The year 2026 has already proven to be exceptional for television, offering everything from captivating medical dramas to adrenaline-pumping crime series that are nearly impossible to resist binge-watching. Below are the top television programs of the year, as selected by Guardian readers.
The Best TV of 2026 So Far
I was thoroughly impressed by “Legends.” It delivered a tense, thrilling, and even humorous experience, complemented by an atmospheric soundtrack that perfectly captured the early 1990s. The performances were all of the highest caliber, particularly Johnny Harris’s portrayal of Eddie McKee. He once again delivered a superb, morally complex performance. While fictionalized, the series rightfully shed light on the remarkable and long-concealed efforts of Customs. I would have happily watched it straight through if not for the need to be up the next day! Additionally, we were treated to a glimpse of Thatcher’s tearful farewell speech, which is always a satisfying moment.
– Edie, 47, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK
‘Sheer genius’: your best TV of 2026 so far
It’s been a fantastic year for television, with everything from gripping medical dramas to thrilling crime shows that are almost impossible to stop watching. Here are the top shows of the year, according to Guardian readers.
The Best TV of 2026 So Far
I absolutely loved “Legends.” It was tense, thrilling, and even had moments of humor, all set to an evocative early-90s soundtrack. The acting was top-notch across the board, especially Johnny Harris [as Eddie McKee], who gave another outstanding, morally complex performance. Although fictionalized, it brought much-deserved attention to the incredible work of Customs that had been kept secret for so long. I would have binged it in one sitting if I hadn’t had to get up the next day! And we even got to see a bit of Thatcher’s tearful leaving speech, which is always a pleasure to watch.
– Edie, 47, Leeds, West Yorkshire, UK