If you’re hunting for something great to watch — whether you’re flipping through channels or scanning streaming menus — the current CBS lineup is stacked. From gritty dramas to quirky comedies to classic-style courtroom intrigue, there’s something for every mood. Below are 10 shows that, based on ratings, fan buzz, and sheer entertainment value, stand out this season.
What Makes a CBS Show ‘Best’ in 2025?
Ratings, Renewals & Audience Reach Matter
The shows making our list consistently deliver high viewership and earn renewals — clear signs that they’re resonating with both audiences and CBS executives. For example, Tracker remains CBS’s top entertainment program of the season by total viewers.
Meanwhile Matlock — a reboot of the classic legal drama — has become the most-watched new show of 2024–2025.
Fresh Concepts + Established Franchises = Wide Appeal
New shows that bring fresh energy — or clever spin-offs from established properties — tend to draw cross-generational viewers. CBS has balanced legacy hits with bold newcomers to keep their lineup vibrant.
Variety Matters — From Crime to Comedy to Mystery
The “best” shows aren’t all one flavor. CBS’s top titles span genres: legal dramas, crime procedurals, supernatural comedies, medical mysteries — ensuring there’s something for every taste.
The 10 Must-Watch CBS Shows Right Now
Here they are — a well-rounded lineup of CBS’s elite offerings.
1. Tracker
Action, suspense, emotional stakes — Tracker checks all the boxes. As of the 2024–25 season, it leads all of broadcast TV in entertainment programming, thanks to its intense storylines and strong character arcs.
What makes it addictive: high-stakes missions, strong leads, and a steady momentum that compels viewers to binge just one more episode.
2. Matlock
A fresh spin on a legal drama classic. This reboot — led by a strong lead — merges sharp courtroom drama with modern sensibilities. Its blend of nostalgia and novelty helped it become the standout new series this season.
If you love courtroom tension, moral dilemmas, and clever legal maneuvering — Matlock delivers.
3. NCIS
A longtime staple of CBS’s success, NCIS continues to hold strong. With gripping naval-crime investigations and a loyal fan base, its consistency earns it a place on this list.
NCIS remains a safe bet if you enjoy disciplined procedural drama with a tinge of camaraderie and mystery.
4. FBI
Not to be confused with its many canceled spinoffs, the core FBI series stays robust. High-octane crime solving, strong ensemble cast, and tightly plotted episodes keep viewers coming back.
It’s perfect for those evenings when you want thrills and momentum without having to commit to a heavy watch.
5. Ghosts
Lighthearted, supernatural, and full of laughs — Ghosts stands out as CBS’s comedic gem. Its blend of charming humor, quirky characters, and paranormal hijinks offers a perfect break from darker dramas.
Need a mood booster? Ghosts is a feel-good pick that doesn’t demand intense emotional investment.
6. Elsbeth
A legal-mystery dramedy with personality. Elsbeth follows an unconventional attorney-turned-detective, mixing clever mystery formats with dry humor. It’s earned a growing fan base and a renewal for the 2025–2026 season.
It’s a neat cross between legal drama, procedural mystery, and character-driven storytelling — ideal if you like your shows smart, witty, and a little offbeat.
7. Watson
A fresh 2025 arrival, Watson reimagines Dr. John Watson (yes, that one) as the central figure in a medical-mystery series. Think Sherlock Holmes vibes with modern medical drama twists.
Curious, moody, and filled with suspense — it’s a refreshing change of pace from traditional crime shows.
8. Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage
CBS shows they can still do sitcoms well. Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage brings warmth, laughs, and relatable family moments — the kind of comfort-watch many of us love after a busy day.
If you enjoy feel-good stories and light comedy, this one’s a great slot filler.
9. 60 Minutes
A legacy news-magazine show that still commands respect. 60 Minutes continues to draw consistent viewership, delivering investigative reporting and human-interest stories that stand the test of time.
For those who like substance and real-world insight — this remains a solid pick.
10. Hollywood Squares (Reboot)
Not all hits are dramas or mysteries. Hollywood Squares — a rebooted game show revived in 2025 — offers a fun, light, and nostalgic break from heavy plots. Its quirky format and playful spirit earned it enough success for a second season.
Perfect for a casual watch with friends or family — no commitment, just pure entertainment.
Why This Mix Works for CBS in Late 2025
Balance Between Old & New
CBS plays it smart: mixing legacy shows (like NCIS, 60 Minutes) with inventive newcomers (like Watson, Elsbeth). That blend keeps longtime viewers happy while attracting fresh audiences.
Variety Keeps the Schedule Fresh
With drama, comedy, mystery, news, and lighthearted game shows, there’s rarely a dull night. Viewers get to choose based on mood: heavy drama one night, laughter the next, or even a thoughtful documentary-style program.
Streaming + Broadcast Strength
Many CBS shows enjoy multiplatform exposure — broadcast TV + streaming — which broadens their reach. That dual availability helps boost overall viewership and binge potential, especially for newer shows.
How to Pick What to Watch First
Your Mood Says It All
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Feeling tense or in the mood for mystery? Try Tracker, FBI, or Watson.
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Need laughs? Ghosts, Georgie & Mandy’s First Marriage, or Hollywood Squares hits the spot.
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Prefer something thoughtful or classic? Matlock or 60 Minutes offer substance.
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Want quirky, character-led fun? Go for Elsbeth.
Time Available — Big Commitment vs. Casual Watch
If you have a whole evening — NCIS, Tracker, or Matlock are great. Just a quick relaxing half-hour? Ghosts or Hollywood Squares works nicely.
Newbie Friendly vs. Long-Term Viewers
New shows like Watson or Elsbeth are perfect entry points — no long backstories to catch up on. If you enjoy depth, jump into a long-running favorite like NCIS.
What to Look Forward to in 2026 and Beyond
CBS isn’t slowing down. Several of these shows (like Tracker, Ghosts, Elsbeth) are already renewed for 2025–2026.
Expect more new entries, potential spin-offs, and fresh seasons — which means even more reasons to keep CBS on your watchlist.
Why CBS Still Dominates Broadcast Television
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Consistent Ratings & Wide Appeal: CBS remains the most-watched network for another season, proving its formula still works.
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Mix of Genres: Few networks brag about having top dramas, comedies, mystery shows, and news all in one stable lineup.
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Adaptability: CBS knows when to evolve — whether reviving classics, rebooting favorites, or launching fresh originals that match modern tastes.
Final Thoughts — Which CBS Show Should You Start With?
If you’re unsure where to begin — here’s a quick cheat sheet:
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Want a blockbuster start? Try Tracker.
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Prefer something smart and new? Watson or Elsbeth fits.
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Feeling nostalgic? Matlock gives that classic courtroom vibe.
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Need light and fun? Ghosts or Hollywood Squares.
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Craving reliable drama? NCIS or FBI won’t disappoint.
No matter your mood, CBS’s current lineup offers something satisfying.
Conclusion
CBS’s 2025 roster proves that even in an age of streaming overload, broadcast television can still deliver — and deliver well. With a mix of high-stakes dramas, comforting comedies, sharp mysteries, and timeless news programming, the network offers something for everyone. Whether you’re after intense thrills, a hearty laugh, or a thoughtful investigation, there’s a show on this list calling your name. So grab the remote (or open your streaming app), and dive in. Happy watching!
