We’re not experts in statistics (what was that again?), but our estimates suggest that Netflix adds close to a billion titles each month. That’s a mountain of content to comb through, so we’ve put our TV-obsessed heads together to spotlight the top picks. Highlights include one of The A.V. Club‘s top TV picks for 2024, Ripley, timeless classics like Friday Night Lights and Breaking Bad, and current anime hits like Dan Da Dan.

Note: This list was updated on December 26, 2024.

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December Highlight: Squid Game

Stars: Lee Jung-jae, Park Hae-soo, Jung Ho-yeon, Wi Ha-joon, Im Si-wan, Park Sung-hoon, Lee Byung-hun

Number of Seasons: 2

The international sensation Squid Game took the world by storm when it debuted in the fall of 2021. Created by Hwang Dong-hyuk, this South Korean thriller tells the chilling story of 456 contestants playing deadly childhood games for a massive cash prize. It’s a brutal examination of survival, capitalism, and social inequality. Season two, which premiered on December 26, continues to explore these dark themes, with season three set for release in 2025.

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Arrested Development (Fox: 2003-2005, Netflix: 2014-2019)

Stars: Jessica Walter, Jason Bateman, Will Arnett, Portia de Rossi, Jeffrey Tambor, Michael Cera, Alia Shawkat, Tony Hale, David Cross

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 5

The Bluth family’s adventures in Arrested Development began with patriarch George Sr. (Tambor) being jailed, leading to financial ruin. Originally aired on Fox, this ahead-of-its-time comedy found a new home on Netflix. While the revival couldn’t quite capture the magic of its initial seasons, it remains a must-watch for its sharp wit and iconic recurring jokes—think banana stand and chicken dance.

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Baby Reindeer (Netflix: 2024)

Stars: Richard Gadd, Jessica Gunning, Nava Mau

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 1

In Baby Reindeer, Richard Gadd dramatizes his own terrifying experience with a stalker. Saloni Gajjar writes, “It shares tonal similarities with Michaela Coel’s I May Destroy You in its unflinching look at trauma and recovery.” The show has been praised for its innovative storytelling and strong performances.

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Beckham (Netflix: 2023)

Subjects: David Beckham, Victoria Beckham, Fisher Stevens, Gary Neville

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 1

Fisher Stevens transitions from his role in Succession to lead a dynamic documentary series about soccer icon David Beckham. Much like The Last Dance, Beckham serves as a thrilling retrospective of its subject’s most memorable moments.

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Beef (Netflix: 2023-)

Stars: Steven Yeun, Ali Wong, Joseph Lee, Young Mazino, David Choe, Patti Yasutake

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 1

Beef features Steven Yeun and Ali Wong as two Los Angelenos whose lives unravel following a road rage incident. According to Saloni Gajjar, “The real appeal of Beef lies in its clever writing and the strong performances by Yeun and Wong.” A second season is currently in development.

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Better Call Saul (AMC: 2015-2022)

Stars: Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, Rhea Seehorn, Patrick Fabian, Michael Mando, Giancarlo Esposito

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 6

Bob Odenkirk was unfamiliar with Breaking Bad before being cast as Saul Goodman. Over six seasons, Better Call Saul has evolved from a spin-off to a masterclass in character development, maintaining the high production quality and complex storytelling of its predecessor.

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Black Mirror (Channel 4: 2011–2014; Netflix: 2016-)

Stars: Annie Murphy, Salma Hayek, Myha’la Herrold, Aaron Paul, Zazie Beetz, Anjana Vasan

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 6

Charlie Brooker’s dystopian series Black Mirror returned with a compelling sixth season in 2023 after a four-year hiatus. The latest installment has been well-received, with critics happy to see the show return to form.

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BoJack Horseman (Netflix: 2014-2020)

Stars: Will Arnett, Alison Brie, Paul F. Tompkins, Aaron Paul, Amy Sedaris

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 6, plus a special

BoJack Horseman is perhaps Netflix’s most profound animated series, tackling themes like addiction, mental health, and self-destructiveness with a mix of humor and earnestness.

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Breaking Bad (AMC: 2008-2013)

Stars: Bryan Cranston, Anna Gunn, Aaron Paul, Dean Norris, Betsy Brandt, RJ Mitte

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 5

Years after its conclusion, Breaking Bad remains a pinnacle of television drama, offering a gripping story of a mild-mannered teacher’s transformation into a drug lord. Its exquisite cinematography and tight narrative continue to captivate audiences.

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Bridgerton (Netflix: 2020-)

Stars: Jonathan Bailey, Simone Ashley, Adjoa Andoh, Ruth Gemmell, Polly Walker, Nicola Coughlan, Claudia Jessie, Phoebe Dynevor, Regé-Jean Page, Julie Andrews, Ruby Barker

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 3

Shonda Rhimes’ Bridgerton, based on Julia Quinn’s novels, has redefined period dramas with its engaging love stories and high society scandals. Each season focuses on a different Bridgerton sibling’s romantic ventures, infused with the signature Shondaland magic.

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Cunk On Earth (BBC Two: 2022)

Stars: Diane Morgan

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 1

Diane Morgan stars as the hilariously inept Philomena Cunk in this mockumentary that explores human history with a blend of genuine interviews and comedic ignorance. Fans of satirical humor will find much to enjoy here.

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Dan Da Dan (Netflix: 2024-)

Stars: Abby Trott, A.J. Beckles, Barbara Goodson, Ben Diskin, Aleks Le, Lisa Reimold

Number of Seasons: 1

Inspired by Yukinobu Tatsu’s manga, Dan Da Dan follows two teenagers as they explore the existence of ghosts and aliens, leading to unexpected adventures. Praised for its unique blend of humor, action, and horror, the series has quickly become a fan favorite.

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Dead To Me (Netflix: 2019-2022)

Stars: Christina Applegate, Linda Cardellini, James Marsden, Max Jenkins, Sam McCarthy, Luke Roessler

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 3

Dead To Me, starring Christina Applegate and Linda Cardellini, concluded in 2022 with a heartfelt third season. The series, known for its blend of dark comedy and emotional depth, focuses on the tumultuous friendship between Jen and Judy, delivering both laughs and tears.

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The Decameron (Netflix: 2024-)

Stars: Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Jessica Plummer, Tony Hale, Zosia Mamet, Amar Chadha-Patel, Leila Farzad

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 1

Set in a Tuscan villa during the Black Plague, The Decameron offers a darkly comic take on the classic tales. With a mix of satire and drama, it explores themes of love, power, and survival with a sharp, modern twist.

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Derry Girls (Channel 4: 2018-2022)

Stars: Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Nicola Coughlan, Louisa Harland, Jamie-Lee O’Donnell, Dylan Llewellyn, Siobhán McSweeney, Tara Lynne O’Neill, Tommy Tiernan

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 3

Derry Girls, created by Lisa McGee, captures the humor and heartache of adolescence during the Troubles in Northern Ireland. Following a group of Catholic schoolgirls, the series balances political context with uproarious and endearing personal stories.

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Friday Night Lights (NBC: 2006-2011)

Stars: Kyle Chandler, Connie Britton, Taylor Kitsch, Jesse Plemons, Aimee Teegarden, Gaius Charles, Adrianne Palicki, Michael B. Jordan

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 5

More than just a sports drama, Friday Night Lights offers a profound look at community, family, and personal growth, set against the backdrop of high school football in Texas. Its authentic portrayal of small-town life and compelling characters make it a standout series.

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Gilmore Girls (The WB: 2000-2006, The CW: 2006-2007)

Stars: Lauren Graham, Alexis Bledel, Kelly Bishop, Edward Herrmann, Scott Patterson, Milo Ventimiglia, Keiko Agena, Sean Gunn, Melissa McCarthy

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 7, plus reunion miniseries Gilmore Girls: A Year In The Life

Gilmore Girls brings to life the charming, quirky town of Stars Hollow, Connecticut, where Lorelai and Rory Gilmore navigate the complexities of family, friendship, and romance. Known for its fast-paced dialogue and rich character development, the series remains a beloved classic.

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Girls5eva (Peacock: 2021-2022; Netflix: 2024-)

Stars: Renée Elise Goldsberry, Sara Bareilles, Paula Pell, Busy Phillips, Daniel Breaker, Andrew Rannels, Ashley Park, Erika Henningsen

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 3

Girls5eva, created by Meredith Scardino, is a musical comedy that reunites the members of a ’90s girl band as they attempt a comeback. Known for its catchy tunes and comedic flair, the show captures the spirit of rekindled dreams with a humorous twist.

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Heartstopper (Netflix: 2022-)

Stars: Joe Locke, Kit Connor, Yasmin Finney, William Gao, Olivia Colman, Corinna Brown, Kizzy Edgell, Tobie Donovan

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 3

Heartstopper, based on Alice Oseman’s graphic novels, is a tender exploration of young love and identity. The series beautifully portrays the highs and lows of teenage life, making it a heartfelt and inclusive representation of LGBTQ+ experiences.

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The Haunting Of Hill House

Stars: Carla Gugino, Kate Siegel, Michael Huisman, Elizabeth Reaser, Victoria Pedretti, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Henry Thomas

Number of Seasons: 1

Mike Flanagan’s The Haunting of Hill House, based on the novel by Shirley Jackson, is a profound psychological horror series that explores themes of family, trauma, and forgiveness, all within the eerie walls of the iconic Hill House.

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I Think You Should Leave With Tim Robinson (Netflix: 2019-)

Stars: Tim Robinson, Patti Harrison, Tim Heidecker, Conner O’Malley, Sam Richardson

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 3

Tim Robinson’s sketch comedy series, I Think You Should Leave, pushes the boundaries of absurdity and awkwardness, creating memorable and often cringe-worthy scenarios that resonate with a cult following.

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Insecure (HBO: 2016-2021)

Stars: Issa Rae, Yvonne Orji, Natasha Rothwell, Amanda Seales, Jay Ellis, Y’Lan Noel, Alexander Hodge

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 5

After acquiring HBO’s hit series Insecure, Netflix introduced new audiences to Issa Rae’s sharp, insightful comedy about the personal and professional life of Issa Dee. The show is celebrated for its authentic depiction of African American women and vibrant cultural commentary.

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The Last Dance (ESPN: 2020)

Subjects: Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, Dennis Rodman, Steve Kerr, Phil Jackson

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 1

The Last Dance chronicles Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls’ quest for a sixth NBA title in the 1997-98 season. This compelling documentary series blends rich archival footage with fresh interviews, capturing a pivotal moment in sports history.

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Mindhunter (Netflix: 2017-2019)

Stars: Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, Anna Torv, Hannah Gross, Stacey Roca

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 2

Directed by David Fincher, Mindhunter delves into the early days of criminal psychology and profiling at the FBI. The series is a gripping study of the minds behind the most notorious serial killers, featuring meticulous research and captivating storytelling.

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Never Have I Ever (Netflix: 2020-2023)

Stars: Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Poorna Jagannathan, Richa Moorjani, Darren Barnet, Jaren Lewison, Lee Rodriguez, Ramona Young, Sendhil Ramamurthy, Niecy Nash

Number of Seasons on Netflix: 4

Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher’s Never Have I Ever offers a fresh perspective on the teen comedy-drama genre, focusing on an Indian American teenager navigating high school while dealing with the grief of losing her father. The show is praised for its humor, heart,

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