Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows of 2021: See What Made the List!

Well, hello there, fellow couch potatoes and binge-watchers! We’ve all spent a fair share of 2021 glued to our screens, haven’t we? From the edge-of-your-seat thrillers to the heartwarming comedies, the small screen has been our constant companion, our escape, and our guilty pleasure. But which shows truly stole the show? Which ones had us cancelling plans, ignoring chores, and staying up way past our bedtime? It’s time to find out! We’ve scoured ratings, reviews, and social media chatter to compile the ultimate list of the Top 20 Fan-Favorite TV Shows of 2021. So, grab your popcorn, put your feet up, and let’s take a trip down the memory lane of the year’s most captivating television. Will your favorite make the cut? There’s only one way to find out!
Young Royals

Young Royals

Release Date: 2021-07-01

Genres: Drama

“Young Royals” is a captivating TV show that follows Prince Wilhelm as he navigates his new life at a prestigious boarding school called Hillerska. Released in 2021, the series explores the challenges Wilhelm faces as he tries to follow his heart amidst the pressures of royalty. With a talented cast including Edvin Ryding, Omar Rudberg, Malte Gårdinger, Frida Argento, and Nikita Uggla, this show promises an intriguing and heartfelt storyline.

Cast: Edvin Ryding (Wilhelm of Sweden) , Omar Rudberg (Simon Eriksson) , Malte Gårdinger (August Horn of Årnäs) , Frida Argento (Sara Eriksson) , Nikita Uggla (Felice Ehrencrona)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: coming out, friendship, boarding school, sweden, royal family, attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (adhd), romance, coming of age, royalty, social life, lgbt, lgbt teen, rowing, social media, asperger’s syndrome, teen drama, gay theme, teen romance, male protagonist, anxiety

Only Murders in the Building

Only Murders in the Building

Release Date: 2021-08-31

Genres: Comedy, Mystery, Crime

“Only Murders in the Building” is a captivating TV show that premiered on August 31, 2021. Starring Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez, and Michael Cyril Creighton, it follows three strangers who are all true crime enthusiasts. When they unexpectedly find themselves entangled in a real-life murder mystery, their shared obsession takes them on an exciting and suspenseful journey. It’s definitely one of the best-voted TV shows of 2021!

Cast: Steve Martin (Charles-Haden Savage) , Martin Short (Oliver Putnam) , Selena Gomez (Mabel Mora) , Michael Cyril Creighton (Howard Morris)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: friendship, female protagonist, lgbt, murder mystery, male protagonist, bisexual woman

Mare of Easttown

Mare of Easttown

Release Date: 2021-04-18

Genres: Drama, Mystery, Crime

“Mare of Easttown” is a gripping TV show that follows a detective in a small Pennsylvania town as she investigates a local murder, all while trying to hold her life together. Starring talented actors like Kate Winslet, Jean Smart, and Julianne Nicholson, this thrilling series premiered on April 18, 2021, and has been voted as one of the best TV shows of the year. Get ready for a captivating murder mystery with a stellar cast!

Cast: Kate Winslet (Marianne ‘Mare’ Sheehan) , Jean Smart (Helen Fahey) , Julianne Nicholson (Lori Ross) , Angourie Rice (Siobhan Sheehan) , Evan Peters (Colin Zabel) , Sosie Bacon (Carrie Layden) , David Denman (Frank Sheehan) , Neal Huff (Dan Hastings) , James McArdle (Mark Burton) , Guy Pearce (Richard Ryan) , Cailee Spaeny (Erin McMenamin) , John Douglas Thompson (Chief Carter) , Joe Tippett (John Ross)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: small town, suicide, drug abuse, pennsylvania, usa, therapist, detective, investigation, dysfunctional family, alcoholism, murder, disappearance, catholic priest

WandaVision

WandaVision

Release Date: 2021-01-15

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Mystery, Drama

“WandaVision” is a captivating TV show that premiered on January 15, 2021. Starring Elizabeth Olsen, Paul Bettany, Kathryn Hahn, Teyonah Parris, Randall Park, and Kat Dennings, it follows the story of Wanda Maximoff and Vision, two super-powered beings living seemingly perfect suburban lives. However, as they start to question their reality, they uncover a mysterious and intriguing plot that keeps viewers hooked from start to finish.

Cast: Elizabeth Olsen (Wanda Maximoff / Scarlet Witch) , Paul Bettany (Vision / The Vision) , Kathryn Hahn (Agnes / Agatha Harkness) , Teyonah Parris (Monica Rambeau / Geraldine) , Randall Park (Jimmy Woo) , Kat Dennings (Darcy Lewis / The Escape Artist)

Directors:

Writers: Stan Lee, Peter Cameron, Mackenzie Dohr, Bobak Esfarjani, Jack Kirby, Roy Thomas, John Buscema

Tags: superhero, supernatural, based on comic, suburbia, miniseries, superhero team, marvel cinematic universe (mcu)

Fate: The Winx Saga

Fate: The Winx Saga

Release Date: 2021-01-22

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“Fate: The Winx Saga” is a captivating coming-of-age series that follows the enchanting journey of five fairies attending Alfea, a magical boarding school in the Otherworld. As they strive to master their powers, they must also navigate the complexities of love, rivalries, and the looming threat of monstrous creatures. With a talented cast including Abigail Cowen, Hannah van der Westhuysen, Precious Mustapha, Eliot Salt, Elisha Applebaum, Danny Griffin, Sadie Soverall, and Robert James-Collier, this show, released on January 22, 2021, has earned its place among the 20 best voted TV shows of the year.

Cast: Abigail Cowen (Bloom) , Hannah van der Westhuysen (Stella) , Precious Mustapha (Aisha) , Eliot Salt (Terra) , Elisha Applebaum (Musa) , Danny Griffin (Sky) , Sadie Soverall (Beatrix) , Robert James-Collier (Saúl Silva)

Directors:

Writers: Iginio Straffi

Tags: magic, fairy, warrior, elements, power

Loki

Loki

Release Date: 2021-06-09

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Loki” is a thrilling TV show that premiered on June 9, 2021. Starring Tom Hiddleston, Owen Wilson, Sophia Di Martino, Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Wunmi Mosaku, and Tara Strong, it follows the story of an alternate version of Loki who is captured by the Time Variance Authority (TVA) after stealing the Tesseract. Faced with the choice of being erased from existence or helping fix the timeline, Loki embarks on a mission to stop a greater threat, taking us on an exciting journey through time and space.

Cast: Tom Hiddleston (Loki Laufeyson) , Owen Wilson (Mobius M. Mobius) , Sophia Di Martino (Sylvie / The Variant) , Gugu Mbatha-Raw (Ravonna Renslayer) , Wunmi Mosaku (Hunter B-15) , Tara Strong (Miss Minutes (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Stan Lee, Jack Kirby, Larry Lieber

Tags: superhero, secret organization, time travel, based on comic, spin off, marvel cinematic universe (mcu), alternate timeline, loki, antihero

The Nevers

The Nevers

Release Date: 2021-04-11

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“The Nevers” is a captivating TV show set in the final years of Queen Victoria’s reign. It follows the lives of the “Touched,” individuals who suddenly develop extraordinary abilities, both fascinating and unsettling. Led by the enigmatic Amalia True and brilliant inventor Penance Adair, they become champions for this new underclass, creating a safe haven while battling against various forces that seek to suppress them. With a talented cast including Laura Donnelly, Ann Skelly, and James Norton, this thrilling series promises to be one of the best voted TV shows of 2021.

Cast: Laura Donnelly (Amalia True) , Ann Skelly (Penance Adair) , Olivia Williams (Lavinia Bidlow) , James Norton (Hugo Swann) , Tom Riley (Augustus ‘Augie’ Bidlow) , Pip Torrens (Lord Gilbert Massen) , Rochelle Neil (Annie ‘Bonfire’ Carbey) , Amy Manson (Maladie) , Zackary Momoh (Dr. Horatio Cousens) , Elizabeth Berrington (Lucy Best) , Viola Prettejohn (Myrtle Haplisch) , Anna Devlin (Primrose Chattoway) , Kiran Sonia Sawar (Harriet Kaur) , Ben Chaplin (Frank Mundi) , Denis O’Hare (Dr. Edmund Hague) , Ella Smith (Désirée Blodgett) , Nick Frost (Declan ‘Beggar King’ Orrun) , Vinnie Heaven (Nimble Jack)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: victorian england, super power

Dexter: New Blood

Dexter: New Blood

Release Date: 2021-11-07

Genres: Drama, Crime

“Dexter: New Blood” is a highly anticipated TV show that made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 2021. It follows the story of Dexter, a man who disappeared during Hurricane Laura and resurfaces ten years later in a small town called Iron Lake, New York. Living under a new identity, Dexter tries to embrace a normal life, but unexpected events in the community awaken his dark side. With an incredible cast including Michael C. Hall and Jennifer Carpenter, this thrilling series is set to premiere on November 7, 2021.

Cast: Michael C. Hall (Dexter Morgan / Jim Lindsay) , Jack Alcott (Harrison Morgan) , Julia Jones (Angela Bishop) , Johnny Sequoyah (Audrey Bishop) , Alano Miller (Logan) , Clancy Brown (Kurt Caldwell) , Jennifer Carpenter (Debra Morgan)

Directors:

Writers: Jeff Lindsay

Tags: sequel, vigilante, serial killer

Ginny & Georgia

Ginny & Georgia

Release Date: 2021-02-24

Genres: Comedy, Drama

“Ginny & Georgia” is a captivating TV show that revolves around the lives of fifteen-year-old Ginny Miller and her thirty-year-old mother, Georgia Miller. The series follows their journey as they settle down in picturesque New England, seeking a normal life after years on the run. However, Georgia’s mysterious past threatens their newfound stability, and she will stop at nothing to protect her family. With a talented cast including Antonia Gentry, Brianne Howey, and Diesel La Torraca, this angsty and dynamic show is a must-watch, released on February 24, 2021.

Cast: Antonia Gentry (Virginia ‘Ginny’ Miller) , Brianne Howey (Georgia Miller) , Diesel La Torraca (Austin Miller) , Jennifer Robertson (Ellen Baker) , Felix Mallard (Marcus Baker) , Sara Waisglass (Maxine Baker) , Scott Porter (Mayor Paul Randolph) , Raymond Ablack (Joe) , Katie Douglas (Abigail ‘Abby’ Littman) , Chelsea Clark (Norah)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: romance, femme fatale, neighbor, female protagonist, motorcycle gang, childhood sexual abuse, town mayor, teen drama, dramedy, abuse, self-harm, abusive boyfriend, defraud, mother daughter relationship, abused woman, guns, high school drama, abused child, gay theme, scandalous, child sexual abuse, teen romance, lesbian character

Superman & Lois

Superman & Lois

Release Date: 2021-02-23

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“Superman & Lois” is a thrilling TV show that follows the iconic superhero Clark Kent, also known as Superman, and his wife Lois Lane as they navigate the challenges of being working parents in today’s society. With a stellar cast including Tyler Hoechlin and Elizabeth Tulloch, the show promises to deliver action-packed episodes filled with megalomaniacal supervillains, monsters wreaking havoc, and alien invaders. Get ready to witness the Man of Steel face one of his greatest challenges yet, all while balancing the complexities of family life. Premiering on February 23, 2021, this is a must-watch for superhero fans and anyone looking for an exciting and relatable TV series.

Cast: Tyler Hoechlin (Clark Kent / Superman / Kal-El) , Elizabeth Tulloch (Lois Lane) , Alex Garfin (Jordan Kent) , Michael Bishop (Jonathan ‘Jon’ Kent) , Erik Valdez (Kyle Cushing) , Inde Navarrette (Sarah Cushing) , Wolé Parks (John Henry Irons) , Tayler Buck (Natalie Irons) , Sofia Hasmik (Chrissy Beppo) , Chad L. Coleman (Bruno Mannheim) , Dylan Walsh (Samuel Lane) , Emmanuelle Chriqui (Lana Lang Cushing)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: superhero, based on comic, alien, family drama, super power

Shadow and Bone

Shadow and Bone

Release Date: 2021-04-23

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Shadow and Bone” is a thrilling TV show set in a world divided by an impenetrable darkness. It follows a young soldier who discovers a unique power that could bring her country together. However, she faces numerous challenges as dangerous forces conspire against her, including thugs, thieves, assassins, and saints. With an incredible cast led by Jessie Mei Li, Archie Renaux, and Ben Barnes, this captivating series combines magic and survival in a mesmerizing way. It premiered on April 23, 2021, and has been voted as one of the best TV shows of the year.

Cast: Jessie Mei Li (Alina Starkov) , Archie Renaux (Malyen ‘Mal’ Oretsev) , Freddy Carter (Kaz Brekker) , Amita Suman (Inej Ghafa) , Kit Young (Jesper Fahey) , Ben Barnes (General Aleksander Kirigan / The Darkling) , Patrick Gibson (Sturmhond / Nikolai Lantsov) , Daisy Head (Genya Safin) , Danielle Galligan (Nina Zenik) , Calahan Skogman (Matthias Helvar) , Lewis Tan (Tolya Yul-Bataar) , Jack Wolfe (Wylan Hendricks) , Anna Leong Brophy (Tamar Kir-Bataar) , Zoë Wanamaker (Baghra)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: based on novel or book, magic, crew, soldier, young woman, based on young adult novel, darkling, power

Resident Alien

Resident Alien

Release Date: 2021-01-27

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Resident Alien” is a captivating TV show that premiered on January 27, 2021. It follows the story of an alien named Harry who crash-lands on Earth and assumes the identity of a small-town doctor in Colorado. As he tries to blend in, he unexpectedly gets involved in solving a local murder, leading him to question the worthiness of humanity and pondering life’s big questions. With a talented cast including Alan Tudyk, Sara Tomko, Corey Reynolds, Alice Wetterlund, Levi Fiehler, Judah Prehn, and Elizabeth Bowen, this show promises a mix of mystery, humor, and thought-provoking moments.

Cast: Alan Tudyk (Doctor Harry Vanderspeigle) , Sara Tomko (Asta Twelvetrees) , Corey Reynolds (Sheriff Mike Thompson) , Alice Wetterlund (D’arcy Bloom) , Levi Fiehler (Mayor Ben Hawthorne) , Judah Prehn (Max Hawthorne) , Elizabeth Bowen (Deputy Liv Baker)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: based on comic, alien, fish out of water, dark horse comics, alien friendship, ufo crash, alien spaceship

Maid

Maid

Release Date: 2021-10-01

Genres: Drama

“Maid” is a heartwarming TV show that tells the inspiring story of a young mother who escapes an abusive relationship and starts working as a house cleaner to support her child and create a better future for them. Starring talented actors like Margaret Qualley, Nick Robinson, and Anika Noni Rose, this show beautifully portrays the struggles and triumphs of a determined woman. Be sure to mark your calendar for its release on October 1, 2021, as it promises to be one of the best TV shows of the year.

Cast: Margaret Qualley (Alex) , Nick Robinson (Sean) , Anika Noni Rose (Regina) , Andie MacDowell (Paula) , Tracy Vilar (Yolanda) , Billy Burke (Hank) , Rylea Nevaeh Whittet (Maddy)

Directors:

Writers: Stephanie Land

Tags: based on novel or book, homelessness, domestic abuse, poverty, maid, based on memoir or autobiography, custody

Hawkeye

Hawkeye

Release Date: 2021-11-24

Genres: Drama, Comedy, Action & Adventure

“Hawkeye” is one of the best-voted TV shows of 2021, and it’s easy to see why! Starring Jeremy Renner and Hailee Steinfeld, the show follows former Avenger Clint Barton as he tries to make it home for Christmas. But things take an unexpected turn when he teams up with Kate Bishop, a young archer with big dreams of becoming a superhero. Together, they must confront Barton’s past and save the day. With a stellar cast and a festive twist, “Hawkeye” is the perfect holiday treat for Marvel fans.

Cast: Jeremy Renner (Clint Barton / Hawkeye) , Hailee Steinfeld (Kate Bishop) , Tony Dalton (Jack Duquesne) , Alaqua Cox (Maya Lopez) , Fra Fee (Kazimierz ‘Kazi’ Kazimierczak) , Aleks Paunovic (Ivan) , Piotr Adamczyk (Tomas) , Vera Farmiga (Eleanor Bishop)

Directors:

Writers: Stan Lee, Don Heck, Jenna Noel Frazier, Erin Cancino, Ellen Morton

Tags: new york city, holiday, crime fighter, superhero, based on comic, miniseries, buddy comedy, marvel cinematic universe (mcu), sign languages, christmas

American Horror Stories

American Horror Stories

Release Date: 2021-07-15

Genres: Drama, Mystery, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“American Horror Stories” is a thrilling anthology series that explores various horror myths, legends, and lore through standalone episodes. With a talented cast and a release date of July 15, 2021, this show promises to keep you on the edge of your seat as it takes you on a chilling journey into the world of horror.

Cast:

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: anthology, spin off, horror anthology, horror

Sweet Tooth

Sweet Tooth

Release Date: 2021-06-04

Genres: Drama, Sci-Fi & Fantasy

“Sweet Tooth” is a heartwarming and thrilling TV show that takes place in a post-apocalyptic world. It follows the incredible journey of a lovable boy who is part-human and part-deer, as he embarks on a dangerous adventure to find a fresh start. With a fantastic cast including Nonso Anozie, Christian Convery, and Adeel Akhtar, this captivating series is set to premiere on June 4, 2021.

Cast: Nonso Anozie (Tommy Jepperd) , Christian Convery (Gus) , Adeel Akhtar (Dr. Aditya Singh) , Stefania LaVie Owen (Rebecca ‘Becky’ Walker / Bear) , Dania Ramirez (Aimee Eden) , Naledi Murray (Wendy) , Neil Sandilands (General Douglas Abbot) , Aliza Vellani (Rani Singh) , Marlon Williams (Johnny Abbot) , Yonas Kibreab (Finn Fox) , Christopher Sean Cooper Jr. (Teddy Turtle) , James Brolin (Narrator (voice))

Directors:

Writers: Jeff Lemire

Tags: cataclysm, post-apocalyptic future, hybrid, deer, based on comic, virus, human animal hybrid, post apocalypse

Foundation

Foundation

Release Date: 2021-09-24

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“Foundation” is a captivating TV show that premiered on September 24, 2021. It follows a group of exiles as they embark on an extraordinary journey to save humanity and rebuild civilization during the collapse of the Galactic Empire. With an incredible cast including Jared Harris, Lee Pace, and Lou Llobell, this series promises to be an epic adventure filled with suspense, drama, and the quest for a brighter future.

Cast: Jared Harris (Hari Seldon) , Lee Pace (Brother Day) , Lou Llobell (Gaal Dornick) , Leah Harvey (Salvor Hardin) , Laura Birn (Demerzel) , Cassian Bilton (Brother Dawn) , Terrence Mann (Brother Dusk)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: empire, based on novel or book, prophecy, distant future, space opera

Chucky

Chucky

Release Date: 2021-10-12

Genres: Crime, Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“Chucky” is a thrilling TV show that made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 2021. It revolves around the chaos that ensues in an idyllic American town after a vintage Chucky doll is discovered at a yard sale, leading to a series of horrifying murders that expose the town’s hidden secrets. With an incredible cast including Brad Dourif, Zackary Arthur, Björgvin Arnarson, Alyvia Alyn Lind, and Jennifer Tilly, this show promises to keep you on the edge of your seat. Don’t miss out on the suspense and uncover the truth behind the killings and the origins of the demon doll. Premiering on October 12, 2021, “Chucky” is definitely a must-watch!

Cast: Brad Dourif (Chucky (voice)) , Zackary Arthur (Jake Wheeler) , Björgvin Arnarson (Devon Evans) , Alyvia Alyn Lind (Lexy Cross) , Jennifer Tilly ()

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: new jersey, possession, evil doll, murder, killer doll, serial killer, slasher, murderer, doll, lgbt, lgbt teen, death of parent, based on movie, woman in wheelchair, animatronic, gay youth

The Wheel of Time

The Wheel of Time

Release Date: 2021-11-18

Genres: Sci-Fi & Fantasy, Drama

“The Wheel of Time” is an exciting new TV show that made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 2021. It follows Moiraine, a member of a mysterious group called the “Aes Sedai,” as she embarks on a perilous journey with five young men and women. Together, they search for the reincarnation of a powerful individual who could either save or destroy humanity. With a talented cast including Rosamund Pike, Daniel Henney, and more, this epic fantasy series is definitely worth checking out. It premiered on November 18, 2021.

Cast: Rosamund Pike (Moiraine Damodred) , Daniel Henney (al’Lan Mandragoran) , Zoe Robins (Nynaeve al’Meara) , Madeleine Madden (Egwene al’Vere) , Josha Stradowski (Rand al’Thor) , Marcus Rutherford (Perrin Aybara) , Dónal Finn (Mat Cauthon)

Directors:

Writers:

Tags: based on novel or book, magic, reincarnation, quest, good versus evil, power

The Book of Boba Fett

The Book of Boba Fett

“The Book of Boba Fett” is a highly anticipated TV show that made it to the list of the 20 Best Voted TV Shows of 2021. Starring Temuera Morrison and Ming-Na Wen, it follows the legendary bounty hunter Boba Fett and mercenary Fennec Shand as they navigate the galaxy’s underworld. Returning to Tatooine, they aim to claim the territory once ruled by Jabba the Hutt and his crime syndicate. Get ready for an action-packed adventure set in the Star Wars universe when it premieres on December 29, 2021.

Cast: Temuera Morrison (Boba Fett) , Ming-Na Wen (Fennec Shand)

Directors:

Writers: George Lucas, Noah Kloor

Tags: bounty hunter, clone, mercenary, space western, desert, female mercenary

This product uses the TMDB API but is not endorsed or certified by TMDB.