20 Underrated TV Shows You Need to Watch Right Now

TV SHOWS

2/24/20254 min read

brown crt tv on brown wooden table
brown crt tv on brown wooden table

With so many TV shows out there, it's easy to miss some real gems. These underrated series might not have received the mainstream attention they deserved, but they are absolute must-watches. From gripping dramas to hilarious comedies and mind-bending thrillers, here are 20 underrated TV shows you need to binge right now.

1. Patriot (Amazon Prime)

A dark comedy that follows an intelligence officer posing as a mid-level employee in a piping company to prevent Iran from going nuclear. It’s quirky, hilarious, and surprisingly heartfelt. If Wes Anderson made a spy thriller, this would be it.

2. Counterpart (Starz)

A mind-bending sci-fi thriller where a UN employee discovers a parallel universe and meets his tougher, more ruthless counterpart. It’s a masterclass in storytelling and acting, with J.K. Simmons delivering a dual performance that’s nothing short of spectacular.

3. The Leftovers (HBO)

A haunting drama about a world where 2% of the population suddenly vanishes without explanation. It explores grief, faith, and the search for meaning in the most profound ways. It’s emotional, thought-provoking, and beautifully written.

4. Rectify (SundanceTV)

A slow-burning drama about a man released from death row after 19 years when new evidence surfaces. It’s a deeply introspective show that explores forgiveness, redemption, and the impact of incarceration on families.

5. Halt and Catch Fire (AMC)

Set during the tech boom of the 80s and 90s, this drama explores the rise of personal computing and the internet. It’s a character-driven narrative about innovation, ambition, and friendship. Think Mad Men meets Silicon Valley.

6. Terriers (FX)

A comedic crime drama about two unlicensed private investigators who take on odd cases in San Diego. It’s witty, charming, and surprisingly deep. Despite critical acclaim, it was canceled after just one season, making it a perfect weekend binge.

7. The Expanse (Amazon Prime)

A space opera that combines political intrigue, hard science fiction, and thrilling action. It’s Game of Thrones in space, with a richly developed universe, complex characters, and a gripping storyline.

8. Dark (Netflix)

A German sci-fi thriller that involves time travel, family secrets, and a mind-bending mystery that spans generations. It’s complex, atmospheric, and brilliantly written – perfect for fans of Stranger Things and Twin Peaks.

9. Lodge 49 (AMC)

A quirky dramedy about a down-and-out surfer who joins a mysterious fraternal lodge after the death of his father. It’s a philosophical journey about community, purpose, and hope. Think of it as The Big Lebowski meets Twin Peaks.

10. Banshee (Cinemax)

An action-packed drama about an ex-con who assumes the identity of a murdered sheriff in a small town. It’s gritty, violent, and unapologetically bold, with incredible fight sequences and complex characters.

11. The OA (Netflix)

A supernatural mystery about a blind girl who returns after disappearing for seven years – now with her sight restored. It’s a surreal journey that explores life, death, and the possibility of other dimensions.

white daisy flowers during daytime
white daisy flowers during daytime
12. Man Seeking Woman (FXX)

A surreal romantic comedy that follows a man navigating the absurd world of modern dating. It’s hilariously weird, blending fantasy elements with relatable dating disasters. Perfect for fans of quirky humor.

13. Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj (Netflix)

A smart, satirical take on current events and global politics. Hasan Minhaj’s unique storytelling style and comedic delivery make complex issues both informative and entertaining.

14. Pushing Daisies (ABC)

A whimsical romantic dramedy about a pie-maker who can bring people back to life with a touch – but only for a minute. It’s charming, quirky, and beautifully crafted, with a fairy-tale vibe that’s utterly enchanting.

15. The Good Fight (Paramount+)

A legal and political drama that’s sharp, witty, and incredibly relevant. It tackles real-world issues with humor and intelligence, featuring strong performances and razor-sharp writing.

16. Happy Endings (ABC)

A hilarious ensemble comedy about a group of friends navigating love and life in Chicago. It’s witty, fast-paced, and criminally underrated – perfect for fans of Friends and New Girl.

17. Hannibal (NBC)

A psychological thriller that explores the twisted relationship between FBI profiler Will Graham and the charming cannibal, Dr. Hannibal Lecter. It’s dark, beautifully shot, and disturbingly poetic.

18. Mindhunter (Netflix)

A crime drama that delves into the early days of criminal psychology and serial killer profiling at the FBI. It’s chilling, intelligent, and brilliantly acted, with an eerie, slow-burn tension.

19. Fleabag (Amazon Prime)

A dark comedy about a broken, angry woman navigating life, love, and loss in London. It’s brutally honest, hilariously funny, and deeply moving, with Phoebe Waller-Bridge delivering a masterful performance.

20. Undone (Amazon Prime)

A rotoscoped animated series that explores time travel and mental health through the story of a young woman who discovers she can manipulate time after a near-death experience. It’s visually stunning, thought-provoking, and beautifully surreal.

Which Hidden Gem Will You Watch Next?

These underrated TV shows are proof that great storytelling doesn’t always get the spotlight it deserves. Whether you’re in the mood for mind-bending mysteries, hilarious comedies, or gripping dramas, these hidden gems are worth the binge. Have you watched any of these shows? Which one will you start next? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

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