How did 2025 stack up on the (increasingly large) small screen? Was it a vintage year? Well, it produced dramas that led to questions in parliament, shows that had us all revelling in duplicity, and series that wondered about the fulfilment of desire. It had feted documentaries, surrealist curios and returning comedies growing in stature. There have been starry names, big-time writers and emerging teenagers. And the UK, its productions having dominated the previous year, has strengthened its grip on the zeitgeist with TV that got the world talking.
Below is our pick of the 20 best shows that 2025 had to offer.
