Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows of 2003: A Nostalgic Countdown!

Buckle up, time travelers! We’re about to take a thrilling ride back to 2003, a golden year for television that gifted us with some of the most iconic shows in history. Remember when you had to actually wait a week for the next episode? Ah, the suspense! The anticipation! The water cooler discussions! In this article, we’re counting down the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows of 2003. From the heart-wrenching dramas to the laugh-out-loud comedies, and the sci-fi sagas that had us glued to our screens, we’ve got them all. So, grab your popcorn, settle into your favorite armchair, and prepare to be hit by a wave of nostalgia. Let’s see if your favorite made the list!
Battlestar Galactica

Battlestar Galactica

“Battlestar Galactica” is a thrilling re-imagining of the original series that aired in 2003. Set in a futuristic world, it follows a group of humanity’s last survivors as they flee from relentless robots while desperately searching for their true home, Earth. With a talented cast including Edward James Olmos, Mary McDonnell, and Katee Sackhoff, this gripping sci-fi show is definitely one of the best voted TV shows of 2003.

Cast: Edward James Olmos (Commander Adama) , Mary McDonnell (President Laura Roslin) , Katee Sackhoff (Kara ‘Starbuck’ Thrace) , Jamie Bamber (Lee ‘Apollo’ Adama) , James Callis (Gaius Baltar) , Tricia Helfer (Number Six) , Callum Keith Rennie (Leoben Conoy) , Grace Park (Lt. Sharon ‘Boomer’ Valerii) , Paul Campbell (Billy) , Aaron Douglas (Crew Chief Tyrol) , Alessandro Juliani (Felix Gaeta) , Lymari Nadal (Giana) , Michael Hogan (Saul Tigh) , Kandyse McClure (Anastasia Dualla) , Lorena Gale (Elosha) , Tahmoh Penikett (Karl ‘Helo’ Agathon) , Matthew Bennett (Aaron Doral / Number Five) , Nicki Clyne (Specialist Cally) , Connor Widdows (Boxey) , Alonso Oyarzun (Crewman Specialist Socinus) , Ty Olsson (Lt. Aaron Kelly) , Barclay Hope (Transport Pilot)

Directors: Michael Rymer

Writers: Ronald D. Moore

Tags: miniseries, planet, genocide, quest

Peep Show

Peep Show

Release Date: 2003-09-19

Genres: Comedy

“Peep Show” is a hilarious TV show that aired in 2003 and follows the lives of two friends, Mark and Jez, as they navigate their twenties and thirties. Mark is the responsible one with a steady job, while Jez is an unemployed aspiring musician. With its relatable characters and witty humor, this show is definitely worth checking out if you’re in the mood for a good laugh.

Cast: Robert Webb (Jeremy Usborne) , David Mitchell (Mark Corrigan)

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Tags: london, england, roommate, male friendship, slacker, sitcom

Chappelle's Show

Chappelle’s Show

Release Date: 2003-01-22

Genres: Comedy

“Chappelle’s Show” is a hilarious and unique TV show that premiered in 2003. Hosted by the talented Dave Chappelle, it combines his relaxed stand-up comedy with clever and street-smart sketches. With its release, it quickly became one of the best-voted TV shows of that year, offering a refreshing and entertaining perspective on various topics.

Cast: Dave Chappelle ()

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Tags: sketch comedy

Arrested Development

Arrested Development

Release Date: 2003-11-02

Genres: Comedy

“Arrested Development” is a hilarious TV show that premiered in 2003. It follows the story of a wealthy family who lost everything, and their one son who tries his best to keep them all together. With a talented cast including Jason Bateman, Portia de Rossi, and Will Arnett, this show is definitely one of the best voted TV shows of 2003.

Cast: Jason Bateman (Michael Bluth) , Portia de Rossi (Lindsay Bluth Fünke) , Will Arnett (Gob Bluth) , Michael Cera (George Michael Bluth) , Alia Shawkat (Maeby Fünke) , Tony Hale (Byron “Buster” Bluth) , David Cross (Tobias Fünke) , Jeffrey Tambor (George Bluth Sr.) , Jessica Walter (Lucille Bluth) , Ron Howard (Narrator)

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Tags: prison, narration, dysfunctional family, sexual humor, family relationships, mockumentary, fake documentary, orange county, california

Carnivàle

Carnivàle

Release Date: 2003-09-14

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery, Drama

“Carnivàle” is a captivating American TV series that takes place during the Great Depression and Dust Bowl era. It follows the lives of two distinct groups of people, delving into the eternal battle between good and evil, and the constant struggle between free will and destiny. With a mix of Christian theology, gnosticism, and Masonic lore, particularly that of the Knights Templar, this show promises an intriguing storyline. Starring talented actors like Nick Stahl, Clancy Brown, and Michael J. Anderson, “Carnivàle” premiered on September 14, 2003, and is sure to keep you hooked from start to finish.

Cast: Nick Stahl (Ben Hawkins) , Clancy Brown (Brother Justin) , Michael J. Anderson (Samson) , Adrienne Barbeau (Ruthie) , Debra Christofferson (Lila) , Tim DeKay (Clayton Jones) , Clea DuVall (Sofie) , Cynthia Ettinger (Rita Sue Dreifuss) , Carla Gallo (Libby Dreifuss) , Toby Huss (Stumpy Dreifuss) , Amy Madigan (Iris Crowe) , Brian Turk (Gabriel) , Ralph Waite (Norman Belthus) , John Fleck (Gecko) , Blake Shields (Osgood) , John Carroll Lynch (Varlyn Stroud)

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Tags: tarot cards, striptease, carnival, surrealism, great depression, period drama, carny, dust bowl, reverend, circus freak, dark fantasy, dark secret, freak show, 1930s, supernatural power

QI

QI

Release Date: 2003-09-11

Genres: Comedy, Talk

“QI” is a hilarious comedy quiz show that aired in 2003 and is packed with fascinating and offbeat facts. Hosted by Sandi Toksvig and featuring Alan Davies as one of the main contestants, the show rewards participants for sharing answers that are ‘quite interesting’. If you’re looking for a fun and educational TV experience, this is definitely one to check out!

Cast: Sandi Toksvig (Self – Presenter) , Alan Davies (Self – Panellist)

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Tags: game show, quiz, trivia, panel show, knowledge

Cold Case

Cold Case

Release Date: 2003-09-28

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Cold Case” is a captivating TV show that premiered in 2003 and revolves around a determined female detective named Lilly Rush. Set in Philadelphia, she takes on unsolved cases, using her natural instincts and modern technology to bring justice to the victims. With a talented cast including Kathryn Morris, Danny Pino, and Jeremy Ratchford, this crime drama is sure to keep you hooked from the very first episode.

Cast: Kathryn Morris (Lilly Rush) , Danny Pino (Scotty Valens) , Jeremy Ratchford (Nick Vera) , Thom Barry (Will Jeffries) , Tracie Thoms (Kat Miller) , John Finn (John Stillman)

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Tags: philadelphia, pennsylvania, police, detective, investigation, victim, police detective, female detective, murder investigation, homicide detective, cold case, police procedural

The O.C.

The O.C.

Release Date: 2003-08-05

Genres: Drama

“The O.C.” is a captivating TV show that premiered in 2003 and quickly became a fan favorite. It follows the story of Ryan Atwood, a teenager from a less privileged background, who gets a chance to live with a wealthy family in Newport Beach, California. As Ryan settles into his new life, he disrupts the established order of the affluent community, leading to a series of intriguing and dramatic events. With a talented cast including Peter Gallagher, Kelly Rowan, Ben McKenzie, and more, this show is definitely worth watching.

Cast: Peter Gallagher (Sandy Cohen) , Kelly Rowan (Kirsten Cohen) , Ben McKenzie (Ryan Atwood) , Adam Brody (Seth Cohen) , Melinda Clarke (Julie Cooper) , Rachel Bilson (Summer Roberts) , Autumn Reeser (Taylor Townsend) , Willa Holland (Kaitlin Cooper)

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Tags: california, troubled teen, unlikely lovers, teenage romance, teen drama, wealthy teens

One Tree Hill

One Tree Hill

Release Date: 2003-09-23

Genres: Drama

“One Tree Hill” is a captivating TV show set in Tree Hill, North Carolina. It follows the lives of two half-brothers, Lucas and Nathan, who couldn’t be more different. Lucas, a talented street-side basketball player, is often overlooked, while Nathan, the popular star of his high school team, enjoys the admiration of the town. The show delves into their complicated family dynamics, as they navigate their relationships with their father, Dan Scott, and the challenges of growing up. With a talented cast including James Lafferty, Bethany Joy Lenz, and Sophia Bush, “One Tree Hill” premiered on September 23, 2003, and quickly became one of the best-voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: James Lafferty (Nathan Scott) , Bethany Joy Lenz (Haley James Scott) , Paul Johansson (Dan Scott) , Sophia Bush (Brooke Davis) , Jackson Brundage (Jamie Scott) , Robert Buckley (Clay Evans) , Austin Nichols (Julian Baker) , Shantel VanSanten (Quinn James) , Stephen Colletti (Chase Adams) , Lisa Goldstein (Millicent Huxtable) , Lee Norris (Marvin ‘Mouth’ McFadden)

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Tags: high school, sibling relationship, basketball, teenage romance, teen drama

Angels in America

Angels in America

Release Date: 2003-12-07

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Angels in America” is a captivating TV show that takes us back to the year 1985, exploring the lives of two couples during the Reagan era. Set against the backdrop of a rapidly changing political and social climate, the show delves into the challenges they face amidst the spreading AIDS epidemic. With an incredible cast including Al Pacino, Meryl Streep, and Jeffrey Wright, this thought-provoking series is a must-watch for anyone interested in the complexities of that time period.

Cast: Al Pacino (Roy Cohn) , Meryl Streep (Hannah Pitt) , Jeffrey Wright (Norman “Belize” Ariaga / Mr. Lies / Homeless man / The Angel Europa) , Justin Kirk (Prior Walter / Leatherman in the Park) , Ben Shenkman (Louis Ironson / The Angel Oceania) , Mary-Louise Parker (Harper Pitt) , Patrick Wilson (Joe Pitt) , Emma Thompson (Homeless Woman / The Angel)

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Writers: Tony Kushner

Tags: new york city, aids, based on play or musical, hiv, miniseries, lgbt, gay theme

Dead Like Me

Dead Like Me

Release Date: 2003-06-27

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama, Comedy

“Dead Like Me” is a captivating TV show that premiered in 2003. It follows the story of George, a young woman whose life takes an unexpected turn when she dies. Instead of finding peace in the afterlife, she becomes a Grim Reaper, tasked with collecting the souls of the deceased. With a talented cast including Ellen Muth, Mandy Patinkin, and more, this show offers a unique and intriguing perspective on death and the supernatural.

Cast: Ellen Muth (Georgia “George” Lass) , Mandy Patinkin (Rube John Sofer) , Callum Blue (Mason) , Jasmine Guy (Roxy Harvey) , Cynthia Stevenson (Joy Lass) , Laura Harris (Daisy Adair)

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Tags: afterlife, narration, grim reaper, death, young adult

NCIS

NCIS

Release Date: 2003-09-23

Genres: Crime, Drama, Action & Adventure

“NCIS” is a thrilling TV show that premiered in 2003 and has been captivating audiences ever since. With an incredible cast including Gary Cole, David McCallum, Sean Murray, Wilmer Valderrama, Katrina Law, Diona Reasonover, Brian Dietzen, and Rocky Carroll, the show follows a team of special agents who fearlessly investigate crimes connected to Navy and Marine Corps personnel, no matter their rank or position. From murder and espionage to terrorism and stolen submarines, this action-packed series will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Gary Cole (Alden Parker) , David McCallum (Donald ‘Ducky’ Mallard) , Sean Murray (Timothy McGee) , Wilmer Valderrama (Nick Torres) , Katrina Law (Jessica Knight) , Diona Reasonover (Kasie Hines) , Brian Dietzen (Jimmy Palmer) , Rocky Carroll (Leon Vance)

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Tags: navy, marine corps, u.s. navy, naval officer, medical examiner, interrogation, ex-marine, crime lab, criminal investigation, veteran, virginia, crime investigation, special agent, police procedural, forensics

Two and a Half Men

Two and a Half Men

Release Date: 2003-09-22

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Two and a Half Men” is a hilarious TV show that premiered in 2003. It revolves around the life of a carefree jingle writer whose world turns upside down when his brother and 10-year-old nephew unexpectedly move in with him. With a talented cast including Ashton Kutcher, Jon Cryer, Conchata Ferrell, and later Amber Tamblyn, this beach-front house comedy is definitely worth a watch if you’re in the mood for some laughter and light-hearted entertainment.

Cast: Ashton Kutcher (Walden Schmidt) , Jon Cryer (Alan Harper) , Conchata Ferrell (Berta) , Amber Tamblyn (Jenny)

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Tags: california, sibling relationship, composer, roommate, evil mother, malibu, advertising, drinking, beach house, casual sex, sitcom, living with sibling, set in one room, rich brother

Tru Calling

Tru Calling

Release Date: 2003-10-30

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama, Mystery

“Tru Calling” is a thrilling TV show that premiered on October 30, 2003. Starring Eliza Dushku, Zach Galifianakis, Shawn Reaves, and Jason Priestley, it follows a university graduate who works in a city morgue. The twist? She has the extraordinary ability to relive the same day, allowing her to prevent murders and other disasters. It’s a captivating series that will keep you on the edge of your seat!

Cast: Eliza Dushku (Tru Davies) , Zach Galifianakis (Davis) , Shawn Reaves (Harrison Davies) , Jason Priestley (Jack Harper)

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Tags: morgue, psychic power

Reno 911!

Reno 911!

Release Date: 2003-07-23

Genres: Comedy

“Reno 911!” is a hilarious TV show that takes you on a wild ride with a group of bumbling police officers. Set in 2003, this partially unscripted comedy follows their misadventures as they respond to 911 calls, dealing with everything from speeding violations to drug dens. With a politically incorrect sense of humor and a talented cast including Thomas Lennon, Cedric Yarbrough, and Niecy Nash, this show is sure to keep you laughing from start to finish.

Cast: Thomas Lennon (Lieutenant Jim Dangle) , Cedric Yarbrough (Deputy Sven Jones) , Kerri Kenney (Deputy Trudy Wiegel) , Carlos Alazraqui (Deputy James Oswaldo Garcia) , Wendi McLendon-Covey (Deputy Clementine Johnson) , Robert Ben Garant (Deputy Travis Junior) , Niecy Nash (Deputy Raineesha Williams) , Joe Lo Truglio (Deputy Frank Salvatore Rizzo) , Mary Birdsong (Deputy Cherisha Kimball) , Ian Roberts (Sergeant Jack Declan)

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Writers: Robert Ben Garant

Tags: satire, parody, mockumentary, improvisation, police officer, faux reality show

Nip/Tuck

Nip/Tuck

Release Date: 2003-07-22

Genres: Drama

“Nip/Tuck” is a gripping TV show that aired in 2003 and made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of that year. It follows the lives of two talented plastic surgeons, Dr. Sean McNamara and Dr. Christian Troy, as they navigate through personal and professional challenges, including career struggles, family issues, and complicated love lives. With a stellar cast including Dylan Walsh, Julian McMahon, Joely Richardson, John Hensley, Roma Maffia, and Kelly Carlson, this series promises an intriguing blend of drama and romance.

Cast: Dylan Walsh (Sean McNamara) , Julian McMahon (Christian Troy) , Joely Richardson (Julia McNamara) , John Hensley (Matt McNamara) , Roma Maffia (Liz Cruz) , Kelly Carlson (Kimber Henry)

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Tags: miami, florida, plastic surgery, partnership, family relationships, womanizer, plastic surgeon, narcissism, medical drama

That's So Raven

That’s So Raven

Release Date: 2003-01-17

Genres: Comedy, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“That’s So Raven” is a hilarious TV show that aired in 2003 and quickly became a fan favorite. It follows the extraordinary life of Raven Baxter, a not-so-ordinary teenager who can catch glimpses of the future. With the help of her best friends Eddie and Chelsea, Raven embarks on misadventures and clever schemes to change the outcomes she sees. Joining the fun is Raven’s money-obsessed younger brother Cory, who always has a get-rich-quick scheme up his sleeve. Starring Raven-Symoné, Orlando Brown, Kyle Massey, Anneliese van der Pol, and Rondell Sheridan, this show is a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh and a touch of the supernatural.

Cast: Raven-Symoné (Raven Baxter) , Orlando Brown (Eddie Thomas) , Kyle Massey (Cory Baxter) , Anneliese van der Pol (Chelsea Daniels) , Rondell Sheridan (Victor Baxter)

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Tags: high school, san francisco, california, family relationships, psychic power, family, teen comedy, extrasensory perception, sitcom, family of color

Little Britain

Little Britain

Release Date: 2003-09-16

Genres: Comedy

“Little Britain” is a hilarious comedy show that aired in 2003 and quickly became a fan favorite. Starring the talented duo of Matt Lucas and David Walliams, the show features a wide range of eccentric characters from all over Little Britain. With a zany and offbeat sense of humor, this series is sure to keep you entertained from start to finish.

Cast: David Walliams (Various Roles) , Matt Lucas (Various Roles) , Tom Baker (Narrator) , Paul Putner (Various Roles) , Anthony Stewart Head (Prime Minister) , Ruth Jones (Myfanwy) , Joann Condon (Fat Pat) , Charu Bala Chokshi (Meera) , Kevin Lucero Less (Various Roles)

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Tags: satire, britain, sketch comedy, british comedy

Hitler: The Rise of Evil

Hitler: The Rise of Evil

Release Date: 2003-05-18

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“Hitler: The Rise of Evil” is a captivating biopic that takes us on a journey through the life of history’s most notorious figure. With an incredible cast including Robert Carlyle, Peter O’Toole, and Stockard Channing, this TV show delves into Hitler’s humble beginnings and his eventual rise to power in Germany. Released in 2003, it offers a fascinating insight into the mind of this madman who shaped the course of history.

Cast: Robert Carlyle (Adolf Hitler) , Zoe Telford (Eva Braun) , Justin Salinger (Dr. Joseph Goebbels) , James Babson (Rudolf Hess) , Stockard Channing (Klara Hitler) , Peter Stormare (Ernst Rohm) , Peter O’Toole (President Paul von Hindenburg) , Terence Harvey (Gustav von Kahr) , Jena Malone (Geli Raubal) , Liev Schreiber (Ernst Hanfstaengl) , Julianna Margulies (Helene Hanfstaengl) , Matthew Modine (Fritz Gerlich) , Jiří Datel Novotný (Von Lossow) , Friedrich von Thun (General Erich Ludendorff) , Chris Larkin (Hermann Göring) , Patricia Netzer (Sophie Gerlich) , Harvey Friedman (Friedrich Hollaender) , Nicole Marischka (Blandine Ebinger) , Julie-Ann Hassett (Angela Raubal) , Thomas Brodie-Sangster (Adolf Hitler (10 yrs)) , Robert Glenister (Anton Drexler) , Ian Hogg (Alois Hitler) , Filip Hes (Egon Hanfstaengl) , Brendan Hughes (Lieutenant Guffman) , Robert Russell (Franz Von Papen)

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Tags: nazi, world war ii, biography, adolf hitler

Frank Herbert's Children of Dune

Frank Herbert’s Children of Dune

Release Date: 2003-03-16

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“Frank Herbert’s Children of Dune” is a captivating three-part miniseries that aired in 2003. Based on Frank Herbert’s novels, it serves as a sequel to the highly acclaimed “Frank Herbert’s Dune” miniseries from 2000. With an all-star cast including James McAvoy, Susan Sarandon, and Alec Newman, this sci-fi epic takes viewers on a thrilling journey through a futuristic world filled with political intrigue, mystical powers, and the struggle for power. It’s no wonder that this miniseries, along with its predecessor, became two of the highest-rated programs ever on the Sci-Fi Channel.

Cast: James McAvoy (Leto Atreides II) , Jessica Brooks (Ghanima Atreides) , Daniela Amavia (Alia Atreides) , Julie Cox (Irulan Corrino-Atreides) , Edward Atterton (Duncan Idaho) , Alice Krige (Lady Jessica) , Susan Sarandon (Princess Wensicia) , Alec Newman (Paul Atreides / Muad’Dib) , Martin McDougall (Scytale) , Steven Berkoff (Stilgar) , P.H. Moriarty (Gurney Halleck) , Barbora Kodetová (Chani) , Ian McNeice (Baron Vladimir Harkonnen) , Gee Williams (Bijaz) , Rik Young (Javid)

Directors: Greg Yaitanes

Writers: John Harrison, Frank Herbert

Tags: prophecy, telepathy, sandstorm, space opera

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