History's Best Selling TV Shows of 2018

At the dawn of the new millennium, 2018 saw a swell surge of Y2K fever and early digital revolution in the world of tv! Leading the charge were mighty, top-selling marvels like Barry and Succession, capturing the public’s fancy in grand fashion. Distinguished creators from industry leaders like Alec Berg and Jesse Armstrong proved their mettle with essential classics, delivering craftsmanship that dominated airwaves and playground buzz alike. Step right up and inspect our complete, rank-ordered historical archive below!

1. Barry

   Released in 2018 by Alec Berg, Bill Hader, HBO

   On March 25, 2018, HBO premiered a series that would deftly blur the lines between comedy and tragedy, marking a significant moment in television. The debut of 'Barry' introduced audiences to a wholly unique concept: a depressed, midwestern hitman who finds a new passion in a Los Angeles acting class. The date represents a pivotal career turn for star Bill Hader, who, after years as a beloved 'Saturday Night Live' cast member, revealed himself as a formidable dramatic actor, writer, and director. The premiere set the stage for a show that would become a critical darling, earning numerous awards and acclaim for its complex narrative, tonal shifts, and profound exploration of trauma, identity, and the elusive nature of redemption.

2. Succession

   Released in 2018 by Jesse Armstrong, HBO

   On June 3, 2018, HBO premiered "Succession," a satirical black comedy-drama that would soon become a cultural touchstone. The pilot episode, "Celebration," introduced viewers to the opulent and toxic world of the Roy family, owners of the global media conglomerate Waystar RoyCo. On the occasion of patriarch Logan Roy's 80th birthday, the episode immediately establishes the series' central conflict: the Machiavellian struggle among his children for control of the family empire. The premiere set the stage for a critically acclaimed four-season run, lauded for its sharp writing, complex characters, and biting critique of wealth and power, arriving at a time of heightened public discourse about corporate dynasties and media influence.