In the vast and ever-evolving landscape of television entertainment, the FXX network has consistently delivered some of the most captivating and innovative series to grace our screens. From gripping crime dramas to side-splitting comedies, FX has cultivated a diverse array of shows that have left an indelible mark on the world of television. In this article, we embark on a journey through the 10 Best FX Shows of All Time, exploring the dynamic range of genres and storytelling that have made their way into the hearts and minds of Aussies and viewers around the world.
Join us as we celebrate the exceptional storytelling, unforgettable characters, and the undeniable impact the best FX shows have had on the viewers, offering a compelling blend of drama, humor, and everything in between. Magnum P.I. season 5 part 2 is also releasing this year, so you can also enjoy that with other shows mentioned in this list.
Why Are These Shows The Best?
These shows have earned their best status for a reason—popularity and diversity. They’ve captured the hearts of audiences worldwide, offering a wide range of genres to cater to every taste. From gripping dramas to side-splitting comedies, these series have set the bar high and continue to entertain and resonate with viewers, making them the top picks in the world of television. These shows are the best because of their high IMDB ratings.
1- What We Do in the Shadows (2019)
The show serves up a hearty dose of laughter as it chronicles the zany escapades of these unconventional vampires, introducing a delightful array of quirky characters along the way. What elevates its charm is the unexpected appearance of A-listers like Tilda Swinton and Evan Rachel Wood in clever cameo roles.
| Creator | Jemaine Clement |
| Cast | Kayvan Novak, Matt Berry, Natasia Demetriou, Harvey Guillén |
| Genre | Mockumentary |
| IMDB Rating | 8.6/10 |
If you’re yearning for uproarious humor and a refreshing departure from conventional vampire narratives, this series is a hidden comedic treasure. Sporting an impressive rating, What We Do in the Shadows is a comedic gem just waiting to sink its fangs into your funny bone.
2- It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia (2005)
Picture a close-knit gang of pals managing a bar in South Philadelphia, but there’s a twist—they’re a bunch of outrageously self-centered individuals who just can’t seem to stop bickering! This forms the uproarious premise of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, a brainchild of Glenn Howerton and Rob McElhenney. This comedy series serves up a satirical spin on the quintessential American dream.
| Creator | Rob McElhenney and Charlie Day |
| Cast | Glenn Howerton, Kaitlin Olson, Danny DeVito, Mary |
| Genre | Sitcom |
| IMDB Rating | 8.8/10 |
What truly sets it apart is its claim to fame as the longest-running live-action comedy series ever! The characters are hilariously self-absorbed, and their never-ending disputes give birth to a unique brand of humor that consistently has viewers in fits of laughter.
3- The Americans (2013)
The series unfolds the tale of two Soviet spies donning the guise of a married couple right in the heart of Washington, D.C., brought to life with exceptional skill by Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys.
| Creator | Joe Weisberg |
| Cast | Keri Russell , Matthew Rhys, Keidrich Sellati, Holly Taylor, Noah Emmerich |
| Genre | Spy thriller; Serial drama |
| IMDB Rating | 8.4/10 |
Within this riveting narrative, you’re treated to an enthralling window into the world of espionage: the cunning spy strategies, covert operations, and the delicate juggling act between their fictitious domestic life and the demands of real espionage. What truly distinguishes The Americans is its distinctive viewpoint, offering insights into both the American and Russian dimensions of the shadowy world of espionage.
4- Sons of Anarchy (2008)
Sons of Anarchy weaves a compelling narrative around bikers, crime, and the unbreakable bonds of brotherhood. This television series immerses viewers in the turbulent world of a motorcycle club in California, delivering an exhilarating and unpredictable journey. At its core lies Jax Teller, a central character deeply entwined in all the action and drama.
| Creator | Kurt Sutter |
| Cast | Charlie Hunnam, Katey Sagal, Mark Boone Junior |
| Genre | Drama |
| IMDB Rating | 8.6/10 |
Conceived by Kurt Sutter, Sons of Anarchy is celebrated for its profound and gripping storytelling—a narrative that quickly becomes addictive once you delve in. It delves deeply into the lives of club members, their trials and tribulations, and the choices they confront, presenting an unvarnished and authentic portrayal of the gritty biker lifestyle.
5- Fargo (2014)
Fargo is a television series that takes its cues from the Coen brothers’ film of the same name. It’s a unique show that plunges you into the realm of crime set in the northern Midwest. What truly sets it apart is its anthology format, with each season unveiling an entirely new story featuring a fresh ensemble of characters, akin to cracking open a novel for the very first time.
| Creator | Noah Hawley |
| Cast | Billy Bob Thornton, Martin Freeman, Allison Tolman, Colin Hanks, Russell Harvard |
| Genre | Crime |
| IMDB Rating | 8.9/10 |
Notably, Fargo has showcased top-tier actors such as Billy Bob Thornton, Ewen McGregor, and Chris Rock. What draws audiences to Fargo is its exceptionally sharp writing and its ability to vividly portray the bone-chilling winters of the northern states. It’s a captivating fusion of dark drama and comedy, weaving a narrative that keeps you spellbound from the opening scene to the final credits.
6- Mayans M.C. (2018)
If you were a fan of Sons of Anarchy, then Mayans M.C. is sure to ignite your excitement. This series serves as a spin-off from its predecessor and revolves around the life of EZ Reyes, a member of the Mayan Motorcycle Club. However, there’s a captivating twist—it unfolds in a fictional town situated on the U.S.-Mexican border.
| Creator | Kurt Sutter; Elgin James |
| Cast | JD Pardo, Clayton Cardenas, Sarah Bolger, Michael Irby |
| Genre | Crime, Drama |
| IMDB Rating | 7.6/10 |
Mayans M.C. is a gripping series packed with action, thrills, and heart-pounding moments, immersing you in the gritty world of biker gangs and crime, akin to its forerunner. Devotees of the show appreciate its ability to maintain the same intense narrative style that made Sons of Anarchy so beloved. If you have a penchant for enthralling tales set in the biker universe, Mayans M.C. is an absolute must-watch.
7- The Shield (2002-2008)
The Shield holds the distinction of being FX’s inaugural original crime drama, thrusting viewers into the turbulent world of Detective Vic Mackey in Los Angeles. Mackey, while battling crime, doesn’t shy away from employing morally ambiguous methods. What makes it truly stand out is its rootedness in reality, as it draws inspiration from an actual police unit, infusing the series with an authentic and gritty atmosphere.
| Creator | Shawn Ryan |
| Cast | Michael Chiklis, Catherine Dent, Walton Goggins, Michael Jace |
| Genre | Drama |
| IMDB Rating | 8.7/10 |
The show received widespread critical acclaim for its uncompromising depiction of law enforcement. The performances delivered by actors like Michael Chiklis, Glenn Close, and Forest Whitaker were nothing short of exceptional. If you have an appetite for crime dramas unafraid to delve into the darker facets of policing, The Shield unquestionably ranks among FX’s finest offerings that warrant your attention.
8- The Bridge (2013)
Embark on a thrilling journey along the Mexican American border with The Bridge. Picture a massive bridge connecting these two nations, setting the stage for a riveting tale that begins with the startling demise of a prominent anti-immigrant judge.
| Creator | Meredith Stiehm |
| Cast | Demián Bichir, Diane Kruger, Thomas M. Wright, Ted Levine, Matthew Lillard |
| Genre | Crime Drama |
| IMDB Rating | 7.6/10 |
This series transcends the boundaries of typical detective narratives, delving into weighty subjects like immigration and politics, mirroring real-world issues while offering a captivating mystery. If you crave engaging mysteries intertwined with thought-provoking social commentary, The Bridge is a must-see treasure in the list of best FX shows that commands your full attention.
9- American Horror Story (2011)
American Horror Story is a television thrill ride of terror, akin to stepping into a brand-new haunted house every season. Conceived by the creative minds of Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk, it has earned its reputation for delivering spine-tingling suspense and excitement.
| Creator | Ryan Murphy and Brad Falchuk |
| Cast | Lady Gaga, Kathy Bates, Angela Bassett, Sarah Paulson, Evan Peters |
| Genre | Horror |
| IMDB Rating | 8.0/10 |
With each fresh season, you find yourself transported into a unique horror storyline, introducing fresh characters and settings that plunge you into an unpredictable and hair-raising odyssey. Adding to the thrill is the exceptional cast, including talents like Lady Gaga, Kathy Bates, and Angela Bassett, who not only elevate the fear factor but also intensify the chill factor, making each story even more bone-chilling.
10- Atlanta (2016)
Atlanta is a television series that truly defies categorization. Picture this: a man named Earn is determined to carve out a place for himself in the rap music realm. Yet, it’s not your conventional storyline. Instead, it’s a captivating fusion of drama and comedy, teeming with surprising twists.
| Creator | Donald Glover |
| Cast | Donald Glover, Brian Tyree Henry, LaKeith Stanfield, Zazie Beetz |
| Genre | Comedy, Drama |
| IMDB Rating | 8.6/10 |
Donald Glover, the show’s mastermind and leading actor, takes you on an unpredictable tour through Atlanta’s rap scene. What distinguishes it is its inventive and surreal storytelling. It unfurls like a whimsical expedition where the extraordinary is an everyday occurrence, firmly cementing its status as one of the best FX shows.
More Recommendations
Here are more recommendations to expand your options and enhance your experience. These suggestions cover a diverse range of interests and activities, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
- Justified: City Primeval (7.5/10)
- Archer (8.6/10)
- Reservation Dogs (8.2/10)
- Welcome to Wrexham (8.2/10)
Final Words!
So, as you embark on your own FX binge-watching journey or revisit these timeless classics, remember that these shows are a testament to the power of television to entertain, enlighten, and endure. Whether you’re drawn to the adrenaline-fueled thrills of Justified or the irreverent humor of It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, there’s a piece of FX’s remarkable legacy waiting to entertain you in Australia. In the ever-expanding world of television, these best FX shows stand as shining examples of storytelling at its finest, reminding us that the power of a well-told tale knows no bounds.
