10 Best Peacock Original Series Of All Time, Ranked

NBC’s streaming platform, Peacock, has created some of the best original series in the streaming landscape, contributing quality talent and storytelling to television’s hall of fame. Launched in 2020, Peacock has swiftly established itself as a major contender in the competitive streaming market. The platform’s diverse slate of original programming spans multiple genres, captivating viewers with its exceptional storytelling and remarkable performances from renowned actors. Whether it’s the gritty realism of crime dramas, the witty humor of comedic gems, or the nostalgic charm of revived classics, Peacock has consistently delivered standout series that have garnered critical acclaim.

With Peacock currently streaming some of the best TV shows, the platform’s unwavering commitment to nurturing creative talents and bringing innovative narratives to the screen has struck a chord with audiences craving fresh, thought-provoking content. From psychological thrillers keeping audiences on edge to heartwarming family dramedies, Peacock’s original offerings showcase a remarkable range. The service’s ability to curate a compelling lineup of must-watch shows has solidified its reputation as a hub for quality television and a force to be reckoned with in the streaming arena.

10 Bupkis (2023)

Genuine Acting Makes The Character’s Struggles And Triumphs Feel Genuine

Bupkis showcases Pete Davidson’s unique ability to draw from his personal experiences and craft a compelling, semi-autobiographical narrative that resonates with viewers. The series offers a refreshing yet fictionalized take on the comedian’s life in Staten Island. Davidson’s performance, alongside Bupkis’ stellar cast, including Edie Falco and Joe Pesci, brings depth and authenticity to the characters.

The show’s meta approach and celebrity cameos add an extra layer of entertainment while never overshadowing the heart of the story. Bupkis displays Davidson’s growth as a storyteller, making it one of Peacock’s more engaging and memorable original series. The series was so popular that Peacock renewed it for a second season. However, Pete Davidson decided he didn’t want to return for a second season, so he chose to end the show on his terms and finished with only eight episodes.

9 Killing It (2022-)

An Exploration Of The Lengths People Will Go To In Pursuit Of The American Dream

Killing It is a Peacock original comedy series starring Craig Robinson. Created by Luke Del Tredici and Dan Goor, Killing It centers on Robinson’s character, Craig Foster, an entrepreneur who enters the Florida Python Challenge. The series premiered on the streaming service in March 2022 and was renewed for a second season a few months later in June.

Cast

Craig Robinson , Claudia O’Doherty , Rell Battle , Scott MacArthur , Stephanie Nogueras

Release Date

March 31, 2022

Seasons

2

Showrunner

Luke Del Tredici , Dan Goor

Killing It offers a refreshingly humane and empathetic take on a world of grifters, con artists, and a down-on-his-luck bank security guard. Craig Robinson’s portrayal of Craig Foster, a man desperate to turn his life around by hunting pythons in Florida, is both heartfelt and comedic. The series’ ability to approach even its most morally ambiguous characters with understanding and compassion sets it apart from the darker narratives that dominate the television landscape.

While Killing It may not be the most uproariously funny comedy on streaming, its clever writing makes it worth the watch. The series has two seasons, with Robinson teaming up with Claudia O’Doherty, who plays Jillian Glopp, for a comedy that received almost universal praise, with a 90% Rotten Tomatoes score. Critics praised the cast and comedy of the series, and while it has two seasons, there is no word on when or if a third season could arrive on Peacock streaming.

8 Based On A True Story (2023-)

Cuoco & Messina’s Performances Are The Highlight

Based on a True Story is a Peacock original crime thriller starring Kaley Cuoco and Chris Messina as a married couple who starts their own True Crime podcast. Ava and Nathan Bartlett are expecting their first child despite marital troubles as their finances continue to plummet, and their decision to hire a charming plumber to install a new toilet leaves them stuck in a true crime story of their own.

Release Date

June 8, 2023

Seasons

2

Showrunner

Craig Rosenberg

Based on a True Story takes a satirical stab at the true-crime podcast phenomenon and the dark side of fame-seeking, as Ava Bartlett (Kaley Cuoco) and her husband, Nathan (Chris Messina), discover they know the serial killer (Tom Bateman) they’re investigating. Instead of turning him in, they decide to capitalize on their connection by creating a podcast, highlighting the show’s biting commentary on capitalism and the true crime obsession.

Based on a True Story returned for season 2 in 2024, and the series continues to deliver a darkly comedic exploration of the moral compromises people make in pursuit of success. The first season had a 76% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which was still enough to see it certified fresh for the first season. While seeming to be similar to Only Murders in the Building, this was a lighter-weight series with more sitcom-styled humor and a charming turn from Cuoco.

7 Angelyne (2022)

An Interesting Look At A Mysterious Character

Angelyne (2022) is a biographical drama series that chronicles the life of the enigmatic billboard icon Angelyne, portrayed by Emmy Rossum. Set in Los Angeles, the show delves into her rise to fame during the 1980s and her influence on the city’s culture, exploring themes of identity and celebrity.

Cast

Emmy Rossum , Hamish Linklater , Philip Ettinger , Charlie Rowe , Alex Karpovsky , Martin Freeman , Molly Ephraim , Lukas Gage , Michael Angarano

Release Date

May 19, 2022

Seasons

1

Creator(s)

Nancy Oliver , Allison Miller

The miniseries Angelyne offers an illuminating exploration of the enigmatic titular character, a blonde bombshell who rose to fame in the 1980s through her iconic billboard images in Los Angeles. Angelyne gets many things right about the Hollywood icon, and Emmy Rossum’s transformative performance is impressive, with the actress undergoing extensive hours in the makeup chair to embody the famous-for-being-famous influencer.

Rossum’s dedication to the role adds remarkable depth to a character that could have easily been portrayed as superficial, elevating the series. The miniseries received recognition at the Primetime Emmy Awards with nominations for Outstanding Period Costumes, Outstanding Contemporary Makeup, and Outstanding Prosthetic Makeup. It also has an 86% Rotten Tomatoes score, with critics praising Rossum’s performance in her lead role.

6 A Friend Of The Family (2022)

A Compelling Narrative And Socially Relevant Themes

A Friend of the Family is a biographical drama limited series based on the true story surrounding the Broberg family. Jake Lacy stars as Robert Berchtold, a so-called friend of the Broberg family who is well-liked by those around him and has a charismatic personality. Over several years, however, Robert’s facade cracks as his manipulative and obsessive nature are revealed. During this time, Robert kidnaps the youngest of the Broberg family, Jan, several times and manages to turn her against her own family. A devout family that believed in their community and the kindness of others, this story highlights Robert’s ability to exploit these traits as weaknesses; this story reveals how the family managed to survive this ordeal and realign their beliefs. 

Release Date

October 6, 2022

Seasons

1

Showrunner

Nick Antosca

A Friend of the Family tackles the harrowing true story of Jan Broberg’s repeated kidnappings by serial predator Bob Berchtold in 1970s Idaho. The series humanizes Jan’s overly trusting parents, Mary Ann and Bob Broberg, portrayed by Anna Paquin and Colin Hanks, while exploring the insular community that inadvertently sheltered Berchtold, played by Jake Lacy. Hendrix Yancey and McKenna Grace depict Jan at different ages, capturing the lasting impact of Berchtold’s obsession.

Showrunner Nick Antosca’s handling of the subject matter elevates the series, offering a thought-provoking examination of abuse and manipulation. While the story was originally told in Abducted in Plain Sight (2017), Antosca wanted to go deeper into the case and add more context. Rotten Tomatoes ranks the Peacock series at 92% fresh, and the streaming service even followed that up with a documentary about Jan’s recovery, looking back on the event years later.

5 One Of Us Is Lying (2021-2022)

Proves That A Familiar Concept Can Be Elevated

Based on the mystery novel by Karen M. McManus, One of Us Is Lying follows a group of high schoolers who are all given detention when suddenly one of them dies due to an allergic reaction. The show unfolds the mystery around the death of this student, who was a major gossip and negatively impacted the lives of the other four, casting suspicion on the lot.

Cast

Annalisa Cochrane , Chibuikem Uche , Marianly Tejada , Cooper van Grootel , Barrett Carnahan , Jessica McLeod , Mark McKenna , Melissa Collazo , Sara Thompson , Alimi Ballard

Release Date

October 7, 2021

Seasons

2

Creator(s)

Erica Saleh

Based on Karen M. McManus’ young adult novel, One of Us Is Lying offers a fresh take on the murder mystery genre by setting its story in a high school detention. When one of the five students, Simon, who runs a blog exposing his classmates’ secrets, dies from an apparent allergic reaction that later seems to be murder, the remaining four become suspects.

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The series’ premise, while not entirely groundbreaking, is executed with skill, delivering a well-crafted and engaging mystery that keeps viewers guessing until the end. The second season amps things up when they end up blackmailed by someone who knows that they killed the first season’s killer, and the twists and turns are even more demented than the first season. The series received high praise, with a 91% Rotten Tomatoes score, but ended after just two seasons.

4 The Amber Ruffin Show (2020-2022)

A Refreshing Approach To Late-Night Comedy

The Amber Ruffin Show is a late-night talk show featuring comedian Amber Ruffin. Premiering on Peacock, the series offers a blend of satirical sketches, musical numbers, and insightful commentary on current events. Ruffin, known for her work on Late Night with Seth Meyers, brings a unique and humorous perspective, addressing social and political issues with wit and charm.

Cast

Amber Ruffin , Tarik Davis

Release Date

September 25, 2020

Seasons

3

Creator(s)

Amber Ruffin

The Amber Ruffin Show’s unique format sets it apart from other late-night offerings, focusing solely on comedy through monologues and sketches featuring the charismatic Amber Ruffin. Her infectious cheerfulness serves as a disarming cover for incisive commentary on racism, systemic oppression, and the challenges of the Trump era.

Ruffin’s ability to balance her effervescent personality with sharp, socially conscious humor, honed during her appearances on Late Night with Seth Meyers, translates seamlessly to her own half-hour show. Ruffin’s undeniable talent makes it one of the most entertaining and thought-provoking original series on the platform. The series received nominations from the Emmys, WGA, GLAAD Media Awards, and NAACP Awards, but it ended after three seasons on Peacock.

3 Girls5eva (2021)

Showcases The Platform’s Commitment To Producing High-Quality, Engaging Content

Girls5Eva centers on a ’90s one-hit-wonder band that is given a second shot at fame when their song is sampled by a young rapper. The Peacock original series began in 2021 and was nominated for a Primetime Emmy in 2021. The series stars real-life singer Sara Bareilles, Busy Phillips, Paula Pell, and Renée Elise Goldsberry.

Cast

Renee Elise Goldsberry , sara bareilles , Andrew Rannells , Erika Henningsen , Ashley Park , Busy Philipps , Paula Pell

Release Date

May 6, 2021

Seasons

2

Bolstered by Tina Fey’s executive production and the infectious original music composed specifically for the series, Girls5eva follows a ’90s girl one-hit wonder group’s quest for a comeback after a young rapper samples their one-hit. The show’s clever premise offers a fresh and entertaining take on the music industry and the challenges of reclaiming fame. The cast includes real-life singers Sara Bareilles and Renée Elise Goldsberry, alongside comic actors Busy Philipps and Paula Pell.

Girls5eva’s talented ensemble cast brings something fresh to its characters, as they navigate personal and professional hurdles in their pursuit of a second chance. Girls5eva‘s witty writing, catchy tunes, and nostalgia-infused charm make it one of the best original series on Peacock. While it never won any awards, it did pick up 35 different nominations from everyone from the Emmys and Gold Derby Awards to the Black Reel Awards for Television. Girls5eva eventually moved to Netflix for its latest season.

2 We Are Lady Parts (2021-)

Expertly Explores The Inherent Tension Of Being An Outsider

We Are Lady Parts is a British comedy series created by Nida Manzoor. The show follows an all-female Muslim punk band’s journey as they seek musical stardom. Central to the narrative is Amina, a microbiology PhD student, who gets roped into joining the group. The show delves into themes of identity, cultural clash, and friendship, featuring Anjana Vasan, Sarah Kameela Impey, and Juliette Motamed in leading roles.

Cast

Juliette Motamed , Sofia Barclay , Zaqi Ismail , Sarah Kameela Impey , Shobu Kapoor , Lucie Shorthouse , Anjana Vasan , David Avery , Faith Omole , Aiysha Hart.

Release Date

June 3, 2021

Seasons

1

Number of Episodes

6

The British comedy series, We Are Lady Parts, shines with its unique premise and stellar original soundtrack. Anjana Vasan delivers a standout performance as Amina, a studious Muslim woman whose life takes an unexpected turn when she meets the members of the all-female, all-Muslim punk band, Lady Parts. The series brings the band to the UK and takes advantage of London’s diverse culture to offer up a look at friendship and success in the face of difficulties.

Creator Nida Manzoor’s co-written original songs infuse the show with unparalleled energy, complementing the witty and engaging storylines. We Are Lady Parts‘ refreshing take on identity, friendship, and pursuing one’s passions, along with its exceptional cast and infectious music, make it a phenomenal series. With two seasons and 12 episodes, We Are Lady Parts won three BAFTA Awards and a Peabody for Entertainment.

1 Poker Face (2023-)

Immense Talent Exists Both In Front Of & Behind The Camera

Poker Face is a comedy-drama mystery series from writer/creator Rian Johnson (Knives Out) starring Natasha Lyonne as Charlie, a woman with the uncanny ability to tell if someone is lying easily. A drifter who lives life in the wind, Charlie Cale (Lyonne) rides through the U.S. and happens into strange cases, from theft to murder, that she wants to solve at every stop she makes. The show is designed as a crime-of-the-week drama with special guests appearing throughout the season.

Release Date

January 26, 2023

Seasons

1

Showrunner

Lilla Zuckerman

Created by Knives Out’s Rian Johnson and starring the incomparable Natasha Lyonne, Poker Face is a captivating mystery-anthology series that pays homage to the classic Columbo format. The show’s unique approach to storytelling, revealing the murder details upfront and focusing on Charlie’s unconventional problem-solving skills, keeps viewers engaged and guessing.

Lyonne’s authentic, no-nonsense performance perfectly complements the series’ style and humor, reminiscent of Johnson’s distinctive filmmaking. The series has an impressive roster of guest stars and expertly crafted episodes. With a 98% fresh Rotten Tomatoes score, a Primetime Emmy Award, and an AFI and WGA win, Poker Face solidifies its position as the crown jewel of Peacock’s original programming, setting a new standard for the platform’s content.