Variety Reveals 100 Greatest TV Performances of the 21st Century

LOS ANGELES, Calif. — Variety has unveiled its highly anticipated list of the 100 greatest television performances of the 21st century, igniting excitement and debate among fans. The list encompasses a diverse range of actors from scripted series that premiered after January 1, 2000, spotlighting standout performances across both drama and comedy genres.

This ranking, while subjective, reflects a celebration of remarkable acting achievements and recognizes the shifting landscape of television. With the explosion of cable and streaming platforms, the 21st century has gifted audiences with a treasure trove of unforgettable characters, from ruthless antiheroes to comedic icons.

Among the notable entries is Bryan Cranston, acclaimed for his role as Walter White in “Breaking Bad.” His inclusion underscores the critical acclaim associated with the series, which redefined prestige television. Variety’s staff engaged in extensive discussions to curate the list, aiming to balance recognition across various series while adhering to strict criteria.

“It was important to us to allow only one performance per series. This way, we could amplify the visibility of more shows,” said a Variety insider involved in the selection process. “The ensemble cast of ‘Succession’ could easily dominate the list, but we wanted to ensure other stellar performances were acknowledged as well.”

The list also opens conversations surrounding performances from less traditional genres. For instance, it features two standout performances from superhero shows, a genre often regarded with skepticism by critics. At number 71 is a notable display of talent from an Amazon series, illustrating the impressive capabilities of actors beyond conventional drama.

At the pinnacle of this countdown, the entries reflect not merely a ranking but a homage to the beautifully complex character arcs and performances that have captured the hearts of viewers. This endeavor encourages audiences to reflect on the transformative moments in shows like “Euphoria,” “Scandal,” and “The Office.”

Moreover, the variety of choices has prompted discussions online, with fans expressing strong opinions over rankings of beloved characters. “It’s thrilling to see what characters resonate most with viewers and spark debate,” added another Variety source.

As audiences continue to enjoy a plethora of new content and revisit old favorites, this list serves as a reminder of the groundbreaking performances that have shaped the television landscape.

In reflecting on performances that define the Golden Age through today’s creations, Variety’s list encapsulates the hope that more incredible television moments await in the future.