A Critical Look at the New York Times’ TV Rankings
The speaker challenges several choices in the New York Times’ list of top television shows since 2000. The discussion compares storytelling and character development across dramas including Breaking Bad, The Wire, and Chernobyl.
Published September 26, 2026 · Updated September 26, 2026
The New York Times list of the top 100 TV shows since 2000 is criticized, with the speaker arguing that many shows in the top 10 are not deserving of that position. Shows like Mad Men, Succession, Fleabag, Game of Thrones, Veep, 30 Rock, Curb Your Enthusiasm, and Atlanta are mentioned as not fitting in the top 50. The speaker suggests Banda Brothers should be the number one show on the list, followed by Breaking Bad and The Wire. The list is described as not great and not good at all, with many shows that should be in the top 50 not making it into the top 60. The speaker also notes that Game of Thrones is probably about right at number six, and Atlanta is a stretch in this group, with seven people having ever watched it. The speaker concludes by stating that Banda Brothers is the best thing that has ever been aired on TV, a masterpiece that includes many series.
Banda Brothers, a series chronicling the 101st Airborne from training to World War II, has been praised for its exceptional storytelling and acting. Every episode is a gem, with cinematography and writing that are both wonderful and terrific. Viewers are left with a better appreciation of their country and America, making it an outstanding TV show. Breaking Bad, Gilligan's tale of transforming Mr. Chips into Scarface, is highlighted for its intricate plot and character development, avoiding the easy path to resolution. The Wire and Chernobyl are also ranked highly, with Chernobyl receiving special mention for its extraordinary look at the Soviet system's collapse. Game of Thrones, despite its flaws, remains a standout series. Severance, still in production, is also considered a strong contender. Chernobyl, ranked at number four, is described as an extraordinary series that offers a unique insight into the meltdown at Chernobyl and the subsequent devolution of the Soviet system. It is a must-watch for those interested in historical dramas and political intrigue.
The Bear, ranked at number 74, is highlighted for its single best episode, 'Forks', which the speaker claims is the most impressive episode of TV ever aired. The Bear character Richie undergoes a significant transformation, becoming a better person through his character development. The Bear is aired on FX, and the speaker recommends checking out the show 'Gun' for its beautiful production and acting quality.
ClipCast.News recording map · timestamps derived from the original recording.
Claims & evidence
Findings apply to individual claims. “Opinion Based” can mean insufficient evidence and is not proof of truth or falsity. How we assess claims.
Opinion Based
Succession is kind of a sitcom, meaning that every episode is sort of a repeat of the prior episode.
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Succession is really obnoxious people.
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Succession doesn't have an effective arc in characters.
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Succession's characters don't have a transition in character.
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Succession's characters are basically disgusting.
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Succession's characters remain disgusting for the entire show.
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Fleabag is a critically acclaimed but not particularly well-watched show.
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Fleabag is a wild overrate.
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Game of Thrones is probably about right at number six.
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Veepe is an extremely overrated comedy.
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Veepe doesn't belong in the top 10, probably not.
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30 rock is just not real.
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Curb Your Enthusiasm is a wild overrate.
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Atlanta is the biggest stretch in this whole group.
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Opinion Based
Banda Brothers, a series chronicling the 101st Airborne from training to World War II, has been praised for its exceptional storytelling and acting.
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unverified
Opinion Based
Every episode is a gem, with cinematography and writing that are both wonderful and terrific.
Not independently checked yet.
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Opinion Based
Viewers are left with a better appreciation of their country and America, making it an outstanding TV show.
Not independently checked yet.
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Opinion Based
Breaking Bad, Gilligan's tale of transforming Mr. Chips into Scarface, is highlighted for its intricate plot and character development, avoiding the easy path to resolution.
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The Wire and Chernobyl are also ranked highly, with Chernobyl receiving special mention for its extraordinary look at the Soviet system's collapse.
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Game of Thrones, despite its flaws, remains a standout series.
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Severance, still in production, is also considered a strong contender.
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Chernobyl, ranked at number four, is described as an extraordinary series that offers a unique insight into the meltdown at Chernobyl and the subsequent devolution of the Soviet system.
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It is a must-watch for those interested in historical dramas and political intrigue.
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The Bear is ranked at number 74.
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The Bear is responsible for the single best episode of TV, probably ever aired.
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The episode 'Forks' happens in season one of The Bear.
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The Bear character Richie undergoes a significant transformation, becoming a better person through his character development.
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The Bear is aired on FX.
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The speaker recommends checking out the show 'Gun' for its beautiful production and acting quality.
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Mad Men is one of the most overrated shows in the history of television.
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Mad Men's first season is well written and then it is just repetitive beyond belief.
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Mad Men is a bunch of obnoxious people who are miserable.
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Mad Men's 1950s and 60s were a time of true misery in America.
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Mad Men is a wild overrate.
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