There are plenty of television shows that have become iconic throughout history. Whether it’s Friends or Breaking Bad, these are the types of shows that will be talked about constantly and are passed along between people to watch repeatedly. But even though the great shows that become hits deserve that attention, plenty of underrated shows end up getting overlooked.
Russian Doll
With Natasha Lyonne in the lead role, there’s a lot to like about Russian Doll, which has a plot that will keep people guessing. Her character is stuck in a time loop, continuously waking up and dying simultaneously. As she begins to realize this, the focus turns to working out what’s happening in her life, which provides plenty of drama and comedy.
Bates Motel
Psycho is a classic horror movie, and if audiences want to know how Norman Bates ended up becoming the character that people see in that film, then this is the show for them. Bates Motel takes a popular property and looks to bring it to life in a completely new way. Freddie Highmore is captivating as the younger version of Norman, with the dynamics he has with those in his life creating a lot of great drama and tension.
Motherland
Motherland focuses on a group of British parents as they try to juggle their own lives and the responsibilities that come with their children. The show creates countless hilarious circumstances, using the classic British sarcasm that works so well. Diane Morgan is a particular highlight in this one, with her dry comedic style adding a lot to each episode.
Scream: The T.V. Series
Everyone knows the Scream franchise, which has produced some of the greatest slasher movies in history. Blending comedy with genuine spooks and excellent twists, the films are iconic, which the television world attempted to capitalize on. The series tells the story in a fresh, modern manner and benefits from having more time to delve into the mystery and the personalities involved. But it doesn’t get the recognition it should do compared to other horror shows.
Spaced
Anybody who loves the famous Cornetto trilogy will surely find something they like in Spaced. Directed by Edgar Wright and featuring Simon Pegg, Nick Frost, and Jessica Hynes, this British sitcom deserves to be talked about more than it is. It’s got some hilarious moments and many references to other aspects of pop culture that people will appreciate when watching.
Superman & Lois
When fans hear the name Superman, they instantly expect a focus on superhero action, big fight scenes, and a classic tale of good vs. Evil. While this show does provide some action sequences and the iconic cape, it is far more focused on the real lives of Clark Kent and Lois as a couple. Seeing them in a suburban world acting like normal people creates a unique twist on what people have come to appreciate from these characters.
The Frankenstein Chronicles
Sean Bean brings tremendous performances throughout this two-season run, making it worthwhile for people to check out. But this series, another take on the Frankenstein story, isn’t one the audience rushes to when thinking about this classic character.
Frontier
Jason Momoa is undoubtedly a big enough name to get people interested in a show, but that didn’t help Frontier become a significant success that people worldwide would talk about. That’s a shame because the show certainly deserves that level of success. Focusing on the 1700s, this show is about who will get control of the fur trade and the levels they’ll stoop to to achieve that.
Mayans M.C.
Spinoff shows can sometimes struggle simply because people compare them to the original, and that could be the case with Mayans M.C. It’s not Sons Of Anarchy 2.0, although it brings themes similar to the motorcycles and the world it inhabits. The series is all about the Mayan group that people see in the original show, and it provides just as much violence and excitement.
Happy Endings
Happy Endings follows the trope that many American sitcoms did following the success of Friends by bringing together a group of buddies with a comedy following. This one is all about a group of friends dealing with a couple in their group breaking up. While there are similarities to other shows that were around then, this one delivers consistent humor that deserves more plaudits.
Episodes
Episodes were very satirical, not just of Matt LeBlanc, who plays an exaggerated version of himself, but also of the Hollywood industry generally. Following a married couple who are writers, their show gets an opportunity in America, only for them to deal with consistent changes as Hollywood aims to change everything. There’s humor, drama, and secrets, but the show didn’t get the love it deserved.
Rapunzel’s Tangled Adventure
Considering the success of Disney’s Tangled, it is a surprise that this animated series doesn’t get more love. This show follows Rapunzel after the movie as she struggles to deal with royal pressures and opts to go on adventures outside the palace. With beautiful hand-drawn animation, Mandy Moore returns to voice Rapunzel and tons of exciting characters; it’s a fun show for the whole family that people should seek out.
Banshee
Banshee has an exciting concept. The lead character is a thief who ends up posing as a sheriff in a bid to hide in plain sight. The tension that comes with that makes for an entertaining series, with Antony Starr thriving in the lead role.
Barry
Bill Hader is at his best in Barry, and his work in the lead role brings many hilarious moments. The show is dark in nature, and while the comedy provides excellent relief, it’s one reason it was sometimes overlooked. It’s not an all-out funny series, but the humor does cut through to give some fantastic moments.
Behind the Attraction
Since Disney+ launched, plenty of shows have focused on popular theme park destinations, giving audiences a behind-the-scenes look at that world. The Imagineering Story often gets a lot of the focus from people, but Behind The Attraction is equally impressive. With each episode focusing on a different ride or attraction, there’s an attention to detail that any fan will appreciate.
Instant Hotel
This reality television series hasn’t gained the attention it deserves. It’s an entertaining show that features people in Australia who own rentals. They visit each other and provide ratings, which leads to an eventual winner. Seeing each place’s different styles is fun, and there are always plenty of sharp comments that are sure to get people laughing.
Watchmen
Watchmen is a well-known comic book that has led to a brilliant movie in the past. It has a dedicated following, but outside that niche, it’s not at the level of other superhero properties. It’s a more adult-orientated topic, and the television show proved that. It was critically well received due to the high level of acting and the gripping story, but it isn’t something everyone discussed.
Bad Sisters
This series might have a dark tone because the three sisters are thrust together to become closer due to their parents dying. But that doesn’t stop it from being a very enjoyable show. With each character having a distinct personality, there’s someone for everybody to connect with. It’s a strong female cast that will empower many and is one that people should check out.
Veep
Political shows can be hit and miss due to their nature, but Veep is extremely entertaining. It grips audiences due to the characters involved, and it’s easy to see why, as this brings a level of satirical comedy that few shows in this genre can provide. Focusing on the vice president and how she intends to make a positive impact, it’s a journey through the political minefield that delivers twists and turns.
Black Sails
This show is comparable to Game Of Thrones in many ways due to the violence, romance, and brilliant dialogue that takes place. The big difference is that this one is all about pirates, which adds even greater excitement when the story is brought to the high seas. There have been many pirate-related television shows over the years, but few are as exciting and engaging as Black Sails. But this isn’t a series that everyone is aware of, which is a massive shame due to the quality of the acting and the story, which features some brilliant twists along the way.
Treme
Focusing on the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina in New Orleans, it could’ve been easy for this show to be quite downbeat. But that’s not the case at all. While there are undoubtedly emotional moments, the series provides warmth and hope, proving how vital community spirit can be. There’s a great ensemble cast here, and they bounce off each other beautifully, with the show deserving more credit.
