Ten Underrated TV Shows of 2024 You Should Watch in 2025
2024 delivered a tidal wave of television, making it easy to miss some true gems overshadowed by big-budget premieres and established franchises. This list highlights ten underrated series from 2024 that deserve a spot on your 2025 watchlist. From poignant dramas to inventive sci-fi, there's something for everyone.
1. The Eight Show
This Korean thriller-drama, unfairly eclipsed by 2024's blockbusters, offers a compelling psychological exploration of human nature within a high-stakes competition. Eight participants vie for money and dignity, forcing them to make difficult moral choices in a confined setting. The show serves as a potent metaphor for capitalism, exposing social inequalities and the fragility of human values.
Why Watch It? "The Eight Show" delivers intelligent, suspenseful storytelling with sharp social commentary. While reminiscent of Squid Game, it offers a more intimate and nuanced psychological perspective, prompting reflection on human relationships and the influence of materialism. Its unique atmosphere, strong performances, and bold critique of consumerism make it a standout drama.
2. Shoresy
This Canadian comedy-drama might seem unconventional, but beneath its raunchy humor lies a surprisingly heartfelt story. Following a cocky hockey player aiming to transform a losing team, Shoresy masterfully blends sharp wit with unexpected sincerity. A Letterkenny spin-off, it retains the fast-paced humor while adding surprising depth.
Why Watch It? Shoresy transcends the hockey setting, exploring themes of perseverance, teamwork, and self-discovery. Its unexpected emotional resonance and character development make it surprisingly moving. If you enjoy a show that balances laugh-out-loud humor with poignant moments of reflection, Shoresy is a must-see.
3. Under the Bridge
This Hulu crime drama, unjustly overlooked in 2024, is a powerful and emotionally resonant series based on a true story. It recounts the tragic death of Reena Virk and focuses on the victim's perspective, setting it apart from typical true-crime narratives. The story unfolds through the eyes of a writer investigating a teenager's disappearance, weaving together flashbacks to reveal Reena's complex personality and explore themes of trauma, bias, and justice.
Why Watch It? Under the Bridge offers a unique approach to true crime, prioritizing the victim's story and exploring the psychological impact of tragedy. The strong performances by Riley Keough and Lily Gladstone elevate this series into an emotionally gripping and insightful exploration of loss and its aftermath.
4. Thunderous Applause
This Turkish series defies expectations, presenting an absurdist yet insightful look at human emotions and experiences. Its unconventional approach, featuring surreal imagery and dark humor, tackles serious themes of childhood trauma, loneliness, and dysfunctional families. Director Berkun Oya's unique style creates a world where drama and comedy intertwine.
Why Watch It? Thunderous Applause is a bold experiment in storytelling, challenging conventional narratives. It's a thought-provoking and often hilarious exploration of the human condition, visually stunning and captivating for cinephiles.
5. The Brothers Sun
This action dramedy blends crime, drama, and family comedy. After an attack, the head of a criminal empire flees to Los Angeles, where his contrasting relationship with his brother forms both conflict and strength. The series blends Eastern martial arts with American family dynamics, creating a dynamic and unpredictable plot.
Why Watch It? The Brothers Sun offers more than just action; it's a heartfelt story about family bonds, generational differences, and finding common ground. Its unique genre blend and strong performances make it a vibrant and engaging watch.
6. Somebody Somewhere
This heartwarming HBO comedy-drama, concluding its run in 2024, remains underrated. It follows Sam as she returns to her hometown after her sister's death, navigating grief and rebuilding her life with the help of friends and family. Music and humor play a significant role in Sam's journey of self-discovery.
Why Watch It? Somebody Somewhere is a deeply human story about loss, self-acceptance, and community. Its satisfying conclusion offers emotional catharsis and is perfect for those seeking a genuine and comforting series.
7. Jurassic World: Chaos Theory
This animated Netflix series continues to captivate dinosaur enthusiasts. Set after Camp Cretaceous, it features more mature characters and themes. While the Jurassic World films have sometimes fallen short, Chaos Theory successfully captures the wonder and spectacle of the franchise, adding thrilling moments and deeper character development.
Why Watch It? Chaos Theory delivers a gripping dinosaur adventure with stunning animation, humor, and emotional depth. It's a perfect blend of adventure and heartfelt storytelling, appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers.
8. Say Nothing
This historical miniseries transports viewers to Northern Ireland during The Troubles. Based on a bestselling book, it recounts the tragic stories of Belfast residents from the 1970s to the 1990s, including the murder of Jean McConville. It explores the devastating impact of political division and hatred.
Why Watch It? Say Nothing is a profound exploration of violence and political conflict, offering a gripping narrative and insightful reflections on human morality in times of war. Its strong performances and meticulous recreation of the era make it a compelling historical drama.
9. The Fake
This Australian series delves into the dark side of online dating and manipulation. A writer encounters a man who seems perfect, but his inconsistencies raise suspicions. The story unfolds as a pathological liar exploits vulnerabilities, turning hopes into tools for his gain.
Why Watch It? The Fake is a tense psychological drama exploring trust, manipulation, and self-preservation in the digital age. Its compelling plot and strong performances make it a captivating thriller.
10. High Potential
This American series offers a fresh take on the detective genre, blending investigations with comedic elements. A single mother working as a janitor at a police station uses her intellect to assist in solving cases.
Why Watch It? High Potential combines sharp humor with intriguing detective work, featuring a strong female lead and heartwarming moments. It's a light yet engaging series with original cases and inspiring characters.
2024 offered a diverse range of television, and these ten underrated series are well worth discovering in 2025. Whether you prefer drama, comedy, or something unique, these shows promise captivating stories and memorable characters.
