Major TV Shows That Started & Ended During the ‘Stranger Things’ Run

From prestige dramas to animated hits, these series all launched and wrapped while audiences were still following the Hawkins crew, offering everything from sci-fi epics to grounded character studies and sharp comedies across streaming and cable.

’13 Reasons Why’ (2017–2020)

This Netflix teen drama adapts Jay Asher’s novel and follows the aftermath of a student’s death through a series of tapes. Across four seasons it examines school policies, mental health, and legal consequences tied to the events. The ensemble includes Dylan Minnette, Katherine Langford, Alisha Boe, and Brandon Flynn. Filming took place largely in Northern California with storylines set in the fictional Liberty High School.

‘Andor’ (2022–2025)

Set before ‘Rogue One’, this Disney+ series traces Cassian Andor’s path from survivor to committed rebel operative. The production used large-scale sets and on-location shoots in the UK and Europe instead of the StageCraft volume. Diego Luna leads alongside Stellan Skarsgård, Genevieve O’Reilly, and Adria Arjona. The show maps the formation of the Rebellion by following intelligence networks, imperial bureaucracy, and resistance cells.

‘Arcane’ (2021–2024)

This Netflix animated series is based on the ‘League of Legends’ universe and focuses on sisters Vi and Jinx in Piltover and Zaun. It uses a painterly, hybrid animation style developed by Fortiche Production. Voice talent includes Hailee Steinfeld, Ella Purnell, and Katie Leung. The story blends political intrigue, class conflict, and experimental technology known as Hextech.

‘Atlanta’ (2016–2022)

FX’s comedy-drama follows Earn and Alfred as they navigate the Atlanta rap scene. Donald Glover created the series and stars with Brian Tyree Henry, Lakeith Stanfield, and Zazie Beetz. Episodes often use standalone formats and surreal storytelling to explore race, fame, and family. The production filmed primarily in Atlanta with seasons that also ventured to Europe.

‘Big Mouth’ (2017–2024)

This adult animated Netflix comedy centers on a group of middle schoolers dealing with puberty and awkward milestones. The show features “Hormone Monsters” and other personified emotions to depict adolescence. Voice performers include Nick Kroll, John Mulaney, Maya Rudolph, and Jordan Peele. Multiple musical numbers and recurring guest stars became staples across its long run.

‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’ (2018–2020)

A darker reimagining of the Archie Comics character, this Netflix series follows Sabrina Spellman balancing witchcraft and mortal life. Kiernan Shipka leads an ensemble that includes Miranda Otto, Lucy Davis, and Chance Perdomo. The production uses practical sets and occult imagery for its Academy of Unseen Arts sequences. Crossovers reference ‘Riverdale’ through shared characters and settings.

‘Cobra Kai’ (2018–2025)

This ‘Karate Kid’ continuation follows Johnny Lawrence reopening the Cobra Kai dojo and reigniting a rivalry with Daniel LaRusso. The first two seasons premiered on YouTube Premium before moving to Netflix. Ralph Macchio and William Zabka reprise their roles alongside younger cast members like Xolo Maridueña and Mary Mouser. The series features tournament arcs, legacy characters, and callbacks to the original films.

‘Derry Girls’ (2018–2022)

Channel 4’s sitcom is set in 1990s Northern Ireland during the final years of The Troubles. It follows a group of teens navigating school, family, and cultural quirks in Derry. Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Nicola Coughlan, Louisa Harland, Jamie-Lee O’Donnell, and Dylan Llewellyn star. The production mixes coming-of-age comedy with archival news clips that mark historical milestones.

‘Designated Survivor’ (2016–2019)

This political thriller begins with a catastrophic attack that elevates a low-level cabinet official to the presidency. Kiefer Sutherland plays Tom Kirkman, with supporting turns from Natascha McElhone, Kal Penn, and Maggie Q. The series aired on ABC before a final season on Netflix. Storylines address constitutional crises, cabinet turnover, and re-election strategy.

‘His Dark Materials’ (2019–2022)

An adaptation of Philip Pullman’s trilogy, this BBC One and HBO co-production follows Lyra Belacqua across parallel worlds. Dafne Keen stars with Ruth Wilson, Amir Wilson, and James McAvoy. The show uses extensive VFX for dæmons and armored bears while filming across the UK and international locations. Later seasons cover the Subtle Knife, the Amber Spyglass, and the Republic of Heaven arc.

‘Killing Eve’ (2018–2022)

This spy thriller tracks an intelligence investigator and a charismatic assassin whose lives become entangled. Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer lead the cast with Fiona Shaw in a key role. Each season rotates head writers, giving distinct tones and settings across Europe. The series is known for fashion-forward costume design and inventive needle-drops.

‘Marvel’s Luke Cage’ (2016–2018)

Set in Harlem, this Marvel series on Netflix follows a bulletproof hero confronting crime and politics in his neighborhood. Mike Colter stars, with Mahershala Ali, Alfre Woodard, and Simone Missick in major roles. The soundtrack features hip-hop and soul influences with episode titles inspired by classic groups. Crossovers connect ‘Luke Cage’ to ‘Daredevil’, ‘Jessica Jones’, and ‘The Defenders’.

‘Ozark’ (2017–2022)

This Netflix crime drama centers on a financial advisor who relocates his family to the Ozarks to launder money. Jason Bateman and Laura Linney lead with Julia Garner in an acclaimed supporting role. The show is noted for its desaturated look and lakefront locations in Georgia doubling for Missouri. Plotlines involve cartel pressure, local crime families, and a growing casino operation.

‘Raised by Wolves’ (2020–2022)

A science-fiction series on HBO Max, it follows two androids raising human children on a distant planet after Earth’s destruction. Ridley Scott executive produced and directed early episodes. The narrative explores religious conflict, artificial intelligence, and survival in harsh environments. Filming took place in South Africa with extensive practical sets.

‘Riverdale’ (2017–2023)

This CW drama reimagines Archie Comics characters in a noir-leaning town filled with mysteries. KJ Apa, Lili Reinhart, Camila Mendes, and Cole Sprouse headline the ensemble. The series shifts through genre arcs including cult storylines, musical episodes, and time jumps. Vancouver serves as the primary filming location with frequent crossovers to related Archie properties.

‘Sex Education’ (2019–2023)

Set in a British secondary school, the Netflix series follows students and families navigating relationships and identity. Asa Butterfield, Gillian Anderson, Ncuti Gatwa, and Emma Mackey star. The show uses a deliberately timeless production design with UK settings and American high-school aesthetics. Storylines include student-led clinics, campus changes, and family dynamics.

‘Snowfall’ (2017–2023)

FX’s crime drama chronicles the rise of the crack cocaine epidemic in 1980s Los Angeles. Damson Idris leads as Franklin Saint alongside Carter Hudson and Emily Rios. The production recreates period neighborhoods, law enforcement operations, and drug networks across multiple factions. Later seasons chart power struggles, shifting alliances, and federal investigations.

‘Squid Game’ (2021–2024)

This Korean survival drama on Netflix centers on cash-strapped contestants playing deadly versions of children’s games. Lee Jung-jae, Park Hae-soo, and Jung Ho-yeon anchor the cast. Production design emphasizes stark color palettes and labyrinthine sets. The series examines debt, inequality, and spectacle through tightly structured rounds.

‘Star Trek: Discovery’ (2017–2024)

A Paramount+ entry in the franchise, it follows Michael Burnham and the USS Discovery through multiple eras. Sonequa Martin-Green stars with Doug Jones, Anthony Rapp, and Mary Wiseman. Seasons explore the Mirror Universe, a 32nd-century time jump, and federation rebuilding. VFX work supports spore-drive travel, alien species, and large-scale space battles.

‘Star Wars: The Bad Batch’ (2021–2024)

This animated Disney+ series follows a squad of elite clone troopers in the aftermath of the Clone Wars. Dee Bradley Baker voices the team members with Michelle Ang as Omega. The show explores imperial transition, clone rights, and covert missions across the galaxy. Canon connections link to ‘The Clone Wars’ and ‘Rebels’ timelines.

‘Succession’ (2018–2023)

HBO’s drama focuses on a media conglomerate family navigating corporate battles and personal rifts. The ensemble includes Brian Cox, Jeremy Strong, Sarah Snook, and Kieran Culkin. Filming spans New York, international locales, and corporate interiors that mirror real-world finance hubs. The series portrays boardroom maneuvers, acquisitions, and regulatory scrutiny.

‘Superman & Lois’ (2021–2024)

This CW series follows Clark Kent and Lois Lane relocating to Smallville with their teenage sons. Tyler Hoechlin and Elizabeth Tulloch lead with a cast connected to the Arrowverse. The show blends family drama with superhero threats and regional newspaper reporting. Visual effects support flight sequences, Kryptonian tech, and new villains.

‘The Crown’ (2016–2023)

A Netflix historical drama, it chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II across decades. The production recasts principal roles every two seasons to match changing eras. Filming uses UK landmarks, detailed period costumes, and large-scale sets for state occasions. Story arcs cover political crises, royal marriages, and constitutional traditions.

‘The Good Doctor’ (2017–2024)

Set at San Jose St. Bonaventure Hospital, the series follows a surgical resident on the autism spectrum. Freddie Highmore stars with Antonia Thomas, Richard Schiff, and Hill Harper in key seasons. Filmed in British Columbia, the production uses medical consultants to stage procedures. Episodes feature ethical dilemmas, hospital administration shifts, and specialty training.

‘The Good Place’ (2016–2020)

NBC’s high-concept comedy explores the afterlife through a group of people learning moral philosophy. Kristen Bell, William Jackson Harper, Jameela Jamil, Manny Jacinto, and Ted Danson star. The show employs resets, neighborhood builds, and creative visual effects. Storylines integrate real ethical frameworks with serialized twists.

‘The Handmaid’s Tale’ (2017–2025)

Based on Margaret Atwood’s novel, this Hulu series follows life under the theocratic regime of Gilead. Elisabeth Moss leads with Yvonne Strahovski, Joseph Fiennes, and Ann Dowd. Production shoots in Ontario with sets and locations that depict both Gilead and Canada. Later seasons expand resistance networks, legal proceedings, and international pressure.

‘The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel’ (2017–2023)

This Prime Video dramedy tracks a 1950s housewife who pursues stand-up comedy in New York. Rachel Brosnahan stars with Tony Shalhoub, Alex Borstein, and Michael Zegen. The production features period costumes, club sets, and intricate tracking shots. Storylines follow career management, union issues, and television opportunities.

‘Marvel’s The Punisher’ (2017–2019)

A Marvel Netflix series, it centers on Frank Castle dealing with conspiracies linked to his military past. Jon Bernthal headlines with Ben Barnes, Amber Rose Revah, and Deborah Ann Woll. The show incorporates tactical choreography, firearms training, and urban settings. Crossovers reference ‘Daredevil’ and other street-level heroes.

‘The Righteous Gemstones’ (2019–2024)

This HBO comedy follows a wealthy televangelist family managing a megachurch empire. The ensemble includes Danny McBride, John Goodman, Edi Patterson, and Adam DeVine. Filming occurs in South Carolina with large sanctuary sets and stunt-heavy sequences. Plots involve rival ministries, family schemes, and financial investigations.

‘The Umbrella Academy’ (2019–2024)

A Netflix adaptation of the comic by Gerard Way and Gabriel Bá, it follows adopted siblings with extraordinary abilities. The cast features Elliot Page, Tom Hopper, David Castañeda, and Aidan Gallagher. Seasons include time travel to the 1960s and alternate timelines affecting the family’s fate. Production balances practical stunt work with heavy visual effects.

‘This Is Us’ (2016–2022)

NBC’s family drama tells the story of the Pearson family across multiple time periods. Milo Ventimiglia, Mandy Moore, Sterling K. Brown, and Chrissy Metz lead the cast. The series uses detailed makeup, de-aging techniques, and shifting timelines to map decades. Filming primarily takes place in California with carefully staged home and hospital sets.

‘Westworld’ (2016–2022)

This sci-fi series from HBO begins in a futuristic theme park populated by android hosts. Evan Rachel Wood, Thandiwe Newton, Jeffrey Wright, and Ed Harris star. The production employs New Mexico and Utah landscapes along with large interior stages. Later seasons expand to the outside world with plots about corporate control and artificial consciousness.

‘What We Do in the Shadows’ (2019–2024)

An FX mockumentary, it follows vampire roommates living in Staten Island and interacting with the modern world. Kayvan Novak, Matt Berry, Natasia Demetriou, and Mark Proksch lead the ensemble. The show uses practical creature effects, improvisation, and recurring supernatural councils. Episodes feature familiar guest stars and city bureaucracy tangles.

‘Yellowstone’ (2018–2024)

Paramount Network’s drama centers on the Dutton family’s vast ranch in Montana and the conflicts around it. Kevin Costner stars with Kelly Reilly, Cole Hauser, and Luke Grimes. Filming makes extensive use of Western landscapes and working ranch operations. Storylines include land disputes, political campaigns, and family power transitions.

‘Young Sheldon’ (2017–2024)

This CBS prequel to ‘The Big Bang Theory’ chronicles Sheldon Cooper’s childhood in East Texas. Iain Armitage stars with Zoe Perry, Lance Barber, and Annie Potts. The series blends single-camera comedy with period details from the late 1980s and early 1990s. Production uses studio sets and exterior locations around Los Angeles to recreate small-town settings.

Share your favorite picks from this list in the comments and tell us which one you think made the biggest impact during the ‘Stranger Things’ era.