The mid-2000s marked a pivotal era in television, as cable networks, broadcast giants, and international imports began to redefine the medium. Audiences were no longer confined to traditional sitcoms or procedural dramas. Instead, serialized storytelling, genre experimentation, and personality-driven programming gained prominence. This creative environment allowed for risk-taking that often paid off handsomely.
In 2006, a remarkably diverse range of shows premiered, from prestige dramas and ambitious sci-fi to reality TV juggernauts and youth-oriented comedies. Many of these programs dominated viewer ratings and launched careers, sparking long-running fandoms and influencing the future of television. Now, two decades later, their legacies remain firmly intact.
The Hills: Reality TV’s Last Stand
Often cited as the last true reality TV show, The Hills followed a group of young women navigating careers, friendships, and romance in Los Angeles. As a spin-off of Laguna Beach, it was framed as an unscripted look at aspirational young adulthood, leaning into glossy production values that blurred the line between reality television and scripted drama.
The show’s popularity was undeniable, becoming one of MTV’s highest-rated programs and helping define reality TV’s shift toward lifestyle branding. Lauren Conrad became a household name, while Heidi Montag and Spencer Pratt pioneered the concept of reality personalities as full-time celebrities. The cast of The Hills was among the first to build their public personas through constant media coverage, laying the groundwork for modern influencer business models.
Death Note: Anime’s Mainstream Breakthrough
Based on the manga by Tsugumi Ohba and Takeshi Obata, Death Note tells the story of a teenager who gains the power to kill anyone by writing their name in a supernatural notebook. The series quickly distinguished itself with moral complexity rather than traditional action-driven anime storytelling.
Death Note became a global sensation, inspiring live-action adaptations, films, and stage productions. Its reach extended far beyond anime fandom, and it remains a gateway series for new viewers exploring anime.
Despite ending in 2007, Death Note is frequently cited as one of the greatest anime series ever made, praised for its psychological tension and philosophical themes.
Heroes: Superheroes Before the Marvel Era
Heroes followed ordinary people who discover extraordinary abilities, weaving together multiple storylines across a shared universe. Premiering long before Marvel Studios dominated the superhero landscape, the series was groundbreaking in its scope and serialized approach.
The first season was a success in terms of viewership and critical reception, earning Emmy nominations. The ensemble cast included future stars like Hayden Panettiere and Milo Ventimiglia, both of whom became closely associated with the show’s success. Though later seasons struggled creatively, Heroes remains influential for proving that superhero television could attract mainstream audiences long before the genre became oversaturated.
Hannah Montana: A Pop Culture Phenomenon
There’s no denying that Hannah Montana influenced an entire generation. Centered on a teenage girl living a double life as an ordinary student and a famous pop star, the series blended sitcom humor with musical performance, appealing directly to Disney Channel’s core audience and exploding into global popularity.
Miley Cyrus became an international star, launching a music and acting career that continues today. The show dominated merchandise sales, soundtrack charts, and ratings, becoming one of Disney Channel’s most successful series ever. Hannah Montana transcended its role as kids’ entertainment, defining a generation of youth television and modernizing Disney’s pop-star pipeline beyond The Mickey Mouse Club.
Torchwood: Sci-Fi for Adults
One fantastic UK import for science fiction television was Torchwood. Created as a more adult spin-off of Doctor Who, the show followed a secret organization investigating extraterrestrial threats on Earth, led by Doctor Who character Captain Jack Harkness, played by John Barrowman.
Despite its adult nature limiting crossovers with Doctor Who, the show was a hit in the UK and gained cult status among international sci-fi fans. Its third season, Children of Earth, is often regarded as one of the strongest science fiction miniseries ever made. Torchwood also elevated John Barrowman’s profile and proved that genre spin-offs could successfully target older audiences without losing emotional depth.
Dexter: The Antihero Era
Possibly one of the most popular shows to this day, Dexter focused on a forensic analyst who moonlights as a serial killer targeting other murderers. The concept was controversial, but the execution turned it into one of Showtime’s most successful original series.
Michael C. Hall’s performance earned critical acclaim, including a Golden Globe win, and helped define the era of morally complex TV protagonists.
Despite a divisive finale, the show’s enduring popularity led to revival projects, confirming its long-lasting cultural relevance.
30 Rock: Comedy Behind the Scenes
Created by Tina Fey, 30 Rock offered a behind-the-scenes look at a fictional sketch comedy show heavily influenced by her time on Saturday Night Live. Its rapid-fire jokes, industry satire, and absurd humor set it apart from traditional sitcoms.
The series earned widespread critical acclaim, winning multiple Emmy Awards for Outstanding Comedy Series. It marked a major turning point in Tina Fey’s career as a television creator and showrunner. The global success also significantly expanded Tracy Morgan’s comedic visibility outside of the US. While its ratings were modest, 30 Rock thrived through cultural influence, shaping modern workplace comedies and remaining a benchmark for smart, self-aware television writing.
Ugly Betty: Breaking Barriers
Adapted from a Colombian telenovela, Ugly Betty followed a young woman navigating the cutthroat fashion industry while staying true to herself. The show blended comedy, melodrama, and social commentary.
America Ferrera’s award-winning performance as Betty launched her career, which continues to thrive today. The series was praised for its diversity, positive messaging, and distinctive visual style. Beyond its awards success, Ugly Betty stood out for centering a Latina lead at a time when network television offered few such roles, helping broaden representation in mainstream primetime comedy while maintaining strong ratings throughout its run.
Friday Night Lights: More Than Just Football
Set in a small Texas town, Friday Night Lights explored community, identity, and ambition through the lens of high school football. Though its live ratings fluctuated, the series became one of the most acclaimed and culturally enduring dramas of its era, sustained by critical praise, word-of-mouth, and passionate fan support.
The series earned a Peabody Award and multiple Emmy nominations, known for its realism and emotional depth.
Its influence is lasting and is often cited as one of the greatest TV dramas ever made. The phrase “Clear eyes, full hearts, can’t lose” remains an enduring piece of television culture.
The IT Crowd: A Cult Classic
One British show that you may not be aware of, or only aware of its failed US remake, but is a must-watch if you love silly comedy. The IT Crowd followed socially awkward tech workers navigating office life with absurd humor and exaggerated stereotypes. Though British in origin, it found a devoted audience worldwide.
With its memeable moments and relatable humor, The IT Crowd continues to find new fans, showcasing the timeless appeal of its unique brand of comedy.
As these shows celebrate their 20th anniversaries, their impact on television and culture remains significant. They not only entertained millions but also reshaped genres, launched careers, and set new standards for what television could achieve.
