1.) Game of Thrones
Since this epic adaptation of George R.R. Martin’s fantasy book series “A Song of Ice and Fire” began in 2011, it has rapidly grown in popularity and become one of the biggest topics of conversation. In the continents of Westeros and Essos, noble families and royalty await the long-overdue winter. It is a delightful series full of drama, violence, politics, royalty and copious amounts of steamy sex scenes. You’ll be thanking HBO the second you start watching.

2.) Silicon Valley
This sitcom features 6 tech-nerds grappling to find their place amongst the infamous “Silicon Valley” area. This series has been compared to the dry, classic comedy “Office Space.” The new HBO series only began this past April but has already been renewed for a second season because of its widespread acclaim. This story was inspired, in part, by Mike Judge’s own experiences living in Silicon Valley in the 80’s.

3.) Salem
Another newly released drama, “Salem” explores the dynamics of the Salem witch trials of the 17th century. Yet this show is not entirely based on the realities of such trials, more interestingly “Salem” includes the presence of real witches. These witches are not the characters who are expected, however. This show paints an intriguing picture of an engrossing period of American history, while adding in some supernatural excitement.

4.) Orange Is the New Black
This Netflix original series appeared out of nowhere in July of 2013. Quickly, everyone was talking about this edgy comedy as it rose to the most watched program on Netflix. The story is about an engaged woman in her thirties who is sentenced to prison because of her drug smuggling involvement with her ex-girlfriend during her early twenties. The show depicts her time in prison. OITNB, as fans have begun to acronym it, is especially fascinating because it is loosely based off of the experiences of Piper Kerman. A colorful group of female prison inmates, a Regina Spektor intro song and Jason Biggs was bound to make for a captivating series.

5.) Shameless (U.S.)
Showtime’s U.S. adaptation of this British comedy-drama is as hilarious as it is poignant. The premise entails the Gallahger family living in the South side of Chicago. The six children of a dysfunctional alcoholic struggle to make ends meet while supporting one another. The characters are remarkably dynamic and profoundly progress throughout the series. The cinematography is artful and stunning. The past season, season 4, has truly been the most impressive season yet, leaving fans eagerly awaiting season 5.

6.) House of Cards
Starring Kevin Spacey, this show is about a congressman working with his wife to execute revenge on those who have deceived him in the past. His wife also helps in his schemes. Since its release in Feb. of 2013, people have learned the art and benefits of deceit.

7.) True Detective
Matthew Mcconaughey has been demonstrating his spectacular abilities as an actor this past year. From his role in “Dallas Buyers Club” to his character within “Wolf of Wall Street,” Mcconaughey has been continuously impressing audiences. This show is no exception. The series follows two Louisiana State Police Criminal Division homicide detectives’ pursuit of a serial killer over the span of 17 years.

8.) Looking
This comedy-drama series was released this past Jan. What makes it unique is that it is about a group of gay friends and their romantic lives. The show takes place in modern-day San Francisco and has been well received by audiences.

9.) American Horror Story
This anthology series has a different, yet equally terrifying, plot-line within each season. The same actors take on new roles to portray a story that is separate in each season in its time and location. Thus far, the story-lines have included an insane asylum, a haunted house, a witch coven and a freakshow. This series perfects creepiness and fans can’t seem to get enough.

10.) Scandal
This political thriller series stars the ravishing Kerry Washington. It was created by Shonda Rhimes, the creator of “Grey’s Anatomy,” so high melodrama is to be expected. Kerry Washington’s prominent role of Olivia Pope is loosely based off of Judy Smith, who serves as an executive producer. Olivia Pope’s job is crisis management for the president of the United States, with whom she has a rocky romantic history with. Her work is fast-paced, frantic and taxing.

11.) Suits
This series follows Mike Ross, an intelligent college drop-out running from a mishap drug deal, as he works for Harvey Specter. Harvey Specter is one of NYC’s top-notch lawyers and certainly fulfills the jerk-stereotype associated with this position. This show is sexy, clever and highly-addictive. In addition, expect to see beautiful men in beautiful suits.
