How ‘The Sopranos’ Influenced the Best TV Shows of the 21st Century
Our poll of the best shows of the 21st century explores how TV built on, and moved on from, one of the last great shows of the 20th.
The Sopranos, which aired from 1999 to 2007, is widely regarded as a groundbreaking series that paved the way for the golden age of television. Its influence can be seen in many of the best shows of the 21st century, which have built upon and evolved the complex characters, moral ambiguity, and serialized storytelling that The Sopranos introduced. By pushing the boundaries of what was acceptable on television, The Sopranos helped create a new landscape for premium cable and streaming services.
The impact of The Sopranos can be seen in shows like Mad Men, Breaking Bad, and Game of Thrones, which have all been cited as successors to its legacy. These shows have continued to explore complex themes and characters, often blurring the lines between good and evil. The Sopranos' influence can also be seen in more recent hits like Succession and The Crown, which have further refined the art of serialized storytelling and character development. As the television industry continues to evolve, it's clear that The Sopranos' influence will be felt for years to come.
As the television landscape continues to shift with the rise of streaming services and changing viewer habits, it's worth watching how future shows will build upon the foundation laid by The Sopranos. Will we see a new wave of complex, serialized dramas that push the boundaries of what is possible on television? Or will the influence of The Sopranos be felt in more subtle ways, as shows continue to evolve and experiment with new formats and storytelling techniques? Whatever the future holds, it's clear that The Sopranos' legacy will remain a significant part of the television landscape.
Originally reported by nytimes.com. NewsSuite adds analysis for general news readers.