TV Shows That Are Way Better Than Their Ratings Suggest

Television history is filled with series that failed to find a massive audience or received lukewarm scores upon their initial release. Many of these programs boast complex narratives, innovative filming techniques, or ahead-of-the-time concepts that simply did not resonate with contemporary critics or the general public. Over time, many of these “underrated” shows have developed passionate cult followings that argue the original ratings were far too low. This list highlights fifty television series that deserve a second look for their creative merits and enduring appeal.

‘The River’ (2012)

This supernatural horror series follows the crew of a research vessel traveling deep into the Amazon to find a missing television explorer. Utilizing a found-footage style, the show creates a claustrophobic and unsettling atmosphere rarely seen on network television. The narrative incorporates local folklore and mysterious entities that challenge the rescue team at every turn. Despite its short run, it is frequently cited for its effective use of tension and original concept.

‘The Shannara Chronicles’ (2016–2017)

Set in a post-apocalyptic world where magic has returned, this fantasy epic is based on the popular book series by Terry Brooks. It features high-quality visual effects and a diverse cast of elves, humans, and trolls fighting to protect the ancient Ellcrys tree. While initially categorized as a teen-centric drama, the story explores mature themes of sacrifice and political intrigue across the Four Lands. The series stands out for its lush cinematography and creative world-building.

‘Dollface’ (2019–2022)

After being dumped by her longtime boyfriend, a young woman named Jules must navigate the complex world of female friendships she had previously neglected. The show uses surrealist imagery and magical realism, such as a literal “cat lady” bus driver, to represent the protagonist’s internal emotional state. It offers a unique take on the traditional sitcom format by blending absurd humor with genuine observations about social dynamics. This imaginative approach provides a refreshing perspective on the challenges of modern connection.

‘Defiance’ (2013–2015)

In a future where multiple alien races and humans coexist on a radically transformed Earth, the town of Defiance serves as a fragile beacon of peace. The series functions as a sci-fi western, focusing on the lawman Joshua Nolan and his adopted alien daughter as they navigate local politics and external threats. It was notable for its transmedia approach, launching alongside an identically titled massive multiplayer online game. The intricate lore and distinct alien cultures give the show a depth that was often overlooked.

‘Cracking Up’ (2004)

Created by Mike White, this dark comedy follows a psychology student who moves into the guest house of a wealthy, highly dysfunctional Beverly Hills family. The show subverts typical sitcom tropes by presenting its characters with extreme eccentricities and deeply buried neuroses. Each episode explores the bizarre interactions between the student and the family members as he attempts to study them for his thesis. Its sharp writing and unconventional humor made it a standout example of early 2000s experimental comedy.

‘Ghosted’ (2017–2018)

This paranormal comedy pairs a skeptical former detective with a firm believer in the supernatural to investigate alien activity in Los Angeles. The dynamic between lead actors Adam Scott and Craig Robinson provides the emotional core of the series, mirroring the classic partnership of ‘The X-Files’. It blends office-place humor with genuine sci-fi mysteries and creature-of-the-week adventures. While it was often dismissed as a simple parody, the show developed a unique identity through its witty dialogue and character growth.

‘Powerless’ (2017)

Set within the DC Universe, this workplace comedy focuses on the ordinary citizens working at Wayne Security who develop products to keep people safe during superhero battles. The series highlights the mundane and often dangerous reality of living in a city where buildings are frequently destroyed by caped crusaders. Vanessa Hudgens leads an ensemble cast as an optimistic new hire trying to inspire her jaded coworkers. It offers a comedic, grounded look at a world usually defined by epic stakes and legendary icons.

‘Galavant’ (2015–2016)

This musical comedy series follows a dashing knight on a quest to reclaim his “happily ever after” from an evil king. The show features original songs by legendary composer Alan Menken and frequently breaks the fourth wall with meta-commentary on fairy tale tropes. Its blend of slapstick humor, clever wordplay, and elaborate musical numbers creates a tone unlike anything else on network television. The vibrant cast and guest appearances add to the high-energy, theatrical feel of every episode.

‘Haters Back Off’ (2016–2017)

The series provides a fictional origin story for the popular internet personality Miranda Sings, a confident but untalented performer seeking fame. It explores the bizarre family dynamics and the delusion required to maintain her belief that she is a world-class singer. The show’s brand of cringe comedy is punctuated by moments of genuine pathos as Miranda’s dreams constantly clash with reality. Its specific, polarizing style found a dedicated audience that appreciated its commitment to an absurd character.

‘The Neighbors’ (2012–2014)

A typical suburban family moves into a gated community, only to discover that all their neighbors are actually aliens from the planet Zabvron. The extraterrestrials take the names of famous athletes and drive around in identical golf carts while trying to understand human customs. Beneath the wacky premise, the show features surprisingly sharp writing and heartfelt explorations of parenting and marriage. It frequently used its sci-fi setup to satirize modern social norms in clever and unexpected ways.

‘Diagnosis: Murder’ (1993–2002)

Dick Van Dyke stars as Dr. Mark Sloan, a chief of internal medicine who moonlights as a consultant for the police department. Often accompanied by his detective son, Sloan uses his medical expertise and keen observation skills to solve complex murder cases. The show is known for its comfortable, procedural rhythm and the charismatic performance of its lead actor. While it was a staple of its era, its clever mystery plotting often goes unrecognized in the broader landscape of crime dramas.

‘Diff’rent Strokes’ (1978–1986)

This classic sitcom tells the story of two brothers from Harlem who are adopted by a wealthy businessman following their mother’s death. The show became famous for Gary Coleman’s catchphrase, but it also tackled serious social issues like racism, drug abuse, and kidnapping. It balanced lighthearted family humor with “very special episodes” designed to educate its young audience. The chemistry among the cast helped the series maintain its popularity throughout its lengthy run.

‘Just Shoot Me!’ (1997–2003)

Centering on the staff of the fictional fashion magazine ‘Blush’, this office comedy features a sharp-tongued ensemble including David Spade and Wendie Malick. The show often focused on the friction between the serious journalist Maya Gallo and her vanity-obsessed colleagues. Its fast-paced dialogue and satirical take on the fashion industry provided a consistent stream of sophisticated humor. The series remains a prime example of late 90s workplace comedy that holds up well for modern viewers.

‘V’ (2009–2011)

In this reimagining of the 1980s miniseries, a massive fleet of alien spacecraft appears over Earth’s major cities, claiming to come in peace. Morena Baccarin stars as the charismatic leader of the Visitors, whose benevolent facade masks a sinister agenda for the human race. The show explores themes of political manipulation, media influence, and the rise of a human resistance movement. Its high-stakes plot and focus on global conspiracy made it a compelling sci-fi thriller.

‘Alcatraz’ (2012)

Produced by J.J. Abrams, this mystery series follows a detective and an Alcatraz historian investigating the sudden reappearance of prisoners who vanished decades earlier. Each episode features a “catch-of-the-week” format as the team tracks down dangerous criminals who have not aged since 1963. The overarching narrative delves into the secrets of the prison and the reason behind the mass disappearance. It combined procedural elements with a complex mythology that kept viewers guessing.

‘No Ordinary Family’ (2010–2011)

After their plane crashes in the Amazon, the Powell family discovers they have developed extraordinary abilities ranging from super strength to telepathy. The series follows their attempts to balance their new lives as superheroes with the mundane challenges of suburban family life. Michael Chiklis and Julie Benz lead the cast as parents trying to protect their children while uncovering the source of their powers. It blended the superhero genre with family drama, creating a unique and heartwarming dynamic.

‘The Event’ (2010–2011)

This high-concept conspiracy thriller begins with the investigation into a man’s missing fiancée, which leads to the discovery of a government cover-up involving extraterrestrials. The narrative frequently employs flashbacks and shifting perspectives to reveal a massive plot that threatens the President of the United States. It was designed to keep audiences on the edge of their seats with frequent cliffhangers and major revelations. The show’s ambitious scale and complex structure were hallmarks of its production.

‘Heist’ (2006)

A group of expert thieves meticulously plans to rob three jewelry stores on Beverly Hills’ Rodeo Drive simultaneously. The series focuses on the preparation, the internal conflicts within the crew, and the police detectives tasked with stopping them. It features a gritty, cinematic style and a focus on the technical details of high-stakes robbery. While it only aired a few episodes before cancellation, it is remembered for its intense pacing and strong performances.

‘Standoff’ (2006–2007)

The series centers on two top-ranked crisis negotiators for the FBI who are also a romantic couple. Their personal relationship often complicates their professional duties as they deal with hostage situations and tense standoffs across Los Angeles. Ron Livingston and Rosemarie DeWitt provide a grounded chemistry that elevates the procedural format. Each episode explores the psychological tactics used to resolve life-threatening conflicts without violence.

‘Flashforward’ (2009–2010)

Based on the novel by Robert J. Sawyer, the series begins when everyone on Earth loses consciousness for exactly two minutes and seventeen seconds. During this blackout, people see visions of their lives six months in the future, leading to global chaos and a massive FBI investigation. The show follows the characters as they struggle to either fulfill or prevent the fates they witnessed. Its grand premise and philosophical questions about destiny made it a notable addition to the sci-fi genre.

‘Intelligence’ (2014)

Josh Holloway stars as a high-tech intelligence operative who has a microchip implanted in his brain, allowing him to access the global information grid. He is assigned a Secret Service protector to keep him safe as they take on high-stakes missions for the government. The show explores the intersection of human intuition and artificial intelligence in the field of modern espionage. Its fast-paced action and futuristic gadgets provided a modern twist on the classic spy procedural.

‘Grosse Pointe’ (2000–2001)

Created by Darren Star, this satirical series takes a behind-the-scenes look at the production of a fictional teen soap opera. It parodies the real-life drama and egos associated with shows like ‘Beverly Hills, 90210’. The characters deal with casting changes, network interference, and the intense pressure of maintaining their public images. The show’s meta-humor and sharp critique of the entertainment industry made it a favorite among critics.

‘Possessed’ (2019)

This South Korean thriller follows a tough detective and a psychic medium who team up to solve cases involving supernatural forces. The story escalates when they must stop the spirit of an executed serial killer from causing further havoc. It balances moments of dark, gritty crime investigation with lighthearted banter and a developing romance between the leads. The series is praised for its emotional depth and its ability to blend multiple genres seamlessly.

‘Franklin & Bash’ (2011–2014)

Two streetwise lawyers are recruited by a prestigious firm to bring their unconventional, high-energy tactics to high-profile cases. Breckin Meyer and Mark-Paul Gosselaar star as the titular duo, whose bromance and party-loving lifestyle clash with the stiff corporate culture. The show is known for its “bro-legal” humor and creative courtroom stunts that often involve theatrical presentations. It provided a lighter, more comedic alternative to the standard legal dramas of its time.

‘Under the Dome’ (2013–2015)

Adapted from the Stephen King novel, the residents of a small town find themselves suddenly trapped under a massive, invisible, and indestructible dome. As resources dwindle and tensions rise, the townspeople must find a way to survive while uncovering the dome’s mysterious origins. The series explores how social structures break down under extreme pressure and isolation. Its blend of sci-fi mystery and character-driven drama kept viewers engaged throughout its multi-season run.

‘Revolution’ (2012–2014)

Fifteen years after a global event permanently disabled all electricity, humanity has regressed to a pre-industrial society ruled by local militias. The story follows a young woman as she journeys across the dangerous landscape to rescue her brother and find a way to restore power. The show features elaborate sword fights and survivalist action set against a backdrop of overgrown cities. It delved into the politics of power and the cost of rebuilding a lost civilization.

‘Terra Nova’ (2011)

In a future where Earth is dying due to pollution, a family is selected to join a pilgrimage back in time to the Cretaceous Period to start a new colony. They must defend their prehistoric home from hostile dinosaurs and a separatist group of humans with a different agenda. The series boasts high production values, with Steven Spielberg serving as an executive producer. It combined family-centric drama with large-scale sci-fi adventure and impressive visual effects.

‘Falling Skies’ (2011–2015)

Following a devastating alien invasion that wiped out most of humanity, a former history professor helps lead a ragtag group of survivors known as the 2nd Massachusetts. The series focuses on the guerrilla warfare tactics used by the resistance to fight back against their technologically superior occupiers. It emphasizes the importance of family and community in the face of near-extinction. Over five seasons, the show evolved from a survival story into an epic tale of intergalactic war.

‘The 100’ (2014–2020)

Ninety-seven years after a nuclear apocalypse, one hundred juvenile delinquents are sent from a space station back to Earth to see if it is habitable. They soon discover they are not alone and must navigate brutal tribal politics and moral dilemmas to ensure their survival. The series is known for its willingness to kill off major characters and its dark, uncompromising look at leadership. It matured significantly over its run, transitioning from a survival drama into a complex sci-fi epic.

‘Z Nation’ (2014–2018)

Years after a zombie virus has gutted the country, a team of everyday heroes must transport the only known survivor of a zombie bite from New York to California. The show is characterized by its campy, high-energy tone and creative take on zombie tropes, featuring everything from “zombie tornadoes” to plant-zombie hybrids. While it often leans into humor, it also features surprisingly emotional character arcs. It served as a more lighthearted and action-oriented alternative to other popular zombie dramas.

‘Insatiable’ (2018–2019)

A formerly bullied teenager transforms her appearance and seeks revenge on everyone who ever wronged her by competing in beauty pageants. Guided by a disgraced civil lawyer and pageant coach, she enters a world of extreme competition and dark secrets. The show is a satirical dark comedy that pushes boundaries with its absurdist plotlines and over-the-top characters. Its bold style and willingness to take risks earned it a dedicated cult following.

‘Disjointed’ (2017–2018)

Kathy Bates stars as the owner of an alternative medicine dispensary in Los Angeles, where she encourages her patients to enjoy the benefits of legal cannabis. The multicam sitcom features a diverse group of employees and customers, often incorporating psychedelic animated segments to represent the effects of the products. It explores themes of activism, entrepreneurship, and post-traumatic stress disorder with a comedic lens. The show’s blend of traditional sitcom humor and modern subject matter created a unique viewing experience.

‘The Ranch’ (2016–2020)

Set on a Colorado cattle ranch, the series follows a failed semi-pro football player who returns home to help run the family business with his father and brother. Ashton Kutcher and Sam Elliott lead a cast that balances classic sitcom tropes with surprisingly gritty and emotional storylines about rural life. The show is notable for its use of the multicam format to tackle serious issues like financial hardship and addiction. Its focus on blue-collar family dynamics resonated with an audience often ignored by mainstream television.

‘Fuller House’ (2016–2020)

As a sequel to the beloved 90s sitcom ‘Full House’, the series follows a widowed D.J. Tanner-Fuller as she raises her three sons with the help of her sister and best friend. The show leans heavily into nostalgia with frequent guest appearances from the original cast while introducing a new generation of characters. It maintains the original’s wholesome tone and emphasis on family values while updating the humor for modern audiences. The series was a significant hit for its streaming platform, proving the lasting appeal of the Tanner family.

‘Marvel’s Iron Fist’ (2017–2018)

Danny Rand returns to New York City after being missing for fifteen years to reclaim his family’s company and fulfill his destiny as the immortal Iron Fist. The series follows his struggle to balance his corporate responsibilities with his duty to fight a secret criminal organization. While the first season was met with mixed reviews, the second season was widely praised for its improved choreography and character development. It offered a grounded look at the mystical side of the Marvel Cinematic Universe.

‘Supergirl’ (2015–2021)

Kara Danvers, the cousin of Superman, decides to finally embrace her powers and become the hero she was always meant to be. The series focuses on her life in National City as she works for a media mogul and secretly collaborates with a government agency to protect Earth. It is celebrated for its optimistic tone and strong emphasis on female empowerment and social justice. The show’s inclusion of iconic DC characters and expansive crossovers made it a cornerstone of superhero television.

‘DC’s Legends of Tomorrow’ (2016–2022)

A ragtag group of heroes and villains is recruited by a rogue time traveler to fix aberrations in history and save the future. The show started as a serious spin-off but eventually transformed into a wildly creative and absurdist comedy that embraced its own wackiness. The team, known as the Legends, frequently finds themselves in bizarre situations ranging from fighting a giant plush toy to starring in a reality show. Its unique voice and refusal to take itself too seriously made it a fan favorite.

‘Scream: The TV Series’ (2015–2019)

Based on the iconic film franchise, the series follows a group of teenagers in the town of Lakewood who are targeted by a masked killer with links to the town’s dark past. It maintains the movies’ signature meta-commentary on horror tropes and the slasher genre. Each season features a new mystery with a high body count and plenty of red herrings to keep the audience guessing. The show’s transition to an anthology format in later seasons allowed for fresh perspectives on the slasher concept.

‘Chilling Adventures of Sabrina’ (2018–2020)

This dark reimagining of the ‘Sabrina the Teenage Witch’ story focuses on the title character as she navigates her dual nature as a half-witch and half-mortal. Set in the town of Greendale, the series incorporates elements of horror, occultism, and witchcraft while Sabrina fights the forces of evil. It features a stylized, gothic aesthetic and a focus on coming-of-age themes within a supernatural context. The show’s bold departure from its source material’s comedic roots gave it a distinct and compelling identity.

‘Locke & Key’ (2020–2022)

After their father is murdered, three siblings move into their ancestral home and discover magical keys that grant them various extraordinary abilities. They soon realize that a demonic entity is also after the keys for its own malevolent purposes. The series blends family drama with fantasy and horror elements, based on the acclaimed comic book series. It explores themes of grief and memory through its imaginative use of the keys’ powers.

‘Avenue 5’ (2020–2022)

In this sci-fi comedy from Armando Iannucci, a luxury space cruise ship is knocked off course, turning a weeks-long trip into an eight-year journey. The series follows the incompetent crew and pampered passengers as they deal with a series of technical failures and social breakdowns. Hugh Laurie stars as the ship’s captain, who hides a secret about his own qualifications. Its cynical humor and sharp satire of corporate incompetence provide a hilariously bleak look at the future of space travel.

‘Space Force’ (2020–2022)

Steve Carell stars as a four-star general tasked with leading the newly created sixth branch of the United States Armed Forces. The show follows the challenges of establishing a military presence on the moon while dealing with bureaucratic hurdles and international rivalry. It features a satirical take on modern military and political leadership, balanced with Carell’s signature brand of earnest comedy. The ensemble cast of scientists and soldiers adds to the workplace dynamic of the secret moon base.

‘Extant’ (2014–2015)

Halle Berry plays an astronaut who returns to Earth after a thirteen-month solo mission in space, only to discover she is inexplicably pregnant. The series explores the mystery of her pregnancy and its connection to a global conspiracy involving artificial intelligence and alien life. It features high-quality production design and a focus on the ethical implications of advanced technology. The show’s slow-burn mystery and philosophical questions about humanity were central to its narrative.

‘Helix’ (2014–2015)

A team of scientists from the Centers for Disease Control travels to a high-tech research facility in the Arctic to investigate a potential disease outbreak. They soon find themselves trapped in a life-and-death struggle against a mysterious and rapidly evolving virus. The show is known for its intense atmosphere, body horror elements, and frequent plot twists. It creates a sense of dread as the characters realize the true nature of the facility’s experiments.

‘Wayward Pines’ (2015–2016)

M. Night Shyamalan produced this mystery series about a Secret Service agent who arrives in a picturesque Idaho town to investigate the disappearance of two fellow agents. He soon discovers that the town is surrounded by an electrified fence and that no one is allowed to leave. The show features a major mid-season twist that completely changes the audience’s understanding of the setting. Its eerie atmosphere and high-concept mystery made it a standout thriller.

‘Limitless’ (2015–2016)

Continuing the story from the 2011 film, the series follows Brian Finch, who discovers the brain-boosting power of the drug NZT-48 and is coerced into using his abilities to help the FBI. Unlike the gritty film, the show adopts a lighthearted, creative procedural format with frequent visual gags and experimental storytelling. The chemistry between the leads and the show’s inventive use of Brian’s heightened perception made it more than a standard crime drama. It managed to build a complex mythology while maintaining a sense of fun.

‘Battle Creek’ (2015)

Created by David Shore and Vince Gilligan, this series follows two mismatched detectives—a cynical local veteran and a polished, optimistic FBI agent—working in Battle Creek, Michigan. The show explores the friction between their different philosophies as they solve crimes in a city with limited resources. It features sharp dialogue and a focus on the human element of police work, steering away from flashy action. The chemistry between Josh Duhamel and Dean Winters provided a strong foundation for the series.

‘The Grinder’ (2015–2016)

Rob Lowe stars as a television actor who, after his long-running legal drama ends, moves back to his hometown believing he is qualified to practice law in his family’s real firm. The series is a meta-comedy that parodies legal procedural tropes while exploring the relationship between the actor and his actually-a-lawyer brother. Its clever writing and self-aware humor made it a critical favorite. The show frequently used flashbacks to the fictional ‘The Grinder’ show to highlight the absurdity of the protagonist’s worldview.

‘Grandfathered’ (2015–2016)

John Stamos plays a bachelor and successful restaurateur who discovers that he not only has a son he never knew about but also a granddaughter. The series follows his transition from a self-absorbed socialite to a dedicated family man. It features a blend of heartwarming moments and fast-paced comedy as he navigates the challenges of sudden fatherhood and grandfatherhood. The show’s charm and charismatic lead helped it stand out in the crowded sitcom landscape.

‘My Lady Jane’ (2024)

This historical fantasy reimagines the life of Lady Jane Grey, the “Nine Days’ Queen,” by giving her a world filled with shapeshifters and a chance to escape her tragic fate. The series is known for its witty, modern dialogue and its refusal to adhere to historical accuracy in favor of a spirited adventure. It blends romance, political intrigue, and supernatural elements with a bold and irreverent tone. The show’s energetic pacing and feminist perspective provided a fresh take on the Tudor era.

Let us know which of these hidden gems you think is the most underrated in the comments.