10 Underrated TV Shows You’ve Got to Watch Right Now
Hidden Gems That Deserve a Spot on Your Screen
In the golden age of streaming, where new series drop every week and content floods every corner of the internet, it’s easy to miss out on TV shows that don’t come with massive marketing campaigns or A-list star power. But beneath the constant buzz of trending titles and algorithm-approved picks lie hidden gems—series that quietly deliver jaw-dropping performances, intricate worldbuilding, and storytelling that lingers in your head long after the screen fades to black.
Whether you’re tired of rewatching the same tired blockbusters or you’re craving something off the beaten path, here’s your personal guide to ten criminally underrated TV shows that slipped under the radar—but absolutely deserve your attention.
---
1. Counterpart (Starz)
Imagine a secret government facility where a hidden doorway connects our world to an identical parallel universe. Now imagine what happens when those two versions of reality begin to diverge—and the only person who can navigate the chaos is a mild-mannered bureaucrat, played with chilling brilliance by J.K. Simmons in two radically different roles.
Counterpart is a stunning fusion of sci-fi, noir espionage, and philosophical introspection. It's about identity, choice, and how one life can fork into a thousand possible paths. Elegant, gripping, and vastly underappreciated.
---
2. The OA (Netflix)
A blind woman disappears for seven years, only to return with her vision mysteriously restored—and a story no one believes.
The OA is not just a show; it's an experience. It dances between dimensions, unravels layered mythologies, and embraces a dreamlike tone that feels like a meditation on life, death, and human connection. With stunning visuals and raw performances, it’s bold, haunting, and heartbreakingly beautiful. One of the most original things Netflix ever greenlit—and, sadly, one of the first they abandoned too soon.
---
3. Rectify (SundanceTV)
After nearly two decades on death row for a crime he may not have committed, Daniel Holden is released into a world that moved on without him.
Rectify is quiet, unflashy—and absolutely devastating. It's not about proving innocence or finding redemption in big, dramatic courtroom scenes. It's about trauma, forgiveness, and the simple, painful task of learning to live again. Anchored by an unforgettable lead performance, it’s one of the most emotionally profound series ever made.
---
4. Patriot (Amazon Prime Video)
A melancholic spy who prefers writing folk songs over covert ops gets thrown into a complicated mission full of bureaucratic absurdity, international chaos, and emotional breakdowns.
Think Wes Anderson meets Homeland. Patriot is a genre-defying masterpiece: darkly comedic, emotionally rich, and tonally unlike anything else. It’s equal parts tragic and hilarious—a rare series that makes sadness feel strangely comforting.
---
5. Lodge 49 (AMC)
A laid-back ex-surfer stumbles into a mysterious fraternal lodge that’s equal parts working-class hangout and mystical society.
Lodge 49 is a modern-day fable about loss, hope, and the quiet magic of ordinary life. It’s filled with lovable oddballs, obscure alchemical references, and a soothing kind of weirdness that sneaks up on you. Heartfelt and surprisingly profound, this show is the warm, surreal hug you didn’t know you needed.
---
6. Dark (Netflix)
When a child disappears in a small German town, four families uncover a sprawling time-travel conspiracy spanning generations.
Dark isn’t just a sci-fi show—it’s an intellectual labyrinth. Dense, emotional, and flawlessly plotted, it treats its audience like adults and rewards you for paying attention. With its eerie atmosphere and soul-shaking reveals, Dark is a mind trip you won’t forget—and a reminder of how great science fiction can be.
---
7. Banshee (Cinemax)
An ex-con steals a dead sheriff’s identity in a corrupt town run by gangsters, ex-Amish mobsters, and morally gray heroes.
Banshee is unapologetically brutal, stylish, and wildly entertaining. Every fight scene feels like a mini-action movie. Every character has secrets. And at the heart of all the blood and chaos is a surprisingly emotional story about justice, identity, and second chances.
---
8. The Leftovers (HBO)
When 2% of the world’s population vanishes without explanation, those left behind struggle to make sense of the senseless.
The Leftovers isn’t about the mystery—it’s about the aftermath. It’s about how people grieve, cope, love, and break in the shadow of unexplainable loss. It’s haunting, challenging, and spiritually resonant in a way few shows ever attempt. From quiet emotional devastation to surreal, genre-defying episodes, it’s a masterpiece that hits the soul.
---
9. Kingdom (Netflix – Korea)
Zombies meet samurais in a royal court.
Set in medieval Korea during a dynastic crisis, Kingdom combines pulse-pounding horror with political intrigue, court betrayal, and absolutely breathtaking cinematography. It’s stylish, thrilling, and proves once again that South Korean storytelling is in a league of its own.
---
10. The Expanse (Amazon Prime Video)
A tense, sprawling political drama…in space.
The Expanse starts with a noir detective story and evolves into a multi-layered saga about colonization, rebellion, and survival across Earth, Mars, and the Asteroid Belt. It’s complex, cinematic, and stunningly grounded for a sci-fi show. With rich characters and bold world-building, this one is for the fans who want their science fiction smart.
---
Final Thoughts
Mainstream shows might dominate the front page, but these underrated series prove that sometimes the best stories are the ones you almost miss. If you're craving something more ambitious, more human, and more memorable than your usual binge, start here. You just might discover your next all-time favorite.
About the Creator
Gift Abotsi
From diving into the psyche to unraveling the secrets of longevity, and crafting everything from spine-chilling horror to mind-bending fiction—I write it all! Stay tuned for more twists, turns, and stories you won’t want to miss!
Keep reading
More stories from Gift Abotsi and writers in Geeks and other communities.
10 TV Shows That Are So Good, You’ll Binge Them in One Night
We’ve all been there—pressing play on a new TV show, promising ourselves we’ll watch just one episode, only to realize the sun is coming up and we’ve just powered through an entire season. Some series are so gripping, intense, and masterfully crafted that you can’t stop watching. Here are 10 binge-worthy TV shows that will keep you glued to your screen until the credits roll.
By Gift Abotsi 10 months ago in Geeks
Silver Screen Magic with Mae West
American actress and singer Mae West became a popular film actress during the Great Depression. She started entertaining in vaudeville, then performed on Broadway, and finally went to Hollywood. She signed up with Paramount Pictures and made her debut in the 1932 film “Night After Night.” She also starred in musicals, comedies, and crime dramas. The American Film Institute named her one of the best classic Hollywood actresses.
By Rasma Raisters4 days ago in Geeks
Trump’s Attacks on Iran
Tensions between the United States and Iran have once again drawn global attention, fueled by renewed political rhetoric from former U.S. President Donald Trump and an increasingly fragile Middle East landscape. While Trump is no longer in office, his influence on American foreign policy discourse remains strong, especially regarding Iran. His recent statements and past actions continue to shape how the situation is discussed, both domestically and internationally. The ongoing Iran situation cannot be understood without revisiting Trump’s long-standing approach to Tehran—one defined by pressure, confrontation, and a belief that economic and political force could reshape Iran’s behavior. As events unfold in the region, Trump’s attacks on Iran, primarily through rhetoric and policy advocacy, have reentered the conversation at a time when stability is already uncertain. A History of Confrontation During his presidency, Donald Trump positioned Iran as one of the primary adversaries of U.S. foreign policy. His decision to withdraw from the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), commonly known as the Iran nuclear deal, marked a turning point. Trump argued that the agreement was flawed, claiming it failed to permanently prevent Iran from developing nuclear weapons and did not address Iran’s regional influence or missile program. Following the withdrawal, the U.S. imposed sweeping economic sanctions under what the administration called a “maximum pressure” campaign. These measures significantly affected Iran’s economy, targeting oil exports, banking systems, and international trade relationships. Trump consistently framed these actions as necessary to protect U.S. interests and global security. That confrontational posture remains central to Trump’s public messaging today. Rhetoric That Resonates Trump’s attacks on Iran in recent speeches and interviews have focused less on diplomacy and more on strength. He often portrays Iran as a destabilizing force in the Middle East, accusing its leadership of funding proxy conflicts, threatening U.S. allies, and undermining regional peace. This language resonates with segments of the American public who favor a hardline approach to foreign policy. At the same time, critics argue that such rhetoric escalates tensions rather than easing them. Words from influential political figures carry weight, especially when they echo previous policies that brought the two nations close to direct confrontation. Even without immediate military action, strong language can affect markets, diplomatic relations, and public perception across the region. The Current Iran Situation Iran today faces a complex set of challenges. Economic pressure from sanctions continues to strain daily life for many citizens, while internal political dynamics remain tense. Regionally, Iran is involved in multiple theaters through alliances and influence, making it a central player in broader Middle Eastern conflicts. Against this backdrop, Trump’s renewed focus on Iran adds another layer of uncertainty. While the current U.S. administration may pursue different strategies, Trump’s voice amplifies debates about whether negotiation or force is the more effective path forward. Supporters of Trump argue that his tough stance kept Iran in check, claiming that pressure limited its resources and influence. Opponents counter that the approach isolated the U.S. from allies and reduced opportunities for diplomatic solutions, leaving the region more volatile. Global Reactions and Diplomatic Concerns International responses to Trump’s attacks on Iran have been mixed. Some U.S. allies in the Middle East view his rhetoric favorably, seeing Iran as a shared threat. Others, particularly in Europe, remain cautious, emphasizing the importance of dialogue and multilateral agreements. Diplomats warn that escalating language can undermine ongoing efforts to stabilize the region. Even symbolic threats or aggressive statements may provoke responses that spiral beyond control. In a region already marked by conflict, restraint is often seen as a necessary component of effective diplomacy. Political Strategy at Home Trump’s focus on Iran is also tied to domestic politics. Foreign policy strength has long been a cornerstone of his political identity. By highlighting Iran as an adversary, Trump reinforces his image as a leader unwilling to compromise with perceived threats. This strategy plays well among voters who believe the U.S. should project power globally. However, it also raises questions about long-term consequences. Critics argue that consistent confrontation without clear diplomatic off-ramps risks entrenching hostility rather than resolving underlying issues. What Comes Next? The future of U.S.-Iran relations remains uncertain. While Trump’s attacks on Iran currently take the form of rhetoric and policy advocacy rather than direct action, their impact should not be underestimated. Political language can shape expectations, influence decision-makers, and affect the behavior of nations. For Iran, continued pressure may harden positions within its leadership, reducing incentives for compromise. For the United States, balancing strength with diplomacy remains a delicate challenge—one that will define its role in the Middle East for years to come. Conclusion Trump’s attacks on Iran reflect a broader debate about how powerful nations should handle long-standing adversaries. Is pressure the path to peace, or does it deepen divisions? As the Iran situation continues to evolve, the consequences of words spoken today may shape realities tomorrow. In a world already facing uncertainty, the need for measured dialogue, strategic thinking, and global cooperation has never been greater. Whether confrontation or communication ultimately prevails will depend not just on leaders, but on the choices they make in moments of tension.
By Saboor Brohi 6 days ago in Geeks
Comments
There are no comments for this story
Be the first to respond and start the conversation.