When it comes to delivering consistent hits, CBS knows the formula. Whether it’s laugh-out-loud comedies, gripping dramas, or thrilling crime procedurals, CBS continues to dominate prime-time television. Over the last five years, the network has rolled out shows that have not only kept audiences hooked but also sparked massive online conversations.
So, which CBS shows truly stand out from the crowd? Let’s dive into the 10 best CBS shows from the past five years and see why they’ve captured the hearts of millions.
Why CBS Shows Continue to Shine
Before we get into the rankings, let’s take a step back. CBS isn’t just a network—it’s a storytelling machine. Unlike some platforms that churn out short-lived hits, CBS has mastered the art of building shows that grow on audiences, keep them engaged, and survive the cutthroat TV landscape.
What makes CBS unique?
-
Consistency: They stick to genres audiences love—crime, comedy, and drama.
-
Accessibility: CBS shows are easy to follow, making them perfect for casual or devoted viewers.
-
Character depth: From quirky ghosts to resilient trackers, CBS creates characters you root for.
The Top 10 CBS Shows of the Last 5 Years
1. Ghosts (2021 – Present)
This supernatural comedy became an instant fan favorite. Adapted from the UK version, Ghosts tells the story of a young couple who inherit a haunted mansion filled with eccentric spirits. Instead of being scary, the show is lighthearted, charming, and downright hilarious.
Why it’s a hit: It combines witty humor with heartwarming storytelling, creating a sitcom unlike anything else on network TV.
2. Tracker (2024 – Present)
CBS struck gold with Tracker, a gripping action drama starring Justin Hartley. He plays Colter Shaw, a lone-wolf survivalist who travels across the country helping people solve mysteries and crimes.
Why it’s a hit: It’s fast-paced, thrilling, and blends the excitement of a road-trip adventure with mystery-solving suspense.
3. FBI (2018 – Present, still thriving in the past 5 years)
While it launched before our time frame, FBI has remained a dominant force over the past five years. Created by Dick Wolf, this procedural dives into the Bureau’s most intense cases.
Why it’s a hit: If you love Law & Order, FBI is its spiritual sibling—full of shocking cases, high-stakes drama, and sharp storytelling.
4. FBI: Most Wanted (2020 – Present)
Spun off from FBI, this show zeroes in on America’s most dangerous criminals. The Fugitive Task Force hunts down the worst of the worst, giving fans a mix of action and edge-of-your-seat tension.
Why it’s a hit: It’s like a manhunt movie every week, keeping viewers glued to the screen.
5. FBI: International (2021 – Present)
The global spin-off adds an international flavor. Instead of confining cases to U.S. soil, FBI: International takes viewers abroad with the Fly Team.
Why it’s a hit: The international backdrop adds fresh energy to the franchise, making it feel bigger, bolder, and more cinematic.
6. Blue Bloods (Still Dominating in the Last 5 Years)
Though it’s been around since 2010, Blue Bloods has remained one of CBS’s most dependable shows in the last five years. Following the Reagan family, it blends police drama with family values.
Why it’s a hit: Tom Selleck’s presence, heartfelt family dinners, and moral-driven storytelling keep fans invested.
7. So Help Me Todd (2022 – Present)
Blending comedy and legal drama, So Help Me Todd stars Skylar Astin as a private investigator and Marcia Gay Harden as his attorney mother. Their quirky relationship fuels the show’s charm.
Why it’s a hit: It’s a unique mix of humor, mystery, and mother-son banter that feels refreshing.
8. Bob Hearts Abishola (2019 – Present)
This rom-com sitcom has thrived in the past five years, offering a heartfelt love story between Bob, a businessman, and Abishola, a Nigerian nurse.
Why it’s a hit: It celebrates cultural differences while delivering laughs and romance, making it both funny and heartwarming.
9. NCIS: Hawai’i (2021 – 2024)
The NCIS franchise expanded with a Hawaiian twist. Jane Tennant, the first female lead of an NCIS spinoff, brought fresh energy to the long-running brand.
Why it’s a hit: Stunning island scenery combined with classic NCIS action makes it binge-worthy.
10. The Equalizer (2021 – Present)
Led by Queen Latifah, The Equalizer reimagines the iconic role with a powerful twist. As Robyn McCall, she fights for justice when the system fails.
Why it’s a hit: Queen Latifah’s commanding presence and the show’s socially conscious themes strike a chord with today’s audiences.
Honorable Mentions
-
United States of Al (2021 – 2022): A heartfelt comedy about friendship and cultural differences.
-
Clarice (2021): A dark, psychological thriller exploring the world of Silence of the Lambs.
-
Tough as Nails (2020 – Present): A reality competition showcasing everyday heroes in physically demanding challenges.
CBS’s Winning Formula
What’s the secret behind CBS’s success? It’s not just about flashy premieres or big names—it’s about staying true to what works. CBS thrives on three pillars:
-
Character-first storytelling – Characters feel real, relatable, and layered.
-
Procedural comfort – Viewers love the predictability of mystery-solving with fresh twists.
-
Genre mastery – CBS dominates in comedy, crime, and drama.
The Impact of Streaming on CBS Shows
With Paramount+ giving CBS shows a second life, the audience base has grown even bigger. Shows like Ghosts and Tracker aren’t just watched live—they’re binged online. This hybrid approach ensures CBS stays relevant in a streaming-driven world.
Why Fans Keep Coming Back
CBS shows are more than just TV—they’re cultural staples. Fans feel like they’re part of the story, whether it’s laughing with ghosts, solving crimes with the FBI, or joining family dinners on Blue Bloods.
Conclusion
From Ghosts to Tracker, CBS has proven once again that it knows how to balance tradition with innovation. Over the last five years, the network has rolled out comedies, dramas, and thrillers that resonate with a wide range of viewers. Whether you’re in it for the laughs, the action, or the heartfelt moments, CBS has a show for you.
FAQs
1. What is the most-watched CBS show in recent years?
FBI and its spin-offs consistently pull high ratings, making them some of the most-watched.
2. Which CBS comedy has gained the most attention lately?
Ghosts has quickly become CBS’s crown jewel in the comedy category.
3. Is Tracker based on a book?
Yes, it’s inspired by Jeffery Deaver’s novel The Never Game.
4. Which CBS show is best for binge-watching?
If you like lighthearted laughs, Ghosts. For action, Tracker.
5. Will CBS keep expanding the FBI franchise?
Given its success, more spin-offs or crossovers wouldn’t be surprising.
