by Kellie Underhill

Created on: February 04, 2009

Not that long ago if you asked me to compile a list of the best shows on television, it would have been a relatively easy task. With only a few major networks and a spattering of programs, I might have had a difficult time coming up with a list of five that didn't include the nightly news.

Today's television market is saturated with specialty cable channels and programming. A broader selection of television shows combined with even greater viewing freedom through Tivo, PVR, DVDs, internet streaming, and other modern technology, means most of us, myself included, are watching more television than ever before. Compiling a current list of the best shows is a daunting task because there are so many choices. Here is a diverse list of some of my favourites in no particular order.

Damages - This might just be the best show on television right now. I love it because it's complicated. If you like to have things wrapped up in a nice tidy bow by the end of the hour this is definitely not the show for you. Damages takes us into the ruthless land of lawyers and class action law suits. Just when you think you've got it all figured out think again, because chances are everything you believe to be true is just another lie. I love the complex storyline being woven in a tapestry of memory and flash forward scenes. The show also has one of the best casts in television today with Glenn Close, Rose Byrne, Tate Donovan, William Hurt, Marcia Gay Harden, Ted Danson and Timothy Olyphant. This is a serious stable of acting talent to have on any production. If you like jaw-dropping plot twists, then find Damages in your program guide and don't miss another episode.

How I Met Your Mother - Every generation seems to identify with a particular sitcom. During most of the 80s, everyone yelled "Norm" when he walked into the Cheers bar. Then everyone found Friends. How I Met Your Mother is the friend sitcom of this generation. The writing is smart. The characters are lovable. The jokes are funny. It's that great kind of show that not only brings the laughs every week, but also has a more serious side plucking at your heart strings bit by bit. Remember how we all waited on baited breath to see if Ross and Rachel would get together? Yeah, How I Met Your Mother is that kind of show, the kind that makes you care.

Friday Night Lights - I am not a fan of football, which might be one reason why I love this show so much, because that world is so foreign to me. The show takes place in a Texan town obsessed

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