Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows of 2016: See What Made the Cut!

Are you ready for a trip down memory lane? Buckle up, because we’re about to revisit the golden year of 2016, a time when binge-watching was our favorite pastime and TV shows were our best companions. From heart-stopping thrillers to laugh-out-loud comedies, 2016 was a year that truly spoiled us with an array of unforgettable TV moments. But which shows managed to capture our hearts and dominate our screens? Which series had us cancelling plans, losing sleep, and furiously tweeting? We’ve crunched the numbers, scoured the reviews, and listened to your passionate debates to compile the definitive list of the Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows of 2016. So, grab your popcorn, settle into your favorite spot on the couch, and let’s see what made the cut!
Stranger Things

Stranger Things

Release Date: 2016-07-15

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery

“Stranger Things” is a thrilling TV show that captivated audiences in 2016. Set in a small town, the story revolves around a young boy who mysteriously disappears, leading to a series of shocking revelations involving secret experiments, supernatural forces, and a peculiar girl. With a talented cast including Millie Bobby Brown, David Harbour, and Winona Ryder, this show is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good mystery.

Cast: Millie Bobby Brown (Jane “Eleven” Hopper) , David Harbour (Jim Hopper) , Joe Keery (Steve Harrington) , Winona Ryder (Joyce Byers) , Finn Wolfhard (Mike Wheeler) , Gaten Matarazzo (Dustin Henderson) , Caleb McLaughlin (Lucas Sinclair) , Noah Schnapp (Will Byers) , Natalia Dyer (Nancy Wheeler) , Matthew Modine (Martin Brenner) , Charlie Heaton (Jonathan Byers) , Sadie Sink (Max Mayfield) , Maya Hawke (Robin Buckley) , Brett Gelman (Murray Bauman) , Priah Ferguson (Erica Sinclair) , Paul Reiser (Sam Owens)

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Tags: friendship, small town, sheriff, monster, experiment, love triangle, skateboarding, supernatural, halloween, redemption, nostalgia, drug scene, telekinesis, coming of age, cheerleading, evil corporation, female protagonist, psychological thriller, single mother, parallel world, super power, missing person, missing child, computer nerd, government conspiracy, chief of police, family tension, superhero kids, teen drama, 1980s, 80s throwback, supernatural horror, teen romance, male protagonist, horror

Lucifer

Lucifer

Release Date: 2016-01-25

Genres: Crime, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Lucifer” is a captivating TV show that premiered in 2016 and quickly became one of the best-voted shows of the year. It follows the story of Lucifer Morningstar, the former Lord of Hell, who decides to leave his throne and settle in Los Angeles. Teaming up with LAPD detective Chloe Decker, they work together to bring down criminals, but as Lucifer spends more time away from the underworld, the danger of the worst of humanity escaping grows. With a talented cast including Tom Ellis, Lauren German, and Kevin Alejandro, this thrilling series is definitely worth a watch.

Cast: Tom Ellis (Lucifer Morningstar / Michael) , Lauren German (Chloe Decker) , Kevin Alejandro (Dan Espinoza) , D.B. Woodside (Amenadiel) , Lesley-Ann Brandt (Mazikeen “Maze”) , Aimee Garcia (Ella Lopez) , Rachael Harris (Linda Martin) , Brianna Hildebrand (Rory)

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Writers: Neil Gaiman, Sam Kieth, Mike Dringenberg

Tags: based on comic, los angeles, california, devil, lapd

Fleabag

Fleabag

Release Date: 2016-07-21

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Fleabag” is a hilarious comedy series based on an award-winning play. Set in London, it follows a young woman as she navigates through life while dealing with a recent tragedy. With a talented cast including Phoebe Waller-Bridge, Olivia Colman, and Andrew Scott, this show is a must-watch for anyone looking for a good laugh and relatable characters.

Cast: Phoebe Waller-Bridge (Fleabag) , Sian Clifford (Claire) , Olivia Colman (Godmother) , Bill Paterson (Dad) , Jenny Rainsford (Boo) , Brett Gelman (Martin) , Hugh Skinner (Harry) , Andrew Scott (The Priest) , Hugh Dennis (Bank Manager)

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Tags: london, england, sexuality, godmother, dark comedy, cynicism, stepmother, dysfunctional family, grief, breaking the fourth wall, loneliness, promiscuity, guinea pig, death of mother, passive aggression, boyfriend girlfriend relationship, casual sex, evil stepmother, englishwoman, guilty conscience, sitcom, lonely man, death of best friend, lonely woman, fear of intimacy, father daughter relationship, sister sister relationship, loss of mother, loss of a friend, bisexual woman, bisexual female lead

This Is Us

This Is Us

Release Date: 2016-09-20

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“This Is Us” is a heartwarming TV show that follows the lives of three adults as they navigate through the ups and downs of life in the United States. With a unique twist, these characters not only share the same birthday but also find their paths intertwined in unexpected ways. Starring a talented cast including Milo Ventimiglia, Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown, and more, this show has captured the hearts of viewers since its release in 2016.

Cast: Milo Ventimiglia (Jack Pearson) , Mandy Moore (Rebecca Pearson) , Sterling K. Brown (Randall Pearson) , Chrissy Metz (Kate Pearson) , Justin Hartley (Kevin Pearson) , Susan Kelechi Watson (Beth Pearson) , Chris Sullivan (Toby Damon) , Jon Huertas (Miguel Rivas)

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Tags: sibling relationship, loss of loved one, adoption, addiction, family relationships, romance, flashback, grief, grieving

The Crown

The Crown

Release Date: 2016-11-04

Genres: Drama

“The Crown” is a captivating TV show that takes you behind the scenes of Buckingham Palace and 10 Downing Street, revealing the untold story of Queen Elizabeth II and the influential Prime Ministers who shaped Britain’s destiny after World War II. With an incredible cast including Imelda Staunton, Jonathan Pryce, and Dominic West, this gripping series delves into the intrigues, love lives, and political machinations that defined the second half of the 20th century. It’s no wonder this show made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 2016!

Cast: Imelda Staunton (Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom) , Jonathan Pryce (Philip of Edinburgh) , Dominic West (Charles III of the United Kingdom) , Elizabeth Debicki (Diana of Wales) , Lesley Manville (Margaret of Snowdon) , Olivia Williams (Camilla of Cornwall) , Marcia Warren (Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon) , Claudia Harrison (Anne of Edinburgh) , Jonny Lee Miller (John Major) , Natascha McElhone (Penelope Knatchbull)

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Tags: england, royal family, royalty, british politics, palace intrigue, british royal family, british monarchy

Westworld

Westworld

Release Date: 2016-10-02

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Western

“Westworld” is a captivating TV show that premiered in 2016 and quickly became one of the best-voted shows of the year. It takes us on a thrilling journey into a world where artificial consciousness is born, and sin evolves. With an incredible cast including Evan Rachel Wood, Thandiwe Newton, and Jeffrey Wright, this series explores a near future where all human desires, whether noble or dark, can be fulfilled.

Cast: Evan Rachel Wood (Christina) , Thandiwe Newton (Maeve Millay) , Jeffrey Wright (Bernard Lowe) , Tessa Thompson (Charlotte Hale) , Aaron Paul (Caleb Nichols) , James Marsden (Theodore ‘Teddy’ Flood) , Angela Sarafyan (Clementine Pennyfeather) , Ed Harris (Man in Black) , Luke Hemsworth (Ashley Stubbs)

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Writers: Suzanne Wrubel, Allison Rock, Michael Crichton

Tags: android, artificial intelligence, remake, role playing, second life, robot, wild west, theme park, based on movie, ethical dilemma, moral dilemma

Atlanta

Atlanta

Release Date: 2016-09-06

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Atlanta” is a highly acclaimed TV show that premiered in 2016. It follows the journey of two cousins as they navigate the vibrant music scene in Atlanta, striving to improve their own lives and those of their families. Starring Donald Glover, Brian Tyree Henry, Lakeith Stanfield, and Zazie Beetz, this series has been voted as one of the best TV shows of 2016.

Cast: Donald Glover (Earnest ‘Earn’ Marks) , Brian Tyree Henry (Alfred ‘Paper Boi’ Miles) , Lakeith Stanfield (Darius Epps) , Zazie Beetz (Vanessa ‘Van’ Keefer)

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Tags: hip-hop, atlanta

The Good Place

The Good Place

Release Date: 2016-09-19

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Comedy

“The Good Place” is a hilarious and thought-provoking TV show that premiered in 2016. It follows the journey of Eleanor Shellstrop, an ordinary woman who unexpectedly finds herself in the afterlife. With the help of her wise afterlife mentor, she embarks on a mission to become a better person and discover her true potential. Starring Kristen Bell and Ted Danson, this show is definitely one of the best voted TV shows of 2016.

Cast: Kristen Bell (Eleanor Shellstrop) , Ted Danson (Michael) , William Jackson Harper (Chidi Anagonye) , Jameela Jamil (Tahani Al-Jamil) , Manny Jacinto (Jason Mendoza) , D’Arcy Carden (Janet)

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Tags: paradise, soulmates, afterlife, karma, sitcom

The Night Of

The Night Of

Release Date: 2016-07-10

Genres: Crime, Drama, Mystery

“The Night Of” is a gripping TV show that follows the story of a man who wakes up after a night of partying to find a woman he was with stabbed to death. He is then charged with her murder, and the series delves into the complexities of the justice system as he fights to prove his innocence. With a talented cast including Riz Ahmed, John Turturro, and Michael Kenneth Williams, this intense crime drama is definitely worth checking out.

Cast: Riz Ahmed (Nasir “Naz” Khan) , John Turturro (John Stone) , Bill Camp (Dennis Box) , Payman Maadi (Salim Khan) , Poorna Jagannathan (Safar Khan) , Sofia Black-D’Elia (Andrea Cornish) , Paul Sparks (Don Taylor) , Jeannie Berlin (Helen Weiss) , Michael Kenneth Williams (Freddy Knight) , Glenne Headly (Alison Crowe) , Amara Karan (Chandra Kapoor) , Syam M. Lafi (Hasan Khan) , Paulo Costanzo (Ray Halle)

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Tags: prison, new york city, muslim, trial, murder, jail, lawyer, miniseries, district attorney, murder investigation, murder trial, eczema, rikers island

Wynonna Earp

Wynonna Earp

“Wynonna Earp” is a thrilling TV show that follows the adventures of Wyatt Earp’s great granddaughter, Wynonna. Armed with her unique abilities, she takes on demons and other supernatural creatures alongside her quirky group of allies. With a release date in 2016, this action-packed series is definitely one of the best voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Melanie Scrofano (Wynonna Earp) , Tim Rozon (John Henry ‘Doc’ Holliday) , Dominique Provost-Chalkley (Waverly Earp) , Katherine Barrell (Nicole Haught) , Varun Saranga (Jeremy Chetri) , Greg Lawson (Sheriff Randy Nedley) , Martina Ortiz Luis (Rachel Valdez)

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Writers: Beau Smith

Tags: sibling relationship, supernatural, paranormal, based on graphic novel, lgbt, family curse, revenant

The Grand Tour

The Grand Tour

Release Date: 2016-11-17

Genres: Reality

“The Grand Tour” is a thrilling and hilarious TV show that made it to the list of the 20 best voted TV shows of 2016. Starring Jeremy Clarkson, Richard Hammond, and James May, it takes you on a global adventure filled with excitement, friendship, and, of course, cars. If you’re up for some fun and don’t mind a bit of annoyance from your friends, this show is definitely worth watching.

Cast: Jeremy Clarkson (Self – Host) , Richard Hammond (Self – Host) , James May (Self – Host)

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Tags: automobile, travel, racing, race

The Night Manager

The Night Manager

Release Date: 2016-02-21

Genres: Drama, Mystery, Crime

“The Night Manager” is a thrilling TV show that follows the journey of Jonathan Pine, a former British soldier. He finds himself caught in a dangerous web of espionage and arms trading as he tries to infiltrate the inner circle of a notorious arms dealer. With an incredible cast including Tom Hiddleston, Hugh Laurie, and Olivia Colman, this show will keep you on the edge of your seat from start to finish.

Cast: Tom Hiddleston (Jonathan Pine) , Hugh Laurie (Richard Roper) , Olivia Colman (Angela Burr) , Tom Hollander (Lance Corkoran) , Elizabeth Debicki (Jed Marshall) , Alistair Petrie (Sandy Langbourne) , Natasha Little (Caro Langbourne) , Douglas Hodge (Rex Mayhew) , David Harewood (Joel Steadman) , Tobias Menzies (Geoffrey Dromgoole) , Antonio de la Torre (Juan Apostol) , Adeel Akhtar (Rob Singhal) , Michael Nardone (Frisky) , Hovik Keuchkerian (Tabby)

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Writers: John le Carré, Mona Qureshi

Tags: based on novel or book, undercover, espionage, spy, arms dealer, neo-noir

11.22.63

11.22.63

Release Date: 2016-02-15

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“11.22.63” is a captivating TV show that takes you on a thrilling journey back in time. An English teacher travels to the past with a mission to prevent the Kennedy assassination, but soon finds himself torn between his duty and the life he has built in that era. With an incredible cast including James Franco and Sarah Gadon, this show will keep you on the edge of your seat from its release date in February 2016.

Cast: James Franco (Jake Epping) , Sarah Gadon (Sadie Dunhill) , Chris Cooper (Al Templeton) , Daniel Webber (Lee Harvey Oswald) , Lucy Fry (Marina Oswald) , George MacKay (Bill Turcotte) , T.R. Knight (Johnny Clayton) , Josh Duhamel (Frank Dunning) , Cherry Jones (Marquerite Oswald) , Kevin J. O’Connor (Yellow Card Man) , Stephen King (The Pharmacist) , Boyd Banks (Barfly) , Alexandra Castillo (Mayor)

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Writers: Stephen King, Quinton Peeples, Brigitte Hales, Brian Nelson

Tags: assassination, based on novel or book, time travel, murder, miniseries, alternate history, love sickness, kennedy assassination

Dirk Gently's Holistic Detective Agency

Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency

Release Date: 2016-10-22

Genres: Comedy, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Crime

“Dirk Gently’s Holistic Detective Agency” is a hilarious and thrilling TV show that follows the strange escapades of the eccentric detective Dirk Gently and his reluctant assistant Todd. Based on Douglas Adams’ popular comic novels, this adaptation brings to life a world of bizarre adventures and unexpected twists. With a talented cast including Samuel Barnett, Elijah Wood, and Hannah Marks, this show is a must-watch for fans of comedic mysteries.

Cast: Samuel Barnett (Dirk Gently) , Elijah Wood (Todd Brotzman) , Hannah Marks (Amanda Brotzman) , Jade Eshete (Farah Black) , Fiona Dourif (Bart Curlish) , Amanda Walsh (Suzie Boreton) , Mpho Koaho (Ken) , Dustin Milligan (Sergeant Hugo Friedkin) , Tony Amendola (Arnold Cardenas) , Izzie Steele (Tina Tevetino) , Tyler Labine (Sherlock Hobbs) , Agam Darshi (Wakti Wapnasi) , John Hannah (Mage) , Lee Majdoub (Silas Dengdamor) , Christopher Russell (Panto Trost) , Osric Chau (Vogel) , Michael Eklund (Martin) , Viv Leacock (Gripps) , Ajay Friese (Farson Dengdamor) , Dylan Schombing (The Boy / Francis) , Hunter Dillon (Young Arnold) , Roger Cross (Eddie Black) , Neil Brown Jr. (Detective Estevez) , Aaron Douglas (Gordon Rimmer) , Miguel Sandoval (Colonel Scott Riggins)

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Writers: Douglas Adams

Tags: based on novel or book, detective, super power, murder investigation, lgbt interest

Billions

Billions

Release Date: 2016-01-17

Genres: Drama

“Billions” is a gripping drama set in the world of high finance in New York. It follows the intense rivalry between U.S. Attorney Chuck Rhoades and hedge fund king Bobby “Axe” Axelrod, as they use their intelligence, power, and influence to outsmart each other. With an all-star cast including Paul Giamatti and Maggie Siff, this timely and thought-provoking series delves into the high-stakes world where billions are at stake.

Cast: Paul Giamatti (Charles ‘Chuck’ Rhoades Jr.) , Maggie Siff (Wendy Rhoades) , David Costabile (Michael ‘Wags’ Wagner) , Condola Rashad (Kate Sacker) , Asia Kate Dillon (Taylor Mason) , Corey Stoll (Mike Prince)

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Tags: new york city, businessman, wall street, finances, wealth, stock market, hedge fund, white collar criminal

The OA

The OA

Release Date: 2016-12-16

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery, Drama

“The OA” is a captivating TV show that made it to the list of the 20 best voted TV shows of 2016. It follows the story of Prairie Johnson, who returns to her hometown after being missing for seven years, but with a twist – she can now see. Some view her as a miraculous figure, while others see her as a dangerous enigma. With an incredible cast including Brit Marling and Jason Isaacs, this mystery-filled series will keep you hooked from start to finish.

Cast: Brit Marling (OA / Nina Azarova) , Jason Isaacs (Dr. Hunter ‘Hap’ Percy) , Emory Cohen (Homer Roberts) , Kingsley Ben-Adir (Karim Washington) , Phyllis Smith (Elizabeth ‘Betty’ Broderick-Allen) , Patrick Gibson (Steve Winchell) , Brendan Meyer (Jesse) , Brandon Perea (Alfonso ‘French’ Sosa) , Ian Alexander (Buck Vu / Michel Vu) , Will Brill (Scott Brown) , Sharon Van Etten (Rachel) , Paz Vega (Renata) , Chloë Levine (Angie)

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Tags: alternate dimension, disappearance, blind, dimensional travel, near-death experience

Travelers

Travelers

Release Date: 2016-10-17

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Travelers” is a thrilling sci-fi TV show that takes place in the 21st century. In a future where humanity is on the brink of extinction, a group of time-traveling individuals called “travelers” assume the lives of ordinary people to carry out secret missions aimed at saving humanity. Starring Eric McCormack and a talented ensemble cast, this show will keep you on the edge of your seat with its gripping storyline and exciting adventures.

Cast: Eric McCormack (Grant MacLaren) , MacKenzie Porter (Marcy Warton) , Nesta Cooper (Carly Shannon) , Jared Abrahamson (Trevor Holden) , Reilly Dolman (Philip Pearson) , Patrick Gilmore (David Mailer)

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Tags: time travel, north america

American Crime Story

American Crime Story

Release Date: 2016-02-02

Genres: Crime, Drama

“American Crime Story” is an anthology series that delves into captivating criminal investigations from history. With a star-studded cast including Sarah Paulson, Beanie Feldstein, Annaleigh Ashford, Margo Martindale, Edie Falco, and Clive Owen, this show takes you on a thrilling journey through some of the most infamous cases. Premiering on February 2, 2016, it’s no wonder this gripping series made it to the list of the 20 best voted TV shows of that year.

Cast: Sarah Paulson (Linda Tripp) , Beanie Feldstein (Monica Lewinsky) , Annaleigh Ashford (Paula Jones) , Margo Martindale (Lucianne Goldberg) , Edie Falco (Hillary Clinton) , Clive Owen (Bill Clinton)

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Writers: Daniel Pearle, Hayley Byrnes, Jeffrey Toobin

Tags: police, based on true story, anthology, lawyer, criminal, crime investigation, criminal law

Shadowhunters

Shadowhunters

“Shadowhunters” is a thrilling TV show that made it to the list of the 20 best voted shows of 2016. It follows the story of Clary Fray, who joins a group of demon-killing hunters called Shadowhunters after her mother disappears. With an amazing cast including Matthew Daddario, Harry Shum Jr., Dominic Sherwood, Katherine McNamara, Anna Hopkins, Emeraude Toubia, Alisha Wainwright, Isaiah Mustafa, and Alberto Rosende, this show will keep you on the edge of your seat as Clary gets caught up in a mission to save the world.

Cast: Matthew Daddario (Alexander “Alec” Lightwood) , Harry Shum Jr. (Magnus Bane) , Dominic Sherwood (Jace Wayland) , Katherine McNamara (Clarissa “Clary” Fray) , Anna Hopkins (Lilith) , Emeraude Toubia (Isabelle “Izzy” Lightwood) , Alisha Wainwright (Maia Roberts) , Isaiah Mustafa (Luke Garroway) , Alberto Rosende (Simon Lewis)

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Tags: based on novel or book, magic, vampire, supernatural, werewolf, demon, supernatural creature, warlock, shadowhunter, fighting supernatural, rune, based on young adult novel

Preacher

Preacher

Release Date: 2016-05-22

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery, Drama

“Preacher” is a thrilling TV show that made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 2016. It follows the story of a preacher named Jesse who embarks on a mission to make the almighty confess his sin of abandoning the world. With the help of his friends, including an alcoholic Irish vampire and a gun-toting Texan, Jesse sacrifices everything to set the world straight with its creator. Starring Dominic Cooper, Ruth Negga, Joseph Gilgun, Ian Colletti, Graham McTavish, and Pip Torrens, this show premiered on May 22, 2016.

Cast: Dominic Cooper (Jesse Custer) , Ruth Negga (Tulip O’Hare) , Joseph Gilgun (Cassidy) , Ian Colletti (Eugene “Arseface” Root) , Graham McTavish (Saint of Killers) , Pip Torrens (Herr Starr)

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Writers: Garth Ennis, Steve Dillon

Tags: vampire, texas, supernatural, based on comic, god, demon, preacher, supernatural power

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