Sometimes the greatest TV shows are short and sweet. Whether it was planned that way or canceled too early, here are some of the best TV shows with only just 1 season for you to check out next.
The Best Single Season Shows and Mini-Series
As someone who likes to binge-watch, I’m a big fan of a great single-season show or mini-series. Especially with it’s planned out that way so everything is wrapped up nicely!
Hopefully, you enjoying checking out these strong contenders for the best TV show with only just 1 season that we rounded up.
Chernobyl
If you asked for my opinion on the best TV show with only just 1 season, this would be my pick hands-down. Every episode gives its all in terms of both writing and performance, and it’s truly a must-see for anyone who enjoys TV dramas. The fact that it’s a retelling of real events makes it even more haunting.
The Queen’s Gambit
While there was talk of a second season because this Netflix show was so popular, it was ultimately left with just one season – something fans should be thankful for.
Part of what made The Queen’s Gambit so good was that it closely resembled the book of the same name. This left the one-season show with perfect pacing and a satisfying ending, something that would have been ruined if it continued into a second season of new material.
Cowboy Bebop
Even if you’re not into anime, you’ve probably heard of Cowboy Bebop – but you’ll be shocked to find out that it only ran for a single season. Super controversial, it likely wasn’t renewed due to the majority of episodes either being banned or censored in both Japan and the US.
What’s even more depressing is that it was rebooted as a live-action series of the same name on Netflix in 2021, and that was also canceled after just one season.
Moon Knight
Released on Disney+ as a limited series, Moon Knight instantly became a favorite for fans and critics when it was released. Unless Disney changes its mind about the limited run or adds Moon Knight to the MCU this 1 season show is the most you’ll get from this comic book anti-hero.
My So-Called Life
You might know Jared Leeto from Morbius but he got his start starring alongside Claire Danes in this 1994 one-season teen comedy show. How’d it make this list, you ask? It’s so good – especially if you’re a parent of teenage kids (or a teen yourself).
Fawlty Towers
While it technically got two seasons, Fawlty Towers was a limited run of 12 episodes so I feel it still makes the list. Starring comedy legend John Cleese and his then-wife Connie Booth, Fawlty Towers was ranked number 1 on the 100 Greatest British Television Programs back in 2000.
Firefly
I love Firefly as much as the next guy, but I’m pretty sure I’d be tarred and feathered if I didn’t include it as a contender for the best TV show with only 1 season. While I would argue Serenity added some much-need closure, Firefly is hands down one of the greatest single-season shows ever made.
Battlestar Galactica (The Original Series)
Another cult show that you’d be surprised to learn only lasted one season! Battlestar Galactica would go on to be one of the most iconic science fiction franchises of all time – eternally beloved by people like myself and Dwight Schrute.
While the rebooted show was also great, fans should definitely watch the original 1978 one-season run.
Lovecraft Country
Combining the struggles of Jim Crow-era racism with H.P. Lovecraft’s haunting creatures, Lovecraft Country stars a Black man facing unspeakable horrors in the town that (likely) inspired Lovecraft’s stories.
Lovecraft Country was canceled after the first season due to lack of direction. The opinions on this show are polarised, so you’ll have to decide for yourself if it’s a hit or not.
Mare of Easttown
Mare of Easttown was written as a limited series so you don’t have any of the disappointment of a cliffhanger or cancelled show. Alongside the perfect pacing and gritty crime plot, Kate Winslet’s acting truly brings this show to life.
The Haunting of Hill House
Another limited run, The Haunting of Hill House reimagined the novel of the same name in this Netflix mini series. Unlike the movie that came out in 1999, this series does a much better job of nailing the book’s original themes of horror, grief, mystery, and family.
Dopesick
As someone lowkey obsessed with the inner workings of the pharma industry, especially Perdue, I’m bummed this show didn’t get more recognition. While the show is fictional, it’s dramatised based on real events surrounding the US opioid epidemic.
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This article was produced by SwoonHub.