Teen dramas have given us everything—messy love triangles, over-the-top scandals, angsty voiceovers, and some of the most unforgettable TV moments ever.
From the golden era of Beverly Hills, 90210 to the social media-fueled chaos of Euphoria, these shows have shaped pop culture and raised an entire generation on melodrama, questionable fashion choices, and soundtracks that still hit hard.
But let’s be honest—not all teen shows are created equal. Whether you’re here for the nostalgia, the drama, or just to see if your favorite made the cut, get ready for a rollercoaster of high school heartbreak, small-town secrets, and way too many slow-motion prom scenes. Let the ranking begin!
25. Boy Meets World
“Boy Meets World” is cherished for its warm portrayal of growing up and the life lessons learned along the way. Centered on Cory Matthews, the series evolves from his middle school days to college years, capturing the essence of friendship, love, and family.
24. My So-Called Life
Angela Chase captures the essence of teen angst in the 90s. Her journey through high school is filled with relatable struggles, making it an instant classic. The show’s short lifespan didn’t hinder its impact on viewers and pop culture.
23. Freaks and Geeks
Set in the 80s, this show follows the lives of high school misfits. It perfectly captures the awkwardness of teenage life, blending humor with heartfelt moments. Despite its short run, it remains a beloved cult classic for many.
22. Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Buffy Summers battles vampires while navigating the complexities of high school. This iconic show blends supernatural elements with real-life issues, making it a favorite among fans. Buffy’s strength and wit make her an unforgettable heroine.
21. Euphoria
This modern hit delves into the chaotic lives of high school students. The show is visually stunning and emotionally charged, tackling issues like addiction and identity. Its bold storytelling and captivating performances make it a standout.
20. Degrassi: The Next Generation
A continuation of the Degrassi franchise, this show tackles real teen issues head-on. Known for its diverse cast and fearless storytelling, it resonates with audiences worldwide. Each character’s journey is relatable and thought-provoking.
19. Veronica Mars
Teen detective Veronica Mars solves mysteries in her hometown, balancing school life with investigative work. Her sharp wit and determination make her a beloved character. The show cleverly mixes mystery with teenage drama.
18. Gilmore Girls
Lorelai and Rory Gilmore’s unique mother-daughter relationship is at the heart of this show. Their witty banter and heartfelt moments make it a timeless favorite. Set in the charming town of Stars Hollow, it’s full of quirky characters and warm stories.
17. Dawson’s Creek
Set in a small town, this show explores the lives and relationships of four friends. Known for its introspective dialogue and emotional depth, it resonates with viewers. The characters’ growth and experiences reflect the complexities of adolescence.
16. The O.C.
This show brings the drama of Orange County teens to life. It blends romance, friendship, and family dynamics in a glamorous setting. The fashion and music became iconic, influencing pop culture and defining a generation.
15. Gossip Girl
In the world of Manhattan’s elite, secrets and scandals are the norm. This stylish show is known for its glamorous fashion and dramatic twists. The anonymous Gossip Girl keeps everyone on their toes, making it an addictive watch.
14. Lizzie McGuire
“Lizzie McGuire” was a defining show for many teens of the early 2000s. It follows the life of Lizzie, a 13-year-old girl trying to find her place in the world. The show’s charm lies in its relatable episodes, where Lizzie often breaks the fourth wall through animated sequences.
13. One Tree Hill
In a small town, basketball brings together a group of teens with diverse backgrounds. The show explores their relationships, dreams, and challenges. Known for its emotional storytelling and memorable characters, it remains a fan favorite.
12. Beverly Hills, 90210
Set in glamorous Beverly Hills, this show follows a group of affluent teens. The drama, fashion, and relationships captivated audiences. It became a cultural phenomenon, influencing teen shows that followed, and remains a nostalgic favorite.
11. Pretty Little Liars
In the mysterious town of Rosewood, four friends are haunted by secrets. The show is full of suspense, drama, and unexpected twists. Fans loved its intricate plot and the ever-elusive ‘A’, keeping them guessing until the end.
10. Teen Wolf
This supernatural drama follows Scott McCall, a teen who becomes a werewolf. Packed with action and romance, the show explores friendship and identity. Its thrilling plot and charismatic characters make it a beloved part of teen television.
9. The Vampire Diaries
In the town of Mystic Falls, vampires and humans coexist, leading to thrilling adventures. The show’s blend of romance, suspense, and supernatural intrigue kept fans hooked. Its complex characters and intense plot twists are unforgettable.
8. Riverdale
This contemporary take on Archie Comics is filled with mystery and intrigue. The show’s unique style and captivating storylines attract viewers. With a mix of romance, suspense, and dark secrets, it’s a modern teen show with a classic twist.
7. 13 Reasons Why
This intense drama addresses sensitive issues faced by teens. Through a series of tapes, it tells the story of a tragic high school experience. The show’s raw portrayal of difficult topics sparked conversations and controversy, making it impactful.
6. The Fosters
This heartwarming series follows a diverse, blended family. It tackles important themes like identity and belonging. The show’s portrayal of family dynamics and social issues resonates with viewers, offering both warmth and thought-provoking moments.
5. Awkward.
High school is awkward, and Jenna Hamilton’s life is a testament to that. The show’s humor and relatable situations make it a fun watch. It cleverly portrays the ups and downs of teenage life with wit and charm.
4. Stranger Things
Enter the mysterious world of Hawkins, Indiana, where supernatural adventures meet heartfelt friendships. ‘Stranger Things’ blends suspense with the trials of growing up.
The nostalgic 80s setting, combined with its compelling storytelling, makes it a modern classic that resonates with audiences of all ages.
3. That ’70s Show
Transport yourself to the groovy era of bell-bottoms and disco balls with ‘That ’70s Show.’ Set in a suburban basement, it captures the essence of teenage camaraderie.
With its memorable characters and cultural references, this series is a lighthearted look at teenage life, wrapped in the stylish flair of the 1970s.
2. Saved by the Bell
Relive the colorful chaos of Bayside High School, where friendships were forged in locker-lined hallways and unforgettable catchphrases ruled the day. This show captures the whimsical essence of high school life in the ’90s.
Whether it’s the iconic fashion or the memorable music, ‘Saved by the Bell’ remains a beloved classic that encapsulates the teenage experience with charm and wit.
1. Glee
Celebrate diversity and the power of music with ‘Glee,’ a show that transformed high school experiences into musical masterpieces. It’s about finding your voice in a world that often silences it.
By blending humor with heartfelt performances, ‘Glee’ encourages viewers to embrace their uniqueness, making it an inspiring and entertaining watch.
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