Iconic 2000s drama series that remain just as addictive today

There's no denying that the 2000s gave us some true TV drama gold, with many series still being talked about today. From the storylines we stayed home for to the main characters we fell in love with, the decade saw the rise of some of the most beloved shows in television history. Let's take a trip down memory lane and revisit 9 classics that never lost their allure (yes, I've watched them all).

by Jari Putteman

Whipping up a heartfelt story filled with humor and nostalgia, it’s not hard to see why Gilmore Girls has remained a fan favorite long after it ended its seven-season run. The show follows quick-witted mother-daughter duo Lorelai and Rory as they navigate life in the quaint town of Stars Hollow – all while drinking copious amounts of coffee. With its relatable characters, fast-paced dialogue and endless pop culture references, Gilmore girls provides a recipe that speaks to audiences far and wide. Also, let's not overlook the infectious theme song you'll be humming for days on end.

Are you yearning for a simpler time when flip-phones were all the rage and Newport Beach was your dream destination? Then head on over to The O.C. Created all the way back in 2003, this series captured our collective imagination with its shocking plot twists and swoon-worthy romances – which eventually turned it into a true cultural phenomenon. Who can forget the iconic catchphrase "Welcome to the O.C., bitch!" that earned the series a permanent foothold in television history? Tune in once again or watch it for the first time – either way, you won't regret joining the brooding Ryan Atwood on his journey in Orange County's most glamorous and drama-filled neighborhood.

From time travel to smoke monsters and love triangles, Lost has it all. The tale about plane crash survivors stranded on a mysterious island is anything but straightforward, thanks to its intricate plot, complex narrative structure, and multitude of flashbacks to explore the characters' unique backstories and the island's mythology. At times, it can be dizzying, but that's part of how the series solidified itself as one of television's most ambitious and challenging sci-fi/fantasy shows. Every revelation prompts more questions than answers in a classic mystery box fashion that’s sure to leave you hooked from the first episode to the final credits roll.

Amidst the glitz and glam of Hollywood, one reality show reigned supreme in the late 2000s. With its addictive mix of over-the-top TV moments and high-fashion backdrop, The Hills offered viewers a tantalizing window into the lives of several young women living in the City of Angels and their various romantic and professional pursuits. Audiences tuned in week after week to catch a glimpse of the latest gossip and newest trends, while cast members Lauren Conrad, Audrina Patridge, and Heidi Montag strove to climb the social ladder. Despite often being labeled as trivial amusement, The Hills paved the way for a new wave of reality TV shows and remains a testament to a bygone era that's impossible to resist.

This latest rendition of the classic '90s teen drama Beverly Hills, 90210 put a refreshing spin on the beloved original and quickly developed a following of its own. The show centers around the privileged lives of a group of youngsters residing in the Beverly Hills area, as they grapple with various personal and romantic hardships. Brimming with teen angst, forbidden romances, identity crises, and juicy family secrets, 90210 is sure to leave you with a sense of nostalgia and a newfound appreciation for the rollercoaster of emotions that is high school.

A revolutionary work for its time, Six Feet Under took on a topic most people would prefer to avoid: death. The series examined different aspects of mortality with dark humor through its central dysfunctionally loving Fisher family who happened to run their own funeral home. Known for its unusual style of storytelling and deep characterization, Six Feet Under is an essential watch if you're in search for a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant series that manages to stay funny and deeply human at the same time.

When Gossip Girl made its debut over ten years ago, no one could have predicted the legacy it would leave behind. Fashion icons were born thanks to Blair Waldorf's signature headbands and Serena van der Woodsen's effortless style, which continue to influence streetwear trends today. And thanks to its witty one-liners, steamy affairs and salacious scandals, you'll definitely be hooked until the wee hours of the morning. Get ready to be transported to a world of excess and opulence – you know you love it.

In a TV landscape filled with forgettable teen dramas, there's something about One Tree Hill that just sticks. Perhaps it's the way the show portrays life's complexities as we grow up and try to find our place in this world. Or, maybe it's the remarkable cast of characters who feel like old friends. And let's not forget about the fashion – who didn't want to raid Brooke Davis's closet? Either way, it's apparent that the small town of Tree Hill will always have an enduring place in its fans’ hearts.

They say legends never die – and that sure seems to be true for The Sopranos, the crime drama hailed as one of the best TV shows of all time. The gripping series first aired in 1999 and whisked viewers away on a memorable journey through the shadowy underworld of New Jersey's wild mob scene. Backed by James Gandolfini's iconic performance as Tony Soprano, it explored themes such as power clashes and morality all while providing nuanced character developments. For those who have yet to see it, a cinematic gem awaits. Now’s the time to dive in!