In addition to several other accolades in cinema, the 2010s is well renowned for the classic era of teen drama series that saw filmmakers shift attention to the Gen Zs. At the beginning of the decade, a new golden age of television emerged. In an effort to retain people on their networks or binge-viewing on their streaming platforms, studios started developing more high-concept teen television series. Their quality improved as their budgets grew, becoming more visually appealing.
Teen television eventually received the critical recognition it had been missing in the late-90s to 2000s. This shift also led to the introduction of novel themes and topics being explored on television in a broader context like never before, with young characters navigating teenage years, high school, and the tumultuous sea of young adulthood.
These shows were made with a younger demographic who were just witnessing the boom of social media and changing culture and volatile politics. From Gossip Girl to The Vampire Diaries, these shows continue to age like fine wine.Tthey remain in leagues of their own, and continue to influence conversations in pop culture. Future teen drama shows must build their excellence upon these titles, whether it's with compelling characters, engaging storylines, thrilling plots, and overall relatability to the teenage experience. Here are 17 of the best teen drama TV series that aired in the 2010s.
17 Friday Night Lights (2006-2011)
Friday Night Lights is based on the book and film of the same name, and centers around the Dillon Panthers, the local high school football team, and their coach, Eric Taylor. Each season, the sports drama explores the struggles and triumphs of the team as they work towards winning the state championship. However, the show is not just about football, but also the personal lives of the characters. Throughout the series, the show tackles a wide range of social and political issues, including racism, poverty, alcoholism, and teen pregnancy. It also explores the themes of family, community, and the American dream.
Friday Night Lights was praised for its blunt portrayal of small-town life in America, as well as its excellent writing and performances. It won numerous awards, including the Primetime Emmy Award for Outstanding Casting for a Drama Series and the Television Critics Association Award for Outstanding Achievement in Drama. Despite its critical acclaim, the show struggled with low ratings and was canceled after five seasons. However, it remains one of the best TV dramas of all time.
16 13 Reasons Why (2017-2020)
Based on the novel of the same name written by Jay Asher, 13 Reasons Why is as praised as it is criticized. Till today, many believe the show should have ended after one season. However, it is not as terrible as some paint it out to be as the controversial teen drama remains a pioneer of shows that explored heavy topics, including suicide, sexual assault, bullying, and drug abuse, mental health, and suicide. The show begins with the death of Hannah Baker (Katherine Langford), a teenage girl who leaves behind a series of 13 audio tapes explaining why she took her own life. The tapes are sent to the people she believes played a role in her decision, including her classmates and teachers.
Through 13 Reasons Why's main character Clay Jenson (Dylan Minnete) and its ensemble cast, Alisha Boe, Kate Walsh, and more, the show aims to highlight is the impact of suicide on friends and family left behind to deal with the guilt and grief while picking the pieces a shattered heart. It also touches on themes of mental health, the impact of trauma, and the importance of seeking help. Despite the controversy surrounding 13 Reasons Why, it was a commercial success for Netflix. It also received numerous award nominations, including several Primetime Emmy nominations. The show concluded with its fourth and final season in 2020.
15 On My Block (2018-2021)
On My Block follows a group of four teenagers who live in a rough neighborhood in Los Angeles and are starting their freshman year of high school. The four main characters are a diverse group of friends, including: Monse, a headstrong and confident girl who is dealing with her absent mother; Ruby, a bright and nerdy boy who is coping with his trauma; Jamal, a quirky and anxious boy who is obsessed with uncovering a local mystery; and Cesar, a sensitive and conflicted boy who is caught up in a dangerous gang.
The show deals with a range of issues facing young people, including gang violence, poverty, immigration, and the challenges of growing up. It also explores themes of friendship, family, identity, and the complexities of teenage relationships. On My Block has been praised for its authentic portrayal of the experiences of young people from Black and Hispanic communities and its strong writing and performances. It has also been recognized for its commitment to inclusivity and diversity in front of and behind the camera.
14 Riverdale (2016-2023)
Riverdale is loosely based on the characters from Archie Comics and follows a group of high school students in the small town of Riverdale as they investigate the mysteries and secrets of their community. The show features an ensemble cast, including K.J. Apa as Archie Andrews, Lili Reinhart as Betty Cooper, Camila Mendes as Veronica Lodge, and Cole Sprouse as Jughead Jones.
Riverdale is known for its dark and often surreal tone, as well as its use of classic teen drama tropes, such as love triangles, forbidden romances, and high school rivalries. Throughout the series, the characters become embroiled in a number of mysteries and conspiracies, including the mysterious murder of a fellow student and the presence of a dangerous cult in their town.
As Riverdale progressed, the show began to garner criticisms for completely derailing from its original simple themes and going over the top with its melodramatic storytelling, sporadic musicals, and illogical storylines. However, it has remained a classic in teen television with a religious fandom. Despite its forthcoming end this year, Riverdale will be missed.
13 Elite (2018-Present)
Set in an elite private school in Spain, Elite follows the lives of a group of wealthy students who are embroiled in a series of murder mysteries. Throughout the series, the students are caught up in a web of secrets and lies, as they try to uncover the truth about themselves and the events that unfold on campus. The show features several unexpected twists and turns, and its characters are often forced to confront the consequences of their actions.
Elite has been praised for portraying complex and flawed characters who are neither good nor bad. In addition to the successes of Money Heist, Elite has helped to establish Spanish-language shows as a force in global television. The show is known for its steamy romance, intricate plotting, and high-stakes drama. It also explores queer storylines, the impact of privilege on young people and the unfair disparity between social classes.
12 Glee (2009-2016)
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Glee is a musical drama series set at the fictional William McKinley High School in Lima, Ohio and follows the lives of the school's glee club, the New Directions. The show is known for its musical performances, which feature covers of popular songs and elaborate dance numbers. Throughout the series, the members of the New Directions are challenged to overcome their struggles and work together to win competitions and achieve their dreams. The show features several unexpected twists and turns, as well as memorable performances and touching moments. Glee’s impact on pop culture is undeniable as it was among the first teen drama shows that made obvious efforts in promoting acceptance and inclusivity.
11 The Fosters (2013-2018)
The Fosters follows the lives of a blended family headed by two mothers, Stef Adams Foster (Teri Polo) and Lena Adams Foster (Sherri Saum), who are raising a mix of biological, adopted, and foster children.
The show is known for its realistic portrayal of family dynamics and its focus on social issues, including racial and economic inequality, and the foster care system. It also features a number of heartwarming and emotional moments, as well as plenty of drama and plot twists. Throughout the series, the Foster family members navigate the challenges of their relationships and work to create a loving and supportive home for all their children.
During the run of Modern Family and other family-centric shows, The Fosters serving to represent teenagers from non-traditional families was a breath of fresh air.
10 Sex Education (2019-Present)
With a title like Sex Education, you have yourself a fan favorite. This comedy-drama follows a socially awkward boy Otis (Asa Butterfield), who begins giving out sex advice to his schoolmates. Partnering with his crush Maeve (Emma Mackey) and best friend Eric (Ncuti Gatwa) the trio begins running a sex clinic on school grounds.
Just as its title suggests, Sex Education is bold with the exploration and enlightenment of sexual subjects that remain a gray area for teenagers. But despite this, the British show is not only about sex as it does well to incorporate familial and friendship themes in an endearing manner.
9 The End of the F***king World (2017-2019)
With many successful teen shows in its library, it is safe to say Netflix has built itself a mini kingdom within the teen show scene. If truly so, The End of The F***king World is its crown. Nothing like a pair of two misfits on the run from society and themselves. The End of the F***ing World is a British television series created by Charlie Covell, based on the graphic novel of the same name by Charles Forsman.
This criminally underrated gem follows the story of James (played by Alex Lawther), a 17-year-old boy who believes he is a psychopath, and Alyssa (played by Jessica Barden), a rebellious classmate James decides to kill. The two run away together and embark on a road trip, but their plans go awry as they encounter a series of unexpected events and dangerous situations.
The show is known for its dark humor and the blunt approach to coming of age. It was renewed for a second season in 2019, which continued the story of James and Alyssa as they navigate the aftermath of their actions. The second season was well-received, and the show has become a cult favorite among fans of dark comedy and coming-of-age stories.
8 Skins (2007-2014)
Skins follows a group of teenagers in Bristol, England, as they navigate the ups and downs of adolescence. The series is known for its gritty, realistic portrayal of teenage life and its frank depiction of taboo topics. Skins has also been controversial for its explicit content and portrayal of sensitive issues such as eating disorders, self-harm, and suicide. However, the show has also been praised for its honest and empathetic approach to these topics, which has helped to raise awareness and start conversations about important issues affecting young people.
Skins has had a significant cultural impact, with many fans and critics considering it to be one of the defining TV series of its generation. "Skins" has inspired spin-offs, adaptations, and imitations around the world, and it remains a beloved and influential show for many viewers. The show's use of handheld cameras and non-linear storytelling has also been praised for its immersive and dynamic approach to storytelling.
7 One Tree Hill (2006-2012)
Family, brothers, friends and basketball. One Tree Hill is set in the fictional town of Tree Hill, North Carolina, and follows the lives and relationships of two half-brothers, Lucas Scott (Chad Michael Murray) and Nathan Scott (James Lafferty) as their friends and family. The show is known for its strong performances, emotional storytelling, and iconic musical soundtrack.
One Tree Hill features a mix of popular and indie music, with many songs used to highlight pivotal moments in the story or capture the show's mood and atmosphere. Many of the show's characters are athletes, and the series often depicts the physical and emotional challenges of pursuing a career in sports and the importance of teamwork and perseverance.
6 Teen Wolf (2011-2017)
Within the overall genre of teen drama, there is a subset of teen shows that set itself apart from the crowd. These are the supernatural series, and at the forefront of this genre, is MTV’s Teen Wolf. It follows the story of Scott McCall (Tyler Posey), a high school student who is bitten by a werewolf and must learn to navigate his newfound powers while also dealing with various supernatural threats in his town of Beacon Hills.
Throughout its six seasons, Teen Wolf features a diverse ensemble cast of characters, including Scott's best friend Stiles Stilinski (Dylan O'Brien), his love interest Allison Argent (Crystal Reed), and various other werewolves, hunters, and other supernatural beings. The series combines horror, drama, and comedy elements, and it explores themes such as friendship, identity, and acceptance. It is so beloved that, since its finale, fans howled for its revival and, fortunately, their full moon cries were heard by the show runners, leading to the production of the Teen Wolf movie released earlier this year.
5 Stranger Things (2017-Present)
Set in the 1980s in the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, Stranger Things follows a group of friends, including Mike (Finn Wolfhard), Dustin (Gaten Matarazzo), and Lucas (Caleb McLaughlin), as they investigate the disappearance of their friend Will (Noah Schnapp) and encounter supernatural phenomena. Throughout its four seasons, the Netflix series blends elements of horror, science fiction, and coming-of-age drama, exploring themes such as friendship, family, and the dangers of unchecked scientific experimentation. The show also features a talented ensemble cast, including Winona Ryder, David Harbour, and Millie Bobby Brown.
Stranger Things has been praised for its compelling storytelling, nostalgic 80s aesthetic, and its nods to classic films and TV shows like E.T and The Goonies. The show has also been noted for its excellent performances, particularly from its young cast, and its skillful blend of humor, heart, and suspense. It has spawned a range of merchandise, spin-off novels, and a dedicated fan community, and it has helped to define the modern era of streaming television.
4 Euphoria (2019-Present)
HBO’s Euphoria took the world by storm with its debut in 2019. Following the first seasons success, the sophomore season certified Sam Levinson’s teen drama series as a title of within teen show hall of fame and made bonafide stars off its cast, if they weren't already. The show features an ensemble cast, including Zendaya, who stars as Rue Bennett, a 17-year-old struggling with drug addiction and various mental health issues. Other main characters include Jules Vaughn (Hunter Schafer), a transgender teenager exploring her gender identity, and Nate Jacobs (Jacob Elordi), a popular jock struggling with his inner demons and family issues.
Euphoria is renowned for its distinctive cinematography and colorful visual style. Its angelic soundtracks are unmissable. The show's fashion and make-up features have defined Gen-Z aestethics in pop culture and the social-cultural themes the show addresses with its diverse pool of characters are highly relevant.
3 Pretty Little Liars (2010-2017)
Although many reboots and spinoffs of Sara Shepherd’s Pretty Little Liars exist on television, none meet up the original. The show follows a group of teenage girls in the town of Rosewood who are harassed by an anonymous person who goes by the name "A" after their friend Alison goes missing.
As the series progresses, the girls uncover secrets and scandals in their own lives and the lives of those around them. They also try to discover the identity of "A" and figure out what happened to Alison. The show features a cast of young actors, including Troian Bellisario, Ashley Benson, Lucy Hale, Shay Mitchell, and Sasha Pieterse. It was known for its suspenseful storylines, plot twists, and dramatic moments.
2 Gossip Girl (2007-2012)
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Based on the book series of the same name by Cecily von Ziegesar, Gossip Girl follows the lives of a group of wealthy and privileged teenagers living in the Upper East Side of Manhattan as they navigate their relationships, friendships, and family dramas. The show is narrated by a mysterious blogger known as "Gossip Girl," who reveals scandalous secrets and gossip about the characters, causing chaos in their lives.
Gossip Girl became known for its fashion, luxurious settings, and dramatic storylines. It also featured a talented cast, including Blake Lively, Leighton Meester, Penn Badgley, Chace Crawford, and Ed Westwick. Since the show's conclusion, it has gained a cult following and has been cited as a cultural touchstone of the late 2000s and early 2010s. It has also inspired a reboot series on HBO Max, which premiered in 2021, but unfortunately could not hold up to the original's excellence.
1 The Vampire Diaries (2009-2017)
The Vampire Diaries revolves around the relationship between Elena Gilbert and the Salvatore brothers, Stefan and Damon, both of whom fall in love with her. The show explores the complexities of their relationships, as well as the relationships between other characters in the town. The Vampire Diaries delves into the backstory of the characters, including their pasts and how they became vampires or other supernatural creatures. It also features a range of villains and antagonists, including other vampires, werewolves, and witches, who threaten the safety of the town and the lives of the main characters.
Aside from its fictionalized themes, The Vampire Diaries addresses realistic issues that make it a relatable and nuanced portrayal of not only teenage life but young adulthood as we watch the characters physically and emotionally grow over the years. The show is so good, it's served as an excellent foundation for its outperforming spin off The Originals after its finale in 2017.
Throughout its eight seasons, The Vampire Diaries became known for its emotional and dramatic storylines, particularly in its final season, which brought the series to a satisfying conclusion. The show has been praised for its talented cast, strong writing, and intricate mythology, making it a beloved staple of the supernatural genre. The Vampire Diaries is the literal definition of teen drama. Love triangles, betrayals, heartbreak, friendships, family drama, cheerleading, paranormal battles, this CW series has it all.