Updated October 25, 2023 337.7K votes 47.7K voters 794.8K views
Over 47.7K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Underrated & Overlooked TV Shows
Voting Rules
Vote up the shows currently airing new episodes and have not received mainstream press or acclaim - no Emmy award-winning programs or shows with huge followings
Latest additions: Ghosts, The Righteous Gemstones, Somebody Somewhere
Most divisive: Somebody Somewhere
Some of the best shows on TV right now are criminally underrated and not watched by nearly enough people. Sure, you've heard of Stranger Things, The Handmaid's Tale, House of the Dragon, and all those other great, popular shows. But have you heard of Pachinko? The Bear? Didn't think so. Here to solve this very pressing problem is this list of unknown, obscure, or underrated TV shows you should be watching right now, if anything just to shake things up a bit. Be sure to also watch the best shows ending in 2022 before it's too late!Â
Some of the shows on this list are fairly standard genre shows like crime thrillers and supernatural tween rom-coms, but each of the television series listed here are uniquely memorable and entertaining. Why aren't people watching? The shows may have a bad time slot or maybe people feel these are shows where nothing happens. However, many of these overlooked shows are actually critically acclaimed and beloved by a small group of loyal viewers. It's truly amazing and baffling that these shows have managed to fly under the radar, but once you read about these underrated series you should be watching, maybe they'll gain at least one new fan.
Looking for some new TV show suggestions for this coming Saturday night? There are so many under-the-radar TV shows out there that deserve more viewers and more buzz. If you're looking for a good Netflix and chill show, why not try some of these underrated gems?Â
Go on and celebrate underrated television by voting up your favorite shows with cult followings!
Our Flag Means Death skillfully combines swashbuckling adventure with a hearty dollop of humor, making it a true hidden gem. Centered around an unlikely pirate captain, masterfully portrayed by Rhys Darby, the show takes the viewer on a rollicking journey through pirate-infested waters. The colorful cast of misfits adds a certain je ne sais quoi to the show, resulting in a refreshing take on the well-worn genre.
Actors: Rhys Darby, Taika Waititi, Nathan Foad, Samson Kayo, Vico Ortiz
Abbott Elementary shines as a delightfully droll mockumentary-style comedy set in an underfunded Philadelphia school. Quinta Brunson excels as the headstrong young teacher at the center of a hilarious ensemble, navigating the unsung world of public education. The smart, down-to-earth humor of Abbott Elementary makes it a must-watch addition to the sitcom landscape.
Actors: Quinta Brunson, Tyler James Williams, Janelle James, Chris Perfetti, Lisa Ann Walter
The Bear, an American comedy-drama series featuring Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, and Ayo Edebiri, follows a talented young chef's return to Chicago. As he steps away from the world of fine dining to manage his family's Italian beef sandwich shop amidst a tragedy, he must navigate his brother's debts, a dilapidated kitchen, and a rebellious staff.
Actors: Jeremy Allen White, Ebon Moss-Bachrach, Ayo Edebiri, Abby Elliott, Lionel Boyce
Pachinko astounds as a visually sumptuous and multigenerational epic, spanning decades and continents to unravel a complex story of identity, love, and perseverance. Adapted from Min Jin Lee's bestselling novel, the show boasts a stellar ensemble, evoking strong emotions and creating a profound sense of connection to the characters. Pachinko leaves an indelible mark on its audience, truly deserving of its cult following.
Actors: Youn Yuh-jung, Lee Min-Ho, Minha Kim, Jin Ha, Soji Arai
The Gilded Age takes a plunge into the opulent and cutthroat world of 19th-century American high society. With a heady mix of power struggles, tangled relationships, and Julian Fellowes' keen eye for period detail, the show creates an immersive experience that lures the viewer in. Elevated by an inspired cast, The Gilded Age is a beguiling cauldron of ambition and passion that pits old money against new.
Dead to Me deftly blends dark humor with a compelling narrative, spinning a tale of two women who form an improbable bond in the aftermath of personal loss. Christina Applegate and Linda Cardellini breathe life into their complex characters, delivering nuanced performances that swerve effortlessly between despair and levity. Dead to Me expertly keeps the viewer on tenterhooks, creating a web of secrets and lies that begs to be unraveled.
Actors: Christina Applegate, Linda Cardellini, James Marsden, Max Jenkins, Sam McCarthy
