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We’re living in the Golden Age of television, where not only do we have countless options between traditional networks and newer streaming services, but the shows being produced are high quality, with compelling plots and great writing. And with social media allowing fans to share their favorites, some shows generate lots of buzz and end up becoming huge hits.
But the downside of so much variety and even hype is some fantastic shows fall through the cracks. Every so often, Reddit users start discussing the shows they feel are underrated and never hear anyone else talk about – even shows that have received critical praise – resulting in recommendations spanning years and genres, with some titles being recommended time and time again, from laugh-out-loud comedies to compelling sci-fi.
Updated on August 17, 2025, by Daniela Gama:
With so many different TV shows easily accessible to viewers, it can be difficult to choose where to start. Naturally, most people tend to check the most popular and talked-about series first, which leaves us wondering if this is always the best option. On Reddit, users share their favorite hidden gem underrated TV shows that they believe viewers are missing out on, includingSlow Horses, which is set to return on December 1 with two new episodes followed by one new episode weekly, every Friday through December 29.
15’Russian Doll' (2019 - )
Considered one of the best Netflix originals,Russian Dollfollows a woman named Nadia (Natasha Lyonne) who gets stuck in a time loop during her 36th birthday party in New York City. She keeps dying and waking up at the same moment at the party, trying to understand why this is happening to her.
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According to some users on the platform, the bingeable series surely deserves all the praise. “Doesn’t put a foot wrong and no shot is wasted. It’s perfectly made and a very satisfying watch,” McCQ said when ausermentioned the show.
Watch on Netflix
14’Reaper' (2007 - 2009)
Created byTara ButtersandMichele Fazekas, the funReaperfollows Sam, a young adult who learns on his 21st birthday that his parents sold his soul to the devil before he was born and that from this point on, he must work as a bounty hunter for the devil.
On Reddit, there is nothing but praise for the underrated series, with viewers highlighting how good and memorable the performances and roles were. “It was such a good show! AndRay Wisewas fantastic,“NieTyINieJawrote with many people agreeing. “Bret HarrisonandTyler Labinereally deserved a more successful career than they got,“stebuunoted in a different comment.
Watch on ABC
13’Crazy Ex-Girlfriend' (2015 - 2019)
In the quirky but charmingCrazy Ex-Girlfriend,Rachel Bloomsteps into the shoes of Rebecca Bunch, a young woman who leaves her life behind in New York to settle in West Covina, California.
“I started because it was dump and I needed to relax, suddenly I was dealing with a lot of phycologist information represented in a simple way. At the end it help me deal with my problems,“banana23087admitted under a Reddit thread, with many others agreeing. “I have been scrolling like mad, going “Why has no one saidCrazy Ex-Girlfriendyet!? This show is a goddamn masterpiece, and at least a third of the [songs fromCrazy Ex-Girlfriend] are suitable to send to your own therapist,” addedKay_Tee_enthusiastically.
12’The Great' (2020 - 2023)
Starring the talentedElle Fanning, this bewitchingperiod drama TV seriescenters around the rise of historical figure Catherine the Great, providing audiences with an intriguing satirical take on real-life events.
When the OP asked which is the “most underrated TV series that barely anyone knows,“sroop1could not resist mentioningThe Greatand explaining its narrative to other users. “Nicholas Houltis hysterical,” they added.Even though the fourth season was canceled, it still makes for a great viewing experience.
Watch on Hulu
11’The Knick' (2014 - 2015)
Created byJackAmielandMichaelBegler,The Knickis an acclaimed historical drama set in the early 20th century and provides audiences with an engaging sneak peek into the lives — both personal and professional — of the staff at New York’s Knickerbocker Hospital.
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Although there are barely any bad reviews forThe Knick, some Redditors believe that it deserves even more love. “Was hoping someone would say it. Dr John Thackery was probably the most exhilarating character I’ve ever watched in a show. I was pretty indifferent toClive Owenbefore this, but good lord what a talent,” commentedOwlbertowlbert.
10’Black Books' (2000 - 2004)
While it isn’t much discussed among younger audiences,Black Booksis arguably one of thebest comedies of the 2000s. As the title suggests, the premise revolves around the eccentric owner of a bookshop (Dylan Moran) and his easy-going assistant, Manny (Bill Bailey).
According toRaktakakand others who agreed, the 2000 series is one of the best underrated TV shows; the user even describes it as “comedy gold.” With a highly quotable script and memorable characters, the comedy series is certainly worth checking, making for a good pick for those who are looking to watch something lighthearted with a good dose of hilarious episodes.
Watch on Fubo
9’Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace' (2004)
Garth Marenghi’s Darkplaceis a British horror parody that ran for a single season in 2004. A show within a show, it centers around fictional horror writer Garth Marenghi as he stars in a TV show set at Darkplace hospital.
With plenty of people agreeing,Serve_Apartnamed “Garth Marenghi’s Darkplace” one of his favorite series and truly believes it is among the most underrated TV shows. The ensuing thread is packed with quotes and references from the show. AnotherReddit userpraises the show, saying it is “incredible” and that they “tried to get so many people” to watch it.
Watch on Prime Video
8’Better Things' (2016 - 2022)
One of thebest TV dramedies of the 2010s,Better Thingsran from 2016 until 2022 on FX, with a plot following an actor in Los Angeles as she juggles caring for her aging mother and being a single mom. Co-creatorPamela Adloncalled the show “an exaggerated version” of her life.
Reddit userthekillercookpraised the series, describing it as “witty and fun” and calling the presence of food in the show the best in a non-cooking show.“Better Thingsdid win multiple awards, but it didn’t get the same hype or ratings as other FX comedy dramas.
7’Mr. Inbetween' (2018 - 2021)
Airing on FX from 2018 until 2021, Australian dark comedyMr. Inbetweenwas inspired by the movieThe Magicianand is about criminal-for-hire Ray who’s juggling his profession with other more typical responsibilities, like his relationships with his daughter and mother.
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Reddit users loved the show, with one pointing out that it won multiple awards and received plenty of praise — it has a solid 95% rating onRotten Tomatoes. Still, though,Mr. Inbetweendidn’t get the wider attention and viewership users felt it deserved. “Maybe it was popular in the UK, but not much in the US,“terror_jrcommented.
6’Detroiters' (2017 - 2018)
Inspired by real-life commercials,Detroitersaired on Comedy Central for two seasons starting in 2017 and followed two ad men making low-budget commercials in Detroit. The show had some pretty noteworthy names in comedy behind it — its executive producers wereSaturday Night LivecreatorLorne Michaelsand former cast memberJason Sudeikis.
Reddit doesn’t have much to say about the underrated TV series show overall — instead, users are largely focused on their favorite jokes and quotes. OneReddit userfeels the show is lighthearted but “has good storylines.” However, Reddit isn’t the only site praising the show; it has a rating of 95% onRotten Tomatoes.
