Updated

Updated · The Guardian · Jun 23

Readers Pick 9 Top TV Shows of 2026, Led by Netflix's Legends and Channel 4's Tip Toe

Updated

Updated · The Guardian · Jun 23

Readers Pick 9 Top TV Shows of 2026, Led by Netflix's Legends and Channel 4's Tip Toe

2 articles · Updated · The Guardian · Jun 23

Nine series dominated readers' mid-2026 TV picks, with Netflix's Legends, Apple TV's Criminal Record and Channel 4's Tip Toe drawing the strongest praise for tension, sharp writing and standout performances.
Legends was hailed for Johnny Harris's morally nuanced turn and its early-1990s setting, while Criminal Record's second series won praise for Cush Jumbo, Peter Capaldi and a plot around a far-right agitator and foiled attack.
Tip Toe stood out for Russell T Davies's take on class resentment and bigotry, and Babies for handling miscarriage, toxic masculinity and fatherhood with sensitivity and humor.
The list also highlighted genre range across The Boroughs, DTF St Louis, Small Prophets, Your Friends & Neighbors and The Pitt, with readers repeatedly citing complex characters, emotional depth and topical themes.

Sources

With praised diverse shows getting axed, what now determines a series' survival in the competitive streaming wars?

Can TV shows exposing deep systemic flaws, such as in healthcare, truly drive meaningful legislative and social change?

When TV tackles sensitive topics like bigotry, how can creators ensure their message inspires understanding instead of more division?

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