From ‘Atlanta’ to ‘Insecure,’ these Black-led shows rank among the century’s best

Several shows rooted in Black storytelling and creativity landed on The New York Times’ ranking of the 21st century’s best television.

Since its inception in the 1940s, television has been a medium that brings people together. From friends and family gatherings around the TV to fandoms live-tweeting on social media, television shows continue to have the unique ability to connect people despite the transition from traditional cable to streaming platforms and now vertical video. 

Recently, the New York Times published a list of the best shows of the 21st century, and among the 100 shows selected, several centered on Black storytelling and creativity. So this weekend, as you look for your next TV binge, consider revisiting some of these classics. 

The Wire – ranked #2

In 2002, David Simon’s Baltimore drama showcased how the drug trade, the police, academic systems, and city hall fail the same Black neighborhoods in different ways. “The Wire” also introduced many viewers to memorable characters like Omar Little , brilliantly portrayed by the late Michael K. Williams,, Stringer Bell played by Idris Elba and a young Michael B. Jordan as Wallace.

Where to watch: HBO Max, Hulu with HBO Max extension, HBO Max on Amazon

I May Destroy You – ranked #18

Written, co-directed, and starring Michaela Coel, “I May Destroy You” follows Arabella, a London writer piecing together the night she was drugged and assaulted. Blending comedy, drama, and uncensored discussions about consent, friendship, and healing, Coel earned an Emmy for her writing in this limited series. 

Where to watch: HBO Max, Hulu with HBO Max extension

Atlanta – ranked #10

Created by Donald Glover, “Atlanta” follows cousins Earn and Alfred as they navigate Atlanta’s music scene while trying to improve their lives and support their families. Blending comedy, drama and surrealism, the series constantly plays with expectations while exploring race, ambition, fame and identity.

Where to watch: Hulu, Disney +

Key & Peele – ranked #29

Keegan-Michael Key and Jordan Peele turned everyday observations, pop culture and race relations into sharp, often absurd comedy in their eponymous show. From recurring characters to unforgettable celebrity impressions, “Key & Peele” left its mark on sketch comedy television. 

Where to watch: Pluto TV, Paramount+, Roku and Amazon

Insecure – ranked #55

Inspired by her web series “Awkward Black Girl,” Issa Rae’s landmark show “Insecure” follows Issa Dee as she navigates friendship, dating, career and adulthood in Los Angeles, creating a funny, candid, and culturally rooted show that fans love to revisit. 

Where to watch: HBO Max

Chapelle’s Show – ranked #58

Hosted and co-created by comedian Dave Chappelle, Chappelle’s Show became known for its provocative sketches, memorable characters, and willingness to tackle race, politics, celebrity and American culture.

Where to watch: Tubi, Paramount +, Roku

RuPaul’s Drag Race – ranked #61

“RuPaul’s Drag Race” combines drag performance, fashion, comedy and competition as queens from around the world compete for the title of America’s Next Drag Superstar. Beyond its competition format, the series has played a major role in bringing drag culture and LGBTQ+ stories to mainstream television.

Where to watch: Pluto TV, Paramount + 

Scandal – ranked #100

Created by Shonda Rhimes, Scandal follows Olivia Pope, a Washington, D.C., crisis-management expert who specializes in protecting the reputations of powerful clients. With political intrigue, complicated relationships and plenty of twists, the series became a defining show of the 2010s. 

Where to watch: Hulu, Netflix,  Disney + 

And the New York Times’ survey of stars, showrunners and TV lovers covered a wide range of shows, the publication’s readers added additional stories led by Black creatives, including: 

Grey’s Anatomy – Ranked #71 on the readers’ choice list

Created by Shonda Rhimes, Grey’s Anatomy follows Meredith Grey and the doctors of Grey Sloan Memorial Hospital as they balance demanding medical cases with friendships, romances and the personal challenges of life inside a hospital.

Where to watch: Hulu, Netflix,  Disney + 

Abbott Elementary – Ranked #85 on the readers’ choice list

Quinta Brunson’s “Abbott Elementary” takes viewers into an underfunded public school in Philadelphia through a comedic lens. A workplace comedy following a group of dedicated, passionate teachers and an unconventional principal as they navigate the Philadelphia public school system, while determined to help their students. 

Where to watch: Hulu, Disney + and HBO Max