The 2010s was a great decade for teen television shows. Fans were introduced to a variety of series like the sci-fi drama The 100 and the intense teen drama 13 Reasons Why. These shows took it a step further than the previous decade and made content that was relatable to teens by not sugarcoating topics that actual teenagers were going through.
Now fans want to know which teen show of the 2010s reigns supreme, so they've taken to Ranker to place their votes and considered series like the musical-comedy drama Glee and the sci-fi horror drama Stranger Things. Whether they are dramas or comedies, these teen shows appeal to a wider audience because of their storylines that pushed the envelope and relatable characters.
The Fosters (2013-2018)
Stream on Hulu & Amazon Prime Video
The Fosters follows the lives of Stef Foster and her partner, Lena Adams, as they raise a multiethnic family. Throughout its run, the series focuses on many issues such as racism and homophobia, and even trans teens trying to survive the foster care system.
The Fosters pushes boundaries and stands out from the many series that aired during the 2010s. For starters, it's one of the first traditional family shows to feature a lesbian couple as the main characters. The show also doesn't shy away from controversial issues that teens face, like racism within biracial families.
One Tree Hill (2003-2012)
Stream on Hulu & HBO Max
One Tree Hill starts with a focus on two half-brothers who, in the beginning, don't see eye to eye but, as the seasons progress, they start to form an amazing bond. The series also focuses on their high school friends and the relationships that form, while also dealing with non-stop drama.
One of the things fans love about One Tree Hill is its many couples, in particular Nathan and Haley whose relationship is real and raw. They start as a couple in high school but have many bumps in the road when it comes to their marriage. The many plot twists are also fan favorites including Haley and Nathan's nanny nightmare.
Big Time Rush (2009-2013)
Stream on Paramount+
Big Time Rush follows four hockey players who move to Hollywood after they are selected to form a boy band. Throughout the series, they learn the ends and outs of the music industry while learning more about themselves and coming into their own.
Big Time Rush is a series the entire family can enjoy. Each singer has a unique personality that draws in a variety of viewers. The ing characters also play a big part in the success of the series, like the younger sister and Gustavo Rocque who bring pure comedy to the series.
Glee (2009-2015)
Available to buy on AppleTV+ & Amazon Prime Video
Glee is a teen comedy-drama with a musical twist. The series follows Will Schuester as he leads the students in Glee Club to not only help them accomplish musical feats but guide them in their journeys as well.
What many people love about Glee is it's a heartwarming and funny series, but at the same time tackles tough issues that teens face like bullying and racism. There are also so many iconic moments from Kurt and Blaine's extraordinary romance to the many mashups of classic songs featured in Glee.
Victorious (2010-2013)
Stream on Paramount+
Victorious follows Tori Vega who is accepted into a performing arts high school for talented teens. Throughout the series, Tori and her friends continue to find their place within the school while they depict the fun that comes along with being a teenager.
Victorious is a good, wholesome, and family-friendly show that spreads an important message about not only following dreams, but the series also reminds viewers to have fun and not be afraid to be silly while showing your goofy side.
The Originals (2013-2018)
Stream on Netflix
A spin-off of The Vampire Diaries, The Originals follows Klaus Mikaelson as he moves from Mystic Falls to New Orleans. While there, we get a closer look at his family and the struggles he endures when fighting between good vs. evil.
While the majority of the main characters on The Originals are not teens, this is still a series that relates to a wide spectrum of people. For starters, the show does not shy away from featuring strong women. Viewers love that it's not just about the romance for characters like Rebekah and Hayley and that they get as much action as the guys. The Originals also featured powerful villains like Dahlia and Esther
Gossip Girl (2007-2012)
Stream on HBO Max
Gossip Girl follows the lives of several elite students in the Upper East Side of New York as they deal with love, drama, and their worst enemy Gossip Girl, a mysterious person who spreads all their secrets to their many peers.
This series is a must-watch because it revolves around nothing but drama, but not only that, the show has introduced some iconic characters, like Blair, the woman who wants nothing but to be the best and will stop at nothing to achieve that. Gossip Girl also touches on many scandals that are still talked about to this day like Serena's romance with her teacher.
Stranger Things (2018-)
Stream on Netflix
Stranger Things takes place in the '80s when the world turns upside down for a group of kids after they meet a girl with intriguing powers. They soon embark on an adventure as they race to save the world and come face to face with supernatural forces.
What makes this show amazing is the fact that these are a group of young normal kids who all of a sudden are embarking on the adventure of a lifetime, while dealing with issues that teens go through, like, embarrassing moments and fitting in. The best part about this series is the mystery because with Stranger Things viewers are always kept guessing, so they are constantly trying to put the pieces together episode after episode.
iCarly
Stream on Netflix & Paramount+
iCarly follows three normal teenagers whose lives change after they create a webcast. Their show has many features including dancing, problem-solving, and making recipes. Throughout the series, the three main characters' friendships blossom as they continue to evolve their webcast.
Fans love iCarly because it's a funny show not only for kids but for adults as well. It's a great series for the entire family to watch and have a good laugh with. The acting is also over the top, but that's what makes iCarly so iconic and a series that fans will always .
Pretty Little Liars (2010-2017)
Stream on HBO Max
Pretty Little Liars follows a group of teenage girls whose lives are turned upside down after their friend Allison goes missing. A year after Allison's disappearance they soon start receiving text messages from a mysterious identity who goes by A and continuously threatens them.
Pretty Little Liars is a series that's filled to the brim with drama, but what this show does well is it mixes the outlandish with real-life issues that teens face like eating disorders and bullying. The character development in this show is phenomenal as well. Each girl has a drastic personality change from season 1 to the last season.