The longest day of the year has come and gone and summer is finally upon us. It is hard to believe but we are already halfway through 2025 and Christmas will be here before you know it.
As we approach the second part of the year, it might be the perfect time to take stock and reflect on the TV shows that have come and gone already. From streaming smash hits to some underseen gems, there are plenty you could still add to your watchlist.
We’ve pulled together this list based on the overall ‘Tomatometre’ score from critics on Rotten Tomatoes - as well as my personal recommendations at the end, as a TV reporter and writer.
Where possible we will try to include where it is possible to watch the shows as well in the UK.
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19. Adolescence - our pick
A list of best shows in 2025 would be remiss without a mention for Netflix’s Adolescence. A monumental work of filmmaking and storytelling. I’ve watched it through twice and it is even more devastating the second time around. The four part series is available to watch on Netflix. | Netflix Photo: Netflix
20. Race Across the World series 5 - our pick
This is like comfort TV for me, but Race Across the World served up another wonderful series. I’m sure everyone who watched fell in love with the teams - from Brian and Melvyn’s wonderful relationship as brothers, to Caroline and Tom’s bonding. It is available to watch on BBC iPlayer. | BBC Photo: BBC
21. Adults - our pick
Perhaps the most fun I've had watching TV in a long time - Adults has been compared to Friends, but that is a bit misleading. It has that dark, sardonic edge of Seinfeld and It's Always Sunny, while also being full of heart. It is available on Disney Plus in the UK! | Disney Plus/ FX Photo: Disney Plus/ FX
22. The White Lotus series 3 - our pick
I will start with the caveat that I haven't actually watched the first two seasons, but I really enjoyed the weekly ritual of watching The White Lotus. It kept me guessing and I was enthralled by many of the storylines - even though I think the ending was slightly whiffed. It is available via Sky Atlantic/ Now TV in the UK. | HBO Photo: HBO