I’m currently doing a writing challenge where I write every week based on a theme, and this week it’s all about my favorite TV shows. Now, you might think it’s tricky to pick favorites—I binge-watch a lot, so pinning down just a few feels impossible. Honestly, I could list over 100 series I love, but I decided to start with the first batch of my top 50.

In this post, I’m sharing a synopsis of each show, my thoughts, and my favorite characters—without spoilers, of course. I’ll also highlight standout villains or episodes that really stuck with me.

Get ready for a mix of detective shows, crime dramas, comedies, and a little anime sprinkled in. I’m ranking them loosely, but this list isn’t set in stone—my favorites shift over time. The goal here is to give you a peek into the shows that have stuck with me, made me laugh, made me think, and sometimes even made me gasp.

So buckle up, grab some snacks, and dive into my world of TV obsessions.

1. Bones

What Sets It Apart:

Bones is a forensic anthropologist who is the top of her field. She is arrogant because she knows she’s the best and she lacks social skills while Booth is the complete opposite. He is an FBI agent, charismatic, not book-smart or science-smart but FBI-smart. He’s able to talk to suspects, empathize with them, and this makes him an excellent partner. Bones wants to learn what makes Booth so likable and good at his job, while Booth acknowledges her genius in areas he lacks. The show’s dynamic splits between the “suits” (the FBI) and the “squints” (scientists).

Favorite Characters of the series : 

Booth & Brennan – Dr. Temperance Brennan and Seeley Booth share the top spot. Their evolving relationship, from professional partners to romantic involvement, adds depth to the storyline. Their contrasting personalities and mutual respect make them a memorable duo.

Most Intriguing Villain:

Jacob Broadsky 

Jacob Broadsky is a former military sniper turned vigilante assassin. His motivations are complex; he believes in delivering justice outside the legal system, targeting individuals he deems unworthy. Unlike typical psychopaths, Broadsky operates with a sense of purpose, making him a compelling antagonist. His actions raise questions about morality and justice, adding depth to the series’ exploration of crime and ethics.

2. CSI: Miami

What Sets It Apart:

CSI: Miami stands out for so many reasons. First, it’s in the sun-drenched streets of Miami, and the orange color grading isn’t just what it looks like—it’s what it feels. I’m from Florida, so I know exactly what that sun-soaked heat feels like. I love the detective work—the way each case is solved, the science behind it, and the feeling I get watching these people put all the pieces together.

The team isn’t just detectives—they’re specialists. Some carry guns and do the dramatic police work alongside the sheriff’s department, some stay in the lab, and some, like Callie Duquesne, specialize in ballistics, which is my favorite department. Hearing the scientific terminology, seeing all the departments work together, and watching multiple crimes sometimes intertwine in one episode makes the detective work endlessly fascinating.

There’s also a balance between the flashy moments and the real human moments. They’re not just trying to be the best—they’re genuinely trying to solve crimes, care for each other, and get justice. That combination keeps me hooked every time.

Favorite Characters:

1. Horatio Caine — He’s the team lead, calm, precise, deeply caring toward his team, and yes, he’s a ginger—something about that just sticks with me. His dramatic sunglasses removal and perfect one-liners with the music cue are iconic. He balances authority, empathy, and those tiny human moments that make him unforgettable.

2. Callie Duquesne — She runs the Ballistics department, my favorite part of CSI. Watching her handle intricate ballistics work with such precision and intelligence makes her a standout character for me.

Villain with the Most Interesting Episode:

The Cruz Brothers, Ramon and Clavo Cruise. They are absolutely disgraceful, bound by diplomatic immunity, and so smug at the start. What I loved about this episode is watching the team struggle and work so hard to bring them to justice. By the end, you can see life just drain from their eyes when they realize they’ve finally been caught. That arc—from arrogance to defeat—made this episode unforgettable for me.

3. Cold Case

What Sets It Apart:

I love Cold Case because it dives into crimes that were forgotten by time, and the team has to peel back years, sometimes decades, to find the truth. There’s something so emotional about watching the past collide with the present, seeing how crimes ripple through people’s lives long after they happened.

One of the little touches that really connects me to the series is how perfectly the actors are cast. Whether it’s the younger or older version of a character—the victim, family member, or killer—they look so similar that you actually believe it’s the same person who’s grown and changed over the years. That kind of attention to detail makes the story feel real and grounded.

The detective work is meticulous—they don’t just solve a case, they reconstruct lives, piece together old evidence, and connect dots that seemed impossible to link. There’s suspense, heartbreak, and sometimes even redemption, and I get emotionally wrapped up in every detail. The storytelling, with flashbacks and period music, makes each episode like a mini-time capsule that pulls me in completely.

Favorite Characters:

1. Nick Vera — He has a rough exterior, but you see how he connects to some cases. He’s smart, determined, sometimes says it like it is, and has this grounded, reliable energy that makes him feel real and human.

Victim with the Most Impactful Episode:

Hands-down, the episode that will always stick with me is Saving Patrick Bubbly (Season 3, Episode 6). It follows a struggling family who loses child after child, and no one knows why. Each brother, as they are dying, utters the same phrase, and it’s heartbreaking because the police doesn’t understand what they were fighting for. The title comes from the mother’s plea to save her last surviving son after losing all her others. The way this episode focuses on the victims—their humanity, their suffering—really connects the series to me in a way that no villain-focused episode could. I think that is why, I like this show; it’s not about the killer it is about justice.

4. Criminal Minds

What Sets It Apart:

I love Criminal Minds because it’s all about diving into the minds of criminals—the psychological aspect of crime is what hooks me. It’s not just about catching someone; it’s about understanding why they did what they did. Watching the team profile suspects, piece together patterns, and anticipate moves is so thrilling.

The show’s pacing keeps me on edge, and I love how each character brings something unique to the table. The blend of intense case work, emotional moments, and team dynamics makes every episode gripping. What really pulls me in is how the team balances intellect with empathy—they’re brilliant at what they do, but they also care deeply about the victims and each other.

Favorite Characters:

1. Derek Morgan — He’s my favorite because he’s such a perfect balance. He has all this expertise and intelligence, but you also see the guy who can go through a door and handle the physical stuff when it counts. I love his big-brother dynamic with Penelope and Reid—it adds so much warmth to the show and makes him feel real and human.

Remorseful killer

William Taylor — He’s a remorseful killer, traumatized by the death of his daughter. His grief drives him to continue looking for her, and it ultimately leads him to commit murder. I found this episode fascinating because it shows how deep emotional trauma can twist someone’s morality, making you feel conflicted about the villain while still understanding the human pain behind their actions.

5. Ghost Whisperer

I love Ghost Whisperer because it blends the supernatural with emotional storytelling in a way that really pulls me in. The idea of spirits stuck between worlds and having someone like Melinda help them find peace is both heartbreaking and uplifting. What draws me in the most is how Melinda can feel the pain of the spirits, and how her dreams are riddled with their experiences. You can feel her carrying their weight, their regrets, their hopes, and it makes every story hit so much harder.

Every episode has a story that’s self-contained, but also adds to the ongoing journey of the characters. You’re not just watching ghosts; you’re watching human pain, regret, and hope unfold. The mysteries aren’t just about solving a case—they’re about closure, understanding, and deep human connection.

Favorite Characters:

1. Eli James — He’s my favorite because of his silliness and loyalty to Melinda. He brings humor, heart, and this grounding presence to the show that makes the emotional moments hit even harder.

6. White Collar

What Sets It Apart:

I love White Collar because it’s slick, smart, and endlessly charming. The way Neal Caffrey uses his expertise in art, forgery, and cons to help catch criminals is just addictive to watch. I love the clever schemes, the elegant heists, and how every episode keeps you guessing—sometimes you think you know what’s coming, but Neal always finds a way to surprise you.

What really draws me in is the relationship between Neal and Peter Burke. Their dynamic—trust, tension, and genuine respect—is the heartbeat of the series. I love how the show balances the high-stakes cons with these human, emotional moments. And honestly, the smooth, stylish vibe of the show, combined with clever plots, just keeps me hooked every time.

Favorite Characters:

1. Neal Caffrey — He’s my favorite because he’s brilliant, charming, and always two steps ahead. I love how he’s both lucky and unlucky—his girlfriend dying, escaping prison, and then landing in situations where he can barely get by, yet somehow he finds ways to survive. The way he quickly finds a wardrobe and a place to live thanks to a widow shows both his cleverness and the unexpected breaks in his life that shape him.

7. Naruto

What Sets It Apart:

I love Naruto, even though it’s a new show for me, it quickly made it onto my list. I’m currently watching Naruto Shippuden, and if I hadn’t been watching it yet, it would already be included in this ranking. What draws me in the most is that Naruto starts off as a ray of sunshine after living an isolated life as an orphan, with people avoiding him on orders. Despite all that, he grows, makes friends, and somehow brings people to his side.

Over time, Naruto becomes one of the strongest ninja, and he continues to protect his friends and his village—even when, at the beginning, they hated him. He gains recognition for his efforts and heart, which makes his journey feel so rewarding. I also love that Naruto has an opposite representation in Sasuke—someone who also lost their family but stays moody and withdrawn. I hated how everyone loved Sasuke and initially hated Naruto, which made me root even harder for Naruto to be seen for who he truly is.

The series is more than just ninja battles—it’s about growth, friendship, and overcoming impossible odds. I love how it blends emotion with action, and how every victory or loss feels deeply personal. The world-building—the villages, techniques, and lore—makes the universe feel alive and immersive.

Favorite Characters:

1. Naruto Uzumaki — He’s my favorite because of his relentless determination, optimism, and heart. Even when everyone doubts him, he pushes forward, and that never-give-up attitude is infectious.

• Most Intriguing Villain: Itachi Uchiha — He’s my favorite villain because of his depth, tragic story, and the way he challenges Naruto and the others. I love that he knows just how powerful he is, and he wields that knowledge with precision and calm—it makes him both terrifying and fascinating to watch.

8. Case Closed/Detective Conan

What Sets It Apart:

I love Case Closed because of the way it blends clever detective work with suspense and mystery. What really draws me in is how the cases are intricate, and every little clue matters. I’m always trying to solve the crime alongside Conan, and the thrill of putting the pieces together is addictive.

I also love the attention to detail in the characters’ appearances—the younger and older versions of people look so similar that you genuinely believe they’re the same person grown up. It’s a small touch, but it makes the series feel so real and immersive.

Favorite Characters:

1. Conan Edogawa / Shinichi Kudo — I love him because even when he shrinks, his drive to solve crimes never changes. Watching him adapt, think critically, and continue solving mysteries despite his new limitations is amazing. I also love that the doctor has to keep inventing new gadgets so Conan can keep doing what he does best—it’s clever and fun.

• Favorite Crime / Episode:

The crime that stands out the most to me is the one where the killer uses a block of ice and a knife in a locked room. I loved how the mechanics of the crime were so intricate, and how Conan had to unravel every detail to catch the culprit. This show is even more special to me because it was my first anime, which makes it feel nostalgic and foundational in my love for storytelling and mysteries.

• Villain with the Most Interesting Episode:

The Phantom Kid — I love this villain because of the cleverness and mischief behind their crimes. The Phantom Kid constantly rivals Jimmy, and they both know it. What makes the character even more intriguing is that they know Conan’s identity, adding another layer of tension and challenge. Trying to predict The Phantom Kid’s next move keeps every encounter thrilling.

9. Rizzoli & Isles

What Sets It Apart:

I love Rizzoli & Isles because of the balance between intense detective work and personal dynamics. The show blends gritty crime-solving with the kind of humor, friendship, and loyalty that keeps me invested. Every episode makes me feel like I’m right there with the team, piecing together clues and watching them navigate their complicated cases.

What really draws me in is the chemistry between Jane Rizzoli and Maura Isles. Jane’s tough, street-smart approach paired with Maura’s analytical, precise intelligence makes them opposites, and that contrast is what I love most. They challenge each other, support each other, and somehow complement each other perfectly.

Favorite Characters:

1. Jane Rizzoli — I love her because she’s tough, witty, and unafraid to confront danger head-on. Her dedication to justice and the people she cares about makes her unforgettable. She also has this warm, traditional Italian family that embraces Maura as an adoptive daughter, which adds another layer of heart to their dynamic.

2. Maura Isles — I love her precision, intelligence, and calm presence. She’s analytical and methodical, and watching her solve puzzles in her own way always draws me in. Maura has a cold relationship with her own family, who are all smart and distant, so the way Jane’s family treats her like one of their own makes her story feel even more touching.

10. Law & Order SVU

What Sets It Apart:

I love Law & Order: SVU because it dives deep into emotionally complex and morally challenging crimes, specifically sex crimes. The show doesn’t shy away from difficult subject matter, and I appreciate how it balances the investigation process with the human stories behind the victims, perpetrators, and detectives. Every episode keeps me engaged—not just because of the mystery, but because of the emotional weight carried by everyone involved.

The series also stands out for its consistency and attention to detail. Each case feels grounded, and the way detectives navigate evidence, interviews, and courtroom drama makes the investigation feel realistic and compelling.

Favorite Characters:

John Munch — I love Munch because of his dry wit, intelligence, and unwavering dedication to justice. He’s a conspiracy nut, which makes his personality even more entertaining, and together with Tutuola, they bring moments of humor to otherwise tough cases without degrading the victims. Sometimes their banter even highlights the absurdity or immorality of the criminals, which I love.

2. Odafin “Fin” Tutuola — I love Tutuola for his street-smart instincts, loyalty, and practicality. He complements Munch perfectly, and their dynamic adds humor and levity to some of the most intense investigations.

Part 001 : Favorite Series 

And that’s just the first batch of my top 50 shows! Even this small slice shows how much variety I love—from clever detective work and psychological twists to humor, heart, and even a touch of the supernatural. Each of these series has left a mark on me in different ways, whether it’s a character I relate to, a villain who shook me, or a case that kept me guessing until the very end.

I hope this gives you a glimpse into what makes these shows special to me, and maybe even inspires you to check one—or a few—out for yourself. Stay tuned for the next part, where I’ll share even more of the series that have captured my attention, challenged my thinking, and kept me glued to the screen.

Until then, happy watching!