20 Most Underrated TV Shows You Need To Binge Watch

 

The Most Underrated TV Shows you need to binge watch

Are you looking for some new binge-worthy shows to watch but have no idea what to look for?

Then look no further than this list of 20 TV shows that will keep you hooked.
I have gathered a range of television series that are new, old and everything in between. Most have a black comedy element but there is a mix of thriller, drama and low brow humour. This list is not in any particular order and be warned they are mostly adult content and not of everyone's taste.

1| Chewing Gum

Chewing Gum is a British sitcom created by Michaela Coel. It follows the life of Tracey Gordon, a religious virgin living in London who is determined to have sex and experience the world. The show is a blend of humour and poignancy, exploring issues of race, gender, and sexuality in a unique and refreshing way. Coel's writing is sharp and witty, and her performance as the lead character is nothing short of incredible.
Why you should watch it: 
Chewing Gum is a hilarious and heartfelt show that offers a fresh perspective on modern life. It's a great example of how comedy can be used to explore serious topics in a thoughtful and engaging way. Plus, Michaela Coel is a talented writer and performer who has gone on to create other critically acclaimed shows such as I May Destroy You, which further showcases her skill at blending humour and drama in a powerful way.

Similar shows to Chewing Gum are "
Atlanta", "Broad City", "Master of None", "Fleabag" & "Lovesick"


2| What we do in the Shadows

This TV show is based on the 2014 film of the same name by Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement. It follows the lives of four vampire roommates who have lived together for hundreds of years in Staten Island, New York. The show is a mockumentary-style comedy that explores the daily lives of vampires and their struggles to adapt to modern society.

What sets this show apart is its unique blend of humour and horror, as well as its talented ensemble cast. Fans of the original film will enjoy the same irreverent tone and offbeat humour. Plus, the show manages to expand on the original concept with new characters and hilarious storylines.
Why you should watch it:
If you enjoy shows like The Office or Parks and Recreation, you will definitely enjoy this mockumentary-style comedy. It is also worth noting that Taika Waititi and Jemaine Clement have created other similar shows and films, such as Flight of the Conchords and Eagle vs Shark.

If you enjoy "The Office"  & "Brooklyn Nine-Nine" then you will enjoy this one.


3| Righteous Gemstones

"Righteous Gemstones" is an American comedy series that premiered on HBO in 2019. Created by Danny McBride, the show follows the Gemstones, a famous televangelist family that runs a megachurch and lives an extravagant lifestyle.

The show is a perfect blend of dark humour, satire, and drama, and features an outstanding cast that includes John Goodman, Danny McBride, and Adam DeVine.
Why you should watch it:
"Righteous Gemstones" is a must-watch for anyone who loves irreverent humour and great acting. The show's sharp commentary on religion and American culture is both hilarious and thought-provoking. 

If you enjoyed shows like "Eastbound & Down" or "Vice Principals," also created by Danny McBride, then "Righteous Gemstones" is right up your alley.


4| We are Lady Parts

"We Are Lady Parts" is a British comedy series that follows a Muslim female punk band named Lady Parts, as they navigate their lives, friendships, and relationships while trying to make it big in the music industry. The show offers a fresh and unique perspective on the Muslim community and breaks stereotypes by presenting these women as strong, independent, and rebellious.

"We Are Lady Parts" was created by Nida Manzoor, who drew inspiration from her own experiences as a Muslim woman in the music industry. Manzoor has also worked on other notable shows, such as "Doctor Who" and "Enterprice." 
Why you should watch it:
One reason to watch "We Are Lady Parts" is for its fantastic cast and performances, especially from the actors portraying the members of the band. The show also features great music, with each episode showcasing an original song from Lady Parts. Furthermore, the series tackles relevant and timely themes, such as identity, diversity, and inclusivity, in a fun and entertaining way.

If you enjoy "We Are Lady Parts," you might also like other female-led comedies like "Broad City" and "Girls."


5| Dexter

Dexter is a crime drama television series that premiered in 2006 and ran for eight seasons until 2013. The show follows Dexter Morgan, a blood spatter analyst for the Miami Metro Police Department who leads a secret double life as a vigilante serial killer. Dexter's past and present collide as he struggles to balance his two identities while also dealing with his relationships and personal demons.

Dexter was created by James Manos Jr. and is based on the novel series by Jeff Lindsay. If you enjoy Dexter, you may also enjoy other crime dramas such as Breaking Bad, The Wire, and True Detective.

Michael C. Hall, who portrays the titular character in Dexter, is a versatile actor known for his incredible range and ability to embody complex characters. Prior to Dexter, Hall starred in the critically acclaimed HBO series Six Feet Under, which showcased his talent for playing conflicted characters dealing with deep emotional turmoil. He also starred in the Netflix thriller series Safe, which follows a widowed surgeon who begins to uncover secrets about his wife's death after his daughter goes missing. Hall's performances in these shows are not to be missed, and provide further evidence of his immense acting abilities.
Why you should watch it:
Watch Dexter for its unique premise, well-developed characters, and compelling storytelling. The show is a mix of crime drama, thriller, and psychological exploration, making it a must-watch for fans of those genres. In addition, the show's use of voice-over narration from Dexter's perspective adds an extra layer of depth to the already complex character.

If you loved "Breaking Bad", "You" or "True Detective" then you will enjoy this TV series


6| Derry Girls

Set in the early 1990s during the political conflict in Northern Ireland, Derry Girls follows a group of teenage girls as they navigate adolescence while dealing with the tensions and violence of their surroundings. This critically acclaimed show is known for its sharp wit and relatable characters that capture the awkwardness of growing up.
Why you should watch it:
Derry Girls offers a unique perspective on the political conflict in Northern Ireland, making it a great show for younger viewers to watch and learn about this period in history. Additionally, the show's themes of friendship, family, and identity are universally relatable, making it appealing to a wide audience. 

Fans of similar coming-of-age shows such as "The Inbetweeners" or "Skins" will likely enjoy "Derry Girls."


7| Our Flag Means Death

"Our Flag Means Death" is an upcoming comedy series created by David Jenkins and Taika Waititi, which premiered on HBO Max in 2022. The show is loosely based on the true story of Stede Bonnet, a wealthy eighteenth-century gentleman who abandoned his life of privilege to become a pirate. The show is a hilarious adventure on the high seas, with Waititi describing it as " 'Monty Python' meets 'Pirates of the Caribbean' with a dash of 'Drunk History'."

This show has become to have a huge cult following with its fans, just type in Our Flag Means Death on Twitter and you will see how dedicated the fans are and will discover some talented artists with fanart worthy of hanging on your wall.
Why you should watch it:
People should watch this show because of its unique concept, talented cast, and creative team behind it. Taika Waititi, who serves as an executive producer and directed the pilot episode, is known for his irreverent sense of humour and his ability to infuse heart and humanity into his projects. The cast includes Rhys Darby, who has appeared in other Waititi projects such as "Flight of the Conchords" and "What We Do in the Shadows," and Ewen Bremner, who is best known for his role as Spud in "Trainspotting."

Similar shows to "Our Flag Means Death" include other historical comedies with a modern twist, such as "Blackadder," "Horrible Histories," and "The Great."


8| Everythings Gonna Be Okay

"Everythings Gonna Be Okay" is based around 3 siblings and the aftermath of the death of their father. Nicholas (Australian Comedian Josh Thomas), is a neurotic twenty-something who becomes the guardian of his two teenage half-sisters, Matilda and Genevieve. The show explores themes of grief, family, and neurodiversity, as Nicholas tries to navigate the challenges of parenting while also managing his own anxieties about managing his own relationships, living in the U.S. and being gay.

Josh Thomas is an Australian comedian, writer, and actor. He is best known for creating and starring in the television series "Please Like Me" and the show "Everything's Gonna Be Okay." Thomas has been praised for his unique comedic voice, which combines dark humour with heartfelt moments. He often explores themes of mental health, sexuality, and family relationships in his work and his work explores important themes and often features diverse characters, making it a must-watch for anyone looking for unique and engaging television.
Why you should watch it:
Everything's Gonna Be Okay is a heartfelt and funny show that deftly balances humour and emotion. The characters are well-drawn and the performances, particularly by Josh Thomas, are excellent. The show also shines a light on neurodiversity, with Matilda being on the autism spectrum, and offers a compassionate and nuanced portrayal of this experience.

Similar shows you may enjoy are "Please Like Me" (also created by Josh Thomas), & "Atypical"


9| I.T Crowd

"The IT Crowd" is a British sitcom created by Graham Linehan, which aired from 2006 to 2013. The show revolves around the lives of three staff members working in the dingy basement of the fictional Reynholm Industries: Roy, a lazy IT technician; Moss, a brilliant but socially awkward computer nerd; and Jen, their clueless and technologically challenged boss.

The show featured some huge stars, some would say I.T Crowd was the starting point of their huge careers
  • Chris O'Dowd plays the role of Roy, one of the IT technicians who is a slacker and enjoys playing video games during work hours. O'Dowd is an Irish actor who has also appeared in movies such as "Bridesmaids" and "The Sapphires."
  • Richard Ayoade plays the role of Moss, the other IT technician who is highly intelligent but socially awkward. Ayoade is an English actor, comedian, writer, and director who has also directed films such as "Submarine" and "The Double."
  • Katherine Parkinson plays the role of Jen, the IT department's manager who has no technical knowledge about computers. Parkinson is an English actress who has also appeared in TV shows such as "Doc Martin" and "Humans."
  • Matt Berry plays the role of Douglas, the eccentric and womanizing CEO of Reynholm Industries, the company where the IT department works. Berry is an English actor, comedian, and writer who has also appeared in TV shows such as "Toast of London" and "What We Do in the Shadows."
  • Noel Fielding plays the role of Richard, the now goth who was the former company executive who was banished to the basement. Fielding is best known for co-creating and co-starring in the surreal comedy show "The Mighty Boosh," He is also a regular team captain on the popular British panel show "Never Mind the Buzzcocks" & "The Great British Bakeoff". Known for his unique sense of style is also an accomplished artist and musician, having released several albums and exhibited his artwork in galleries.
Why you should watch it:
The show's humour is derived from the absurd situations that the characters find themselves in, as well as their quirky personalities and interactions with one another. This is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys characters that are unique, relatable, a bit nerdy and loveable.

Fans of dry, British humour will enjoy this show, which has been praised for its clever writing, memorable characters, and hilarious situations. The show's popularity has led to a cult following and it is often cited as one of the best British sitcoms of all time.

Graham Linehan is also known for creating other successful comedy series such as "Father Ted" and "Black Books". Fans of "The IT Crowd" may also enjoy other British comedies such as "Peep Show", "The Inbetweeners", and "Spaced".


10| Todd and The Book of Pure Evil

"Todd and The Book of Pure Evil" is a Canadian supernatural horror-comedy television series created by Craig David Wallace, Charles Picco, and Anthony Leo. The show follows a group of high school students who encounter an ancient and evil book that gives them access to various supernatural powers but at a cost. The show is known for its impressive practical special effects, which give the show a unique and entertaining visual style.
Why you should watch it:
The characters are quirky and likable, with Todd (Alex House) as the main protagonist, a high school student who is determined to destroy the evil book and save his schoolmates. His best friend, Curtis (Bill Turnbull), is a metalhead who frequently provides comic relief, and Jenny (Maggie Castle) is a goth student who is also Todd's love interest. The show is known for its over-the-top gore and humour, making it a must-watch for horror-comedy fans and viewers who like a show that is a little bit different and does not play by the rules.

Fans of horror-comedy shows like "Ash vs. Evil Dead" or "Santa Clarita Diet" will enjoy "Todd and The Book of Pure Evil".


11| The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret

"The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret" is a British-American television show that follows the life of Todd Margaret, played by David Cross, an American office temp who is sent to London to sell an energy drink called "Thunder Muscle." The show is a combination of a comedy and a satire of corporate culture, as Todd finds himself in increasingly ridiculous situations and tries to cover up his lies. The show features an impressive cast, including Will Arnett, Sharon Horgan, and Blake Harrison.
Why you should watch it:
One reason to watch the show is for its clever writing and hilarious performances, especially by David Cross as the hapless Todd Margaret. Created by David Cross and Shaun Pye, the show ran for three seasons and was praised for its unique brand of humour and clever storytelling, you seriously will be will not know what's coming next.

The show was mainly set in London and also starred Will Arnett as Todd's boss Brent, Sharon Horgan as Alice, Todd's love interest, and Blake Harrison as Dave, Todd's hapless assistant.

Fans of satirical comedies like "The Office" or "Arrested Development" may find this show to their liking.


12| Inbetweeners

"The Inbetweeners" is a British coming-of-age sitcom set in a suburban London high school. The show follows the hilarious misadventures of four socially awkward friends - Will, Simon, Jay, and Neil - as they navigate adolescence, girls, and school life. The show is known for its witty dialogue, relatable characters, and awkward but realistic portrayal of teenage life. 

"The Inbetweeners" is known for its hilarious and often cringe-worthy quotes that have become iconic. Some of the most famous include "Friendship lasts longer than relationships," "I'm not being funny, but," "Briefcase wanker," "Football Friends", and "Pussay Patrol." These quotes have become part of popular culture and are often referenced in memes and other forms of media. You will never be the same after watching this and I guarantee you will be quoting this show forever.
Why you should watch it:
It is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys cringe-comedy and coming-of-age stories. The show was created by Damon Beesley and Iain Morris, who has also worked on the spin-off movie and the TV series "White Gold." The show's cast includes Simon Bird as Will, Joe Thomas as Simon, James Buckley as Jay, and Blake Harrison as Neil.

Other similar shows that fans of "The Inbetweeners" may enjoy include "Fresh Meat," "Skins," and "Misfits."


13| Younger

"Younger" is a TV Land comedy-drama that premiered in 2015 and ran for seven seasons until 2021. The show revolves around Liza Miller (Sutton Foster), a 40-year-old divorced mother who pretends to be 26 to land a job in the publishing industry. The show is set in New York City and explores themes such as ageism, career struggles, love, and friendship. 

The series was created by Darren Star, who is also known for creating  "Melrose Place", "90210" &"Sex and the City." The show's ensemble cast includes Hilary Duff, Debi Mazar, Miriam Shor, Nico Tortorella, Peter Hermann, Molly Bernard, and Charles Michael Davis.
 
The show has been praised for its witty writing, strong performances, and its ability to appeal to both younger and older audiences. Fans of "Sex and the City" and other shows in the romantic comedy genre are likely to enjoy "Younger."
Why you should watch it:
People should watch Younger because it's a fun and lighthearted comedy that offers a refreshing take on the struggles of aging and starting over in your career and personal life. The show also features a talented ensemble cast, which brings the characters to life with humour and heart. 

Additionally, the show offers an insider look into the publishing industry, which can be fascinating for book lovers and aspiring writers. Overall, Younger is a delightful and entertaining series that's perfect for anyone who wants to escape into a world of romance, humour, and female empowerment.

Viewers who like "The Bold Type," "Emily in Paris," "Sex and the City," "Girls," and "Ugly Betty." will enjoy this one.


14| True Blood

"True Blood" is a supernatural drama series created by Alan Ball based on "The Southern Vampire Mysteries" novels by Charlaine Harris. Set in the fictional town of Bon Temps, Louisiana, the show follows telepathic waitress Sookie Stackhouse (Anna Paquin) and her relationships with vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural beings. 

The show deals with themes of identity, discrimination, and the struggle for acceptance. 
Why you should watch it:
Viewers should watch this show for its thrilling storylines, memorable characters, and unique blend of horror, romance, and mystery. The show also features notable performances from actors like Stephen Moyer, Alexander SkarsgÃ¥rd, and Rutina Wesley. 

Fans who enjoyed "The Vampire Diaries," "Buffy the Vampire Slayer," and "Charmed." will enjoy this show, but be mindful this is a more adult viewing show, not a teen-focused supernatural show. The show was produced by HBO and aired from 2008 to 2014, spanning seven seasons.


15| Married At First Sight Australia (MAFS)

This one is for reality show lovers who love some drama. Yes, it sounds like a normal love dating show but it's so much more with the drama the people have.

"Married at First Sight" (MAFS) is an Australian reality TV show that follows singles who are paired up by relationship experts and agree to marry each other without having met before. The show captures their journey as they navigate the ups and downs of their new married life, including living together, meeting each other's families, and going on their honeymoon. Viewers get an inside look into each couple's unique challenges and successes as they decide whether to stay married or get divorced at the end of the season.

MAFS was originally produced in Australia and first premiered in 2015. It falls under the reality TV genre and features a range of contestants from diverse backgrounds and professions. The show has also sparked controversy and criticism for its portrayal of marriage and its impact on the couples involved.
Why you should watch it:
One of the reasons to watch MAFS is for the drama and entertainment value. With the high-stress situation of marrying a stranger, the show often features tense arguments, emotional breakdowns, and unexpected plot twists that keep viewers engaged. Additionally, the show offers a glimpse into the science behind matchmaking and what factors go into creating a successful relationship. But without saying too much, most of these 'marriages' do not work. There is also so much fighting and drama with couples against other couples that the Sunday dinner parties can be a wild ride to watch.

"Married at First Sight" has also spawned several spin-offs and adaptations, including versions in the US, UK, and New Zealand. Other similar shows include "The Bachelor/Bachelorette," "Love Island," and "90 Day Fiancé."


16| Buffy the Vampire Slayer

Maybe not underrated, as it is a 90s cult classic along with the spin-off series Angel, but it is one that is often forgotten, This really needs to be watched by the next generation to fall in love with all the characters again. 

Buffy the Vampire Slayer" is a supernatural drama series that follows Buffy Summers, a high school student who discovers that she is the chosen one to fight against vampires and other evil forces. Set in the fictional town of Sunnydale, California, the show explores themes of love, friendship, and growing up while battling the forces of darkness. Created by Joss Whedon, the show has a devoted fanbase and is known for its witty writing, complex characters, and groundbreaking portrayal of female empowerment.

The show was filmed in Los Angeles and aired on The WB (now The CW) from 1997 to 2003. The main cast includes Sarah Michelle Gellar as Buffy Summers, Nicholas Brendon as Xander Harris, Alyson Hannigan as Willow Rosenberg, Anthony Stewart Head as Rupert Giles, and James Marsters as Spike.
Why you should watch it:
You should watch Buffy the Vampire Slayer because it is a unique and groundbreaking show that redefined the supernatural genre. It has a perfect blend of humour, action, and drama, along with strong female characters who are complex and multi-dimensional. The show also addresses important issues like friendship, love, loss, and identity in a creative and thought-provoking way and features iconic villains like Spike and Angel. Overall, Buffy the Vampire Slayer is a must-watch for fans of supernatural and coming-of-age dramas.

Viewers who enjoy "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" may also like "Angel," a spin-off series that follows the titular character as he moves to Los Angeles and starts a detective agency. Other similar shows include "Supernatural," "Charmed," and "The Vampire Diaries." 


17| Unreal

"Unreal" is an American drama series that premiered on Lifetime in 2015. The show, created by Sarah Gertrude Shapiro and Marti Noxon, is a fictional behind-the-scenes look at the making of a reality dating competition show called "Everlasting". Think "The Bachelor style show"

The series delves into the cutthroat and manipulative tactics employed by the producers to create drama and tension among the contestants to boost ratings. Starring Shiri Appleby as producer Rachel Goldberg and Constance Zimmer as the show's executive producer Quinn King, the series received critical acclaim for its incisive commentary on reality TV and its morally ambiguous characters.
The show's cast also features a talented ensemble of actors including Craig Bierko, Jeffrey Bowyer-Chapman, Genevieve Buechner, and Johanna Braddy.

Why you should watch it:
"Unreal" is a must-watch for anyone interested in a thought-provoking and entertaining look at the behind-the-scenes machinations of reality television. You will never watch another reality TV show the same again

Fans of "Unreal" might also enjoy other shows with similar themes and genres such as "The Bachelor" franchise, "Love Island", and "Big Brother". 


18| Workaholics

Okay, this one is a well-known show but you will be surprised at how many people have not watched it.

"Workaholics" is a comedy TV series that premiered on Comedy Central in 2011 and ran for seven seasons until 2017. The show follows three college dropouts and best friends, Adam, Blake, and Anders, who work together as telemarketers in a nondescript office in Rancho Cucamonga, California. 

The trio often find themselves getting into hilarious and ridiculous situations while trying to avoid doing any real work. The show is known for its absurd humour and quirky characters. 

The show was created by Blake Anderson, Adam DeVine, Anders Holm, and Kyle Newacheck, who also star in the show as the three main characters and as a recurring character, respectively. Other actors who have appeared on the show include Jillian Bell, Maribeth Monroe, and Erik Griffin.
Why you should watch it:
You will love "Workaholics" for its clever writing, hilarious characters, and relatable workplace humour. The chemistry between the three main actors is spot-on and their antics are both absurd and endearing. The show also features a host of celebrity cameos and a killer soundtrack. 

If you enjoy shows like "The Office" or "Parks and Recreation," you will likely appreciate the humour and tone of "Workaholics.


19| Flight of the Concords

"Flight of the Conchords" is a New Zealand comedy TV series that follows the fictionalised lives of Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie, two struggling and inept musicians from New Zealand who move to New York City to try and make it big. The show features original songs and quirky humour that are both charming and endearing. It's a must-watch for fans of musical comedy and satire.

Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie, who star in the show, are also the creators and writers and are known for their comedy folk music. They have also appeared in other films and TV shows, including the film "What We Do in the Shadows" and the TV series "Legion".
Why you should watch it:
Viewers should watch Flight of the Conchords because it is a unique and hilarious comedy show that features a combination of witty writing, musical performances, and deadpan humour. The show's two main stars, Jemaine Clement and Bret McKenzie, are not only talented comedians but also gifted musicians who write and perform original songs that are seamlessly integrated into the storyline. The show also has a distinctive visual style that adds to its quirky charm.

Similar shows include "Crazy Ex-Girlfriend," "Portlandia", "The Mighty Boosh," and "Garth Marenghi's Darkplace."


20| Pizza (also known as Fat Pizza)

Before Australia's most watched comedy show 'Housos', there was a little show on Australian TV called 'Pizza' later renames "Fat Pizza" in season 6. Created by Paul Fenech, this show soon became a cult classic and was the stepping stone to a massive career for the writer and comedian Rebel Wilson.

It was hard to choose between Pizza or Swift and Shift Couriers which also was made by Paul Fenech but Pizza had to win in the end. The series focuses on a little Pizza shop in a fictional western Sydney suburb and its delivery drivers who are mostly up to no good trying to deliver pizzas through the crime-driven streets while being targeted by police, horny housewives and their ruthless crazy boss!
Why you should watch it:
You need to watch "Pizza" for its unique brand of humour and irreverent take on the pizza delivery industry. The show is known for its crude, satirical humour and over-the-top characters, which make for a hilarious and unpredictable viewing experience. It's also a great representation of Australian culture and our weird sense of humour, which may be new and refreshing to international audiences. "Pizza" is a cult classic and has influenced many other Australian comedy shows, making it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

You will not be able to watch this without saying this in your future
"They're big and they're cheesy"
But be warned, do not watch this if you are easily offended and are not familiar with Aussie humour.


What are the most underrated TV shows?

  1. Chewing Gum 
  2. What we do in the Shadows 
  3. Righteous Gemstones 
  4. We are Lady Parts 
  5. Dexter 
  6. Derry Girls 
  7. Our Flag Means Death 
  8. Everythings Gonna Be Okay 
  9. I.T Crowd
  10. Todd and The Book of Pure Evil 
  11. The Increasingly Poor Decisions of Todd Margaret 
  12. Inbetweeners 
  13. Younger 
  14. True Blood 
  15. MAFS 
  16. Buffy the Vampire Slayer 
  17. Unreal 
  18. Workaholics 
  19. Flight of the Concords 
  20. Pizza/Fat Pizza
So there you have it folks, a list of the most underrated TV shows you need to watch ASAP! Don't waste any more time scrolling through the same old shows, switch things up with these hidden gems. Whether you're in the mood for some quirky humour with The IT Crowd or Flight of the Concords, or some vampire slaying action with Buffy the Vampire Slayer or True Blood, there's something for everyone on this list. 

So grab your snacks, get comfy, and get ready to binge-watch your heart out! And if you're feeling extra adventurous, why not order a pizza from Pizza/Fat Pizza while you're at it? Happy watching!

Which TV Show do you think is underrated that didn't make my list? 
Let me know below in the comments

pin for later