27 Of The Best TV Shows Of 2020 (So Far) That You Need To Be Watching

From Normal People to Schitt's Creek and everything in between.

Warning: There are some spoilers ahead!

1. Normal People

Enda Bowe / Hulu

Based on Sally Rooney's bestselling novel, Normal People follows Marianne and Connell's complicated relationship from secondary school to college as they discover things about themselves and each other. Not only is this show beautifully written and filmed, but Daisy Edgar-Jones and Paul Mescal have some of the best chemistry I've ever seen on TV. Also, Normal People is visually stunning and delivers some of my favorite cinematography of 2020.

Where to watch: Hulu.

2. I May Destroy You

Natalie Seery / HBO

Created by Michaela Coel, I May Destroy You follows Arabella, a carefree and up-and-coming author, who struggles to remember what happened to her after a night out with friends. Once again, Michaela has created a breathtaking series that gets better and better with each episode. She manages to weave together humor and drama so perfectly that it's hard not to be mesmerized by both the character of Arabella and Michaela's writing.

Where to watch: HBO Max or HBO Now.

3. Schitt's Creek, Season 6

Pop TV

Ending a beloved TV show is always challenging, but Schitt's Creek managed to stick the landing. During Season 6, David and Patrick prepare to get married, all while the rest of the Rose family continue to grow and look at life outside the comfortable bubble of Schitt's Creek. Each character continued to blossom during Season 6 and every single character receives the carefully thought out ending they deserve. I can't imagine a TV season without Schitt's Creek and I hope this final victory lap is rewarded with some much-deserved awards.

Where to watch: Pop TV.

4. Unorthodox

Anika Molnar / Netflix

This limited series tells the story of Esty, a young woman who ends up fleeing her Orthodox Jewish community after living unhappily in an arranged marriage for a year. Unorthodox is an absolutely perfect limited series that places a strong and complex female character at the center and showcases Shira Haas's incredible talent from start to finish. She's definitely an up-and-coming actor you'll want to keep an eye on.

Where to watch: Netflix.

5. Never Have I Ever

Lara Solanki / Netflix

Inspired by Mindy Kaling's childhood, Never Have I Ever follows Devi, a first-generation Indian American who is dealing with typical high school issues, all while trying to make the new school year one to remember. This show is so refreshing and perfectly tells a coming-of-age story we don't see a lot on television. Also, what started out as a show that made me laugh out loud, ended up being one of the few shows to bring me to tears by the end.

Where to watch: Netflix.

6. Sex Education, Season 2

Netflix

In the second season of Sex Education, Otis deals with moving on from Maeve and enjoying his new relationship with Ola. Meanwhile, Maeve confronts her feelings for Otis, and Eric's self-confidence attracts some attention at school. While Season 1 was amazing, Season 2 brings the show to new heights. This year, Sex Education explored so many storylines and characters that are rarely seen on TV, and it gave us the incredibly moving bus scene. In fact, this scene with Aimee and her friends is still one of the best TV moments of 2020.

Where to watch: Netflix.

7. Dead to Me, Season 2

Netflix

What can I say? Christina Applegate and Linda Cardellini continue to be magical together in Season 2 of Dead to Me. The new season deals with Jen and Judy trying to hide Steve's body (and get away with murder) all while navigating new developments in their personal lives. While Christina and Linda's comedic timing continues to be exceptional, the darker and more dramatic moments are what make this show one of the very best.

Where to watch: Netflix.

8. Little Fires Everywhere

Erin Simkin / Hulu

Based on Celeste Ng's bestselling novel, Little Fires Everywhere follows the seemingly perfect Richardson family, who suddenly become intertwined with the Warrens after they move to town. For me, this show had one of the best ensemble casts of 2020 so far. While Reese Witherspoon and Kerry Washington give equally compelling performances, the younger cast manages to hold their own in scenes alongside them, which is extraordinary.

Where to watch: Hulu.

9. The Good Place, Season 4

Colleen Hayes / NBC

Another series that had a pretty perfect ending this year, The Good Place continued to be one of the best comedy series right up until the end. Season 4 follows Team Cockroach — Eleanor, Chidi, Tahani, Michael, Jason, and Janet — finally learning about the real Good Place, but quickly figuring out that the system needs to change. What made this final season perfect is that the show continued to lean into what made the early seasons so magical. We get to see more of Jason being Jason, heartfelt moments between Chidi and Eleanor, and just more of these characters growing and becoming better versions of themselves.

Where to watch: Hulu and Peacock.

10. Mrs. America

Sabrina Lantos / FX

Mrs. America assembled a pretty remarkable ensemble cast to bring these stories to life. The series tells the story of the ratification of the Equal Rights Amendment during the 1970s and the backlash led by conservative activist Phyllis Schlafly. Cate Blanchett delivers a memorable performance as Phyllis and it's only elevated by the extraordinary performances of the people around her, namely Uzo Aduba, Margo Martindale, Tracey Ullman, and Rose Byrne.

Where to watch: Hulu.

11. Insecure, Season 4

HBO

It's rare that a TV show continues to get better and better with each season, but that's exactly what is happening with Insecure. In Season 4, Issa deals with pursuing her passion projects and choosing between two men, all while her friendship with Molly hits a roadblock. Like other seasons, Insecure continues to lean on the incredible and unique comedy style of Issa Rae all while giving viewers complex characters and storylines that keep the show fresh and exciting.

Where to watch: HBO Max and HBO Now.

12. What We Do in the Shadows, Season 2

FX

A criminally underrated series, What We Do in the Shadows only got better with Season 2. This new season focuses on Guillermo learning how to handle the news he learned in Season 1 and how it affects his relationship with his undead roommates. This show is absolutely hilarious and the cast brings it in every single episode. In fact, with 2020 featuring Season 2 of What We Do in the Shadows, it's hard to believe no Latinx stars were nominated for any major Emmy acting categories because Harvey Guillén is right here. Basically, if you aren't watching What We Do in the Shadows, what are you doing?

Where to watch: Hulu.

13. Killing Eve, Season 3

BBC America

More than any other season, Season 3 of Killing Eve definitely leans into Jodie Comer's incredible work as Villanelle. The new season follows Eve as she struggles to regain control after her encounter with Villanelle in Season 2, while Villanelle begins to realize there's more to life than being an assassin for hire. What this show continues to do best is combine dark humor with gut-wrenching and shocking TV moments. Sandra Oh and Fiona Shaw continue to perfectly dive deeper into their characters, but it's Jodie's work that keeps you hooked from beginning to end.

Where to watch: BBC America.

14. Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist

James Dittiger / NBC

This show was one of the biggest surprises of 2020 so far. I'm going to be honest, I thought this show was going to be kind of corny, but it ended up telling a heartbreaking and beautiful story about family. Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist follows Zoey, who suddenly starts to hear people's innermost thoughts and desires through popular songs. Each musical number is so well done and fits with the show flawlessly. I cannot recommend this show enough.

Where to watch: Hulu and Peacock.

15. Better Call Saul, Season 5

Greg Lewis / AMC

At this point in Better Call Saul's run, I think it's safe to say that it is just as good as Breaking Bad. With Season 5, we got closer to the events that happened in Breaking Bad, as Jimmy officially starts doing business as Saul Goodman. Bob Odenkirk gives one of his best performances this season and Rhea Seehorn continues to be one of the most underrated actors on TV right now. Seriously, what does she have to do to get some award show love? Basically, this is another series that has only gotten better with age.

Where to watch: AMC.

16. Ramy, Season 2

Craig Blankenhorn / Hulu

Season 2 of Ramy picks up with Ramy dealing with everything that happened on his trip to Egypt as he seeks some much-needed guidance and looks to change his ways. Ramy Season 2 is a pretty flawless season of TV as the show brings in some incredible new supporting characters. While Ramy is still the protagonist you root for, the introduction of Sheikh Malik and Zainab allows viewers to realize how much Ramy still has to grow, which ultimately keeps you coming back for more.

Where to watch: Hulu.

17. The Good Fight, Season 4

Patrick Harbron / CBS

I don't know how many more ways I can shout "Give Christine Baranski all of the awards," but I'm going to try. Season 4 of The Good Fight picks up after the massive cliffhanger from Season 3, with Diane and her partners adjusting to life alongside STR Laurie, the corporation that helped save them. The Good Fight continues to lean on the amazing cast it has assembled in order to tell thought-provoking and hilarious stories. The writing and acting just continue to exceed expectations season after season, with this year being no exception.

Where to watch: CBS All Access.

18. BoJack Horseman, Season 6B

Netflix

One of the saddest things for TV this year was watching BoJack Horseman take its final bow. The last episodes of BoJack pick up after Hollyhock questioned Peter about who the bad guy is following Maddy's story. If you thought BoJack had told some incredible stories before this, think again. Some of the series' best episodes are saved for last — in particular, an episode where we dive into BoJack's mind post-overdose. This show remains a Netflix highlight right up to the very last scene.

Where to watch: Netflix.

19. High Fidelity

Phillip Caruso / Hulu

High Fidelity only confirmed for me that Zoë Kravitz was wildly underutilized in Big Little Lies, so I'm so happy this show got to showcase her talent. Based on the film and book of the same name, High Fidelity follows Rob, a record store owner in Brooklyn who ends up revisiting past relationships through music while trying to get over her true love. The show is a great example of how to inject new life into a remake and make it stand apart from its predecessor.

Where to watch: Hulu.

20. Feel Good

Netflix

Feel Good follows Mae, a comedian and recovering addict who starts a new relationship with George, who has never been in a relationship with a woman until now. Not only is this show absolutely hilarious, but it's not afraid to showcase vulnerable and quiet moments between Mae and George. Feel Good is complicated, charming, and intimate, which are honestly all the qualities of great TV.

Where to watch: Netflix.

21. She-Ra and the Princesses of Power, Season 5

Netflix

On the surface, She-Ra and the Princesses of Power might look like another children's TV show, but it's so much more than that. The final season follows Adora and the rest of the rebels as they try to stop Horde Prime for good. She-Ra and the Princesses of Power truly came into its own during the final season and is equal parts devastating and hopeful. The LGBTQ storylines that are placed at the center only make this show even more memorable.

Where to watch: Netflix.

22. The Great

Ollie Upton / Hulu

This show effortlessly combines all of the great qualities of comedy and period drama TV to create a truly remarkable Season 1. The Great explores the rise of Catherine the Great from a total outsider to the longest-reigning female ruler in Russia's history. Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult give two of my favorite performances on TV this year as they truly commit to the satirical nature of the series. If you loved The Favourite, I cannot recommend this show enough.

Where to watch: Hulu.

23. One Day at a Time, Season 4

Nicole Wilder / Pop TV

After being canceled by Netflix, One Day at a Time came roaring back this year and I'm so glad we didn't have to say goodbye to this show. Season 4 continues to do what ODAAT does best: tell fresh and relevant stories everyone will enjoy. This show continues to be filled with heart and humor at every single turn. Plus, if you want to see how to continue delivering episodes while dealing with a pandemic, One Day at a Time's animated episode that focuses on talking about politics with your extended family is one of their best episodes yet.

Where to watch: Pop TV.

24. I Am Not Okay with This

Netflix

I think it's safe to say that the teens from It and It Chapter Two are some of the most talented up-and-coming actors right now, and I Am Not Okay with This only exemplifies this. This new series follows Syd as she tries to navigate high school, family issues, and exploring her sexuality, all while dealing with mysterious superpowers. I Am Not Okay with This is an exemplary coming-of-age story that isn't afraid to be goofy and a little bit awkward. The chemistry between Sophia Lillis, Wyatt Oleff, and Sofia Bryant make this show a must-see.

Where to watch: Netflix.

25. Upload

Amazon Prime Video

Created by Greg Daniels, Upload follows Nathan, who is able to choose his own afterlife experience following his untimely death. The magic of Upload definitely rests in this lovable cast and the witty and comedic writing. Plus, Robbie Amell and Andy Allo are absolutely amazing together. Also, in a year where The Good Place ended, this is the perfect show to take its place as a thought-provoking comedy.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video.

26. Motherland: Fort Salem

David Bukach / Freeform

Motherland: Fort Salem follows Raelle, Abigail, and Tally, three powerful witches who enlist in the US Army and train in combat magic in order to take down their enemies. If you're looking for a show with strong and flawed female characters, look no further. A show that really finds its footing as the episodes progress, Motherland: Fort Salem ends up being an emotional, fun, and complicated show with female friendships at the center.

Where to watch: Hulu.

27. And finally, Outer Banks

Netflix

Listen, sometimes you just need a really fun teen TV show, and that's exactly where Outer Banks comes in. The show follows a tight-knit group of teens who end up going on a high-stakes treasure hunt while also dealing with life-altering decisions. What made this show so fun and exciting is that it manages to feel like a teen show from the '00s, all while being the perfectly bingeable Netflix series. The cast's unmatchable chemistry definitely makes this show a must-watch.

Where to watch: Netflix.

What TV shows from 2020 have YOU absolutely loved? Tell us in the comments below!