2025 was a remarkable year for television, delivering engaging shows that fueled conversations and captivated audiences.
Topics covered
The television landscape in 2025 was a vibrant tapestry woven with memorable series, viral sensations, and national dialogues. From thrilling narratives that captivated viewers to humorous moments that resonated widely, this year left an indelible mark on audiences. Here, we delve into some of the standout shows that defined the year.
Revolutionary narratives: Severance and The White Lotus
As 2025 commenced, audiences were reintroduced to the chilling world of Severance, the acclaimed dystopian thriller on Apple TV. This series follows Mark (played by Adam Scott) and his colleagues, who have undergone a radical procedure to separate their professional and personal memories.
The second season picked up from a gripping cliffhanger, revealing that Mark’s presumed deceased wife, Gemma, is indeed alive, further unraveling the layers of conspiracy surrounding Lumon, the corporation at the heart of the story. Under the direction of actor Ben Stiller, the show garnered an impressive 27 Emmy nominations, ultimately winning eight awards.
In stark contrast to the sterile office environments of Severance, The White Lotus transported viewers to the idyllic landscapes of Thailand. Created by Mike White, the series returned for its third season, featuring a new ensemble of guests and staff at the luxurious resort. The narrative intricately explored themes of spirituality versus materialism, juxtaposing moments of tranquility with chaos and tragedy. The cast included notable names such as Aimee Lou Wood from Sex Education and Jason Isaacs from Harry Potter. This season managed to secure six Golden Globe nominations alongside 23 Emmy nominations, highlighting its cultural impact.
Provocative storytelling: Adolescence and The Summer I Turned Pretty
Another standout series, Adolescence, co-created by the talented Stephen Graham, emerged as a significant contender at the Emmy Awards. Following the story of 13-year-old Jamie, portrayed by Owen Cooper, who is arrested on suspicion of murder, the four-part series delves into the complexities of youth and societal issues. Jamie’s father, Eddie Miller, played by Graham, accompanies him during police interrogations, uncovering the shocking allegations against his son. The show sparked national discourse around the troubling phenomenon of incel culture, leading to a parliamentary meeting initiated by Labour MP Josh MacAlister, where Graham and co-creator Jack Thorne discussed online safety and the implications of their narrative.
On a lighter note, The Summer I Turned Pretty captured the hearts of a generation, resonating with viewers in their 20s and 30s. Adapted from Jenny Han’s beloved YA novels, this coming-of-age series chronicles Isabel “Belly” Conklin’s journey through adolescence, love triangles, and emotional growth. The series’ soundtrack, featuring catchy pop hits primarily from Taylor Swift, amplified the nostalgia and provided a backdrop for the emotional depth of the characters. The final season, which tackled Belly’s internal struggles, attracted a staggering 25 million viewers in its debut week and became the top show on streaming platforms across over 120 countries.
Reality and fantasy collide: The Celebrity Traitors and Stranger Things
In the realm of reality TV, The Celebrity Traitors marked a successful spin-off of the beloved BBC series. Hosted by Claudia Winkleman, this gripping game of deception and strategy saw celebrities compete in a scenic Scottish setting. Contestants included notable figures such as Sir Stephen Fry and Olympian Tom Daley, all vying to uncover the traitors among them. The show captivated audiences, achieving over six million viewers at its launch and culminating in a thrilling finale that drew an average of 11.1 million viewers, peaking at 12 million.
Meanwhile, the long-awaited conclusion of Stranger Things brought fans back to the eerie yet nostalgic atmosphere of Hawkins. Created by Matt and Ross Duffer, this iconic series returned for its fifth and final season, continuing the saga of Eleven and her friends as they confront the remnants of their past. The series has evolved since its debut in 2016, with the fourth season introducing the terrifying villain Vecna, whose influence has left lasting scars on the town. The finale, divided into three volumes, promises to deliver a thrilling conclusion as the characters face their ultimate challenges.
In summary, 2025 was a year rich with television offerings that not only entertained but also ignited conversations across the nation. From the dystopian intrigue of Severance to the heartwarming tales in The Summer I Turned Pretty, the variety and depth of storytelling showcased the power of television in shaping cultural narratives.
