The coming-of-age tale is a classic story that never gets old.

These are the best coming-of-age shows of all time, ranked.

Skinswas the coming-of-age show that took a number of risks and put its characters through some truly gut-wrenching plotlines.

Stills from Dawson’s Creek, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, and Stranger Things

Image by Federico Napoli

Whereas some coming-of-age shows glamorize and romanticize the teenage years,My So-Called Lifedid not.

There is a lot aboutOne Tree Hillthat makes it such an essential coming-of-age show.

At its core, though,it was a story about growing up in a small town.

The New Directions in pajamas on a mattress in Glee Season 1

Image via Fox

The show had complex and likable characters, and it always took them seriously.

This set in motion the events of the series as Veronica dealt with being an outcast while solving murders.

When it comes to teen dramas,Buffy the VampireSlayeris truly one of the greats.

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It had many incredible and experimental episodes, including a silent installment and a musical installment.

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NEXT:The Best Coming-of-Age Movies of All Time, Ranked

Nicholas Hoult in Skins

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My So-Called Life

Image via ABC

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Chad Michael Murray and James Lafferty playing basketball in One Tree Hill

Image via The WB

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Pacey and Joey slow-dancing with their eyes closed at prom in Dawson’s Creek

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Veronica Mars’ (2004 - 2007)  (1)

Image via UPN

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Eleven, with a bloody nose, and Dustin and Mike behind her on the floor at the mall, looking scared

Image via Netflix

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Linda Cardellini and Busy Phillips in ‘Freaks and Geeks’

Image via NBC

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Buffy Summers raises a dagger while looking down in Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

Image via The WB Television Network

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Manny Santos and Emma Nelson taking a selfie together in Season 5 of Degrassi: The Next Generation

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Buffy the Vampire Slayer