Unveiling 2025’s Top 20 Streaming Series: What Everyone’s Watching Now!

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During the initial half of 2025, it has become clear what shows American audiences can’t seem to tear themselves away from on their streaming services. Ranging from lighthearted animated series for families to gripping dramas, platforms such as Hulu, Netflix, Disney+, and Max offer a wide variety of content that keeps viewers enthralled.

These shows, which weren’t initially intended for their current streaming platforms, have amassed a total of billions of minutes watched, as reported by Nielsen. Let’s take a look at the top 20 series in order, starting from number 20 and moving up to the first, to discover what makes these narratives so captivating.

20. Dexter (2006-2013)

‘Dexter’ launches into its 96-episode run across Netflix and Paramount+, amounting to an impressive total of 10,033 billion minutes. In this gripping series, we follow the character of a blood-pattern analyst who secretly takes on the role of a nighttime avenger.

Michael C. Hall’s intense depiction of Dexter consistently leaves us on tenterhooks. Each installment of the series poses difficult ethical dilemmas, making for a thrilling journey throughout.

19. Spidey and His Amazing Friends (2021-present)

19-years-old, ‘Spidey and His Incredible Crew’ makes its debut on both Disney+ and Prime Video, boasting a total of 135 episodes that have been watched for an impressive 10.119 billion minutes. The animated series centers around youthful Spider-heroes.

The lively graphics and entertaining tales hold the interest of both children and their parents. Brief installments, rich with teachings about cooperation, entice families to continue watching together.

18. The Equalizer (2021-present)

‘The Equalizer’ secures its position at number 18 in the rankings, offering 74 episodes for streaming on Netflix, accumulating an impressive total of 10.231 billion viewing minutes. In this series, Queen Latifah stars as a protective vigilante who assists those in need.

The combination of action and emotion in the show captivates its audience, while its innovative twist on an old idea generates intense, gripping dramatics.

17. South Park (1997-present)

‘South Park’ features 312 episodes on Max, equating to a staggering 10,454 billion minutes in total. Known for its uncensored humor and biting satire, this popular animated series certainly doesn’t hold back!

With its quick humor and bold perspectives on contemporary topics, it consistently leaves us in stitches. The creative minds behind this, Trey Parker and Matt Stone, are always unafraid to express their thoughts.

16. Young Sheldon (2017-2024)

In my humble opinion as a film connoisseur, the endearing series ‘Young Sheldon’ has amassed an impressive collection of 141 episodes on Max, Netflix, and Paramount+, totaling a staggering 10.605 billion minutes. This delightful prequel offers a captivating glimpse into the childhood years of a prodigious young mind, shedding light on the genesis of a character that has become beloved by audiences worldwide.

Iain Armitage brilliantly portrays Sheldon, combining wit and warmth. The show’s gentle humor makes it an enjoyable choice for a comfortable marathon viewing.

15. Gunsmoke (1955-1975)

The long-running Western series ‘Gunsmoke’, available on both Peacock and Paramount+, boasts a total of 404 episodes and has been viewed for an astounding 10.962 billion minutes. Marshal Matt Dillon is the law enforcer in the town of Dodge City.

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In the Western classic ‘Gunsmoke’, which can be found on both Peacock and Paramount+, there are a total of 404 episodes that have collectively been watched for 10.962 billion minutes. Marshal Matt Dillon maintains law and order in the town of Dodge City.

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The popular Western series ‘Gunsmoke’, streaming on Peacock and Paramount+, spans over 404 episodes and has been watched for a whopping 10.962 billion minutes. Marshal Matt Dillon is the law enforcer in the town of Dodge City.

1) The timeless themes and ethical dilemmas it presents continue to be relevant. The numerous episodes make for extended watching experiences. (Informal: This show still packs a punch with its timeless storylines and keeps us glued to the screen thanks to its many episodes.)

14. Friends (1994-2004)

In the 14th position is ‘Friends’, airing a total of 243 episodes on Max, accounting for an astounding 11.401 billion minutes of viewing time. This popular sitcom chronicles the lives and adventures of six friends as they navigate life in bustling New York City.

As a movie enthusiast, this classic series never fails to entertain me with its timeless humor and heartwarming camaraderie that keeps me glued to the screen. Its nostalgic ambiance makes it an ideal choice for a cozy, comfortable viewing experience.

13. The White Lotus (2021-2025)

‘The White Lotus’ stands out with a total run time of 11.462 billion minutes across its 21 episodes, now streaming on Max. This intriguing anthology series delves into the shortcomings and hypocrisies of affluent travelers.

The series’ incisive social critique and captivating performances hold viewers spellbound. With a different cast and location every season, it consistently stays engaging and new.

12. Supernatural (2005-2020)

In a fantastic twist, ‘Supernatural’ amasses an impressive score of 12, offering fans a whopping 328 episodes streaming on Netflix, totaling over 11.916 billion minutes of thrilling entertainment. This gripping tale follows the journey of two siblings as they embark on a grand quest to vanquish various supernatural beings.

The rapport between Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles is what drives the series. Their blend of suspense and emotional depth keeps viewers binge-watching for hours.

11. Criminal Minds (2005-present)

‘Criminal Minds’ offers a total of 11 seasons, consisting of 357 episodes available on Hulu and Paramount+, accumulating approximately 12.592 billion minutes of viewing time. These FBI profilers delve into the depths of chilling crimes.

The series delves deeply into the field of criminal psychology, keeping viewers captivated. With its gripping scenarios and powerful ensemble, it’s become a must-watch for any thriller enthusiast.

10. American Dad! (2005-present)

The popular animated sitcom ‘American Dad!’ is available on Hulu, boasting a total of 384 episodes that have collectively run for approximately 12.972 billion minutes. This show focuses on the eccentric family of a peculiar CIA officer.

Its absurd humor and wild plots stand out. Seth MacFarlane’s zany style keeps the laughs coming.

9. Law & Order: SVU (1999-present)

By the age of nine, a staggering 575 episodes of “Law & Order: SVU” are available to stream on both Hulu and Peacock, totaling approximately 14.524 billion minutes of gripping content. The series primarily follows the efforts of Olivia Benson’s dedicated team as they tackle challenging cases.

Mariska Hargitay’s captivating portrayal serves as the foundation for the storyline. The series maintains its grip by tackling genuine, thought-provoking subjects.

8. The Rookie (2018-present)

In simpler terms, the series titled ‘The Rookie’ ranks eighth in popularity, and can be found streaming on Hulu with a total of 126 episodes that have been watched for approximately 15.643 billion minutes. Nathan Fillion stars as a new cop encountering significant obstacles throughout the show.

Its mix of action and personal stories draws us in. Fillion’s wit makes every episode a fun watch.

7. The Big Bang Theory (2007-2019)

‘The Big Bang Theory’ reaches its seventh season, amassing 281 episodes that total approximately 16.618 billion minutes on the Max network. This popular sitcom follows the lives and comedic antics of a circle of scientist friends.

1) The show’s amusing geeky tone and charming characters, particularly starring Jim Parsons, consistently make us laugh out loud. With its cozy atmosphere, it has become a popular choice for bingeing.

6. SpongeBob SquarePants (1999-present)

‘SpongeBob SquarePants’ has a total of 323 episodes available for streaming on Paramount+, adding up to approximately 16.682 billion minutes of entertainment featuring the lively underwater crew.

The goofy jokes and vibrant graphics make it enjoyable for everyone, and SpongeBob’s joyful madness always keeps viewers amused.

5. Bob’s Burgers (2011-present)

‘Bob’s Burgers’ ranks fifth, offering a total of 286 heartfelt episodes streaming on Hulu for approximately 17.105 billion minutes. This popular series follows the daily lives and adventures of the Belcher family who run a burger restaurant.

The show’s clever writing and quirky voice cast shine. It’s a feel-good pick for comedy lovers.

4. Family Guy (1999-present)

‘Family Guy’ ranks fourth on Hulu with a whopping 450 episodes, totaling an impressive 19.072 billion minutes of hilarious animation centered around the zany exploits of the Griffin family.

The show’s witty humor, combined with its clever cultural references, effectively captivates the audience. Seth MacFarlane’s comedic approach turns it into a powerful hub of laughter.

3. NCIS (2003-present)

‘NCIS’ ranks third with a total of 488 episodes available across Hulu, Netflix, and Paramount+, equating to approximately 19.117 billion minutes of viewing time. This popular series follows a dedicated team tackling naval-related crimes.

Mark Harmon’s consistent influence and the intriguing storylines captivate us. The dynamic action sequences and strong camaraderie maintain its success.

2. Grey’s Anatomy (2005-present)

The medical drama ‘Grey’s Anatomy’ secures the runner-up spot, boasting a total of 449 episodes streamable on both Hulu and Netflix, accumulating an impressive 22.551 billion minutes of viewing time. This captivating series skillfully intertwines complex medical cases with compelling personal narratives for its viewers.

Ellen Pompeo’s moving portrayal as Meredith Grey captivates us. The series, with its deeply touching narratives, has amassed a large and dedicated fanbase.

1. Bluey (2018-present)

‘Bluey’, an Australian animated series, reigns supreme on Disney+ with a whopping 154 episodes watched for a total of 25.059 billion minutes. The show centers around the humorous antics and everyday adventures of a canine family.

The show’s heartwarming lessons and relatable scenes appeal to both children and grown-ups, making Bluey an unstoppable force on streaming platforms due to its infectious positivity.

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2025-07-15 20:15