NYT best-TV-of-the-century list sparks snub arguments
2 days · 26 September 2026 to 28 September 2026
Arguments over the New York Times' ranking of the century's best TV shows have sharpened into specific grievances, particularly over shows excluded on eligibility technicalities versus quality judgments.
Day 1 ·
Widely discussedDebate
NYT best-TV-of-the-century list sparks snub arguments
The New York Times' 100 best TV shows of the 21st century list is generating pushback and validation arguments in equal measure, with The Wire and Breaking Bad's high placement praised while fans and other outlets argue over notable omissions and rankings.
The dominant readingThe list correctly crowns prestige-cable-era shows as the defining television of the century.
The pushbackCritics involved in the list itself note streaming-era, non-linear viewing habits are reshaping what 'best TV' even means for younger audiences, undercutting the premise of a ranked canon.
NYT best-TV-of-century list still sparking snub wars
Arguments over the New York Times' ranking of the century's best TV shows have sharpened into specific grievances, particularly over shows excluded on eligibility technicalities versus quality judgments.
The dominant readingFans argue certain omissions expose the list's criteria as arbitrary rather than reflective of actual cultural impact.
The pushbackDefenders of the list note eligibility cutoffs are disclosed rules, not oversights, and that ranking exercises inherently invite this kind of relitigation.
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