The Ultimate Ranking of the Top 10 Anthology TV Shows that Redefined Television History

Summary

Love, Death & Robots stands out as a popular and enjoyable animated anthology series, thanks to its diverse genres and unique stories.

The Outer Limits, despite its age, is an exceptional science fiction anthology that has been influential in inspiring numerous anthologies and sci-fi series.

Alfred Hitchcock Presents captivates viewers with its brilliant storytelling and renowned director, presenting compelling mysteries in every episode.

While most television series follow a single story arc across multiple seasons, there are a few shows known as anthologies that shake things up by changing the plot from episode to episode or season to season. These unique series have proven to be incredibly successful, standing out for their distinct format and constantly evolving narratives. In fact, anthologies have been responsible for some of the most popular and highly acclaimed television series throughout history.

Below, we have compiled a list of the top ten anthology television shows that have graced our screens. This eclectic mix of shows spans various release dates, genres, and styles. While they all share the common structure of being anthologies, each show brings its own unique perspective to the concept, delivering important and captivating stories. Whether it's a whimsical comedy, a chilling horror, or an exploration of true crime, each of these anthology series has captured the imagination of viewers, earning their popularity for good reason. For those eager to delve into the world of anthologies, this comprehensive list serves as the ultimate starting point.

10 Love, Death, & Robots

9 The Outer Limits

One of the latest and finest anthology series available on Netflix is the original animated series Love, Death, & Robots. Initially released in 2019, this series is an animated epic that encompasses multiple genres and presents a self-contained story in each episode. These stories take the audience on thrilling journeys, featuring alternate histories, futuristic explorations of space and the unknown, and even a humorous take on sentient yogurt plotting world domination. Love, Death, & Robots covers a range of genres including science fiction, fantasy, and horror, making it an indispensable viewing experience. Moreover, the series distinguishes itself by combining animation with a serious tone and mature content. With the esteemed director David Fincher as one of its producers, Love, Death, & Robots becomes an exceptionally enjoyable anthology series.

An anthology series that predates many others is The Outer Limits. Released in 1963, this show presents a science fiction story in each episode, similar to the immensely popular anthology series on this list. Although it only aired for two years initially, The Outer Limits was later revived in the 1990s and there have been discussions of rebooting it again in recent years. What sets this series apart from other anthologies is its age. While not the oldest anthology on this list, The Outer Limits has been a source of inspiration for numerous anthologies and sci-fi series that followed.

8 Alfred Hitchcock Presents

With its name bearing the iconic Alfred Hitchcock, this series is bound to be an absolute knockout. Alfred Hitchcock Presents, a 1955 anthology series that astoundingly ran for seven seasons, also known as The Alfred Hitchcock Hour, captivated viewers with each episode presenting a new mystery reminiscent of Hitchcock's acclaimed films. The show's triumph can be attributed not only to its intelligent storytelling and intriguing plotlines but also to the incorporation of the legendary film director himself. With Hitchcock's introduction to each episode, audiences were guaranteed a gripping tale on par with his own cinematic masterpieces.

7 American Crime Story

Ryan Murphy's American Crime Story is a highly acclaimed anthology series that stands out for its focus on a different non-fiction story each season. The first season captivated audiences with the infamous O.J. Simpson murder case, while the second delved into the haunting assassination of fashion designer Gianni Versace. The most recent season shed light on the scandal involving Bill Clinton and Monica Lewinsky. American Crime Story has earned praise for its immersive exploration of significant true-crime narratives and its exceptional acting and ensemble casts. Its impact on the genre of anthology series in recent years cannot be denied.

6 Tales From The Crypt

Another timeless and astonishing anthology series that has captivated audiences for years is HBO's Tales from the Crypt. Launched in 1989, this series immerses viewers in a world of horror, presenting a new bone-chilling tale in each episode, all masterfully hosted by the sinister Cryptkeeper. With an impressive run spanning seven seasons, alongside numerous spin-offs and attempts at revival, Tales from the Crypt has undeniably become a cornerstone of the anthology genre. Each episode delivers a captivating and eerie horror story that effortlessly hooks viewers, ensuring their return week after week. Furthermore, the addition of celebrity guest appearances, including icons like Christopher Reeve and Tom Hanks, only heightens the already exhilarating nature of this phenomenally enticing series.

5 True Detective

HBO's True Detective is an anthology series known for its ever-changing seasons. Each season, a new detective or set of detectives takes center stage, immersing viewers in an intense crime-solving journey. For instance, the first season, aired in 2014, captivated audiences as Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson embarked on a relentless pursuit of a Louisiana serial killer spanning 17 years. Subsequent seasons featured acclaimed actors like Colin Farrell, Rachel McAdams, Vince Vaughn, and Mahershala Ali. Distinct from other anthologies that may lean towards campiness and playfulness, True Detective delivers spine-chilling moments and presents a grittier, darker portrayal of the anthology genre.

4 American Horror Story

One of the most enduring and commercially successful anthology series on this list is American Horror Story. Another hit TV show by Ryan Murphy, the series explores different horrifying settings and scenarios each season, making it a truly unique horror anthology. With seasons focused on themes like Asylum, Coven, Freak Show, and Apocalypse, American Horror Story captivates audiences with its graphic nature, intense horror themes, and exceptional performances from a diverse cast. Notable stars such as Sarah Paulson, Kathy Bates, and Lady Gaga have contributed to the show's popularity. Currently, American Horror Story boasts 11 seasons, with the highly anticipated 12th season already in the works.

3 Inside No. 9

Diverging from American anthologies, Inside No. 9 is a British anthology series that has gained wide popularity and strong admiration. Running since 2014, this black comedy presents a fresh, self-contained story in each episode, with the series' creators and writers, Reece Shearsmith and Steve Pemberton, taking leading roles. Inside No. 9 has received praise from both critics and viewers due to its consistent and engaging entertainment value, remarkable creativity, and outstanding comedic moments. However, the defining characteristic that distinguishes this series is its recurring use of the number nine. In every episode, the number 9 is intricately woven into the narrative, forging connections between each installment, besides the presence of Shearsmith and Pemberton.

2 Black Mirror

Black Mirror is an extraordinary anthology series that recently premiered its sixth season in 2023. This British sci-fi anthology series delves into captivating narratives centered around groundbreaking technology. Not only does Black Mirror impress with its innovative storytelling, but it also challenges societal norms through a futuristic perspective. The series expertly examines the potential dangers and consequences of our reliance on social media and technology, painting a vivid picture of our imagined future gone awry. With its remarkable episodes like "Shut Up and Dance" and "Hang the DJ," Black Mirror has firmly established itself as a pioneering force in the realms of contemporary sci-fi and anthology series.

1 The Twilight Zone

Considered the most pivotal anthology series of all time, The Twilight Zone captivated audiences with its debut in 1959. Each episode presented a unique sci-fi, fantasy, or supernatural tale, unified by the shared concept of characters entangled in "the twilight zone." What truly set The Twilight Zone apart was its mastery of unexpected plot twists that left viewers astounded. By establishing this groundbreaking formula, the series paved the way for future anthologies, ultimately shaping the modern anthology landscape. Undoubtedly, The Twilight Zone remains unparalleled, making it the most influential and unparalleled anthology to date.