The best TV of 2025: ‘Adolescence,’ ‘The Pitt’ top the list

That’s the question that comes to mind when compiling a Top 10 List. Are all comedies mockumentaries? Are all dramas only good the first year?

And what about limited series? If you weren’t in from the beginning, are you lost?

Those were the thoughts that colored the process and separated some of the candidates (like “Dying for Sex”) from the final 10.

The best TV of 2025 in order:

1. 'Adolescence'

This limited series – about a teenager accused of murder – attracted attention when viewers learned each episode was shot without edits. That meant the actors had to deliver while cameras captured every nuance. Once the handful of episodes ended, fans were taken by the performances. Young Owen Cooper stole the show (and nabbed an Emmy) as the troubled teen; Stephen Graham was heartbreaking as his father. “Adolescence” will stand the test of time.

2. 'The Pitt'

Noah Wyle returned to the emergency room and gave the medical drama new life. Detailing a single day in a Pittsburgh ER, it showed what tension exists at the most mundane times. Blessed with stellar performances (Katherine LaNasa is a gem), it made us eager to see what was behind each exam room.

3. 'SNL50: The Anniversary Special'

Like a class reunion, this look back brought plenty of fan favorites into the fold and gave Meryl Streep her best performance in years. While the first cast wasn’t given as much attention as it deserved, there were callbacks that made this worth the time spent at home on a Saturday night.

4. 'Pluribus'

Vince Gilligan scored with “Breaking Bad” and “Better Call Saul.” A miss? That could have been this series – a futuristic look at world rocked by an alien virus. It soared, however, because Gilligan built it around Rhea Seehorn as an author who bucks the trend affecting others. If this isn’t her Emmy winner, what will be?

5. 'The Bear'

The look at a Chicago restaurant and the people who make it run still worked, but as a drama, not a comedy. In the right category, it’s unmatchable and able to wring a range of emotions in less than 30 minutes. Jeremy Allen White was more subdued this year, but he stepped aside so others could shine.

6. 'Andor'

Tony Gilroy knew how to add to the “Star Wars” canon and did so beautifully with this prequel to “Rogue One.” It answered plenty of questions and gave Diego Luna a solid place in the galaxy far, far away.

7. 'Alien: Earth'

How do you revisit a successful franchise? Ask Noah Hawley, who has made “Fargo” an FX staple. He took “Alien” and gave it a contemporary spin, explaining how tech billionaires could threaten the world that fueled their success. Sydney Chandler made a compelling lead, giving others (including Samuel Blenkin as Boy Kavalier) ample opportunity to make the journey eventful – and perilous.

8. 'Hacks'

Lucille Ball, Mary Tyler Moore and Candice Bergen may be the queens of television comedy, but Jean Smart is certainly breathing down their necks. With this expertly written look at a comedian and her ever-changing career, Smart was able to show a side of the entertainment business that’s more telling than much of “The Studio.” Hannah Einbinder was a joy as her writer/producer/frenemy/sidekick.

9. 'Pee-wee as Himself'

If you were a fan of “Pee-wee’s Playhouse,” you always wondered what he was like when the gray suit came off. This documentary pulls back the curtain and brings us into corners few knew. It was a detailed look at a complex man.

10. 'American Revolution'

Ken Burns continues to hit home runs. This look at the beginnings of our country was as surprising as anything you see in the headlines. Burns should be the secretary of education. He makes learning exciting and tells stories that resonate.

Also worth considering

“The Studio,” “Severance,” “Dying for Sex,” “The White Lotus” and “Task.”