11 Underrated TV Series to Binge-Watch Now

With so many shows out there, it’s easy for some real gems to slip under the radar. Whether they never got the hype they deserved or were overshadowed by bigger hits, these series are worth your time. If you’re looking for something fresh to binge, here are 11 underrated TV shows that deserve a spot on your watchlist.

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Hinterland

Hinterland stands out as one of the most atmospheric and compelling crime dramas, set against the moody backdrop of Wales. The series is known for its slow, methodical pace, where every detail feels meticulously crafted. With each episode, viewers are drawn into the lives of its complex characters, particularly its detectives, who unravel deeply layered mysteries. The striking Welsh landscape adds a haunting quality that complements the dark, gripping stories.

What makes Hinterland even more addictive is the way it builds suspense across multiple episodes, allowing the storylines to slowly evolve. The show’s slow-burn approach might initially seem drawn-out, but it cleverly pulls you into its world, keeping you glued to the screen, eager to know what happens next. This is a perfect show for those who enjoy deep character studies and atmospheric mystery.

The Fall

In The Fall, Gillian Anderson plays a smart, calculated detective, Stella Gibson, who is on the trail of a seemingly ordinary man who hides dark secrets. Jamie Dornan’s portrayal of the serial killer, Paul Spector, is chilling and disturbingly relatable. The tension between Gibson and Spector creates a unique and disturbing cat-and-mouse dynamic, where the line between hunter and prey becomes blurred. The show thrives on its ability to focus on psychological depth and subtle, nail-biting suspense.

What makes The Fall a binge-worthy series is its atmosphere and the way it delves into the psychology of both its main characters. Each episode unveils more about the detective and the killer, making it almost impossible to stop watching. The show’s deliberate pacing, which teases new revelations, will keep viewers craving the next episode as they try to figure out what will happen in the complex relationship between these two compelling characters.

Terriers

Terriers was a brief but memorable series that brilliantly blended elements of noir, comedy, and drama. The story revolves around Hank and Britt, two unlikely private detectives who get caught up in a dangerous conspiracy while trying to keep their heads above water. The show mixes humor and dark undertones in a way that feels refreshing and different from typical detective series. The chemistry between the leads is undeniable, and their relationship provides both emotional depth and comic relief.

Though the show only lasted one season, its sharp writing and strong character development make it a hidden gem for those seeking a binge-worthy, character-driven drama. The plot moves at a quick pace, with twists and turns that make each episode addictive. It’s a perfect show to marathon, as the cases they work on intertwine with personal struggles, building a compelling narrative that keeps viewers hooked until the end.

The Knick

Set in the early 1900s, The Knick focuses on the groundbreaking yet controversial medical practices at a New York hospital. Dr. John Thackery, played by Clive Owen, is a brilliant but flawed surgeon whose innovative approach to medicine clashes with his personal demons. The show is brutal in its portrayal of early medical practices, but it also offers a deep dive into the characters’ struggles and ambitions. The combination of period-accurate medical drama and raw character exploration makes it a unique binge-watch.

What makes The Knick so captivating is its gritty portrayal of early medicine and how it challenges societal norms. The intensity of each episode, paired with the show’s visually stunning cinematography, will pull you in. As the tension rises with each surgical procedure and personal conflict, you will find yourself wanting to watch the next episode to see what happens next in the lives of these fascinating characters.

Quarry

Quarry is a show that masterfully combines crime drama with psychological exploration. Set in the 1970s, it follows Mac Conway, a Marine who returns home from Vietnam only to find himself entangled in the world of contract killing. What sets Quarry apart is its exploration of guilt, trauma, and moral conflict, as Conway grapples with his past and the consequences of his actions. The show’s setting and atmosphere make it a haunting and immersive experience.

The complex, slow-burning character development in Quarry keeps the series engaging, with each episode revealing more about Mac’s internal struggle. As the series progresses, the line between right and wrong becomes increasingly blurred, making the show a perfect binge-watch for anyone who loves dark, character-driven storytelling. The exploration of PTSD and its effects on the psyche adds an emotional weight that keeps you hooked from start to finish.

Fortitude

Fortitude takes place in a small Arctic town, where the long hours of darkness and frigid temperatures create an atmosphere of isolation and mystery. The series begins with a gruesome murder, which unravels a series of strange events and secrets in the otherwise peaceful town. The show’s eerie setting, combined with a tense plot, draws viewers in, making it feel like a perfect binge-watch for fans of psychological thrillers.

The chilling tone of Fortitude is what makes it so addictive. As secrets begin to emerge and characters face off against one another, the stakes rise, leaving viewers eager to uncover more. The eerie setting, combined with supernatural undertones and gripping crime drama, makes it impossible not to want to watch the entire series in one sitting.

The Leftovers

Based on the novel by Tom Perrotta, The Leftovers follows a community grappling with the unexplained disappearance of 2% of the world’s population. The show explores grief, loss, and the search for meaning in a world that has lost its sense of logic. With its haunting atmosphere and philosophical undertones, The Leftovers offers a deeply emotional and thought-provoking experience. The show’s slow and methodical pace only adds to the suspense as viewers are slowly pulled into the bizarre reality of the post-Departure world.

The true brilliance of The Leftovers lies in its emotional depth and character-driven storytelling. The mysteries that unfold over the course of the series will keep you engaged and invested, as the characters’ personal struggles and emotional journeys are explored in stunning detail. It is an incredibly satisfying binge-watch, particularly for those who love existential drama and storytelling that requires thought and reflection.

Lodge 49

Lodge 49 is a quirky, offbeat dramedy that revolves around Dud, a former surfer who’s struggling to find his purpose in life. After his father’s death and the collapse of his family’s business, he discovers a fraternal lodge, and his journey to rediscover himself begins. The show is a mix of oddball humor, mystery, and character exploration, making it a delightful and unpredictable binge-watch. The charm of Lodge 49 lies in its ability to seamlessly blend the absurd with the heartfelt.

The series is grounded in relatable themes of searching for meaning in life and the bonds that people form in difficult circumstances. Each episode is a blend of quirky interactions and tender moments, making you want to see what happens next. The slow build-up of the story and its understated comedy will keep you hooked and emotionally invested.

The Americans

The Americans is a spy thriller set during the Cold War, following two Russian spies posing as an American couple in suburban Washington, D.C. The show explores the tension between their professional duties and personal lives, creating an intense and dramatic storyline. The espionage elements, mixed with family dynamics, make for a compelling narrative that builds with each passing episode. The characters’ complex relationships and moral dilemmas will leave you eagerly watching to see how they navigate their double lives.

The brilliance of The Americans lies in its slow-burning tension and complex character arcs. Each episode increases the stakes for the characters as their secrets threaten to unravel. The show’s ability to weave together political intrigue with personal drama makes it a highly addictive binge-watch that will keep you glued to the screen.

Rectify

Rectify follows Daniel Holden, a man released from prison after serving 19 years for a crime he may not have committed. As he reintegrates into society, the series explores themes of justice, redemption, and the lasting effects of trauma. The show’s deep focus on character development and emotional nuance is what makes it so compelling. Each episode feels like an intimate look at the struggles of the characters as they deal with the aftermath of Daniel’s return.

The pacing of Rectify is deliberate and thoughtful, drawing viewers in with its raw and honest portrayal of the effects of long-term incarceration. The slow unraveling of Daniel’s case and the exploration of his relationships with his family and the town make it impossible to stop watching. This emotional and thought-provoking show will leave you wanting more as you follow Daniel’s journey toward healing and truth.

Kingdom

Kingdom is a South Korean historical zombie drama that blends intense action with political intrigue. Set during Korea’s Joseon Dynasty, the series follows Crown Prince Lee Chang as he uncovers a dangerous plague that transforms people into flesh-eating monsters. The show stands out for its unique combination of historical drama and horror, making it an engrossing watch. The slow-burning storytelling builds up suspense with every episode, keeping you on the edge of your seat.

What makes Kingdom so addictive is its ability to combine the thrill of zombie action with the political machinations of a royal court. As the plot thickens and more secrets are revealed, you’ll find yourself wanting to binge-watch just to see how the complex narrative unfolds. The fast-paced action scenes combined with the strategic tension make this series a must-watch for anyone looking for something both exciting and unpredictable.

This article originally appeared on Avocadu.