8 TV Shows That Only Get Better the Longer You Watch Them

Unfortunately, thanks to too many TV shows that shamelessly drag on for several seasons longer than they need to, many people believe that the longer a show goes on, the worse its quality becomes. When you look at some shows like ABC's Grey's Anatomy, it's hard to disagree.

However, over the years there have been some rare gems thrown into the mix. These shows are not only as good as they were in the beginning, but they get better the longer you watch them. Here are 8 that fans couldn't get enough of.

Breaking Bad ( 2008-2013)

One of the most classic choices, which doesn't make it any less valid. The show may be a little hard to get into, but the longer you watch, the more invested you become in the story, and the more devastated you are when the finale arrives.

What's even better is that Breaking Bad holds up over the years, and many fans believe that the show gets even better the second time you watch it after a break. So maybe this is your cue to find your way back to the classics.

Derry Girls ( 2018-2022)

Sadly, the show only lasted three seasons, but each was better than the last. Starting strong from the pilot, Derry Girls manages to cover the years of The Troubles, a conflict in Northern Ireland that lasted for about 30 years, with ease and humor through the eyes of a group of teenage girls.

If you are willing to turn on the titles and have the time of your life while giggling at what may seem like a young adult show, Derry Girls is a perfect choice.

Justified ( 2010-2015)

Before viewers were blessed with Yellowstone, there was another neo-western that stole everyone's hearts, and that was Justified. The show lasted for 6 seasons and ended on its own terms, which allowed it to maintain its quality.

The story of Raylan Givens, a US Deputy Marshal who returns to his hometown to make sure justice is served in any way he sees fit, was well thought out from beginning to end.

Schitt’s Creek (2015-2020)

Another great sitcom that had a rough start but managed to get everyone on board is Schitt's Creek.

Created by Dan Levy and his father, Eugene Levy, the show follows a rich and extravagant family that finds itself broke and forced to move to a small town that the father happens to own. The show is absolutely hilarious and only gets better as you get to know and explore the characters.

Parks and Recreation ( 2009-2015)

This Office-like show has managed to gain a lot of fans, but it hasn't been a smooth ride. While Parks and Recreation ended up being just as iconic and had just as many fans, the first season of a sitcom can't even compare to what's to come.

This is the true definition of 'trust the process' and a clear example of why canceling shows after only one season is a mistake.

The Wire (2002-2008)

Another classic that too many people know about, but not too many get into. HBO's dynamic and intense series will make you think you love some characters and then make you hate them with great passion.

Thanks to the constant change and all the twists and turns in the writing, The Wire hasn't become boring and predictable, and has ended at the right time without the producers trying to make more money off of it. Maybe that is why it remains one of HBO's best shows to date.

Fringe (2008-2013)

Many people believe that the sci-fi genre is very difficult to sustain as a TV show. The longer you keep the intrigue going, the more intense it gets for the viewer, but it can also get too confusing to stay engaged with the show. Fringe, however, managed to fix this by taking an unusual approach.

Following Agent Olivia Dunham, Dr. Walter Bishop and his son Peter, all part of the Fringe Division, the show works as a procedural drama, slowly introducing the viewer to all aspects of fringe science.

The Shield (2002-2008)

Though audiences have grown tired of police procedurals and crime dramas, this show isn't the one to pander to the genre.

Instead of painting a pretty picture, The Shield wasn't afraid to portray the system with all the problems it faces, including corruption, lack of funding, and brutality. Even better, all 7 seasons flew by like one, as the show never compromised on its writing or production quality.