Yet, there was a twist.
Halfway through the elections, the runner-up in Best Series made an unexpected surge. What began as a hopeless chase turned into a thrilling final sprint. With four days to go, the deficit was erased, and the new leader suddenly stood at the top with just one vote. The elections thus finally received the exciting finale that had been missing for a long time.
Big Winner
Adolescence is the undisputed winner of 2025. The Netflix series won Best Series of 2025 and also topped the categories for Best New Series and Best Mini/Anthology Series. With additional podium finishes in other categories, the series demonstrated widespread support from the audience, dominating this election year.
Tastes Differ
Behind the winners, the picture was less clear-cut. Outside the top, there were clear differences in taste per category, with a wide spread of votes and several series closely competing with each other.
Wildcards
The wildcards did not play a significant role this year. Although some titles tried to get into the race, their total votes were limited, and they never came close to the regular contenders.
Discussions
Ultimately, 1,487 users cast a total of 16,568 votes. And as with every election, the majority rules—it's that simple. Whether you agree with it or not: this is the result. Let the discussions begin!
The votes are counted: here is the result of the MySeries election 2025!
Actors and Actresses
Best Actress of 2025
Keri Russell, who impressed a few years ago with her lead role in The Americans, once again confirmed her class with The Diplomat (US). Her performance earned her the gold this year and was convincingly rewarded by the audience. Russell's layered and credible acting left a clear mark on the category, surpassing established names like Helen Mirren and Rosamund Pike, who delivered strong performances but couldn't match her this time.
Below is the top 6 in the category Best Actress of 2025 (984 votes):
Keri Russell as Ambassador Kate Wyler (The Diplomat (US) - Netflix), 270 votes (27%)
Helen Mirren as Maeve Harrigan (MobLand - Paramount+), 191 votes (19%)
Rosamund Pike as Moiraine Damodred (The Wheel of Time - Prime Video), 183 votes (19%)
Jennifer Aniston as Alex Levy (The Morning Show - Apple TV), 159 votes (16%)
Aimée-Lou Wood as Gemma and Tracey Taylor (Daddy Issues and Toxic Town - BBC Three and Netflix), 132 votes (13%)
Writer's Choice Sinead Keenan as DCI Jessica James (Unforgotten - ITV), 49 votes (5%)
Best Actor of 2025
Among the actors, the victory went to Owen Cooper, who left a deep impression with his role in Adolescence. With intense and subdued acting, he convincingly won over the audience. Cooper gave his character a vulnerability that contributed to the series' strength and clearly resonated with viewers. He narrowly surpassed established names like Michael C. Hall and Noah Wyle, who also performed strongly but fell just short this time.
Below is the top 6 in the category Best Actor of 2025 (999 votes):
Owen Cooper as Jamie Miller (Adolescence - Netflix), 273 votes (27%)
Michael C. Hall as Dexter Morgan (Dexter: Resurrection - Paramount+ with Showtime), 269 votes (27%)
Noah Wyle as Dr. Michael 'Robby' Robinavitch (The Pitt - HBO Max), 231 votes (23%)
Stephen Graham as Eddie Miller (Adolescence - Netflix), 169 votes (17%)
Patrick Gibson as Dexter Morgan (Dexter: Original Sin - Paramount+ with Showtime), 45 votes (5%)
Writer's Choice Benito Skinner as Benny (Overcompensating - Prime Video), 12 votes (1%)
Genre-specific Series
Best Animation Series of 2025
In the animation category, Marvel’s What If…? came out on top. The series gathered the most votes with its creative angles and recognizable Marvel universe. By approaching familiar characters from different perspectives, the series remained fresh and surprising. Thus, it outpaced Rick and Morty and other strong competitors, who, although able to mobilize their loyal fan base, could not take over the lead position.
Below is the top 5 in the category Best Animation Series of 2025 (720 votes):
1. Marvel's What If...? - Disney+, 172 votes (24%)
2. Rick and Morty - Adult Swim, 131 votes (18%)
3. Your Friendly Neighborhood Spider-Man - Disney+, 90 votes (12%)
4. The Dragon Prince - Netflix, 71 votes (10%)
5. Invincible - Prime Video, 64 votes (9%)
The wildcard with the most votes in this category is:
Family Guywith 6 votes (1%)!
Best Science Fiction Series of 2025
Stranger Things was again the undisputed standard in the science fiction category. With a lead of more than 350 votes, the series left the competition far behind. The difference was not only visible but also unbridgeable. Titles like Andor and Black Mirror ended far behind and played no role in the fight for victory. The result confirmed the series' exceptional public appeal and enduring popularity.
Below is the top 5 in the category Best Science Fiction Series of 2025 (1021 votes):
1. Stranger Things - Netflix, 450 votes (44%)
2. Andor - Disney+, 91 votes (9%)
3. Black Mirror - Netflix, 87 votes (9%)
4. Pluribus - Apple TV, 86 votes (8%)
5. Gen V - Prime Video, 64 votes (6%)
The wildcard with the most votes in this category is:
Doctor Who (2024)with 3 votes!
Best Fantasy Series of 2025
In fantasy, the win went to Wednesday, which distinguished itself with a unique style and strong lead role. The series kept heavyweights like Stranger Things and The Last of Us behind it in a category where the differences remained relatively small. In the end, broad public appreciation was decisive. Thus, Wednesday confirmed its status as a mainstay within the genre.
Below is the top 5 in the category Best Fantasy Series of 2025 (1080 votes):
1. Wednesday - Netflix, 275 votes (25%)
2. Stranger Things - Netflix, 260 votes (24%)
3. The Last of Us - HBO, 233 votes (22%)
4. The Wheel of Time - Prime Video, 106 votes (10%)
5. IT: Welcome to Derry - HBO, 73 votes (7%)
The wildcard with the most votes in this category is:
Resident Alienwith 2 votes!
Best Crime Series of 2025
The crime category had a more exciting course, with several titles close to each other. The Night Agent eventually came out on top, partly due to its consistent popularity throughout the voting period. Series like Reacher and Adolescence stayed close but failed to close the gap. The result reflects a clear preference for accessible and action-packed crime drama.
Below is the top 5 in the category Best Crime Series of 2025 (1127 votes):
1. The Night Agent - Netflix, 216 votes (19%)
2. Reacher - Prime Video, 190 votes (17%)
3. Adolescence - Netflix, 134 votes (12%)
4. Slow Horses, 118 votes (10%)
5. Dexter: Resurrection - Paramount+ with Showtime, 100 votes (9%)
The wildcards with the most votes in this category are:
The Rookie, Criminal Minds, High Potential and Murdoch Mysterieswith 3 votes each!
Best Mini/Anthology Series of 2025
In the Mini-/Anthology Series category, Adolescence was dominant. The series gathered more than twice the votes of its nearest competitors and decided the contest early. There was no real tension. The victory underscored the broad appreciation for the completed story and the impact of the series.
Below is the top 5 in the category Best Mini/Anthology Series of 2025 (1062 votes):
1. Adolescence - Netflix, 324 votes (31%)
2. Black Mirror - Netflix, 147 votes (14%)
3. The Beast in Me - Netflix, 145 votes (14%)
4. Zero Day - Netflix, 116 votes (11%)
5. Missing You - Netflix, 88 votes (8%)
The wildcards with the most votes in this category are:
All Her Fault, Stray Kids: Two Kids Room, Petra, De Toeslagenaffairewith 1 vote each!
Best Comedy/Dramedy Series of 2025
In the comedy/dramedy category, The White Lotus proved to be the most popular. With its sharp dialogues and satirical undertone, the series convinced many viewers. Only Murders in the Building and Voetbalouders followed at a respectful distance. The votes showed that humor with a dark edge did particularly well this year.
Below is the top 5 in the category Best Comedy/Dramedy Series of 2025 (1059 votes):
1. The White Lotus - HBO, 218 votes (21%)
2. Only Murders in the Building - Hulu, 167 votes (16%)
3. Voetbalouders, Netflix, 140 votes (13%)
4. The Bear - FX, 113 votes (11%)
5. Ghosts - CBS, 112 votes (11%)
The wildcards with the most votes in this category are:
Overcompensating, Nobody Wants This, The Studiowith 2 votes each!
Best Drama Series of 2025
The drama was led by The Handmaid’s Tale, which once again demonstrated its lasting impact this year. In the final week, Grey’s Anatomy managed to surpass Adolescence, but it came nowhere near the top spot. The winner remained out of reach throughout the voting period. Especially the social themes and emotional impact were rewarded by the audience. Thus, The Handmaid’s Tale convincingly stood at the top.
Below is the top 5 in the category Best Drama Series of 2025 (1085 votes):
1. The Handmaid's Tale - Hulu, 223 votes (21%)
2. Grey's Anatomy - ABC, 155 votes (14%)
3. Adolescence - Netflix, 150 votes (14%)
4. Landman - Paramount+, 134 votes (12%)
5. The Pitt - HBO Max, 124 votes (11%)
The wildcards with the most votes in this category are:
The Diplomat (US), Riot Women, Putainwith 2 votes each!
Language and Region Categories
Best Non-English Series of 2025
Among the non-English series, Squid Game was untouchable. With an overwhelming lead, the series left the competition far behind. None of the other titles came close to the winner's vote percentage. The result confirmed the exceptional reach and lasting international appeal.
Below is the top 5 in the category Non-English Series of 2025 (963 votes):
1. Squid Game - Netflix, 404 votes (42%)
2. Åremorden - Viaplay, 128 votes (13%)
3. Alice in Borderland (2020) - Netflix, 103 votes (11%)
4. Last Samurai Standing - Netflix, 99 votes (10%)
5. Legenden - Netflix, 84 votes (9%)
The wildcards with the most votes in this category are:
Maxton Hall - Die Welt Zwischen Uns, Su majestadwith 2 votes each!
Best Flemish/Dutch Series of 2025
In the Flemish and Dutch category, Het gouden uur took the win. The series managed to mobilize a stable fan base throughout the voting period. Oogappels and Gooische vrouwen followed closely, creating a competitive top. The result showed that local drama is highly valued.
Below is the top 5 in the category Best Flemish/Dutch Series of 2025 (1064 votes):
1. Het gouden uur - AVROTROS, 244 votes (23%)
2. Oogappels - BNNVARA, 160 votes (15%)
3. Gooische vrouwen - SBS 6/Videoland, 151 votes (14%)
4. Mocro Maffia: Tonnano - Videoland, 125 votes (12%)
5. Onopgelost - Videoland, 102 votes (10%)
The wildcard with the most votes in this category is:
Bodemwith 4 votes!
Special Categories
Best Documentary of 2025
The documentary prize went to Ewout: Gevaarlijke Gevangenissen. The series made a strong impression with its poignant subject and direct approach. Other strong titles like Het verhaal van Nederland and Clarkson’s Farm ended behind it. Current events and urgency proved decisive here.
Below is the top 5 in the category Best Documentary of 2025 (957 votes):
1. Ewout: Gevaarlijke Gevangenissen - Videoland, 229 votes (24%)
2. Het verhaal van Nederland - NTR, 186 votes (19%)
3. Clarkson's Farm - Prime Video, 142 votes (15%)
4. Welcome to Wrexham - FX, 110 votes (11%)
5. Prehistoric Planet - Apple TV, 101 votes (11%)
The wildcards with the most votes in this category are: Victoria Beckham, The Road To Fourwith 2 votes each.
Most Disappointing Series of 2025
Among the most disappointing series, You came out on top. Despite high expectations, the series failed to convince the audience this year. Established titles like Flikken Maastricht and The White Lotus also received a notable number of votes in this category. The result shows that familiarity is no guarantee of satisfaction.
Below is the top 5 in the category Most Disappointing Series of 2025 (864 votes):
1. You - Netflix, 171 votes (20%)
2. Flikken Maastricht - AVROTROS, 116 votes (13%)
3. De Vuurwerkramp - EO, 100 votes (12%)
4. The White Lotus - HBO Max, 95 votes (11%)
5. Marvel's What If...? - Disney+, 92 votes (11%)
The wildcards with the most votes in this category are:
The Witcher, Adolescencewith 3 votes each!
Best Ended Series of 2025
The Handmaid’s Tale ended its run in style and was voted Best Ended Series. The series surpassed classics like Yellowstone and Bosch: Legacy. The lasting impact and consistent quality played a significant role here. A farewell that was clearly appreciated.
Below is the top 5 in the category Best Ended Series of 2025 (1063 votes):
1. The Handmaid's Tale - Hulu, 295 votes (28%)
2. Yellowstone (2018) - Paramount Network, 245 votes (23%)
3. Bosch: Legacy - Amazon Freevee, 124 votes (12%)
4. The Wheel of Time - Prime Video, 109 votes (10%)
5. Andor - Disney+, 99 votes (9%)
The wildcard with the most votes in this category is:
Stranger Thingswith 7 votes! (1%)
Best New Series of 2025
Among the new series of 2025, Adolescence immediately made an impression. The series quickly distinguished itself and gathered the most votes. The Pitt and Dept. Q followed but had to let the winner go. The result confirmed that a strong start can make the difference.
Below is the top 5 in the category Best New Series of 2025 (1156 votes):
1. Adolescence - Netflix, 254 votes (22%)
2. The Pitt - HBO Max, 185 votes (16%)
3. Dept. Q - Netflix, 121 votes (10%)
4. IT: Welcome to Derry - HBO, 116 votes (10%)
5. Black Doves - Netflix, 91 votes (8%)
The wildcards with the most votes in this category are:
Heated Rivalry, MobLand, Pluribuswith 3 votes each!
The Big Winner of 2025
Best Series of 2025
In Best Series of the Year, the real battle erupted only in the final phase. Where one title set the pace for a long time, a nerve-wracking two-horse race emerged in the last two weeks. The lead position changed hands several times, often with just one or two votes difference. Every new vote could immediately shake up the ranking. Ultimately, the decision fell in the very last moments, with a minimal margin making this category the most thrilling of the entire election.
Below is the top 5 in the category Best Series of 2025 (1373 votes):
1. Adolescence - Netflix, 223 votes (16%)
2. The Last of Us - HBO, 222 votes (16%)
3. The Night Agent - Netflix, 186 votes (14%)
4. Reacher - Prime Video, 142 votes (10%)
5. The Pitt - HBO Max, 139 votes (10%)
The wildcard with the most votes in this category is:
Stranger Thingswith 10 votes (1%)!
Winners
The winners of 2025 managed to make a difference early in the elections. With clear leads and stable support, they never relinquished their lead. In several categories, a pattern quickly emerged where the same names kept returning. That consistency proved decisive in the end. The audience rewarded clearly recognizable quality and popularity.
Losers
For the losers, the election was less favorable than hoped. Although some series participated for a long time, they lacked the momentum to truly push for the win. In various categories, the gap remained too large to bridge. Support was certainly there, but not enough to threaten the established frontrunners. Ultimately, small differences and timing made the big difference.
Writers
Once again, our writers deserve a big round of applause this year. They delved into the columns about the ten nominated series in fourteen categories, and into the six nominated actors and actresses in their own categories, with visible pleasure. Thanks to their sharp pen, love for series, and eye for detail, each nomination received the attention it deserved.
Thank You
A big thank you also goes out to all MySeries readers. Your votes made these elections what they are. We hope to see you again at the Series of the Year election 2026. From December 2025 to November 2026, you can vote every month for your favorite in the MySeries of the Year elections poll.
Poll
Do you want to help decide on the next edition? Don't forget to cast your vote monthly in the MySeries of the Year Poll. Each month, fifteen new and/or well-known series are ready—straight from the writer's room, the set, or fresh from the editing room. Your vote can make the difference between participating or winning.
Nominations
Do you have a series or documentary that absolutely cannot be missed? Let us know via the forum or send a PM to the undersigned with your suggestion for the poll. This increases the chance that your favorite will make it to the top 10—and maybe even win.
New in 2026
Starting next year, Dutch and Flemish series will each have their own podium. Where they previously fell into one category together, they will be split into two separate categories from the Series of the Year election 2026 onwards. This way, series from both countries will receive the attention they deserve, making the competition just a bit fairer—and more exciting.
Anniversary Category: From the Old Box
Because MySeries celebrates its fifteenth anniversary in 2026, we're pulling out all the stops with a special anniversary category. In addition to the usual categories, we're adding an extra From the Old Box category. An ode to series that may have been around for a few years but are still more than worth watching (again). Nostalgia guaranteed.
The complete results and all associated figures can be found on the page behind the green button below.
Complete results series of the year election 2025
With kind prize regards,
Mandy
The prize winners will be notified via email.
Thanks to the writers, the organizers and the technical support.
And I've lived up to my reputation for unusual taste. I think I haven't seen about 85% of the series in the top three of all categories, and I won't watch them either :-)