The Ultimate Guide to Must-Watch TV Shows on Paramount Plus

Quick Links

Best Drama TV Shows On Paramount Plus

Best Horror TV Shows On Paramount Plus

Best Sci-Fi TV Shows On Paramount Plus

Result: After a comprehensive rebrand in 2021, Paramount Plus has gained a reputation for hosting top-quality TV shows among all streaming platforms. The competition in the streaming industry is fiercely intense, with Netflix, Prime Video, and Hulu once dominating the scene, but now facing stiff competition from studio-backed services. The race was initiated by Disney Plus and has been further accelerated by the emergence of HBO Max and Peacock, all contributing to the ever-increasing speed of this competition.

The transformation of CBS All Access into Paramount Plus was a direct result of the monumental media merger involving CBS and Paramount's parent company, Viacom. Viacom, in addition to its renowned movie production under Paramount and the CBS TV network and studio, also owns popular cable channels like Comedy Central, Nickelodeon, and MTV. Consequently, the library of TV shows available on Paramount Plus is both impressive and diverse, with Viacom ensuring that it continues to expand. Paramount Plus offers a wide range of TV shows, including contemporary streaming originals, timeless classics, and even animated series, catering to the various preferences of customers. To assist in navigating through the vast selection, here are the top 40 TV shows available on Paramount Plus.

Best Comedy TV Shows On Paramount Plus

Young Sheldon (2017-)

Starring Ian Armitage, Zoe Perry, Lance Barber and Raegan Revord, Young Sheldon is a highly successful prequel series to The Big Bang Theory, depicting the childhood of Jim Parson's character Sheldon. Parsons himself returns to narrate the series, while Armitage takes on the role of Sheldon. Rather than simply revisiting what the audience already knows about Sheldon Cooper, the series stands out by delving into the dynamics of the entire Cooper family, giving a fresh perspective. This unique approach sets Young Sheldon apart as a spinoff that enhances and adds to the beloved source material.

read more

iCarly (2021-)

Available Seasons: 3 | Episode Runtime: 26 minutes

read more

I Love Lucy (1951 - 1957)

Available Seasons: 6 | Episode Runtime: 23-26 minutes

Starring Lucille Ball, Desi Arnaz, Vivan Vance, and William Frawley, I Love Lucy captured the hearts of American viewers for four consecutive years in the 1950s. It is not hard to understand why, as everyone truly adored Lucille Ball and the show's enduring influence on comedy remains evident even decades later. Despite its outdated elements and settings, the series continues to enjoy widespread popularity worldwide due to its endearing ensemble cast and their effortless on-screen chemistry. With unparalleled comedic timing and slapstick humor, each half-hour episode follows Lucy's mischievous adventures, while her husband strives to excel as a bandleader in a nightclub.

Available Seasons: 2 | Episode Runtime: 16-26 minutes

Starring Dave Chappelle, Donnell Rawlings, and Questlove, Chappelle's Show catapulted Dave Chappelle to comedy icon status. Known for his stand-up talent, it was through the show's sketches like Chappelle portraying a Black white supremacist, the unconventional racial draft concept, and the unforgettable "Charlie Murphy's True Hollywood Stories" that Chappelle captivated audiences worldwide. Despite his departure during its peak, Chappelle's Show's two seasons remain among Paramount Plus's top-notch TV offerings.

read more

The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air (1990-1996)

Cast: Will Smith, James Avery, Alfonso Ribiero, and Tatyana Ali

Prior to 1990, Will Smith was more renowned for his music career than his acting prowess. However, everything changed with the introduction of The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air. Despite primarily being a comedy, the show distinguished itself by incorporating intricate storylines that explored issues such as adolescence, racism, and the idea of belonging. Smith's semi-autobiographical character served as a compelling fish-out-of-water, grappling with the challenges of adjusting to a life of opulence alongside his affluent aunt, uncle, and extended family. The Fresh Prince Of Bel-Air continues to be an uproariously funny and emotionally resonant series, demonstrating that exceptional comedy can possess both humor and depth.

read more

Younger (2015-2021)

Available Seasons: 7 | Episode Runtime: 20-46 minutes

read more

Ghosts (2021 - )

Available Seasons: 2 | Episode Runtime: 20-22 minutes

Cast: Rose McIver, Utkarsh Ambudkar, Brandon Scott Jones, and Daniele Pinnock

Based on the highly acclaimed original British series, Ghosts initially had a slow climb to popularity during its live airing on CBS. However, its unique combination of modern sitcom humor and the captivating tales of various ghosts from different time periods, all trapped on a dilapidated estate with a young couple, eventually captivated audiences. The performances by Rose McIver and Utkarsh Ambudkar as the couple were exceptional, bringing to life the entertaining and peculiar ghosts that inhabit the property. Ghosts has been officially renewed for a highly anticipated third season, expected to debut later in 2023, further solidifying its ongoing success.

Available Seasons: 11 | Episode Runtime: 21-23 minutes.

Starring Kelsey Grammer, Jane Leeves, David Hyde Pierce, and John Mahoney, Frasier stands as the epitome of a triumphantly spun-off show. Taking a side character from Cheers, the sitcom transformed Dr. Frasier Crane into a widely recognized name. Set in Seattle, the series follows Dr. Crane's escapades alongside his brother Niles and father Martin, earning praise for its finely crafted characters and cleverly written scripts. The enduring impact of Frasier is such that the show is now making a much anticipated comeback, serving as a fitting companion to the beloved original series.

read more

Drunk History (2013 - 2019)

Cast: Various (hosted by Derek Waters)

Expanding upon an initially childlike premise that consistently elicits uproarious laughter, Drunk History ingeniously melds the notion of an individual narrating a tale in a bar with authentic historical anecdotes and reenactments. This distinctive concept captivated Comedy Central viewers during its initial run. Drunk History showcased the talents of actors such as John Cho and Alia Shawkat, who adeptly portrayed exaggerated yet sporadically accurate historical vignettes, alongside a rotating lineup of intoxicated storytellers. Although the alcohol-induced haze might cause these narrators to misremember certain crucial details, the ensuing chaos renders Drunk History an delightfully absurd escapade.

read more

Key & Peele (2012 - 2015)

Available Seasons: 5 | Episode Runtime: 21-22 minutes

read more

Best Drama TV Shows On Paramount Plus

1923 (2022-2023)

Available Seasons: 1 | Episode Runtime: 60 minutes

Cast: Harrison Ford, Helen Mirren, Isabel May, and Aminah Nieves

The Good Fight (2017-2022)

Available Seasons: 6 | Episode Runtime: 45 minutes

Cast: Christine Baranski, Sarah Steele, Audra McDonald, and Delroy Lindo

The Good Fight is a praised drama series that is a spinoff of The Good Wife. The series revolves around a woman who must rebuild her life completely. This time, the focus is on Diane, played by Baranski, who has lost her life savings and has been impacted by a ponzi scheme that has damaged her reputation. The show expertly combines office politics with real-life politics, serving as a social commentary on the divisive nature of the political system in the United States. The cast delivers exceptional performances, which is why The Good Fight was chosen as the first original scripted series for CBS All Access, now known as Paramount Plus.

Available Seasons: 1 | Episode Runtime: 53 minutes

Cast: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Rodrigo Santoro, Armani Jackson, and Bella Shepard

Wolf Pack, a Paramount Plus original series that premiered in 2023, pleasantly surprises audiences. Showrunner Jeff Davis, known for Teen Wolf, provides a fresh perspective on the popular werewolf subgenre. Drawing inspiration from a collection of novels centered around teenage werewolves, the show incorporates well-known tropes from successful teen dramas. However, Wolf Pack offers a unique interpretation of lycanthropy, presenting a distinctive mythology within the narrative. Furthermore, Sarah Michelle Gellar delivers a remarkable performance as an arson investigator, adding to the show's exceptional quality.

Teen Wolf (2011 - 2017)

Teen Wolf is widely regarded as one of the best examples of supernatural teen drama, captivating viewers during its original run on MTV. Its enormous online fanbase played a significant role in shaping the way audiences engage with television today. The show's immense popularity propelled its cast, particularly Dylan O'Brien, who delivered impeccable comedic timing and emotional depth in his portrayal of Stiles. At its peak, the show's success even prompted Paramount Plus to create a movie sequel, which premiered on the platform in January 2023. Teen Wolf continues to be a captivating and relatable coming-of-age story, thanks to its talented ensemble of teenage characters.

The Offer (2022)

Available Seasons: 1 | Episode Runtime: 51-68 minutes

Cast: Miles Teller, Juno Temple, Matthew Goode, and Colin Hanks

School Spirits (2023-)

Available Seasons: 1 | Episode Runtime: 44-52 minutes

Cast: Peyton List, Kristian Ventura, Milo Manheim, and Kiara Pichardo

School Spirits is a thrilling murder mystery with a unique supernatural element. The story revolves around Maddie, a deceased teenager who embarks on a quest to uncover the truth behind her own vanishing. In the afterlife, Maddie teams up with a group of fellow teen ghosts, forming an unlikely alliance to solve the mysterious case. Packed with unexpected surprises, this show offers a refreshing twist on the traditional high school narrative, challenging and defying the conventional clichés of the genre.

Available Seasons: 2 | Episode Runtime: 28 minutes

Cast: Wendy Raquel Robinson, Hosea Chanchez, Vaugh Hebron, and Analisa Velez

The 2021 iteration of The Game not only revives the CW/BET series, but also surpasses its predecessor in effectively blending intense drama with humor. Similar to the original, this follow-up captivates by depicting relatable characters in authentic situations, regardless of whether they are comical or serious. Set in the realm of professional football, The Game features Wendy Raquel Robinson reprising her role from the original series. It delves into thought-provoking subjects such as wage and race disparities within the industry, managing to evoke laughter while remaining respectful of the genuine concerns present.

Jericho (2006 - 2008)

Drawing inspiration from Mad Max, Jericho features Skeet Ulrich as the leading star in a thrilling tale set in a small Kansas town. The show revolves around the town's response and survival in the aftermath of a devastating nuclear attack. What sets Jericho apart from other apocalyptic series is its emphasis on the human characters, devoid of any supernatural elements like zombies. Originally canceled after its first season of 22 episodes, Jericho received a second season due to an impactful fan campaign, cementing its cult classic status among the top TV shows on Paramount Plus.

Grease: Rise of the Pink Ladies (2023)

Available Seasons: 1 | Episode Runtime: 48 minutes

Cast: Marisa Davila, Cheyenne Isabel Wells, Tricia Fukuhara, and Ari Notartomaso

Freaks And Geeks (1999 - 2000)

Available Seasons: 1 | Episode Runtime: 45 minutes on average

Cast: Seth Rogen, Jason Segel, Linda Cardellini, and James Franco

The Good Wife (2009 - 2016)

Available Seasons: 7 | Episode Runtime: 40-46 minutes

Cast: Juliana Marguiles, Christine Baranski, Archie Panjabi, and Matt Czuchry

The Good Wife, an unconventional political drama, features Julianna Marguiles in the role of a politician's spouse who resumes her career as a lawyer after her husband's imprisonment resulting from a political scandal. Departing from the popular case-of-the-week pattern prevalent in the early 2010s, the series adopts a serialized narrative approach, unfolding storylines over multiple episodes. This unique storytelling style garnered immense popularity during its airing and currently offers an engaging binge-watching experience on Paramount Plus, as viewers can immerse themselves in the captivating story within a few hours rather than waiting week after week. The Good Wife stands out as one of the most enthralling shows available on the streaming service.

Available Seasons: 1 | Episode Runtime: 44-67 minutes

Cast: Sam Elliot, Tim McGraw, Faith Hill, and Isabel May

1883, a prequel to Taylor Sheridan's successful series Yellowstone, added depth to the Duttons' world. The show features country singers Tim McGraw and Faith Hill as the original Dutton family, who relocate from Tennessee to Montana to create what eventually becomes Yellowstone Ranch. Sam Elliot's portrayal of the wagon train leader earned him a Screen Actors Guild Award, and the dark storyline of 1883 captures the essence of traditional Westerns rather than focusing on politics like the original Yellowstone series.

Best Animated TV Shows On Paramount Plus

Avatar: The Last Airbender (2005 - 2008) & The Legend Of Korra (2012 - 2014)

Starring Dante Basco, Mae Whitman, Dee Bradley Baker, and Janet Varney, Avatar stands out as one of the most impactful animated franchises of the 21st century. This fantastical adventure unfolds on an extravagant scale. While fans often deem The Last Airbender as the superior series, it is challenging to separate it from The Legend Of Korra when it comes to experiencing the narrative in its entirety. In this enthralling tale, both Aang and Korra, as powerful Avatars, embark on profoundly different journeys. Aang's story centers around his coming-of-age, as he grapples with finding his place in a divided world. In contrast, Korra's narrative delves into themes of industrialization and post-traumatic stress. Despite being targeted towards children, both shows fearlessly tackle weighty subjects and unflinchingly expose the darker aspects of cultural division, nationalism, and the corrosive effects of power.

read more

SpongeBob SquarePants (1999 - )

Available Seasons: 12 | Episode Runtime: 11 minutes, specials range from 22-44 minutes

read more

Daria (1997 - 2002)

Available Seasons: 5 | Episode Runtime: 21-22 minutes

Starring Tracy Grandstaff, Wendy Hoopes, Marc Thompson, and Sarah Drew, Daria builds upon the success of iconic series like The Simpsons by blending the elements of classic teen dramedy with a visually captivating animation. The outcome is a show that embraces deadpan humor and is renowned as one of the top cartoons for teenagers. Serving as an authentic representation of the teenage journey, Daria stands apart from conventional romantic comedy characters with her lack of exuberance and instead allows the viewers to relate to her cynicism and clever retorts as she navigates the challenges of adolescence.

Twin Peaks (1990 - 1991)

Available Seasons: 2 | Episode Runtime: 45 - 90 minutes

Cast: Kyle MacLachlan, Madchen Amick, Sherilyn Fenn, and Michael Ontkean

Undoubtedly one of the most peculiar television shows ever produced, Twin Peaks, created by David Lynch and Mark Frost, is also among the finest offerings on Paramount Plus. Initially centered around FBI agent Dale Cooper's mission to unravel the mystery behind Laura Palmer's murder, the storyline subsequently transforms into a surreal exploration of the supernatural. The eponymous town conceals numerous enigmas and perils, making it the ideal backdrop for David Lynch's distinctive and peculiar style. Although only the original Twin Peaks series is available on Paramount Plus, as opposed to the 2017 Showtime revival, this iconic 90s hit remains an absolute must-watch.

Available Seasons: 25+ across 4 series | Episode Runtime: 40-64 minutes

Cast: William Peterson, Marg Helgenberger, Gary Sinise, and David Caruso

Content Fragment

CSI revolutionized the crime procedural genre for a modern-day audience, building upon decades of popularity. Set in Las Vegas, New York, and Miami, this franchise revolves around investigative teams who blend crime scene visits with meticulous forensic analysis in labs. While some aspects may require suspending disbelief, the show draws inspiration from the real work of crime scene technicians. In addition to the weekly mysteries, CSI, like other popular crime procedurals of its time, places significant emphasis on character dynamics, making it more than just a series of individual cases. The Las Vegas installment also experienced a resurgence on Paramount Plus, further highlighting the unwavering appeal of the franchise.

Criminal Minds (2005 - 2020)

CBS is renowned for creating highly regarded police procedural shows, with Criminal Minds standing out as the crown jewel. With a format that revolves around a different case each week, Criminal Minds delves into the FBI's behavior analysis unit and their relentless pursuit of serial killers and other violent psychopaths. Although the original series concluded after 15 seasons in 2020, it received a revival with Criminal Minds: Evolution, now available on Paramount Plus. Diving into darker and more riveting subject matter compared to its counterparts, Criminal Minds delivers a gripping, captivating crime show experience.

Tulsa King (2022 - )

Available Seasons: 1 | Episode Runtime: 36-43 minutes

Cast: Sylvester Stallone, Andrea Savage, Martin Starr, and Jay Will

NCIS Franchise (2003 - )

Available Seasons: 30+ across 4 series | Episode Runtime: 39-44 minutes

Cast: Mark Harmon, Scott Bakula, LL Cool J, and Vanessa Lachey

NCIS, one of the longest-running crime procedurals, may have a slightly niche setting, but its popularity speaks for itself. Unlike many of its contemporary competitors, the show follows investigators who delve into crimes specifically connected to the military. While the New Orleans spinoff concluded in 2021 and the Los Angeles spinoff is set to conclude in 2023, the flagship series and NCIS: Hawai’i are still going strong, which showcases the enduring appeal of the franchise. With crossovers between the shows, fans are treated to an immersive storytelling experience, rather than a predictable case-of-the-week format.

Available Seasons: 2 | Episode Runtime: 50 minutes

Cast: Lucy Liu, Lana Parilla, Alexandra Daddario, and Ginnifer Goodwin

Why Women Kill captures the captivating essence of Devious Maids and Desperate Housewives, blending dramatic flair with a hint of dark comedy. Season 1 delves into the lives of three distinct women from various eras, intricately linked by a common address. True to its title, this anthology series explores the circumstances that drive each woman to ultimately resort to murder. Despite the cancellation of season 3, Why Women Kill stands as a brilliantly witty crime series, ranked among the top TV shows on Paramount Plus.

Criminal Minds: Evolution (2022-)

Continuing several years after the conclusion of the original Criminal Minds series, Criminal Minds: Evolution presents a darker interpretation of the unsettling source material. With limited resources and organizational changes, the original team is compelled to adopt a fresh approach, resulting in more authentic performances from the main cast. The new series predominantly revolves around a single mystery per season, enhancing the overall storytelling experience compared to the previous episodic format. As a result, Criminal Minds: Evolution stands out as one of Paramount Plus' finest crime shows, successfully reviving an established franchise.

Mayor Of Kingstown (2021-)

Available Seasons: 2 | Episode Runtime: 34-66 minutes

Cast: Jeremy Renner, Dianne Wiest, Hugh Dillon, and Tobi Bamtefa

Best Horror TV Shows On Paramount Plus

Are You Afraid Of The Dark? (1990-2000)

Available Seasons: 5 | Episode Runtime: 30 minutes

Starring Ross Hull, Daniel DeSanto, Jodie Resther, and Joanna Garcia Swisher, this captivating thriller series introduces spine-chilling and eerie tales to young viewers through the Midnight Society. Huddled around a campfire in their hidden forest meeting place, a group of teenagers share terrifying stories that may or may not be rooted in reality. While the core group of teens remains constant throughout most of the series, additional members join as the show progresses. Are You Afraid of the Dark? not only launched the careers of talented actors such as Elisha Cuthbert and Vanessa Lengies but also taught young audiences the power of a well-executed jump scare. Outshining its 2019 revival, it remains a paramount Paramount Plus show from Nickelodeon's classic era.

Available Seasons: 2 | Episode Runtime: 42-57 minutes

Starring Paul Wesley, Danielle Campbell, James Wolk, and Eka Darville, Tell Me A Story is a thrilling anthology series that reimagines timeless fairy tales in a contemporary setting. Combining elements of fantasy and horror, the show puts a creative spin on classics like Little Red Riding Hood, Beauty and the Beast, and Hansel and Gretel, catering to a mature audience. While Danielle Campbell and Paul Wesley maintain their presence throughout both seasons, the remaining cast members change, reminiscent of the unique format seen in American Horror Story. With its captivating twists, Tell Me A Story has rightfully earned its place as one of the top shows on Paramount Plus.

read more

Evil (2019 - )

Starring Mike Colter, Aasif Mandvi, Katja Herbers, and Michael Emerson, Evil is a highly talked-about drama series that has captivated audiences on CBS. The show follows a skeptical psychologist, a priest in training, and a tech expert as they delve into cases allegedly involving the supernatural. Although it may appear to be a typical horror-themed CBS procedural, Evil stands out by defying conventional expectations. It succeeds in combining elements of genuine fear and creepiness, along with generous doses of bloodshed, violence, and unexpected dark humor.

read more

The Stand (2020-2021)

Available Seasons: 1 | Episode Runtime: 49-65 minutes

read more

Best Sci-Fi TV Shows On Paramount Plus

The Twilight Zone (1959 - 1964)

Available Seasons: 5 | Episode Runtime: 24-25 minutes seasons 1-3, with 51-minute episodes from season 4 onwards

Cast: Rod Serling and Robert McCord

Under The Dome (2013-2015)

Available Seasons: 3 | Episode Runtime: 45 minutes.

Cast: Mike Vogel, Rachelle Lefevre, Natalie Martinez.

The collaboration between Lost creator Brian K. Vaughan and a Stephen King story promised an explosive sci-fi experience, and Under the Dome certainly delivers. Although the reception from general audiences has been mixed, those intrigued by a mystery involving a town trapped under a glass dome (similar to The Simpsons movie, but with a serious tone) will not be let down by Under the Dome. While the plot can sometimes be shallow, particularly in the third season, this easy-watching quality works to its advantage, especially when binge-watching.

Available Seasons: 30+ across 12 series | Episode Runtime: around 50 minutes, depending on series and season

Cast: William Shatner, Patrick Stewart, Michelle Yeoh, and Sonequa Martin-Green

In the realm of science fiction, no franchise is as instantly identifiable as Star Trek. Since its inception in 1966 and its continuing success on Paramount+, Star Trek has had an immense influence on the genre and the entertainment industry as a whole. Many renowned directors, showrunners, and actors across various genres credit Star Trek as a major source of inspiration. Paramount Plus delivers both new additions to the franchise, such as Star Trek: Discovery, Star Trek: Picard, and Star Trek: Prodigy, as well as beloved classics like the original 1966 Star Trek series and Star Trek: The Next Generation.