Best-Reviewed Returning TV Shows 2014

Critics Consensus: With powerful imagery and a strong, unpredictable story, season two of Hannibal continues to build on the first season's promise.

Starring: Hugh Dancy, Laurence Fishburne, Mads Mikkelsen, Caroline Dhavernas

Critics Consensus: Veep continues its winning streak with a mix of smart comedy, bright performances and a refreshing approach to D.C. politics.

Starring: Julia Louis-Dreyfus, Anna Chlumsky, Matt Walsh, Tony Hale

Critics Consensus: Anchored by Tatiana Maslany's brilliant multi-role performance, Orphan Black is as densely-layered, thought-provoking, and wildly entertaining as ever.

Starring: Tatiana Maslany, Dylan Bruce, Jordan Gavaris, Kevin Hanchard

Critics Consensus: Thanks to a liberal dose of propulsive, bloody action and enough compelling character moments to reward longtime fans, The Walking Dead's fifth season continues to deliver top-notch entertainment.

Starring: Andrew Lincoln, Norman Reedus, Steven Yeun, Lauren Cohan

Critics Consensus: With a talented ensemble cast bringing life to a fresh round of serial drama, Orange Is the New Black's sophomore season lives up to its predecessor's standard for female-led television excellence.

Starring: Taylor Schilling, Jason Biggs, Laura Prepon, Kate Mulgrew

Critics Consensus: Honoring the Holmes brand, Sherlock is splendidly acted and still pleases fans who are thirsty for stimulating, intelligently written story arcs.

Starring: Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Una Stubbs, Rupert Graves

Critics Consensus: Game of Thrones continues to be one of the best shows on TV, combining meticulously-plotted character arcs with the spectacular design of the Seven Kingdoms.

Starring: Peter Dinklage, Lena Headey, Emilia Clarke, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau