Amazon Prime Video has established itself as a leading streaming platform by offering some of the best shows on Amazon Prime—a diverse mix of original programming and licensed content.
Unlike services that focus solely on quantity, Prime Video emphasizes quality storytelling, evident in its growing collection of Emmy-winning series and critically acclaimed exclusives that rank among the best shows on Amazon Prime.
The platform’s advantage lies in its integration with Amazon Prime membership, which includes additional benefits like free shipping and Prime Music. This makes accessing the best shows on Amazon Prime particularly valuable for those already invested in the Amazon ecosystem.
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Prime Video’s Standout Original Series
This guide highlights the most compelling series currently available—from recent hits to overlooked gems—organized to help viewers discover the absolute best shows on Amazon Prime matching their preferences. We’ll explore genre-defining originals that demonstrate why Prime Video deserves consideration alongside established competitors.
The Boys (2019–Present)
This gritty superhero deconstruction continues to push boundaries with its fourth season, offering a brutal satire of celebrity culture and corporate power. The show’s willingness to take creative risks sets it apart from conventional comic book adaptations.
Reacher (2022–Present)
Alan Ritchson’s physical embodiment of Lee Child’s iconic character has reinvigorated the action thriller genre. The second season has improved upon the first with more elaborate fight choreography and deeper character development.
The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (2017–2023)
Rachel Brosnahan’s performance as a 1950s housewife-turned-comedian remains one of Prime’s crowning achievements. The final season delivered a satisfying conclusion to Midge’s journey while maintaining the show’s signature rapid-fire dialogue.
Underrated Series Worth Discovering
While blockbusters dominate conversations, some of the best shows on Amazon Prime remain hidden gems waiting to be discovered.
Outer Range stands out among the best shows on Amazon Prime by blending neo-Western aesthetics with science fiction mystery, creating a uniquely atmospheric viewing experience.
Another standout in the best shows on Amazon Prime collection, Jury Duty, revolutionized the mockumentary format by placing an unwitting civilian in a scripted courtroom scenario, resulting in surprisingly heartfelt comedy.
For viewers seeking prestige drama, The Underground Railroad represents one of the most ambitious best shows on Amazon Prime. Filmmaker Barry Jenkins’ adaptation of Colson Whitehead’s Pulitzer-winning novel uses magical realism to explore historical trauma, offering challenging but profoundly rewarding viewing.
Award-Winning Content
Amazon Prime Video has steadily built a reputation for producing prestige television that resonates with both critics and awards voters.
The platform’s commitment to bold storytelling and artistic vision has resulted in numerous accolades across major award ceremonies, establishing its place alongside traditional premium networks.
Fleabag (2016–2019)
Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s groundbreaking series represents the pinnacle of Prime’s original programming. The second season’s near-perfect execution earned an unprecedented six Emmy Awards in 2019, including Outstanding Comedy Series, Lead Actress, and Writing.
What makes Fleabag exceptional is its ability to balance razor-sharp humor with profound emotional depth, all while breaking the fourth wall in innovative ways. The show’s cultural impact continues years after its conclusion, influencing a new wave of female-driven comedies.
Transparent (2014–2019)
This pioneering drama marked a significant moment in television history as one of the first mainstream series to center on transgender experiences.
Jeffrey Tambor’s portrayal of Maura Pfefferman earned two Golden Globes, while the show itself claimed Best Television Series (Musical or Comedy) in 2015.
Beyond awards, Transparent sparked important conversations about LGBTQ+ representation, with creator Jill Soloway implementing a “transformative action program” to hire transgender crew members.
The series’ legacy includes influencing subsequent inclusive casting practices across the industry.
The Expanse (2015–2022)
Originally a Syfy channel production, Amazon’s rescue of this sci-fi epic after its cancellation demonstrated the platform’s commitment to quality genre programming.
The series earned the prestigious Hugo Award for Best Dramatic Presentation (Short Form) in 2017 for its episode “Leviathan Wakes,” a rare honor for television.
What sets The Expanse apart is its rigorous dedication to scientific accuracy combined with complex political storytelling, creating what many consider the most realistic depiction of space colonization in television history.
The show’s passionate fanbase, including prominent scientists and astronauts, campaigned successfully for its renewal, proving the value of dedicated viewership.
Prime Video’s award success extends beyond these flagship titles. Recent years have seen recognition for:
- The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel (14 Emmy wins);
- Underground Railroad (Limited Series Emmy nominations);
- Small Axe (Golden Globe winner).
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Genre-Specific Recommendations
Drama enthusiasts should prioritize The Night Manager, a sleek adaptation of John le Carré’s spy novel featuring Tom Hiddleston and Hugh Laurie.
Comedy viewers will appreciate Upload’s clever exploration of digital afterlife concepts, while Catastrophe offers one of television’s most authentic portrayals of modern relationships.
Science fiction fans have multiple excellent options. Good Omens delivers Terry Pratchett and Neil Gaiman’s distinctive humor in a celestial buddy comedy format.
For those preferring darker material, Invincible provides an animated superhero story with mature themes and shocking violence.
Final Assessment
Amazon Prime Video’s strength lies in its curated selection of high-quality originals rather than an overwhelming volume of content. The service particularly excels in genre programming, offering alternatives to conventional network offerings.
When combined with the other Prime membership benefits, the video service presents strong value for dedicated viewers.
For those considering a subscription, Prime Video offers a 30-day free trial, detailed in our guide to maximizing the trial period. The platform continues to expand its offerings, with several promising projects slated for release later this year.
Try Prime Video free with our trial guide.
