With the abundance of amazing TV shows across a variety of genres, it's no surprise that amazing shows go unnoticed and don't get the strong fan base and enthusiasm they deserve. Underrated TV shows often get rave reviews, but they are drowned out by the myriad of popular shows that dominate social media and public consciousness. These types of underdog TV shows are at risk of being canceled too soon, despite having a fiercely passionate fan base.
A wide variety of underrated TV shows haven't gotten the attention or praise they deserve, from heartwarming comedies to jaw-dropping high-octane action series. Despite not becoming popular like some high-budget TV shows with a star-studded cast and incredible visual effects, the underrated shows have managed to gain a dedicated fan base that has stuck with the show over the years.
20
Galavant (2015-2016)
Genre: Medieval Fantasy-Comedy-Musical
Galavant, the medieval musical extravaganza, only existed to occupy office hours Once upon a time in the middle of the season, but still managed to win the hearts of the audience. In the first five minutes of the first episode, a song narrating the story of the titular character Galavant (Joshua Sasse) told the classic story of a hero's journey to save his beloved Madalena (Mallory Jansen). However, there was a twist: Madalena decided to marry her kidnapper, King Richard (Timothy Omundson) for his money and power and betrayed Galavant.
Galavant is filled with hilarious fourth wall breaks, catchy music, compelling character dynamics, and adventure. While the niche show never got the credit it deserved, it solidified itself as a comedy gem.
19
Subburgatory
Genre: Sitcom
The comedy series Subburgatory follows Tessa Altman (Jane Levy), a headstrong and independent teenager, and her father, George Altman (Jeremy Sisto), after they move from New York City to the fictional wealthy suburban town of Chatswin. The Altmans do not fit in with their wealthy and eccentric neighbors and struggle to adapt to their new neighborhood. They are later surprised to find meaningful relationships with the citizens of Chatswin, despite their initial impressions.
Subburgatory really shines in its moments of human connection, as despite the stark differences between the Altmans and Chatswin citizens, they learn to value each other and form bonds.
Subburgatory really shines in its moments of human connection, as despite the stark differences between the Altmans and Chatswin citizens, they learn to value each other and form bonds. Dallas Royce's (Cheryl Hines) motherly relationship with Tessa and Tessa's feelings toward her mother, who abandoned the family, added depth to the comedy show and made it a touching watch.
18
Living single (1993-1998)
Genre: Twenty-something sitcom
The underrated sitcom Living single was overshadowed by the popularity of Friendsdespite debuting a year earlier. In the same way as Friends, Living single followed a group of friends in their 20s in New York as they navigated single life in the city. Starring Queen Latifah, Kim Coles, Erika Alexander, Kim Fields, John Henton and TC Carson as the six friends whose authentic relationship caused hilarity and fun.
The struggles of young professionals in search of love made Living single a relatable and hilarious classic. While Living single hasn't become as popular as other comedies, the representation of black people on television and its treatment of important issues endear the show to its fans.
17
My so-called life (1994-1995)
Genre: Coming-of-age teen drama
The critically acclaimed and award-winning teen drama My so called life is an underrated and forgotten show from the 1990s. The spectacle follows high school student Angela Chase (Claire Danes) as she deals with her family, relationship issues and school. Unlike other teen dramas My so called life explored major social issues through multi-episode arcs rather than focusing on single-episode issues.
My so called life stands out from other high school teen dramas by portraying teenage life as turbulent and confusing rather than a hilarious and mischievous time. Despite only lasting one season, My so called life It won over audiences and critics with its realistic depiction of teenage life and established itself as a cult classic.
16
Dead Like Me (2003-2004)
Genre: Dark Comedy Fantasy
The dark comedy fantasy series Dead like me follows George Lass (Ellen Muth), an 18-year-old girl who dies in a bizarre accident and becomes a grim reaper. As a grim reaper, George is tasked with removing people's souls moments before their death and accompanying them into the afterlife. George deals with his sudden death and his new job as a reaper, while his family deals with the loss and begins to fall apart.
Dead like me the portrayal of George's grief and family falling apart after his death made it a tragic and captivating show.
According to the dark premise, Dead like me the portrayal of George's grief and family falling apart after his death made it a tragic and captivating show. With just two seasons, the unique show Dead like me it deserved a bigger fan base.
15
Miracle Workers (2019-2023)
Genre: Crazy Anthology Comedy
The anthology comedy series Miracle Workers features a cast from a variety of time periods and settings as they wreak havoc. The star-studded cast Miracle Workers includes Harry Potter fame Daniel Radcliffe, Steve Buscemi, Geraldine Viswanathan, Lolly Adefope and Karan Soni. From Radcliffe in fashion while delivering an impassioned rendition of "She'll Be Coming 'Round the Mountain" in Season 2 to Buscemi as a crazy, incompetent God, Miracle Workers is full of unpredictable and hilarious moments.
Each season of Miracle Workers is a self-contained story set in a different place and time, full of hilarity and mischief. Despite a cast filled with popular actors, solid ratings, intriguing plots, and compelling characters, Miracle Workers remains an underrated gem. Unfortunately, the anthology series was canceled by the network, making Miracle Workers Highly unlikely season 5.
14
Great News (2017-2018)
Genre: Workplace comedy
Great news follows a news producer whose personal and professional life is turned upside down after her mother becomes an intern at her company. The quirky workplace comedy revolves around Katie Wendelson (Briga Heelan) and her relationship with her mother, Carol (Andrea Martin), in the chaotic, fast-paced, high-stakes industry of television news.
Great news is a hilarious and touching show filled with a cast of eccentric and unique characters. The news workplace setting provided a goldmine of comedic moments and the show was able to poke fun at the current news landscape while exploring the mother-daughter relationship. Despite the witty dialogue and incredible character dynamics, Great news was canceled after two seasons and remains a hidden gem that deserves a larger fan base.
13
Girls5eva (2021-2024)
Genre: Musical Drama
The musical comedy series Girls5eva follows the one-hit-wonder girl group as they reunite in hopes of finding fame and fortune. Girls5eva stars Sara Bareilles, Busy Philipps, Renée Elise Goldsberry and Paula Pell as the members of the pop group who are dissatisfied with their current lives. The show follows them as they deal with disappearing from the public eye and their attempt to become successful artists.
While Girls5eva is a brilliantly hilarious and entertaining show, the show shines with its depiction of friendship and commentary on the music industry and fame.
While Girls5eva is a brilliantly hilarious and entertaining show, the show shines with its depiction of friendship and commentary on the music industry and fame. The original songs are catchy and perfectly capture the essence of 1990s pop music. The show has not yet been renewed, making it unclear whether there will be a Girls5eva season 4. With a talented cast and hysterical moments, the underrated show Girls5eva It deserves a bigger audience and a new season.
12
Freaks and Geeks (1999)
Genre: High School Drama Comedy
A season's wonder Freaks and Geeks is a cult classic that follows two groups of outcast friends, the "freaks" and the "geeks." The teen comedy-drama series centers around Linsday Weir (Linda Cardellini) after she joins the Freaks and her younger brother Sam (John Francis Daley) as a member of the Geeks.
Freaks and Geeks provided a different perspective on school life as the realistically awkward and insecure characters struggled to fit in and deal with their sense of identity and bullying. The tragically short-lived show Freaks and Geeks It may not have gotten a huge number of views, but it remains a classic even after 25 years. However, fans can rejoice as executive producer Judd Apatow continues Freaks and Geeks in its own way, years after the cancellation.
Genre: Musical Drama
Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist is a musical comedy that presents an in-depth exploration of feelings and emotions through popular music. The show follows Zoey Clarke (Jane Levy) after a freak accident gives her the ability to see people's thoughts and feelings through music and dance. Zoey uses her ability to help and support those around her and is able to communicate with her father Mitch (Peter Gallagher), who has progressive supranuclear palsy and cannot speak. The show was canceled after two seasons, but returned for the holiday movie Zoey's Extraordinary Christmas.
Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist is a fun and musical show full of emotional moments and dealing with themes such as grief. Scenes like Alice Lee's haunting rendition of Demi Lovato's “Anyone” as her character Emily deals with postpartum depression solidify the show as an emotional masterpiece. With its emotional and authentic portrayal of serious themes, Zoey's Extraordinary Playlist has made its mark as a poignant, moving show that deserves more credit.
10
A Million Little Things (2018-2023)
Genre: Family Drama
The family drama series A million little things follows a close-knit group of friends after the sudden death of their close friend, which forces them to deeply examine their own lives and decide to live a fuller life and pursue their dreams. The emotionally charged show follows the group of friends' complex emotions regarding their tragic loss and personal struggles.
A million little things tackled deep issues and refused to shy away from difficult topics like death, grief, mental health, alcoholism, and PTSD. The ensemble show features a compelling cast of characters with complex lives, emotional depth, and personal struggles. The authentic and emotional series won hearts with its complex characters that resonated with audiences.
9
Pushing Daisies (2007-2009)
Genre: Comedy Fantasy-Mystery
The comedy-drama and mystery series Pushing Daisies follows Ned (Lee Pace), who has the unique ability to bring back the dead with a touch for just a short period of time. However, this powerful ability does not come without consequences, and complications arise after he permanently brings back his childhood crush, Chuck (Anna Friel), after she is murdered. Ned and Chuck's growing relationship is complicated by Ned's inability to touch Chuck without sending her back to her grave.
Pushing Daisies It seamlessly combines elements of murder mysteries and investigations, fantasy drama, and romance. Ned and Chuck's tragic and sweet relationship is a highlight of the series and their inability to touch each other added to the romance. Despite having a dedicated fan base, Pushing Daisies It deserved a bigger audience and more seasons.
8
Crazy ex-girlfriend (2015-2019)
Genre: Musical Comedy
The critically acclaimed and award-winning show Crazy ex-girlfriend follows Rebecca Bunch (Rachel Bloom), a lawyer who makes a sudden and drastic change when she moves from New York City to West Covina, a town in Los Angeles. The musical romantic comedy series Crazy ex-girlfriend features original musical numbers that only take place inside Rebecca's mind and represent her thoughts and perception of the world.
Despite the program's low ratings Crazy ex-girlfriend became a beloved cult classic and was renewed for three more seasons. The sitcom's emotionally charged moments, creative use of music to show Rebecca's insight, and the romantic comedy's refusal to have the main characters avoid the consequences of their bad decisions and actions made it an incredible, innovative show.
7
Shrinking (2023 to present)
Genre: Heartfelt drama
Shrinking follows grief therapist Jimmy (Jason Segel) as he struggles to adjust to life as a single father after the death of his wife. In dealing with his pain, Jimmy tries a new approach as a therapist, breaking ethical barriers and his training and being brutally honest when counseling his clients. However, his new therapeutic tactic has unintended consequences for both him and his clients.
The believable and moving relationship dynamics in Shrinking and its exploration of grief contrast perfectly with the comedic moments. Additionally, Dr. Paul Rhoades' (Harrison Ford) rough but kind guidance to Jimmy and his bond with Jimmy's daughter Alice (Lukita Maxwell) create a heartwarming yet hilarious dynamic. Shrinking is an underrated comedy-drama series full of twists and emotional moments.
6
Deadloch (2023 to present)
Genre: Black Comedy Crime
The Australian dark comedy crime series Deadloch follows two detectives with diametrically opposite investigative techniques as they struggle to work together to solve the murder of a local resident and uncover the town's dark secrets. Dulcie Collins (Kate Box) and Eddie Redcliffe (Madeleine Sami)'s inability to get along and Eddie's reckless and unconventional tactics serve as a constant source of tension and entertainment.
Deadloch is a subversive crime mystery series filled with plot twists, betrayals and shocking revelations. Furthermore, Deadloch stands out for its sharp writing, dry humor, satirical social commentary, and fresh and original take on murder mystery series, solidifying its status as an underrated satirical comedy. Happily, Deadloch Season 2 was confirmed when Amazon Prime Video decided to renew the series.
5
Mythical Mission (2020 to present)
Genre: Workplace comedy
Mythic Quest is a witty comedy series that offers a surprisingly personal and sincere look at its characters. The show follows the employees of a fictional video game studio that produces the popular MMORPG. The cast is full of complex and compelling characters, with a selfish leader with hidden depths, Ian Grimm (Rob McElhenney), leading the charge. He is joined by chief engineer Poppy Li (Charlotte Nicdao), money-conscious Brad Bakshi (Danny Pudi) and long-suffering executive producer David Brittlesbee (David Hornsby).
The comedy show Mythic Quest stands out for its complex characters, intriguing and compelling relationship dynamics, and use of innovative standalone episodes that add depth to the series. The hilarious workplace comedy cements itself as one of the best comedies to date, with its character-driven narratives and incredible writing.
4
Class of '07 (2023)
Genre: Survival Horror
The apocalyptic survival horror series Class of '07 follows a group of women trapped at the source of the greatest trauma, the all-girls school. After a catastrophic tidal wave and flood suddenly occur during the high school's ten-year reunion, the alumni are stranded on campus. The women struggle to survive while dealing with their past grievances, teenage dramas and unresolved rivalries.
The group composed only of women Class of '07 features Emily Browning, Megan Smart and Caitlin Stasey as three of the survivors. The trio's turbulent past and unresolved grievances add tension to the high-stakes situation and lead to intense character growth. The flawed, morally gray characters create a unique, compelling, thought-provoking, and hilarious series. The mix of high-stakes drama, comedy, and surprisingly dark backstories and character dynamics makes Class of '07 one of the most underrated shows on television.
3
Banshee (2013-2016)
Genre: Police thriller
Banshee is an action-packed crime thriller series that follows an ex-convict who assumes the identity of murdered sheriff Lucas Hood, played by Anthony Starr, known for his role as Homelander in The boys. On the run and in hiding from crime lord Igor Rabitov (Ben Cross), Hood struggles to maintain his new false identity as the law-abiding sheriff while also committing crimes.
Banshee is a high-octane show filled with violent, well-choreographed fight scenes. The captivating thriller and character-driven series revolves around a surprisingly likable and morally ambiguous protagonist and focuses on Hood's conflict with his sense of self. Full of compelling stories and characters, Banshee the portrayal of morally gray characters set in a world of crime and drama cements it as a standout show that deserves more hype.
2
The Resort (2022)
Genre: Black Comedy Mystery
The exceptional dark comedy mystery series The Resort follows a couple whose vacation takes a surprising turn when they find themselves embroiled in an old missing persons case. The central couple, Emma, played by Cristin Milioti, and Noah, played by William Jackson Harper, are perfectly cast as the married couple of 10 years hoping to breathe life into their stagnant marriage. While on vacation to celebrate their birthday, they recover a missing teenager's phone and decide to investigate the case themselves.
Milioti and Harper's chemistry and comedic timing make their relationship a loving couple facing problems as they try to rekindle their relationship by investigating together. The Resort perfected the balance of mystery with comedy and emotional moments. Furthermore, The Resort The shocking and beautiful ending cements it as a fun but moving show with a talented cast that deserved more attention.
1
We Are Lady Parts (2021-present)
Genre: British Drama Comedy
We are feminine pieces follows an all-female Muslim punk rock band called Lady Parts as they try to make a mark in the music industry. The British sitcom stars Anjana Vasan as Amina, a PhD student who is a highly talented guitarist whose stage fright makes her feel nauseous and vomit. Despite this, Amina is recruited by the band's founder and vocalist, Saira (Sarah Kameela Impey) and the punk rock group forms a strong bond.
An important aspect We are feminine pieces is the band's struggle to find success and be taken seriously in the London punk rock scene as an all-female Muslim band. We are feminine pieces shines in its portrayal of the band's group dynamic and the strong, moving bond between the band members. The show is a smart, edgy comedy with incredible characterizations, character growth, and much-needed representation. We are feminine pieces is a criminally underrated TV show that expertly combines comedy with powerful storytelling.