In a world dominated by blockbuster hits and unlimited streaming services, it can be easy to overlook some of the best shows lurking in the shadows. Whether they are hidden gems or overlooked oldies, these shows deserve just as much attention as the popular ones. I have compiled a list of my personal picks for the most underrated tv shows.
“School Spirits”
This supernatural teen drama came out in 2023 and just finished airing its second season on Paramount Plus. All winter, I spent every Thursday watching the newest episode of this captivating, refreshing drama. “School Spirits” follows Maddie Nears, a student who just died. She is now stuck in the afterlife at her high school. As she navigates her new ghostly existence, she forms bonds with other spirits stuck with her while uncovering secrets that were hidden from the living. The first season is all about trying to figure out who killed Maddie and the whole time you will think you know what’s going on but you really don’t. I highly recommend this show if you are someone who loves to think, because this show will keep you on your toes guessing what’s going to happen next.
“Panic”
Another teen drama, “Panic” is a gripping, high-stakes show set in a small town where the only way out is to risk your life. Every year, the graduating senior class participates in “Panic,” a dangerous set of challenges designed to test your courage, strength and resilience. The ultimate prize is $50,000 and each character has their own reasons why they need the money. This is such a fun and unique show, I have never seen anything like it. “Panic” explores the lengths people will go to get a better life and it’s so interesting to see the plot unfold. If you are a fan of “The Society” on Netflix, I think you will also enjoy this one– it’s streaming on Amazon Prime.
“Mare of Eastown”
Switching it up a little, “Mare of Easttown” is a crime drama that blends mystery and emotional storytelling. This show, streaming on Max, follows Mare (Kate Winslet), a police investigator in a small Pennsylvania town. Mare is tasked to investigate a local murder while trying to keep her own life from falling apart. This is such a raw, emotional show that highlights the importance of relationships– showcasing Mare’s relationships with her mother and daughter. Seeing all the threads and connections fall into place throughout this limited series had me hooked from the start.
“Locke & Key”
On a more whimsical note, “Locke & Key” is a thrilling family drama that blends mystery and magic. After the murder of their father, the Locke family move with their mother to an ancestral home– Keyhouse. They quickly find out that this house is magical, filled with special keys that unlock different powers, rooms and adventures. As they explore the secrets of Keyhouse, they learn that they aren’t the only ones interested in these magic keys. This is a must-watch Netflix series that is different from anything you have ever seen before.
“Crickey: It’s the Irwins”
Completely different from the previous four shows, “Crickey: It’s the Irwins” is a reality show that follows the beloved Irwin family currently streaming on Max.This heartwarming series follows Terri, Bindi and Robert Irwin as they go behind the scenes at the Australia Zoo. The late Steve Irwin founded the zoo with wife Terri and now the family is continuing his legacy of wildlife conservation and education. This is kind of a random show, but I really enjoy watching it. “Crickey: It’s the Irwins” blends reality tv, family bonding and wildlife conservation. If you are like me and grew up watching “Bindi the Jungle Girl,” this is the show for you.
“The Traitors”
Another reality, “The Traitors” is a show where twenty of America’s most cunning contestants play the ultimate murder mystery game. Originally a European show, the U.S. version of “The Traitors” came out in 2023 and the third season just finished airing on Peacock. In this intense game, the players chosen are typically reality tv stars. There are a lot of contestants from “Big Brother,” “Survivor” and “The Real Housewives.” The players are divided into two groups: the “faithful” and the “traitors.” The faithful must work together to complete challenges and gather rewards, while the traitors secretly plot to eliminate them. Every day someone is banished out of the game, voted by all the players. Every night the traitors meet up to murder a faithful. This is such a fun tv show if you, like me, love other reality shows. Even if you don’t know the players, it’s a great watch that will keep you on your toes every week.
Whether you are looking for a thrilling teen drama, a heartfelt reality show, or a murder mystery I hope these recommendations find you well. We all have our favorite shows we love to rewatch over and over again, but next time you pick up the remote, try something new!
