’s dating who. It really shows how much pressure there is to fit in and stay popular when you go to these fancy private schools and are always dressed in designer clothes. It’s fascinating, but also kind of scary how much power these established families have, and how quickly things can fall apart when everyone’s judging you publicly. It really highlights how toxic that kind of constant scrutiny can be, especially within such a small, elite group.

‘The Politician’ (2019–2020)

Payton Hobart, a privileged student from Santa Barbara, has always been convinced he’s destined to be President. But first, he has to win the student council election – and high school politics are surprisingly cutthroat! The show is a funny, satirical look at the drive and advantages of young, wealthy people, with each season focusing on a different election in Payton’s long climb to the top.

‘Desperate Housewives’ (2004–2012)

This show follows the lives of four women in a seemingly perfect, upscale suburban neighborhood, as seen through the perspective of a friend who has passed away. Beneath the polished exterior of Wisteria Lane lie shocking secrets and scandals. The series blends mystery and humor to explore the everyday challenges and hidden difficulties faced by families living comfortable, privileged lives, and the social expectations they navigate.

‘Scandal’ (2012–2018)

Olivia Pope leads a crisis management firm in Washington D.C., helping powerful and wealthy clients protect their reputations. The show dives into the world of high-stakes power and the corruption that can come with it, revealing how far people will go to hide their secrets.

‘Bloodline’ (2015–2017)

The Rayburns are a well-respected, wealthy family who own a popular beach resort in the Florida Keys. Their carefully constructed life begins to unravel when the oldest brother, who has always been a troublemaker, comes back home. The series explores how even the most seemingly perfect families can be torn apart by secrets from the past, and how far its members will go to protect their fortune and reputation.

‘The Fall of the House of Usher’ (2023)

This story centers on the wealthy and cutthroat head of a pharmaceutical company and his family, who are haunted by a mysterious and terrifying force. As members of the Usher family start dying under strange circumstances, long-buried secrets come to light. The tale explores what happens when ambition and greed take over, and how extreme wealth can lead to moral decay. Using horror elements, the narrative is a critical look at the dark side of big business and the empire it builds.

‘The Borgias’ (2011–2013)

This series tells the story of the Borgia family’s climb to power in Renaissance Italy, focusing on their efforts to control the papacy. Rodrigo Borgia leverages his vast wealth and political connections to become Pope Alexander VI. To strengthen their hold on power and increase their riches, the family participates in questionable and unethical schemes. The show explores how religious authority and family wealth intertwined during this period.

‘The Gilded Age’ (2022–)

The series takes place in 1880s New York City and focuses on the clash between established wealthy families and those newly rich from the Industrial Revolution. When Marian Brook goes to live with her traditional, upper-class aunts, she witnesses their struggle to adapt to a changing society. The show vividly portrays the strict social rules of the time, the enormous wealth being made, and the beautiful buildings and fashion of the era, all while examining people’s attempts to climb the social ladder.

‘The White Lotus’ (2021–)

The show centers around a new group of rich guests each season, all vacationing at a luxurious tropical resort. It playfully mocks the attitudes and expectations of the wealthy, and how they treat the hotel employees. As the guests deal with their own personal problems and social mishaps, things often escalate to a shocking and sometimes violent climax. Ultimately, the series highlights the stark contrast between the privileged lifestyles of the guests and the everyday lives of those who cater to them.

‘The Gentlemen’ (2024–)

Eddie Horniman is shocked to inherit his father’s large estate, only to find it’s actually a front for a major cannabis operation. Now, he’s caught between his aristocratic life and a dangerous criminal world, and unexpectedly good at running the family’s illegal business. The series follows the collision of old-money privilege and modern crime.

‘The Righteous Gemstones’ (2019–)

The Gemstone family, famous televangelists, lives lavishly thanks to the wealth of their enormous church. The family’s patriarch, Eli, attempts to control his three grown children, who are constantly caught up in scandals. The show is a darkly comedic look at how religion has become a business and the double standards of the rich. Each family member battles their own selfish desires and hunger for more influence within the church empire.

‘Gilmore Girls’ (2000–2007)

Okay, so “Gilmore Girls” is this really charming show about Lorelai, a mom who basically ran away from her privileged upbringing to build a life on her own terms in a quirky small town. She’s raising her bright daughter, Rory, and a huge part of the show is this constant push and pull between Lorelai’s down-to-earth life and the incredibly fancy world of her parents, Richard and Emily. We see it play out a lot during their formal dinners – it’s clear her parents have very specific expectations and a certain way of doing things. As Rory gets older and starts chasing her dreams – college, a career – she ends up having to balance both of those worlds, which creates a lot of the drama and heart of the show.

‘The Great’ (2020–2023)

This funny and biting show tells the story of Catherine the Great’s climb to power in 18th-century Russia. When she arrives to marry Emperor Peter, she discovers a court obsessed with pleasure and lacking in intelligence. Determined to improve the country, Catherine secretly plans to overthrow her husband and take control. The series vividly portrays the lavish lifestyle and ridiculous behavior of the Russian royal court.

‘The Morning Show’ (2019–)

I just finished watching this series, and it’s a fascinating peek behind the curtain of a major morning news show. It really dives into the world of its on-air personalities and the executives who pull the strings, showing just how much power – and money – is at play. What’s most compelling is how the characters grapple with both professional power plays and very personal struggles, all while knowing their reputations are constantly on the line. It’s a sharp look at the intense pressure of maintaining a perfect public face within the cutthroat world of network television.

’30 Rock’ (2006–2013)

Liz Lemon works behind the scenes on a comedy show, constantly navigating her boss, Jack Donaghy. Jack is a powerful and wealthy executive who represents traditional corporate values. The show frequently uses Jack’s world of business and high society to humorously highlight the differences between everyday people and the super-rich, especially through the contrast between the writers and the corporate elite.

‘Poldark’ (2015–2019)

After fighting in the American Revolution, Ross Poldark comes home to Cornwall and discovers his estate is in disrepair. He tries to restore his wealth by reopening his family’s copper mines, facing challenges from the existing social order along the way. The story portrays the difficulties faced by landowners and their clashes with newly successful business people, and it examines issues of family legacies and the duties that come with wealth.

‘Feud’ (2017–)

This series begins with the notorious feud between Joan Crawford and Bette Davis. Later episodes delve into other famous conflicts among the wealthy and powerful, like the one between Truman Capote and his socialite friends. The show reveals what life was really like for the rich and famous throughout history, focusing on the vulnerabilities and power struggles that drove their often-bitter rivalries.

‘Veep’ (2012–2019)

Veep follows Selina Meyer, the Vice President, as she navigates the everyday challenges of politics. The show offers a funny but critical look at how money and expensive campaigns impact government, and how Selina and her team constantly scheme to stay in power and look good doing it. It’s a sharp and witty satire of ambition and ego at the very top.

‘Entourage’ (2004–2011)

After becoming a huge star, a young actor named Vincent Chase leaves his hometown of Queens, New York, for Hollywood. He’s joined by his tight-knit group of friends as they experience the glamorous world of fame – think mansions, private jets, and all the perks that come with it. The series offers a behind-the-scenes look at the over-the-top lifestyle and financial side of the movie industry, while also highlighting the value of friendship and the benefits of being part of an exclusive circle.

‘Big Little Lies’ (2017–2019)

As a film buff, I was completely hooked by this show! It centers around a group of really wealthy moms in Monterey, and their world gets turned upside down when someone is murdered. What’s fascinating is how it peels back the layers of their seemingly perfect lives, revealing all the secrets and struggles they keep hidden. It really dives into tough topics like abusive relationships and the intense competition between these women, all set against this backdrop of luxury – huge houses, fancy parties, the whole nine yards. It’s a powerful reminder that money can’t shield you from heartbreak or personal tragedy, no matter how much you have.

‘Billions’ (2016–2023)

The show centers on a powerful and aggressive hedge fund manager, Bobby Axelrod, who constantly clashes with a determined U.S. Attorney. Axelrod uses his vast fortune and sharp mind to stay one step ahead of the law and grow his business. The series offers a deep dive into the world of high finance, showcasing the personalities and motivations of the ultra-wealthy, and exploring the ethical boundaries and power struggles that come with chasing extreme riches.

‘Schitt’s Creek’ (2015–2020)

After being swindled by their manager, a formerly rich family loses everything and is forced to relocate to a small town they once purchased on a whim. They end up living in a simple motel and the show chronicles their adjustment to a life without wealth, focusing on the relationships they forge with the town’s residents. It’s a funny and touching story about a family learning to live with less and discovering what truly matters.

‘Yellowstone’ (2018–)

The Duttons own the biggest ranch in the United States and are always fighting to keep it from being taken over by others. Led by the powerful John Dutton, they use their wealth and connections to protect their land and family history. The show looks at the struggles over land in the West today, and the often violent conflicts that result. It depicts the Duttons as a powerful, modern family deeply connected to the land they own.

‘The Crown’ (2016–2023)

This historical series tells the story of Queen Elizabeth II and the lives of the British royal family. It shows how great wealth and strict traditions shaped the monarchy over the last hundred years, and how Britain changed politically and socially as seen through the eyes of this incredibly famous family. The show is known for its beautiful sets and attention to historical detail, which really highlight how separate and privileged the royal family’s life is.

‘House of Cards’ (2013–2018)

Frank Underwood is a determined and often cruel politician who will do almost anything to gain power in Washington. The show exposes how money and powerful groups can affect political decisions. Along with his wife, Claire, Frank relentlessly pursues the presidency, and the series offers a dark and realistic view of ambition and the influence of wealth in politics.

‘Mad Men’ (2007–2015)

This show, set in the 1960s, explores the lives of advertising professionals in New York City, both at work and at home. It follows Don Draper and his coworkers as they enjoy the perks of high-paying jobs and social status during a period of significant cultural shifts. The series examines the pursuit of the American Dream and suggests that achieving financial success doesn’t always bring happiness. It also offers a glimpse into the fashion and lifestyles of a newly affluent professional class.

‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’ (2017–2023)

In the late 1950s, Miriam Maisel is a comfortable housewife living in Manhattan. When her husband unexpectedly leaves, she finds she has a knack for stand-up comedy and decides to become a comedian. The show explores the difference between her sheltered, upper-class life and the tough world of comedy clubs, while also examining the societal pressures faced by women in her wealthy Jewish community at the time.

‘Downton Abbey’ (2010–2015)

This series tells the story of the wealthy Crawley family and the servants who work in their home in early 1900s England. It shows how changing times are impacting the traditional lives of the upper class, weaving together the family’s important decisions with the everyday experiences of those who serve them. The show depicts the decline of the British aristocracy and the difficulties of keeping a large estate running.

‘Arrested Development’ (2003–2019)

When the Bluth family’s patriarch is arrested for shady business dealings, they quickly lose their fortune. Michael Bluth, the most sensible member of the family, attempts to hold everyone together and rescue the company. The show is a hilarious mockumentary that pokes fun at the self-absorption and ineptitude of the super-rich, and it’s celebrated for its clever writing and realistic depiction of a wildly dysfunctional wealthy family.

‘Curb Your Enthusiasm’ (2000–2024)

Larry David stars as a slightly exaggerated version of himself – a well-off TV writer in Los Angeles. The show centers around his everyday life and the funny, often uncomfortable situations he gets into with people he knows and strangers. Because he’s financially secure, Larry can focus on even the smallest annoyances, creating a uniquely humorous look at what it’s like to have everything but still find things to complain about.

‘Succession’ (2018–2023)

The show centers on the Roy family and their ruthless battle for power over a massive media empire. Logan Roy, the tough and demanding father, constantly challenges his children to determine who is capable of leading the company. His children repeatedly betray each other and engage in cutthroat business tactics, all while desperately seeking their father’s approval. It’s a story about how extreme wealth and family problems can create a destructive dynamic in the world of high-stakes business.

Share your favorite shows about the ultra wealthy in the comments.

2026-02-10 00:51