Home Box Office (HBO), the oldest continuously operating pay television service in the United States, has evolved from screening theatrical films and specials into a powerhouse of acclaimed original series. As a seasoned TV enthusiast with years of diving into premium content, I've curated this list of 12 standout HBO shows that have defined television excellence, blending critical acclaim, cultural impact, and gripping storytelling.
From comedies to dramas, these series have earned widespread praise. All are available with an HBO subscription (via HBO Max, formerly HBO Go or HBO Now—HBO NOW vs. HBO GO: What are the key differences?). Many older seasons are also on Amazon Prime Video, with full seasons purchasable on Amazon and iTunes.
56 episodes in five seasons
This gripping period crime drama unfolds in Prohibition-era Atlantic City, New Jersey. Adapted from Nelson Johnson's Boardwalk Empire: The Birth, High Times, and Corruption of Atlantic City, it stars Steve Buscemi as Enoch "Nucky" Thompson, inspired by the real-life Enoch L. Johnson. The corrupt treasurer navigates a world of mobsters, politicians, and agents, with standout performances from Kelly Macdonald, Michael Shannon, and Shea Whigham.
All 56 episodes stream on HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video.
90 episodes in nine seasons
Seinfeld co-creator Larry David stars as a heightened version of himself in this improvised comedy gem. After eight seasons, it returned in 2017 with Jeff Garlin, Cheryl Hines, Susie Essman, and J.B. Smoove delivering endless awkward hilarity.
Stream seasons 1-9 on HBO Max; earlier seasons also on Amazon Prime Video.
73 episodes in eight seasons
George R.R. Martin's epic fantasy saga captivated the world with its sprawling tale of power struggles across Westeros and Essos. Featuring Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Lena Headey, Emilia Clarke, Peter Dinklage, and more, its innovative storytelling and visuals redefined TV. Even as a non-fantasy fan, it's my all-time favorite—leaving a void filled by shows like The 11 Best Shows to Fill the Game of Thrones Gap.
Stream exclusively on HBO Max.
90 episodes in six seasons
HBO's early original hit satirizes late-night TV behind the scenes, with Garry Shandling as Larry Sanders, alongside Jeffrey Tambor, Rip Torn, and Janeane Garofalo. Born from Shandling's stand-up and prior shows, it's a comedy milestone.
All episodes on HBO Max.
56 episodes in six seasons
This raw prison drama inside Oswald State Correctional Facility tackles drugs, violence, and conflicts unflinchingly, starring Kirk Acevedo, Christopher Meloni, and Rita Moreno.
Stream on HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video.
94 episodes in six seasons
Sarah Jessica Parker, Kim Cattrall, Kristin Davis, and Cynthia Nixon navigate love and life in NYC, adapting Candace Bushnell's book. It spawned films and The Carrie Diaries, exploring modern relationships boldly.
Available on HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video.
44 episodes in six seasons
Mike Judge's tech satire follows Pied Piper's founders (Thomas Middleditch, Martin Starr, Kumail Nanjiani, et al.) through startup chaos. A must for tech lovers; try 8 Similar Shows on Netflix.
Stream on HBO Max.
63 episodes in five seasons
Alan Ball's profound drama in a LA funeral home stars Peter Krause, Michael C. Hall, and more, pondering death with dark humor. It boasts nine Emmys and more.
On HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video.
86 episodes in six seasons
David Chase's landmark mob saga centers James Gandolfini as Tony Soprano, with Edie Falco and others. Cable's first Outstanding Drama Emmy winner.
Stream on HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video.
65 episodes in seven seasons
Julia Louis-Dreyfus shines as VP Selina Meyer in Armando Iannucci's biting satire, with Anna Chlumsky and Tony Hale. 17 Emmys strong.
Full series on HBO Max; seasons 1-2 on Amazon Prime Video.
36 episodes in four seasons
Jonathan Nolan's sci-fi update on the 1973 film features Evan Rachel Wood and Thandie Newton in an android theme park thriller.
Exclusively on HBO Max.
60 episodes in five seasons
David Simon's Baltimore masterpiece dissects institutions, drugs, and urban life with authentic casting.
All seasons on HBO Max and Amazon Prime Video.
For top-tier TV, HBO delivers. Check 15 Best HBO Shows That Make It Worth It for more.
