15 Underrated HBO Original Comedies You Might Have Missed

HBO is famous for its heavy-hitting dramas, but its comedy lineup hides some brilliant shows that don’t get enough buzz. These series bring sharp humor, quirky characters, and fresh ideas, perfect for anyone looking for a laugh-filled escape.

I’ve picked out 15 HBO original comedies that deserve more attention, ranked from solid hidden finds to absolute must-watch gems. Whether you’re into workplace satire or offbeat character stories, these shows deliver big laughs and are perfect for a fun binge.

15. The Righteous Gemstones (2019-2025)

‘The Righteous Gemstones’ follows the chaotic Gemstone family, a group of televangelists led by Eli (John Goodman). Danny McBride and Adam DeVine shine as his squabbling sons, mixing crude humor with surprising heart.

The wild antics can get messy, but the family drama had me cracking up. I loved the sharp satire of megachurch culture paired with genuine emotional moments, making it a great pick for fans of bold comedy.

14. Getting On (2013-2015)

‘Getting On’ dives into the grim humor of a hospital’s extended-care ward, with Laurie Metcalf and Alex Borstein as nurses juggling bureaucracy and aging patients. The deadpan wit and dark laughs set it apart.

Some jokes are niche, but the stellar cast kept me glued. I found the mix of raw reality and dry humor refreshing, perfect for those who like their comedy with a bite.

13. Togetherness (2015-2016)

Created by Mark and Jay Duplass, ‘Togetherness’ tracks a married couple (Mark Duplass and Melanie Lynskey) and their friends navigating midlife chaos. The humor is warm, awkward, and deeply relatable.

The slower pace might not grab everyone, but the authentic banter won me over. It’s a quiet treasure for anyone who loves character-focused laughs.

12. Crashing (2017-2019)

Phoebe Waller-Bridge stars in ‘Crashing’ as a comedian scraping by in the stand-up world, couch-surfing through London’s chaos. Her sharp wit and messy life fuel this six-episode gem.

Some gags feel familiar, but Waller-Bridge’s charm is magnetic. I laughed hard at her reckless vibe, making it a quick, fun watch for comedy fans.

11. Bored to Death (2009-2011)

‘Bored to Death’ follows Jonathan (Jason Schwartzman), a writer playing amateur detective, joined by Zach Galifianakis and Ted Danson. It’s a quirky mix of noir mystery and offbeat humor.

The cases can feel light, but the trio’s oddball chemistry kept me smiling. I loved the playful spin on detective stories, ideal for a relaxed binge.

10. How to Make It in America (2010-2011)

‘How to Make It in America’ tracks two friends (Bryan Greenberg and Victor Rasuk) chasing fashion dreams in New York City. The laid-back vibe and hustle-fueled humor capture the city’s grind.

Some plots meander, but the street-smart banter hooked me. It’s a chill watch for anyone who enjoys urban, entrepreneurial comedy.

9. Enlightened (2011-2013)

Laura Dern stars as Amy in ‘Enlightened,’ a woman rebuilding her life after a breakdown, blending corporate satire with personal growth. Her chaotic optimism drives the show’s unique humor.

The tone can shift unevenly, but Dern’s heartfelt performance shines. I loved the mix of cringe comedy and emotional depth, great for fans of introspective laughs.

8. Hung (2009-2011)

‘Hung’ follows Ray (Thomas Jane), a struggling teacher turned male escort, navigating his new gig with awkward charm. The premise is bold, with humor rooted in his double life.

Some episodes feel formulaic, but Jane’s grounded performance kept me engaged. I enjoyed the cheeky take on desperation and ambition, perfect for risqué comedy fans.

7. Flight of the Conchords (2007-2009)

‘Flight of the Conchords’ tracks New Zealand musicians Bret and Jemaine (Bret McKenzie and Jemaine Clement) bumbling through New York’s music scene. Their dry humor and catchy parody songs steal the show.

The low-key vibe might not click for all, but the absurd songs had me laughing. It’s a quirky gem for fans of musical comedy.

6. Vice Principals (2016-2017)

Danny McBride and Walton Goggins play rival high school administrators in ‘Vice Principals,’ scheming for control with petty, over-the-top antics. The dark humor thrives on their absurd feud.

Some gags push too far, but the wild energy kept me hooked. I loved the unhinged take on workplace rivalries, ideal for fans of crude laughs.

5. Barry (2018-2023)

‘Barry’ stars Bill Hader as a hitman turned aspiring actor, blending dark comedy with Hollywood satire. The mix of violence and showbiz awkwardness creates a unique vibe.

The heavy drama can overshadow laughs at times, but Hader’s deadpan delivery is gold. I was gripped by the absurd contrast of his worlds, perfect for dark humor fans.

4. Insecure (2016-2021)

Issa Rae shines as Issa in ‘Insecure,’ navigating love, work, and Black womanhood in LA. The sharp, relatable humor digs into friendship and self-doubt with fresh insight.

Some subplots drag, but Rae’s awkward charm won me over. I loved the authentic laughs and cultural depth, a must for modern comedy fans.

3. Silicon Valley (2014-2019)

‘Silicon Valley’ follows a group of tech nerds (Thomas Middleditch, Kumail Nanjiani) building a startup amid absurd industry chaos. The biting satire nails tech culture’s quirks.

Some seasons feel repetitive, but the clever gags kept me laughing. I enjoyed the spot-on jabs at startup life, great for fans of smart comedy.

2. Curb Your Enthusiasm (2000-2024)

Larry David plays a heightened version of himself in ‘Curb Your Enthusiasm,’ stumbling through social blunders with cringe-inducing humor. His neurotic rants and improv-style comedy feel timeless.

The episodic plots can vary, but David’s unfiltered wit is hilarious. I cracked up at his petty arguments, making it a classic for fans of raw humor.

1. Eastbound & Down (2009-2013)

Danny McBride stars as Kenny Powers, a washed-up baseball player chasing a comeback in ‘Eastbound & Down.’ His crude, delusional antics deliver outrageous laughs with surprising heart.

Some jokes push boundaries, but Kenny’s chaotic energy is magnetic. I loved the bold humor and redemption arc, making it my top pick for underrated HBO comedy.

Which of these HBO comedies are you adding to your watchlist, or did I miss a hidden favorite? Drop your thoughts in the comments!