‘Game of Thrones’ detractors are wrong — it’s the best show on TV

I have two words for everyone and anyone who has expended energy criticizing Season 7 of “Game of Thrones.”

Shut up.

There is no show like it anywhere on TV. The size, the scope and the sheer epic nature of it are nothing short of amazing.

It remains the best show on TV. The show with which I am completely obsessed. The one show where I can’t wait to see what happens next.

Like the George R.R. Martin novels on which it is based, “Game of Thrones” is one giant narrative that has, to date, stretched over 67 episodes. It is, in essence, one big novel.

Which is why so much of the criticism of the series is so misguided. Like the argument that “GOT” used to be about character development and now it’s all about action.

Duh. That’s the way novels work. Characters are developed, and plot ensues.

Or the argument that, because the good guys (Starks) lost and the bad guys (Lannisters) won in the early seasons, the series is somehow pandering because fortunes reversed.

This criticism comes from people who, apparently, have never read a novel. Dealing with obstacles and overcoming setbacks is hardly a revolutionary plot development.

Maybe these are the same people who criticized “GOT” for being anti-women … and now the female characters dominate the narrative.

Now, I know “Game of Thrones” isn’t No. 1 on a lot of critics’ year-end lists. Because TV critics like things that are shiny and new and tend to overlook shows that premiered 6½ years ago.

I’ve been guilty of that myself.

“GOT” has been so good for so long that a lot of people take for granted how good it is.

I can’t. It was the best show on TV in 2017. Here’s the rest of my Top 10.

2. “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend”

The first two season were great. Season 3 is something remarkable, dealing with mental illness in a musical.

3. “The Vietnam War”

Truly must-see TV for those who do remember, and even more for those who don’t.

4. “Star Trek: Discovery”

I had my doubts, but it delivered.

5. “Better Call Saul”

The best TV prequel ever.

6. “The Good Place”

The single most surprising show on TV. And it’s funny!

7. “The Handmaid’s Tale”

A remarkable allegory.

8. “Mindhunter”

Simultaneously engaging and repellent.

9. “Big Little Lies”

Great performances in a compelling, female-centric narrative.

10. “The Late Show With Stephen Colbert”

In the age of Trump, this is almost required viewing.

Top 10 new shows

1. “The Handmaid’s Tale”

2. “Mindhunter”

3. “Big Little Lies”

4. “Feud: Bette and Joan” • Compelling Hollywood history with resonance today.

5. “Young Sheldon” • There’s every reason this “Big Bang Theory” prequel shouldn’t work, but it does.

6. “One Day at a Time” • This reboot is smart and funny.

7. “The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel” • This period drama is filled with great characters.

8. “Downward Dog” • I’m still mad at ABC for not giving this funny, charming comedy a real chance.

9. “Trial & Error” • A hilarious show about a bloody death? Yup.

10. “Andi Mack” • This made-in-Utah comedy for tweens is filled with role models and great messages.