7 Life-Changing TV Shows You Need to Watch Once in Your Life

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These television series offer stories and characters that can significantly change your perspective on life and death, making them a must-watch at least once during your lifetime. Some TV programs have been exceptionally influential, sparking our imagination and reshaping our views on crucial, contemporary, and impactful aspects of life. Whether iconic shows that are iconic in TV history or modern series that signify significant advancements in representation, storytelling, and emotional depth on our screens.

The seven notable series we’re discussing have showcased some of the most impactful and transformative television moments to date. Given the talented minds behind these productions-the Wachowskis, David Simon, Taika Waititi, Michael Schur, Ricky Gervais, and others-this shouldn’t come as a shock.

These masterpieces, including timeless classics like The Wire and Six Feet Under, along with more contemporary series such as Sense8, Reservation Dogs, and After Life, have touched our emotions deeply and inspired new perspectives on life. We continue to ponder their messages long after their conclusion, which has solidified them as standout shows in the annals of television history.

7) Sense8 (2015-2018)

Created by the Wachowskis and J. Michael Straczynski, the Netflix series Sense8 boasts an impressive cast that explores themes such as connection, humanity, identity, sexuality, acceptance, gender, and politics. The show revolves around eight characters from different parts of the world who discover they are part of a novel species of human with telepathic and emotional connections. This bond enables them to share their experiences, memories, and abilities. Despite being cancelled after two seasons and a finale movie, the series’ high-quality production, stunning locations, intense performances, strong emphasis on empathy, and thoughtful messaging make it a compelling watch.

6) The Wire (2002-2008)

Known for being among the best TV series ever produced, HBO’s “The Wire,” created by former police journalist David Simon, offers a strikingly authentic portrayal of crime drama. Spanning five seasons, the show shines a light on ordinary people in Simon’s hometown of Baltimore, Maryland, earning acclaim for its unabashed and accurate examination of society, politics, and urban life.

Although “The Wire” garnered mixed reviews during its broadcast, it has since developed a massive cult following, with many praising it as one of the most realistic portrayals of American life.

5) Six Feet Under (2001-2005)

Originating from Alan Ball, renowned for his work on ‘True Blood’ and ‘American Beauty’, the series ‘Six Feet Under’ revolved around the Fisher family who managed a funeral home in Los Angeles. The unique setting enabled an exploration of life and death in a highly personal and unfiltered manner. The talented ensemble cast delivered both powerful drama and comedic relief, maintaining a balance between poignancy and humor throughout the show’s five-season span. ‘Six Feet Under’ is often hailed as one of the greatest shows ever made, with its final episode, “Everybody’s Waiting,” consistently ranked among the best TV endings. Therefore, it is highly recommended to watch this masterpiece.

4) Reservation Dogs (2021-2023)

Over the course of its three captivating seasons, FX’s “Reservation Dogs” has garnered widespread critical praise and numerous awards, resonating deeply for its authentic portrayal of Indigenous teenagers as they navigate their heritage while seeking broader horizons off the reservation.

As a movie critic, I found myself deeply moved by the performances of Devery Jacobs (Echo), D’Pharaoh Woon-A-Tai (Caught Stealing), Paulina Alexis (Ghostbusters: Afterlife), and Lane Factor (The Fabelmans). These talented actors breathe life into their characters with a raw authenticity that truly sets this series apart.

Under the brilliant direction of Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi, “Reservation Dogs” stands as one of the most impactful shows in today’s media landscape, tackling themes that are not only heartfelt and powerful but also strikingly relevant to our contemporary society.

3) After Life (2019-2022)

I find it astonishing that Ricky Gervais’ comedy-drama series, “After Life,” delves deep into emotion, particularly focusing on the tragicomic journey of Tony Johnson (portrayed by Gervais himself), a newspaper writer grappling with life after his wife’s (Kerry Godliman) passing due to breast cancer. The humor lies in Johnson’s misguided belief that he can act or speak however he pleases, disregarding others’ feelings and potential repercussions. However, this reckless behavior eventually compels him to acknowledge the people he truly cares about. “After Life” proves to be an unexpected, poignant, and stunning exploration of life, death, and the complexities of grief.

2) BoJack Horseman (2014-2020)

Rarely does an adult animated series delve into such a wide array of human emotions like BoJack Horseman, where Will Arnett voices a horse character named BoJack who grapples with self-hatred, cynicism, and alcoholism. Created by Raphael Bob-Waksberg, this groundbreaking series tackles heavy themes such as depression, trauma, suicide, racism, sexuality, addiction, and more in a thoughtful manner, weaving dark humor throughout each episode. BoJack Horseman is considered one of the greatest TV shows ever made, especially for those who have faced similar human experiences.

1) The Good Place (2016-2020)

Delving directly into profound ethical dilemmas, “The Good Place” stands out as a groundbreaking and transformative television series. Created by Michael Schur (known for his work on “The Office,” “Brooklyn Nine-Nine,” and “Parks and Recreation”), this thought-provoking show follows the journey of Eleanor (played by Kristen Bell), Chidi (William Jackson Harper), Tahani (Jameela Jamil), and Jason (Manny Jacinto) as they navigate a complex afterlife. Here, they reflect on their past lives, morals, personalities, and ethics in an attempt to improve themselves even post-mortem.

“The Good Place” garnered widespread acclaim for its creativity, writing, performances, and tone, culminating in one of the most poignant finales in television history that leaves a lasting impact on viewers long after watching, encouraging them to reassess their own lives.

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2025-08-16 21:29