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In the ever-expanding world of television, it’s easy for some truly exceptional shows to slip through the cracks. With so many series vying for viewers’ attention, even the most well-crafted narratives, compelling characters, and innovative storytelling can go unnoticed. These underrated TV shows may not have achieved the mainstream success of their more popular counterparts, but they have nonetheless garnered devoted followings for their unique perspectives and creative excellence. Whether due to niche subject matter, unfortunate timing, or simple lack of promotion, these shows didn’t receive the widespread recognition they deserved during their original runs. However, for those who are willing to seek out something a little off the beaten path, these hidden gems offer rich and rewarding viewing experiences. In this list, we highlight 14 underrated TV shows that you’ve probably never heard of, but definitely should consider adding to your watchlist. Prepare to discover your next favorite series.
1. “Patriot” (2015–2018)
- Creator: Steven Conrad
- Main Cast: Michael Dorman, Terry O’Quinn, Kurtwood Smith
- Why It’s Underrated: A mix of dark comedy, espionage, and quirky characters that didn’t fit the mainstream mold.
Patriot is an offbeat spy drama that blends dark humor, complex characters, and a labyrinthine plot. The show follows intelligence officer John Tavner (Michael Dorman), who goes undercover as a mid-level employee at a Midwestern industrial piping firm to prevent Iran from going nuclear. Balancing the absurdity of corporate life with the deadly seriousness of espionage, Patriot is as much a character study as it is a spy thriller. Its unique tone and style may have kept it under the radar, but for those who appreciate unconventional storytelling, Patriot is a hidden gem worth discovering.
Where to Stream: Amazon Prime Video
2. “Terriers” (2010)
- Creators: Ted Griffin, Shawn Ryan
- Main Cast: Donal Logue, Michael Raymond-James, Laura Allen
- Why It’s Underrated: Low viewership despite critical acclaim.
Terriers is a noirish detective dramedy that follows two down-and-out private investigators, Hank (Donal Logue) and Britt (Michael Raymond-James), as they navigate the seedy underbelly of Ocean Beach, California. The show balances humor, drama, and suspense with well-drawn characters and sharp dialogue. Despite rave reviews, Terriers struggled with low ratings and was canceled after just one season. However, its blend of grit and heart, along with the strong performances from the leads, make it a show that deserves a wider audience.
Where to Stream: Hulu
3. “Counterpart” (2017–2019)
- Creator: Justin Marks
- Main Cast: J.K. Simmons, Olivia Williams, Harry Lloyd
- Why It’s Underrated: Complex plot and sci-fi elements that might have been too niche for mainstream audiences.
Counterpart is a gripping sci-fi thriller set in a world where a parallel universe exists, accessible through a secret crossing point in Berlin. The show stars J.K. Simmons in dual roles as Howard Silk, a mild-mannered UN employee, and his tougher, more ruthless counterpart from the parallel world. As the two Howards navigate their increasingly intertwined lives, they uncover a conspiracy that threatens both universes. Counterpart blends elements of espionage, science fiction, and psychological drama, anchored by Simmons’ exceptional performances. Despite critical acclaim, the show didn’t achieve widespread popularity, making it a true hidden gem.
Where to Stream: Amazon Prime Video
4. “Rectify” (2013–2016)
- Creator: Ray McKinnon
- Main Cast: Aden Young, Abigail Spencer, J. Smith-Cameron
- Why It’s Underrated: Slow-burn storytelling and introspective tone that may not appeal to all viewers.
Rectify is a beautifully crafted drama that follows Daniel Holden (Aden Young), a man released from death row after spending 19 years in prison for a crime he may not have committed. The show delves deep into Daniel’s struggle to adjust to life outside prison, as well as the impact his return has on his family and the small Georgia town where he grew up. Rectify is a slow-burn, character-driven series that explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the complexity of human emotions. Its meditative pace and nuanced storytelling make it a deeply rewarding watch for those who appreciate introspective dramas.
Where to Stream: Netflix
5. “The OA” (2016–2019)
- Creators: Brit Marling, Zal Batmanglij
- Main Cast: Brit Marling, Jason Isaacs, Emory Cohen
- Why It’s Underrated: High-concept narrative and unconventional storytelling.
The OA is a mind-bending sci-fi drama that centers on Prairie Johnson (Brit Marling), a young woman who returns home after being missing for seven years, now able to see despite being blind before her disappearance. The show weaves a complex narrative involving near-death experiences, parallel dimensions, and the power of belief. Its ambitious and often unconventional storytelling won it a passionate fanbase, but it struggled to reach a broader audience. The OA is a thought-provoking and visually stunning series that remains one of the most unique offerings in recent television.
Where to Stream: Netflix
6. “Halt and Catch Fire” (2014–2017)
- Creators: Christopher Cantwell, Christopher C. Rogers
- Main Cast: Lee Pace, Scoot McNairy, Mackenzie Davis
- Why It’s Underrated: Overshadowed by bigger shows and niche subject matter.
Halt and Catch Fire is a drama set during the tech boom of the 1980s and early 1990s, following a group of visionary engineers and entrepreneurs as they navigate the rapidly changing world of personal computing. The show explores the personal and professional struggles of its characters, delving into themes of innovation, ambition, and the cost of success. With strong performances, particularly from Lee Pace and Mackenzie Davis, Halt and Catch Fire offers a compelling look at the human side of the tech industry. Despite its critical acclaim, the show remained under the radar for many viewers.
Where to Stream: Netflix
7. “Banshee” (2013–2016)
- Creators: Jonathan Tropper, David Schickler
- Main Cast: Antony Starr, Ivana Miličević, Ulrich Thomsen
- Why It’s Underrated: Niche appeal with a blend of action and drama that didn’t reach mainstream audiences.
Banshee is an intense action-drama that follows an ex-convict who assumes the identity of the sheriff in the small town of Banshee, Pennsylvania. The show is known for its brutal action sequences, complex characters, and gripping storylines involving crime, corruption, and revenge. Antony Starr’s magnetic performance as the mysterious sheriff, combined with the show’s unapologetically bold approach to storytelling, makes Banshee a must-watch for fans of action-packed dramas. Despite its critical acclaim and loyal fanbase, the show never gained widespread recognition, making it a hidden gem in the TV landscape.
Where to Stream: HBO Max
8. “Lodge 49” (2018–2019)
- Creator: Jim Gavin
- Main Cast: Wyatt Russell, Brent Jennings, Sonya Cassidy
- Why It’s Underrated: Quirky premise and laid-back pacing that may have deterred a wider audience.
Lodge 49 is a whimsical dramedy that follows Sean "Dud" Dudley (Wyatt Russell), a down-and-out ex-surfer who stumbles upon a fraternal lodge and becomes involved in its eccentric community. The show blends humor, mysticism, and heartfelt character moments, creating a unique and endearing world. With its offbeat charm and thoughtful exploration of themes like community, purpose, and redemption, Lodge 49 is a show that resonates deeply with its fans. Unfortunately, its unconventional style may have kept it from reaching a broader audience, leading to its cancellation after two seasons.
Where to Stream: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
9. “Forever” (2014–2015)
- Creator: Matthew Miller
- Main Cast: Ioan Gruffudd, Alana de la Garza, Judd Hirsch
- Why It’s Underrated: Low ratings and network indecision.
Forever is a supernatural procedural drama that centers on Dr. Henry Morgan (Ioan Gruffudd), a New York City medical examiner who has been alive for over 200 years due to his mysterious immortality. As Henry works to uncover the cause of his condition, he uses his vast knowledge and experience to solve crimes, all while keeping his secret hidden. The show combines elements of crime-solving, historical intrigue, and character-driven drama. Despite its intriguing premise and strong performances, Forever was canceled after just one season, leaving many questions unanswered and fans longing for more.
Where to Stream: Amazon Prime Video, Hulu
10. “The Knick” (2014–2015)
- Creators: Jack Amiel, Michael Begler
- Main Cast: Clive Owen, André Holland, Jeremy Bobb
- Why It’s Underrated: Period drama with niche appeal and a short run.
The Knick is a gripping medical drama set in the early 1900s, following the staff of the Knickerbocker Hospital in New York City as they navigate the challenges of early surgery and medical ethics. The show, directed by Steven Soderbergh, features stunning cinematography and a standout performance by Clive Owen as the brilliant but troubled Dr. John Thackery. The Knick offers a raw and unflinching look at the medical practices of the time, blending historical accuracy with dramatic storytelling. Despite critical acclaim, the show ended after just two seasons, leaving it relatively unknown to many viewers.
Where to Stream: HBO Max
11. “Terriers” (2010)
- Creators: Ted Griffin, Shawn Ryan
- Main Cast: Donal Logue, Michael Raymond-James, Laura Allen
- Why It’s Underrated: Overlooked despite critical praise.
Terriers is a noirish detective dramedy that follows two down-and-out private investigators, Hank (Donal Logue) and Britt (Michael Raymond-James), as they navigate the seedy underbelly of Ocean Beach, California. The show balances humor, drama, and suspense with well-drawn characters and sharp dialogue. Despite rave reviews, Terriers struggled with low ratings and was canceled after just one season. However, its blend of grit and heart, along with the strong performances from the leads, make it a show that deserves a wider audience.
Where to Stream: Hulu
12. “The River” (2012)
- Creators: Oren Peli, Michael R. Perry
- Main Cast: Bruce Greenwood, Joe Anderson, Leslie Hope
- Why It’s Underrated: High-concept horror that didn’t find a large audience.
The River is a found-footage horror series that follows a group of explorers searching for a missing TV host in the Amazon jungle. The show, produced by Paranormal Activity creator Oren Peli, combines elements of supernatural horror, adventure, and mystery. The eerie atmosphere, suspenseful storytelling, and innovative use of the found-footage format set The River apart from typical network fare. However, the show struggled to find its audience and was canceled after one season, leaving viewers with a cliffhanger that was never resolved.
Where to Stream: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
These 14 underrated TV shows might have flown under the radar during their original runs, but they are well worth your time and attention. Whether you’re in the mood for a dark comedy like Patriot, a mind-bending drama like The OA, or a historical medical thriller like The Knick, each of these series offers something unique and compelling. While they may not have achieved mainstream success, these hidden gems have left a lasting impression on those who discovered them. If you’re looking to dive into something fresh and different, these shows are the perfect place to start.
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