An End Of The Year Wrap Up: This Year's Best Rated TV Shows

We are currently in a golden age of television entertainment; almost every type of show imaginable is available for viewing, and the quality of programming is incredible. It used to be if you missed a show and forgot to tape it, you were out of luck until it went into syndication. Now, there are many cable TV deals that come with recording functionality and on-demand access to your favorite shows. Speaking of favorite shows, here are the six top-rated shows from 2013.

NCIS

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No big surprise here, as NCIS has been a fan favorite for the last decade. Anyone who has seen the show shouldn't be surprised by its popularity, but they may be surprised by its staying power. Entering the 11th season this year, NCIS was the most watched show on television. Garnering over 21 million viewers each week, this CBS show is number 1 among all audiences.

The Big Bang Theory

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Centered around four ridiculously intelligent but socially awkward men, the comedic chops of this show come from the juxtaposition of their good looking neighbor, Penny. She has all the common sense and street smarts they lack, making The Big Bang Theory a must watch for a good laugh. Entering the seventh season with over 19 million viewers each week, this is the only sitcom on the list.

NCIS: Los Angeles

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This CBS show proves that a spin-off can be a hit, especially in light of the fact that the show it came from was itself a spin-off of JAG. Where the parent show NCIS follows a more traditional approach to criminal investigations, NCIS: LA follows an elite unit specializing in undercover assignments. The show entered its fifth season this year, being watched by over 17 million people.

Person of Interest

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In yet another huge success for CBS, Person of Interest capitalizes on government spying fears and intense action. The show centers around a former CIA operative recruited by a mysterious billionaire to help stop violent crimes before they occur. The acting and story progression is unlike any other show. Person of Interest started its third season this year and was watched by over 16 million people each week.

American Idol

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This FOX reality show has been popular ever since it debuted in 2002, and has just entered its 13th season. Based on the popular British show Pop Idol, this singing competition has created some of the biggest names in music in the past decade. With almost 15 million viewers each week, this show has stayed popular throughout several format changes.

The Walking Dead

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In the only non-network entry on this list, AMC's hit show had over 16 million viewers in its season 4 premiere. Centered during a zombie apocalypse, bands of survivors must fight for survival. Gritty, violent, and with great character development, this show will continue to be a hit.