Best-Reviewed TV Dramas 2016

Paranoid thrillers, true crime sagas, and complex character studies make up this year’s batch of the most compelling, most acclaimed dramas on television.

The order of the list reflects the scores as of December 31, 2016, but the number displayed on the Adjusted Tomatometer may change as more reviews keep getting added after the end of the year.

The Americans: Season 4 (2016)
99%

#1

Adjusted Score: 101078%

Critics Consensus: With its fourth season, The Americans continues to deliver top-tier spy drama while sending its characters in directions that threaten to destroy their freedoms - and their lives.

Starring: Keri Russell, Matthew Rhys, Noah Emmerich, Holly Taylor

Directed By: Joe Weisberg, Joel Fields, Graham Yost, Justin Falvey

The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson (2016)
97%

#2

Adjusted Score: 102027%

Critics Consensus: American Crime Story: The People v. O.J. Simpson brings top-shelf writing, directing, and acting to bear on a still-topical story while shedding further light on the facts -- and provoking passionate responses along the way.

Starring: Cuba Gooding Jr., Sarah Paulson, David Schwimmer, John Travolta

Directed By: Ryan Murphy, Nina Jacobson, Brad Simpson, Scott Alexander

Better Call Saul: Season 2 (2016)
97%

#3

Adjusted Score: 97987%

Critics Consensus: Better Call Saul continues to tighten its hold on viewers with a batch of episodes that inject a surge of dramatic energy while showcasing the charms of its talented lead.

Starring: Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, Michael McKean, Rhea Seehorn

Directed By: Vince Gilligan, Peter Gould, Mark Johnson, Melissa Bernstein

Orange Is the New Black: Season 4 (2016)
94%

#4

Adjusted Score: 96334%

Critics Consensus: Orange is the New Black is back and better than ever, with a powerful fourth season full of compelling performances by the ensemble cast.

Starring: Taylor Schilling, Uzo Aduba, Laura Prepon, Kate Mulgrew

Directed By: Jenji Kohan

Mr. Robot: Season 2 (2016)
90%

#5

Adjusted Score: 91564%

Critics Consensus: Unique storytelling, a darker tone, and challenging opportunities for its tight cast push Mr. Robot even further into uncharted television territory.

Starring: Christian Slater, Rami Malek, Portia Doubleday, Carly Chaikin

Directed By: Sam Esmail, Steve Golin, Chad Hamilton