Top Netflix Original TV Shows of 2025: Hits and Misses
In 2025, Netflix expanded its array of original programming with new comedies, dramas, docuseries, and animated shows. This year, several titles stood out as major successes, while others did not resonate well with audiences or critics.
Top Netflix Original TV Shows of 2025: Hits and Misses
With over 300 million subscribers, Netflix continues to produce a diverse range of content. Critics from various platforms have evaluated the latest offerings, highlighting top-rated series and those that fell short of expectations. Below is a summary of the best and worst Netflix shows of 2025, based on critic scores from Rotten Tomatoes.
Best Shows of 2025
- Long Story Short
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 100%
Summary: Three Jewish siblings navigate adulthood while reflecting on their upbringing. Created by Raphael Bob-Waksberg, this animated series has been praised for its humor and heartfelt storytelling. - Forever
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 97%
Summary: A thoughtful adaptation of a Judy Blume novel focusing on the reunion of childhood friends experiencing first love. - Devil May Cry
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 96%
Summary: Based on the video game, this animated series follows demon hunter Dante as he seeks revenge for his family. - Death by Lightning
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 91%
Summary: This historical drama portrays the lives of President James Garfield and his assassin, offering a powerful narrative led by notable actors. - House of Guinness
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 90%
Summary: Set in 1860s Ireland, the series depicts the power struggles among the children of Sir Benjamin Lee Guinness after his passing. - Boots
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 90%
Summary: A dramedy based on a memoir that explores a young man’s journey to understand his sexuality while serving in the Marine Corps. - Dept. Q
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88%
Summary: This British crime thriller features a detective returning to work after a tragedy, keeping viewers engaged with its unique tone. - Splinter Cell: Deathwatch
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 86%
Summary: An adaptation of Tom Clancy’s video game series that follows spy Sam Fisher unraveling a conspiracy. - Untamed
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 83%
Summary: A dark drama where a federal agent investigates a murder case in Yosemite National Park, showcasing stunning cinematography. - Running Point
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 79%
Summary: This comedy features Isla Gordon stepping in as an NBA team manager, filled with charm despite its mixed reviews.
Worst Shows of 2025
- With Love, Meghan
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 27%
Summary: A lifestyle show featuring Meghan Markle offering tips and recipes, criticized for its shallowness. - Billionaires’ Bunker
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 33%
Summary: This dystopian soap opera follows billionaires in a bunker during a nuclear crisis but fails to deliver on its premise. - Ransom Canyon
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 45%
Summary: A Western romance that drew comparisons to better dramas but fell flat for critics. - Bet
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 67%
Summary: Adapted from a manga, this show about teenagers and gambling struggled to engage viewers deeply. - WWE Unreal
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 67%
Summary: A documentary series on professional wrestling that many found lacking in depth and originality.
As Netflix continues to evolve, the mixed reception of its latest series highlights the challenges of captivating a diverse audience. With a commitment to exploring new stories, the streaming giant aims to enrich its lineup with future releases. Stay tuned for updates on what hits and misses will define the coming years in Netflix’s original programming.
