Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows of 2012: See What Made the List!

Hello, TV aficionados! Remember when the world was supposed to end in 2012? Well, it didn’t, but it did bring us a year of unforgettable television that we’re still raving about. From heart-stopping dramas to laugh-out-loud comedies, 2012 was a year that had us glued to our screens, and for good reason. So, grab your popcorn, put your feet up, and let’s take a nostalgic trip down the remote control lane. We’re about to reveal the top 20 fan-favorite TV shows of 2012 that had us postponing dinner, skipping gym, and losing sleep. Whether you were a fan of zombies, meth-cooking chemistry teachers, or high-functioning sociopaths, there was something for everyone. So, did your favorite make the cut? Let’s find out!
Chicago Fire

Chicago Fire

Release Date: 2012-10-10

Genres: Drama

“Chicago Fire” is a gripping TV show that takes you on a thrilling journey into the lives of everyday heroes – the firefighters, rescue squad, and paramedics of Chicago Firehouse 51. Filled with heart-stopping action and incredible bravery, these courageous men and women put their lives on the line to save others in the face of extreme danger. With an amazing ensemble cast led by Taylor Kinney, Kara Killmer, and David Eigenberg, this adrenaline-pumping series will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Cast: Taylor Kinney (Kelly Severide) , Kara Killmer (Sylvie Brett) , David Eigenberg (Christopher Herrmann) , Joe Miñoso (Joe Cruz) , Christian Stolte (Randy ‘Mouch’ McHolland) , Miranda Rae Mayo (Stella Kidd) , Alberto Rosende (Blake Gallo) , Daniel Kyri (Darren Ritter) , Eamonn Walker (Wallace Boden) , Hanako Greensmith (Violet Mikami)

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Writers: Ashley J. Cooper, Elizabeth Sherman, Victor Teran

Tags: chicago, illinois, fire brigade, paramedic, crime investigation, firefighter

Line of Duty

Line of Duty

Release Date: 2012-06-26

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Line of Duty” is a gripping drama that follows the investigations of AC-12, a controversial police anticorruption unit. With a stellar cast including Martin Compston, Vicky McClure, and Adrian Dunbar, this show delves into the dark world of corruption within the police force. Released in 2012, it’s no wonder this series made it to the list of the 20 best voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Martin Compston (DS Steve Arnott) , Vicky McClure (DC Kate Fleming) , Adrian Dunbar (SI Ted Hastings) , Gregory Piper (Ryan Pilkington) , Nigel Boyle (DI Ian Buckells) , Kelly Macdonald (DCI Jo Davidson) , Owen Teale (Philip Osborne)

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Tags: police, dirty cop, internal affairs, police corruption, procedural, anti-corruption, police procedural

The Newsroom

The Newsroom

Release Date: 2012-06-24

Genres: Drama

“The Newsroom” is a captivating TV show that takes you behind the scenes of a nightly cable-news program. With an incredible cast including Jeff Daniels, Emily Mortimer, and Olivia Munn, the series follows the network anchor, his new executive producer, and the newsroom staff as they strive to deliver quality news amidst corporate and personal challenges. Premiering in 2012, this show is definitely one of the best voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Jeff Daniels (Will McAvoy) , Emily Mortimer (MacKenzie McHale) , John Gallagher Jr. (James Harper) , Alison Pill (Margaret Jordan) , Thomas Sadoski (Don Keefer) , Dev Patel (Neelamani Sampat) , Olivia Munn (Sloan Sabbith) , Sam Waterston (Charlie Skinner)

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Tags: journalist, politics, journalism, television broadcast, news, television network, tv news anchor

Brazil Avenue

Brazil Avenue

Release Date: 2012-03-26

Genres: Drama, Mystery, Soap, Crime

“Brazil Avenue” is a captivating telenovela that aired in 2012 and was voted as one of the best TV shows of that year. Starring a talented cast including Débora Falabella, Adriana Esteves, and Cauã Reymond, the show tells the story of a young girl whose life takes a dramatic turn due to ambition and cruelty, leading her on a path of revenge. With its dynamic and modern portrayal, “Brazil Avenue” offers a gripping and lifelike experience that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

Cast: Débora Falabella (Nina García Hernández / Rita Fonseca de Souza) , Adriana Esteves (Carmem Lúcia Moreira de Araújo (Carminha)) , Murilo Benício (Jorge Araújo (Tufão)) , Cauã Reymond (Jorge Araújo Filho (Jorginho) / Cristiano Moreira / Batata) , Marcello Novaes (Maxwell Pereira Oliveira (Max)) , Vera Holtz (Lucinda Pereira Oliveira (Mãe Lucinda)) , José de Abreu (Nilo Oliveira) , Eliane Giardini (Muricy Araújo) , Marcos Caruso (Leleco Araújo) , Heloísa Périssé (Monalisa Barbosa) , Letícia Isnard (Ivana Araújo Oliveira) , Alexandre Borges (Carlos Eduardo de Souza Queirós (Cadinho) / Dudu) , Débora Bloch (Vêronica Magalhães Queirós) , Camila Morgado (Noêmia Buarque Queirós) , Carolina Ferraz (Alexia Bragança Queirós) , Nathalia Dill (Débora Magalhães Queirós) , Isis Valverde (Suellen) , Fabiula Nascimento (Olenka Cabral) , Juca de Oliveira (Santiago Moreira) , Aílton Graça (Paulo Silas) , Betty Faria (Pilar Albuquerque) , Otávio Augusto (Diógenes) , Paula Burlamaqui (Dolores Neiva (Soninha Catatau)) , Juliano Cazarré (Adauto) , Thiago Martins (Leandro)

Directors: André Câmara, Gustavo Fernández, Paulo Silvestrini, Thiago Teitelroit

Writers: Thereza Falcão, Alessandro Marson, Márcia Prates, Antonio Prata, Luciana Pessanha, João Emanuel Carneiro

Tags: love triangle, rio de janeiro, middle class, revenge, betrayal, football (soccer), telenovela, novela das 9

Longmire

Longmire

Release Date: 2012-06-03

Genres: Western, Crime, Drama

“Longmire” is a captivating TV show that premiered in 2012. It follows the story of a Wyoming sheriff who is trying to rebuild his life and career after the tragic loss of his wife. Based on a popular series of mystery novels, the show features a talented cast including Robert Taylor, Katee Sackhoff, Lou Diamond Phillips, Cassidy Freeman, and Adam Bartley.

Cast: Robert Taylor (Walt Longmire) , Katee Sackhoff (Victoria ‘Vic’ Moretti) , Lou Diamond Phillips (Henry Standing Bear) , Cassidy Freeman (Cady Longmire) , Adam Bartley (Ferg)

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Tags: small town, wyoming, usa, small town sheriff

Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries

Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries

Release Date: 2012-02-24

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries” is a captivating TV show set in the late 1920s Melbourne. It follows the adventures of Phryne Fisher, a modern and witty lady detective who fearlessly fights injustice with her pearl-handled pistol. Based on Kerry Greenwood’s popular novels, this show is filled with intriguing murder mysteries, jazz clubs, and a touch of romance, making it a must-watch for fans of crime dramas. Starring Essie Davis as the charismatic Phryne Fisher, along with Ashleigh Cummings, Nathan Page, and Hugo Johnstone-Burt, this series premiered on February 24, 2012, and quickly became one of the best-voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Essie Davis (Phryne Fisher) , Ashleigh Cummings (Dorothy ‘Dot’ Williams) , Nathan Page (Detective John ‘Jack’ Robinson) , Hugo Johnstone-Burt (Hugh Collins)

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Tags: australia, based on novel or book, private investigator, private detective, female detective, costume drama, 1920s

Key & Peele

Key & Peele

Release Date: 2012-01-31

Genres: Comedy

“Key & Peele” is a hilarious American sketch comedy TV show that aired in 2012. Starring the talented duo Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele, both former cast members of MADtv, the show features a series of pre-taped sketches introduced by the dynamic duo themselves in front of a live studio audience. If you’re looking for a good laugh, this is definitely a show you don’t want to miss!

Cast: Keegan-Michael Key (Various Characters) , Jordan Peele (Various Characters)

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Elementary

Elementary

Release Date: 2012-09-27

Genres: Drama, Mystery, Crime

“Elementary” is a captivating modern-day drama that follows the adventures of Sherlock Holmes, a brilliant but troubled detective, and his unlikely partner, Dr. Watson. Set in New York City, the show takes you on a thrilling journey as they solve the most challenging cases for the NYPD. With a stellar cast including Jonny Lee Miller and Lucy Liu, this series is a must-watch for fans of crime-solving mysteries.

Cast: Jonny Lee Miller (Sherlock Holmes) , Lucy Liu (Joan Watson) , Jon Michael Hill (Marcus Bell) , Aidan Quinn (Thomas Gregson)

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Tags: new york city, detective, investigation, recovering addict, police investigation

Continuum

Continuum

“Continuum” is an exciting sci-fi series that takes us on a thrilling journey between the future and present-day Vancouver. When a group of rebels from 2077 accidentally time-travel to 2012, they continue their fight against powerful corporations, while a brave police officer tries to stop them without revealing their true origins. With a talented cast including Rachel Nichols and Victor Webster, this action-packed show will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Rachel Nichols (Kiera Cameron) , Erik Knudsen (Alec Sadler) , Victor Webster (Carlos Fonnegra) , Stephen Lobo (Matthew Kellog) , Roger Cross (Travis Verta) , Lexa Doig (Sonya Valentine) , Tony Amendola (Edouard Kagame) , Omari Newton (Lucas Ingram) , Luvia Petersen (Jasmine Garza) , Jennifer Spence (Betty Robertson) , Brian Markinson (Jack Dillon)

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Tags: time travel, fish out of water, police detective, vancouver, 2070s

Hatfields & McCoys

Hatfields & McCoys

Release Date: 2012-05-28

Genres: Western, Drama

“Hatfields & McCoys” is a gripping TV show that tells the true American story of a notorious family feud that almost sparked a war between Kentucky and West Virginia. Starring Kevin Costner, Bill Paxton, and an incredible ensemble cast, this epic saga follows the escalating tensions and explosive warfare between the Hatfield and McCoy families. With a release date in 2012, this highly acclaimed series is definitely one of the best voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Kevin Costner (‘Devil’ Anse Hatfield) , Bill Paxton (Randall McCoy) , Matt Barr (Johnse Hatfield) , Tom Berenger (Jim Vance) , Powers Boothe (Judge Valentine ‘Wall’ Hatfield) , Andrew Howard (‘Bad’ Frank Phillips) , Jena Malone (Nancy McCoy) , Sarah Parish (Levicy Hatfield) , Lindsay Pulsipher (Roseanna McCoy) , Ronan Vibert (Perry Cline) , Joe Absolom (Selkirk McCoy) , Noel Fisher (Ellison ‘Cotton Top’ Mounts) , Boyd Holbrook (William ‘Cap’ Hatfield) , Tom McKay (Jim McCoy) , Sam Reid (Tolbert McCoy) , Mare Winningham (Sally McCoy) , Greg Patmore (‘Good’ Lias Hatfield) , John Bell (Audie) , Katie Griffiths (Alifair McCoy) , Jack Laskey (Squirrel-Huntin’ Sam McCoy) , Michael Jibson (Phamer McCoy) , Lloyd Hutchinson (Floyd Hatfield) , Ben Cartwright (Parris McCoy) , Jonathan Fredrick (Jefferson McCoy) , Rebecca Calder (Martha McCoy)

Directors: Kevin Reynolds

Writers: Ronald Parker, Ted Mann

Tags: civil war, kentucky, west virginia, feud, miniseries, american civil war, blood feud, 19th century

Beauty and the Beast

Beauty and the Beast

Release Date: 2012-10-11

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Beauty and the Beast” is a thrilling TV show that follows Detective Catherine Chandler as she unravels the mystery behind her mother’s murder. When she discovers that the man who saved her that fateful night is still alive, she is drawn into a world of secrets and danger. With a talented cast including Kristin Kreuk and Jay Ryan, this show combines crime-solving with supernatural elements, making it a must-watch for fans of thrilling dramas.

Cast: Kristin Kreuk (Catherine Chandler) , Jay Ryan (Vincent Keller) , Nina Lisandrello (Tess Vargas) , Austin Basis (J.T. Forbes) , Nicole Gale Anderson (Heather Chandler) , F. Murray Abraham (Cyril)

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Tags: new york city, experiment, police, super soldier, female detective, beast, ex soldier

King David

King David

Release Date: 2012-01-24

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“King David” is a captivating TV show that takes us back to ancient Bethlehem in 1045 B.C. The story revolves around a 10-year-old boy named David, who is the youngest of seven brothers and works as a servant in his household. Despite his lowly position, David’s journey unfolds as he dreams of becoming a brave warrior like his brothers and serving King Saul. Starring Leonardo Brício, Renata Dominguez, Maria Ribeiro, Cláudio Fontana, Gracindo Júnior, and Isaac Bardavid, this series premiered on January 24, 2012, and is sure to transport you to a fascinating world of ancient Israelite territories.

Cast: Leonardo Brício (David) , Renata Dominguez (Bate-Seba) , Maria Ribeiro (Mical) , Cláudio Fontana (Jonatas) , Gracindo Júnior (Saul) , Isaac Bardavid (Samuel)

Directors: Edson Spinello

Writers: Vivian de Oliveira

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Ripper Street

Ripper Street

Release Date: 2012-12-30

Genres: Drama, Mystery

“Ripper Street” is a gripping drama set in 1889, right after the infamous “Ripper” murders in London. It follows the lives of detectives in the chaotic streets of Whitechapel as they try to bring some light into their dark world. With a talented cast including Matthew Macfadyen and Adam Rothenberg, this show delves into the aftermath of the crimes that have forever changed the lives and the city itself.

Cast: Matthew Macfadyen (Edmund Reid) , Adam Rothenberg (Homer Jackson) , MyAnna Buring (Long Susan Hart) , Charlene McKenna (Rose Erskine) , Matthew Lewis (Samuel Drummond)

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Tags: london, england, jack the ripper, victorian england, period drama, police detective, 19th century

Veep

Veep

Release Date: 2012-04-22

Genres: Comedy

“Veep” is a hilarious TV show that takes a witty and satirical look at American politics. It follows the journey of former Senator Selina Meyer, who quickly realizes that being Vice President of the United States is nothing like she expected. With an incredible cast including Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Anna Chlumsky, and Tony Hale, this show will keep you entertained from start to finish. It first premiered on April 22, 2012, and is definitely worth checking out if you’re in the mood for some political comedy.

Cast: Julia Louis-Dreyfus (Selina Meyer) , Anna Chlumsky (Amy Brookheimer) , Tony Hale (Gary Walsh) , Reid Scott (Dan Egan) , Timothy Simons (Jonah Ryan) , Matt Walsh (Mike McLintock) , Kevin Dunn (Ben Cafferty) , Gary Cole (Kent Davison) , Sam Richardson (Richard Splett) , Sarah Sutherland (Catherine Meyer) , Clea DuVall (Marjorie Palmiotti) , Emily Pendergast (Beth Ryan)

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Tags: politics, female politician, political satire, vice president, usa politics, political, political drama

Major Crimes

Major Crimes

Release Date: 2012-08-13

Genres: Crime, Drama

“Major Crimes” is a captivating TV show that delves into the intricate workings of the American justice system. Led by Los Angeles Police Captain Sharon Raydor, a special squad within the LAPD tackles high-profile and sensitive crimes, showcasing the collaboration between law enforcement officers and prosecutors to secure convictions. With a talented cast including Mary McDonnell, G.W. Bailey, and Tony Denison, this gripping series premiered on August 13, 2012, and is definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan of crime dramas.

Cast: Mary McDonnell (Captain Sharon Raydor) , G.W. Bailey (Lt. Louie Provenza) , Tony Denison (Lt. Andy Flynn) , Michael Paul Chan (Lt. Mike Tao) , Raymond Cruz (Detective Julio Sanchez) , Phillip P. Keene (Buzz Watson) , Kearran Giovanni (Amy Sykes) , Graham Patrick Martin (Rusty Beck) , Nadine Velazquez (D.D.A. Emma Rios) , Carlos Ponce (Mr. Emilio Diaz)

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Tags: police, los angeles, california, police investigation, lapd, major crime unit

Lilyhammer

Lilyhammer

Release Date: 2012-01-25

Genres: Drama, Comedy, Crime

“Lilyhammer” is a captivating TV show that premiered in 2012 and quickly became one of the best-voted shows of the year. Starring Steven Van Zandt and an incredible ensemble cast, it tells the story of Frank The Fixer Tagliano, a former Mafia member who enters the Witness Protection Program and requests to start a new life in the charming Norwegian town of Lillehammer, or as he affectionately calls it, Lilyhammer. With its unique premise and talented actors, this show is definitely worth checking out!

Cast: Steven Van Zandt (Frank Tagliano / Giovanni ‘Johnny’ Henriksen) , Paul Kaye (Duncan Hammer) , Nils Jørgen Kaalstad (Dag Solstad) , Sven Nordin (Julius Backe) , Steinar Sagen (Roar Lien) , Trond Fausa Aurvåg (Torgeir Lien) , Marian Saastad Ottesen (Sigrid Haugli) , Anne Krigsvoll (Laila Hovland) , Kyrre Hellum (Geir ‘Elvis’ Tvedt) , Mikael Aksnes-Pehrson (Jonas Haugli) , Agles Steib (Man in Hooded Sweater)

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Tags: witness protection, norway, mafia, nordic noir

Perception

Perception

Release Date: 2012-07-09

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“Perception” is a captivating TV show that premiered in 2012 and quickly became a fan favorite. Starring Eric McCormack, Rachael Leigh Cook, Kelly Rowan, Arjay Smith, LeVar Burton, and Scott Wolf, the series follows Dr. Daniel Pierce, a brilliant neuroscientist and professor who uses his exceptional understanding of the human mind to help the government solve complex cases. Despite his eccentric worldview and social quirks, Dr. Pierce’s ability to read people is truly extraordinary, making this show a must-watch for anyone intrigued by the mysteries of the human psyche.

Cast: Eric McCormack (Dr. Daniel Pierce) , Rachael Leigh Cook (Kate Moretti) , Kelly Rowan (Natalie Vincent) , Arjay Smith (Max Lewicki) , LeVar Burton (Paul Haley) , Scott Wolf (Donnie Ryan)

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Tags: schizophrenia, fbi, genius, hallucination, criminal investigation, mental disorders, college professor, criminal consultant

Baby Daddy

Baby Daddy

Release Date: 2012-06-20

Genres: Comedy

“Baby Daddy” is a hilarious TV show that premiered in 2012 and quickly became a fan favorite. It follows the story of Ben, a carefree young man living in New York City, whose life takes an unexpected turn when he discovers a baby girl on his doorstep. With the help of his friends, brother, and even his mom, Ben embarks on the adventure of raising a baby while navigating the ups and downs of adulting. Starring Jean-Luc Bilodeau, Tahj Mowry, Derek Theler, Melissa Peterman, and Chelsea Kane, this heartwarming comedy is definitely worth watching.

Cast: Jean-Luc Bilodeau (Ben Wheeler) , Tahj Mowry (Tucker Dobbs) , Derek Theler (Danny Wheeler) , Melissa Peterman (Bonnie Wheeler) , Chelsea Kane (Riley Perrin)

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Tags: new york city, baby, roommate, single father, friends in love, sitcom, young adult, living with sibling

Scandal

Scandal

Release Date: 2012-04-05

Genres: Drama

“Scandal” is a gripping TV show that made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 2012. It follows the life of Olivia Pope, a skilled professional who protects the reputations of the powerful by keeping their secrets hidden. However, as she and her team work tirelessly to fix the lives of others, they struggle to fix their own personal lives. With a talented cast including Kerry Washington and Tony Goldwyn, this show is a must-watch for fans of thrilling dramas.

Cast: Kerry Washington (Olivia Pope) , Darby Stanchfield (Abby Whelan) , Katie Lowes (Quinn Perkins) , Guillermo Díaz (Huck) , Jeff Perry (Cyrus Beene) , Tony Goldwyn (President Fitzgerald Grant) , Joshua Malina (David Rosen) , Bellamy Young (Mellie Grant) , Scott Foley (Jake Ballard) , Cornelius Smith, Jr. (Marcus Walker) , Joe Morton (Eli “Rowan” Pope)

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Tags: washington dc, usa, the white house, politics, fixer

A Young Doctor's Notebook

A Young Doctor’s Notebook

Release Date: 2012-12-06

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“A Young Doctor’s Notebook” is a captivating TV show that aired in 2012. Starring Jon Hamm and Daniel Radcliffe, it tells the story of a brilliant young doctor who finds himself in a remote and impoverished village as the only medical professional. As he adjusts to his new surroundings, he battles with a morphine addiction while discovering the true challenges of being a doctor in the real world.

Cast: Jon Hamm (Older Doctor) , Daniel Radcliffe (Young Doctor) , Adam Godley (The Feldsher) , Vicki Pepperdine (Anna) , Rosie Cavaliero (Pelageya)

Directors: Robert McKillop

Writers: Mark Chappell, Mikhail Bulgakov

Tags: nurse, winter, drug addiction, dark comedy, morphine, hospital, doctor, period drama, historical, based on short story, withdrawal, told in flashback, russian history, medical drama, 1910s, 1930s, medical, modern history, soviet history

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