The Top 20 Most-Streamed Acquired Series for the First Half of 2025
The first half of 2025 has shown us what shows Americans can’t stop watching. Streaming platforms like Disney+, Hulu, Netflix, and Max have delivered a mix of timeless classics and newer favorites, drawing millions to their screens.
From animated adventures to gritty crime dramas, these series reflect our love for stories that entertain, thrill, and make us laugh. Nielsen’s data reveals the top 20 acquired series—shows not originally produced by their current streaming platforms—that have captured the most viewing time from January to June 2025. Let’s dive into the list, counting down from 20 to 1, and explore why these shows keep us hooked.
20. Dexter (2006-2013)
We kick off with ‘Dexter’, a dark thriller about a forensic expert with a secret life as a vigilante serial killer. With 96 episodes streaming on Netflix and Paramount+, it racked up 10.033 billion minutes.
The show’s blend of moral dilemmas and intense drama keeps viewers glued. Michael C. Hall’s chilling performance as Dexter Morgan remains a draw, pulling us into his twisted world.
19. Spidey and His Amazing Friends (2021-present)
Next is ‘Spidey and His Amazing Friends’, a kid-friendly animated series on Disney+ and Prime Video. Its 135 episodes clocked 10.119 billion minutes.
This show’s colorful adventures with young Spider-Man, Ghost-Spider, and Spin appeal to families. Its short episodes and catchy songs make it a go-to for parents and kids alike.
18. The Equalizer (2021-present)
‘The Equalizer’ lands at 18, with 74 episodes streaming on Netflix for 10.231 billion minutes. This reboot stars Queen Latifah as a former CIA operative helping those in need.
Its action-packed episodes and focus on justice resonate with viewers. The show’s modern take on the classic series keeps the tension high and the stakes personal.
17. South Park (1997-present)
‘South Park’ continues its rebellious streak, with 312 episodes on Max earning 10.454 billion minutes. The animated comedy tackles everything from politics to pop culture.
Trey Parker and Matt Stone’s sharp humor keeps the show fresh. We keep coming back for its bold takes and outrageous laughs.
16. Young Sheldon (2017-2024)
At 16, ‘Young Sheldon’ streams on Max, Netflix, and Paramount+ with 141 episodes and 10.605 billion minutes. This ‘Big Bang Theory’ prequel follows a young genius navigating life.
Iain Armitage’s charming performance and the show’s warm humor make it a hit. It’s a cozy watch for those who love character-driven stories.
15. Gunsmoke (1955-1975)
‘Gunsmoke’, a classic Western, takes spot 15 with 404 episodes on Peacock and Paramount+, totaling 10.962 billion minutes. It follows Marshal Matt Dillon in the Old West.
The show’s timeless tales of law and order still captivate. Its sprawling episode count makes it perfect for long binge sessions.
14. Friends (1994-2004)
The iconic sitcom ‘Friends’ sits at 14, with 243 episodes on Max for 11.401 billion minutes. Ross, Rachel, and the gang remain cultural staples.
Its relatable humor and tight-knit group dynamic keep us watching. Nostalgia and witty writing make it a comfort show for all ages.
13. The White Lotus (2021-2025)
‘The White Lotus’ brings sharp satire to spot 13, with just 21 episodes on Max earning 11.462 billion minutes. This anthology series dives into the messy lives of resort guests.
Its biting commentary and stellar casts, including Jennifer Coolidge, hook viewers. Each season’s fresh setting keeps the drama addictive.
12. Supernatural (2005-2020)
‘Supernatural’ lands at 12, with 328 episodes on Netflix for 11.916 billion minutes. The Winchester brothers battle demons, angels, and everything in between.
Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki’s chemistry drives the show. Its mix of horror, heart, and humor keeps us invested through every hunt.
11. Criminal Minds (2005-present)
At 11, ‘Criminal Minds’ streams on Hulu and Paramount+ with 357 episodes and 12.592 billion minutes. This crime drama follows FBI profilers solving twisted cases.
The show’s intense cases and deep character arcs pull us in. Its focus on the human side of crime makes every episode gripping.
10. American Dad! (2005-present)
‘American Dad!’ takes spot 10, with 384 episodes on Hulu for 12.972 billion minutes. This animated comedy follows the chaotic Smith family and their alien friend.
Seth MacFarlane’s wild humor and sharp writing keep it fresh. It’s a lighter, wackier alternative to his other hit, ‘Family Guy’.
9. Law & Order: SVU (1999-present)
‘Law & Order: SVU’ ranks ninth, with 575 episodes on Hulu and Peacock, totaling 14.524 billion minutes. Mariska Hargitay leads as Detective Olivia Benson.
Its raw storytelling and focus on justice keep viewers hooked. The show’s long run proves its staying power in the crime genre.
8. The Rookie (2018-present)
‘The Rookie’ hits number eight, with 126 episodes on Hulu for 15.643 billion minutes. Nathan Fillion stars as a rookie cop navigating life in the LAPD.
Its mix of action, drama, and heart makes it a crowd-pleaser. Fillion’s charm carries the show through intense and funny moments.
7. The Big Bang Theory (2007-2019)
‘The Big Bang Theory’ lands at seven, with 281 episodes on Max for 16.618 billion minutes. This sitcom follows a group of quirky scientists and their friendships.
Jim Parsons as Sheldon and a tight ensemble keep us laughing. Its nerdy humor and heartfelt moments make it endlessly rewatchable.
6. SpongeBob SquarePants (1999-present)
‘SpongeBob SquarePants’ swims to six, with 323 episodes on Paramount+ for 16.682 billion minutes. The Bikini Bottom crew brings absurd humor to all ages.
Its colorful animation and goofy charm never get old. We love SpongeBob’s optimism and Patrick’s ridiculous antics.
5. Bob’s Burgers (2011-present)
‘Bob’s Burgers’ takes fifth, with 286 episodes on Hulu for 17.105 billion minutes. The Belcher family’s burger joint adventures are packed with heart and humor.
H. Jon Benjamin’s voice work and clever writing make it a gem. Its quirky characters keep us coming back for more laughs.
4. Family Guy (1999-present)
‘Family Guy’ grabs fourth, with 450 episodes on Hulu for 19.072 billion minutes. Seth MacFarlane’s animated hit follows the chaotic Griffin family.
Its irreverent humor and pop culture gags keep viewers hooked. The show’s bold style makes it a staple for comedy lovers.
3. NCIS (2003-present)
‘NCIS’ secures third, with 488 episodes on Hulu, Netflix, and Paramount+ for 19.117 billion minutes. This procedural follows a team solving naval crimes.
Mark Harmon’s leadership and the team’s dynamic keep it engaging. Its mix of action and character drama fuels its long run.
2. Grey’s Anatomy (2005-present)
‘Grey’s Anatomy’ takes second, with 449 episodes on Hulu and Netflix for 22.551 billion minutes. This medical drama follows doctors navigating life and love.
Ellen Pompeo’s Meredith Grey anchors the emotional rollercoaster. Its intense cases and personal stories make it a binge favorite.
1. Bluey (2018-present)
Topping the list is ‘Bluey’, with 154 episodes on Disney+ for a massive 25.059 billion minutes. This Australian animated series follows a lovable dog family.
Its heartfelt stories and playful humor resonate with kids and adults. Bluey’s relatable parenting moments and fun adventures make it a streaming juggernaut.
Which show on this list is your go-to binge, or did we miss a favorite? Drop your thoughts in the comments!
