Top Shows to Watch Right Now: Must-See Series Like The Chi and BMF

June 29, 2025 141 59

Finding your next binge-worthy series can feel overwhelming with countless options across streaming platforms. If you’re searching for compelling storytelling, complex characters, and unforgettable moments, look no further. We’ve curated this definitive list of top shows to watch, highlighting standouts like The Chi and BMF that are captivating audiences with their raw storytelling and cultural impact. From gritty dramas to thrilling crime sagas, these series deliver exceptional television that deserves your attention.

Featured Must-Watch Series

The critically acclaimed drama explores life on Chicago’s South Side

The Chi

4.7

Viewer Rating

Acting

4.7/5

Storytelling

4.6/5

Cultural Impact

4.8/5

Created by Emmy winner Lena Waithe, The Chi offers an authentic, powerful look at life in Chicago’s South Side. The series weaves together the stories of residents navigating love, personal ambitions, and community bonds against a backdrop of systemic challenges.

What makes The Chi stand out is its unflinching portrayal of complex characters facing real-world issues while maintaining hope and humanity. The show tackles topics like community policing, family dynamics, and economic struggles with nuance and authenticity rarely seen on television.

“The Chi brings depth and humanity to characters often reduced to statistics in news headlines, offering one of television’s most honest portrayals of Black life in America.”

– The Atlantic

Now in its sixth season, the series continues to evolve its storytelling while maintaining the emotional core that has made it a critical darling and fan favorite since its 2018 debut.

Watch on Showtime

BMF chronicles the true story of the Flenory brothers’ rise in Detroit

BMF (Black Mafia Family)

4.5

Viewer Rating

Acting

4.5/5

Historical Accuracy

4.4/5

Production Value

4.6/5

Executive produced by Curtis “50 Cent” Jackson, BMF tells the true story of brothers Demetrius “Big Meech” and Terry “Southwest T” Flenory, who rose from the streets of Detroit to build one of America’s most influential crime families in the late 1980s.

The series masterfully balances crime drama elements with a compelling family narrative, exploring how the brothers’ ambitions were shaped by economic circumstances and their desire to transcend their surroundings. What sets BMF apart is its exploration of the cultural impact the Black Mafia Family had beyond their criminal enterprise.

“BMF delivers a gripping crime saga that doesn’t glorify, but rather contextualizes the rise of one of America’s most notorious organizations through the lens of family loyalty and economic survival.”

– Rolling Stone

With meticulous period detail and powerful performances, BMF has quickly established itself as one of the most compelling crime dramas on television, offering insight into a significant chapter of American street culture.

Watch on Starz

Must-Watch Drama Series

Squid Game

Netflix Original
Season 3

The global phenomenon returns with its third season, continuing the story of desperate contestants risking their lives in deadly children’s games. With a 86% critics rating, the new season delivers even more intense social commentary and heart-stopping suspense.

4.3

Watch on Netflix

The Bear

Hulu Original
Season 4

The critically acclaimed culinary drama continues to sizzle in its fourth season, following Chef Carmy and his team as they navigate the high-pressure world of fine dining. With a 92% critics rating, the show’s blend of kitchen intensity and character drama remains unmatched.

4.6

Watch on Hulu

The Last of Us

HBO Original
Season 2

Based on the acclaimed video game, this post-apocalyptic drama follows Joel and Ellie’s journey through a fungal-infected America. With a 94% critics rating, the second season expands on the emotional storytelling and stunning visuals that made the first season a phenomenon.

4.7

Watch on HBO Max

Top Crime and Thriller Series

Dept. Q

Netflix Original
87% Rating

This gripping crime drama stars Matthew Goode as Carl Morck, a tormented Edinburgh detective heading a cold case unit. With its brooding Nordic noir influence and gothic Edinburgh backdrop, the series delivers complex mysteries and psychological depth.

4.4

Watch on Netflix

Smoke

Apple TV+ Original
71% Rating

Starring Taron Egerton as Dave Gudsen, this intense thriller follows a respected fire investigator hunting serial arsonists. When paired with detective Jurnee Smollett, the investigation reveals disturbing connections between Gudsen and the fires he’s investigating.

4.1

Watch on Apple TV+

Poker Face

Peacock Original
97% Rating

This modern take on the classic detective formula stars Natasha Lyonne as Charlie Cale, a woman with an uncanny ability to tell when someone is lying. Each episode presents a new mystery in different locations as Charlie solves crimes while on the run.

4.5

Watch on Peacock

Best Sci-Fi and Fantasy Series

Andor

Disney+ Original
96% Rating

Set in the Star Wars universe, this gripping thriller follows Cassian Andor’s journey from thief to revolutionary. With its mature storytelling, political intrigue, and exceptional production values, Andor has been hailed as one of the best Star Wars productions ever.

4.8

Watch on Disney+

Murderbot

Apple TV+ Original
97% Rating

Based on Martha Wells’ award-winning novellas, this sci-fi series follows a rogue security android who hacks its programming to gain independence. Despite its name, Murderbot would rather watch entertainment feeds than interact with humans—until it’s forced to protect them.

4.7

Watch on Apple TV+

Ironheart

Disney+ Original
73% Rating

Following her introduction in Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, genius inventor Riri Williams takes center stage in this Marvel series. With her self-made high-tech suit, Riri navigates college life while confronting threats that test her ingenuity and courage.

4.0

Watch on Disney+

Why These Shows Deserve Your Time

Multiple top shows to watch displayed on various streaming devices

Cultural Relevance: Shows like The Chi and BMF offer authentic perspectives on important social issues while delivering compelling entertainment.
Critical Acclaim: Our selections have earned recognition from critics and audiences alike, with many receiving prestigious awards.
Production Quality: From cinematography to acting performances, these series represent the highest standards in television production.
Diverse Storytelling: These shows span various genres and perspectives, ensuring there’s something for every viewer’s taste.
Binge-Worthy: With multiple seasons available for many selections, these shows provide hours of engaging content.

Find Your Next Favorite Show

With so many quality options available across streaming platforms, there’s never been a better time to discover new series. Start with The Chi and BMF for powerful storytelling that reflects contemporary American experiences, then explore our other recommendations based on your preferred genres.

Find Where to Stream

Final Thoughts on Today’s Top Shows

The current television landscape offers unprecedented quality and diversity in storytelling. From the authentic neighborhood narratives of The Chi to the ambitious rise portrayed in BMF, today’s series tackle complex themes while delivering exceptional entertainment. Whether you’re drawn to gritty dramas, mind-bending sci-fi, or intense thrillers, the shows on this list represent the best of what modern television has to offer.

As streaming platforms continue to invest in original content, viewers benefit from an ever-expanding selection of top-tier programming. The shows highlighted here not only entertain but also challenge perspectives, spark conversations, and showcase diverse voices in the television industry. Start with our featured recommendations and discover why these series have captured the attention of critics and audiences worldwide.