The seven greatest television shows of all time

By Zach Goins

I’ve been watching television for a long time. Like, a really long time. Pretty much ever since I was born. So, I’ve had quite a few favorite shows over the years, but I’ve been able to narrow it down to these seven shows. No matter what I’m doing, if I see an episode of one of these shows on, I’ll sit down and watch it. And then probably watch the next one too, let’s be real. Here we go:

“The Office”

Without a doubt the most quotable television show of all time, led by Steve Carell’s Michael Scott, one of the most iconic comedy characters ever. This is one of those shows where you could jump in at any episode in any season and be totally fine. Obviously you’d need to be caught up on a few plot points, but that wouldn’t keep you from getting plenty of laughs. Plus, Jim and Pam are total relationship goals.
Favorite Episode: Stress Relief (season 5, episode 13-14)

“Game of Thrones”

I used to think people that watched “Game of Thrones” were obnoxious. Then I watched the first episode. Perhaps the most epic television show of all time, once you start, you’re hooked. With ridiculously over-the-top and gruesome battle scenes, way-too-graphic sex scenes, a plot as intricate as the Dothraki language, and the nobody-is-safe mentality, “Game of Thrones” is the most savage show on television.
Favorite Episode: Battle of the Bastards (season 6, episode 9)

“How I Met Your Mother”

“How I Met Your Mother” is definitely the most emotionally investing show on my list. I grew up watching this show in real time, so I grew to love these characters over nine long years. I felt like Ted was telling me how he met my mother. I’m thoroughly convinced that no other show will ever be able to make you laugh, cry and learn life lessons quite like HIMYM did. Plus, it’s got a great soundtrack.
Favorite Episode: The Time Travelers (season 8, episode 20)

“Lost”

“Lost” was my first true television love. In fifth grade I was so obsessed with the show that I made a fan website for it. I was subscribed to the official magazine and wrote in with questions multiple times, and even made it in once. I know a lot of viewers stopped watching in the later seasons once it got a little too weird and confusing, but I guess I was young enough where I just went with it. I’m still not completely sure I understood everything, but that’s what keeps me rewatching it.
Favorite Episode: The Constant (season 4, episode 5)

“Survivor”

It’s difficult to compare a reality show with such great comedies and dramas, but this is another one of those shows that I’ve been with from the start. Plus, it’s reality TV so you get comedy and drama all in one. Season 34 starts in the spring and I haven’t missed a single one. Any time I talk about “Survivor” people are still shocked that it’s still on television, but I’m hoping for another 34 seasons. Maybe one day it’ll just be Jeff Probst’s skeleton snuffing torches at Tribal Council. Plus, I’m still convinced that I’ll be on the show one day and win the million dollars.
Favorite Season: Survivor: Heroes vs. Villains (Season 20)

“American Horror Story”

This show would be a lot higher on my list if it could just be more consistent. Seasons one through three were amazing, but lately it just seems like it can’t put together a complete season. Roanoke was the first time I was scared since Murder House, but then it had to go and screw up the plot. My official season ranking is: Asylum, Murder House, Coven, Roanoke, Hotel, Freakshow. I’m really interested in seeing more connections between the seasons to figure out how everything fits together, so lets hope for some of that and lots of scares in season seven.
Favorite Season: Asylum (Season 2)

“Breaking Bad”

I binge watched “Breaking Bad” over a summer and it was one of the best summers of my life. Bryan Cranston cemented his place as one of my favorite actors after watching five seasons of Walter White. Although there’s a little too much breakfast food, all of the hardcore crystal meth makes up for it. Seeing Walter’s transformation from a chemistry teacher to the kingpin known as Heisenberg is one of the best character developments in all of television. Not to mention Aaron Paul as Jesse Pinkman, bitch.
Favorite Episode: Face Off (season 4, episode 13)