Paramount+ is a subscription streaming service built around a deep catalog of iconic franchises, live sports, news, and a growing slate of originals. This guide focuses on the best shows on Paramount+, explaining what makes a show worth your time, how exclusivity and licensing shape the library, and how the platform compares to competitors. You will find curated highlights by genre, objective notes on value, and practical steps for choosing titles that match your interests.
How to evaluate the best shows on Paramount+
When we talk about the best shows on Paramount+, we prioritize clear storytelling, strong performances, and meaningful impact within the service’s library. Paramount+ blends originals, legacy CBS and MTV titles, licensed dramas, comedies, and reality series, so not every popular show is available everywhere. The strongest picks here stand out for consistency, creative ambition, or cultural relevance. Each recommended show is evaluated on writing, character development, production quality, and how often new seasons arrive. Paramount+ originals include event premieres, multi-season arcs, and ongoing series, while licensed content adds variety but can change as agreements expire.
Key highlights and top picks by genre
Below is a curated snapshot of standout series on Paramount+, grouped by genre and format. These recommendations balance critical reception, fan reception, and availability history on the platform.
| Title | Genre | Seasons / Status | Notable Strengths | Source Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Star Trek: Discovery | Sci‑Fi | 5 seasons completed | Scale, franchise integration, serialized arcs | Paramount+ original |
| Star Trek: Strange New Worlds | Sci‑Fi | 3 seasons ongoing | Character focus, period tone, strong cast | Paramount+ original |
| Blue Bloods | Procedural | 14 seasons completed | Consistent formula, ensemble cast, long-term storytelling | Licensed, CBS library |
| FBI: Most Wanted | Crime | 5 seasons ongoing | High stakes, franchise crossover potential | Licensed, CBS library |
| Yellowstone (selected seasons) | Drama | 4 seasons completed | Strong performances, cinematic visuals | Licensed, Paramount Media Networks |
| SpongeBob SquarePants | Animation | Ongoing, extensive backlog | Timeless humor, broad family appeal | Licensed, Nick library |
| Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens | Comedy | 3 seasons completed | Warm humor, family dynamics, cultural specificity | Paramount+ original |
| Inside Amy Schumer | Comedy | 5 seasons completed | Sketch variety, candid interviews | Licensed, MTV library |
Science fiction and franchise strength
Paramount+ leans heavily on Star Trek, making it a primary destination for franchise fans. Star Trek: Discovery delivers large-scale space opera with evolving crew and lore, while Star Trek: Strange New Worlds offers a slower, character-driven approach reminiscent of classic episodic adventures. Both shows benefit from high production values and deep ties to the broader universe. For viewers seeking modern sci‑fi with serialized storytelling, these titles are among the best shows on Paramount+ because they anchor the platform’s identity.
Crime, procedurals, and long-running dramas
Fans of crime procedurals will find strong options such as FBI: Most Wanted and Blue Bloods, both sourced from the CBS library. These series emphasize formulaic but reliable storytelling, familiar characters, and steady pacing. They are well-suited for binge-watching in shorter sessions or background viewing. While not groundbreaking, they perform consistently well within the platform’s mix of originals and licensed content.
Family animation and nostalgic IP
SpongeBob SquarePants is a marquee licensed property with a vast episode backlog and broad appeal for kids and adults alike. Its presence underscores Paramount+’s strategy of bundling legacy kids’ catalogs with adult-oriented originals. The platform also places emphasis on Nickelodeon and MTV classics, which can add long-term value to the subscription beyond scripted dramas.
How Paramount+ originals compare to licensed series
Paramount+ originals receive priority in editorial recommendations because they represent direct investment in exclusive content. Shows like Star Trek: Discovery and Awkwafina Is Nora from Queens drive engagement with fresh characters and platform-specific marketing. Licensed series from CBS and MTV add breadth and cater to nostalgia, but their availability may shift when licensing agreements change. When assessing the best shows on Paramount+, weigh originality and consistency against the risk of eventual removal.
Availability and regional differences
Catalog depth can vary by region due to licensing and content agreements. A show that is a flagship original in one country might be unavailable or limited in another. Local pricing structures and promotional offers also affect perceived value. Before committing, verify which titles are included in your specific plan and whether downloads are permitted for offline viewing.
Pricing, plans, and practical access
Paramount+ typically offers an ad-supported tier and a higher-priced ad-free tier, with occasional promotional pricing for annual commitments and bundles that include services like Showtime or Pluto TV. Device support is broad, covering smart TVs, streaming boxes, mobile platforms, and gaming consoles. Offline downloads are available on many plans, which is useful for travel or areas with unstable internet. If you are evaluating the best shows on Paramount+, consider total cost relative to how often you will watch exclusive originals versus licensed hits.
Plan feature comparison at a glance
| Feature | Ad-Supported | Ad-Free | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Live TV channels | Limited | Yes | Regional availability varies |
| Downloads | Limited or none | Yes | Device limits apply |
| Simultaneous streams | 1 | 2–3 | Higher tiers may increase the limit |
| Add-ons (e.g., Showtime) | Optional | Optional | Increases cost but adds premium content |
How the library compares to competitors
In comparison to rival streamers, Paramount+ emphasizes franchise depth, particularly Star Trek, NFL football, and legacy CBS programming. Services with strong originals may offer more daily drama variety, while Paramount+ balances recognizable brands with a smaller but focused slate of exclusives. If your viewing habits lean toward event-driven sci‑fi, sports, and classic procedurals, Paramount+ can be a strong standalone choice. If you prioritize broad original dramedy libraries, you may supplement with another service.
How to choose the best shows for you on Paramount+
Use a simple filtering approach based on genre preference, time availability, and tolerance for ad interruptions. Start with one flagship original in a genre you enjoy, then sample a licensed procedural or family series to gauge consistency. Track renewal announcements for originals and monitor licensing expirations for library shows. This strategy helps you focus on enduring quality rather than momentary trends. When deciding the best shows on Paramount+ for your queue, prioritize titles with multi-season arcs, strong critical reception, and rewatch potential.
Bottom line
Paramount+ offers a mix of high-profile originals and trusted licensed series that can define a robust viewing experience when matched to your tastes. The best shows on the platform combine franchise depth, strong production values, and reliable scheduling. By focusing on genre priorities, plan features, and availability in your region, you can build a sustainable watchlist that leverages what Paramount+ does well without over-relying on content that may leave the service.