2024's television landscape was a whirlwind of premieres and established franchises, easily overshadowing some truly exceptional shows. 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 here for every viewer.

Table of Contents

• The Eight
• Shoresy
• Under the Bridge
• Thunderous Applause
• The Brothers Sun
• Somebody Somewhere
• Jurassic World: Chaos Theory
• Say Nothing
• The Fake
• High Potential

The Eight

This Korean thriller-drama, unfairly eclipsed by bigger releases, is a 2025 hidden gem. Eight individuals compete in a confined space, not just for money, but for their dignity, forcing difficult moral choices. The show uses the reality TV format as a biting commentary on capitalism, exposing social inequalities and the fragility of human values.

Why Watch It in 2025?

"The Eight" offers intelligent, suspenseful storytelling with sharp social commentary. While reminiscent of Squid Game, it provides a more intimate and psychologically nuanced exploration of human relationships and the influence of materialism. Its unique atmosphere, strong performances, and bold critique of consumerism make it a standout drama.

Shoresy

This Canadian comedy-drama might seem unconventional, but beneath its raunchy humor lies surprising depth. The story follows a cocky hockey player striving to transform a losing team, blending sharp wit with unexpected sincerity. The creators of Letterkenny maintain the fast-paced humor, adding layers of character development with each episode.

Why Watch It in 2025?

Shoresy transcends the hockey setting; it's a story of perseverance, teamwork, and self-discovery, appealing to fans of dramas like Friday Night Lights. Its heartfelt moments and character arcs make it surprisingly endearing. It's a show that will make you laugh and reflect.

Under the Bridge

This Hulu crime drama, unjustly overshadowed in 2024, is a powerful and emotionally resonant series. Based on a true story, it recounts the tragic death of Reena Virk in 1997. A writer with a troubled past becomes entangled in investigating a teenager's disappearance, intersecting with the police investigation and a group of young people under suspicion. Through flashbacks, the series explores Reena's personality and raises questions about trauma, prejudice, and justice.

Why Watch It in 2025?

Under the Bridge distinguishes itself by focusing on the victim, not just the crime. It masterfully blends intense suspense with deep psychological insight. The talented cast, including Riley Keough and Lily Gladstone, delivers an emotionally impactful journey. It's a layered exploration of tragedy and its aftermath.

Thunderous Applause

This Turkish series subverts expectations, offering an absurdist look at human emotions. The protagonist's dream of becoming an orange and the imagery of smoking fetuses might seem bizarre, but this unconventional approach tackles serious themes of childhood trauma, loneliness, and dysfunctional families. Director Berkun Oya's unique style blends drama and comedy into a subtle metaphor for human existence.

Why Watch It in 2025?

Thunderous Applause is a bold experiment in storytelling. Its comedic elements serve the deeper narrative. If you appreciate unusual plots that provoke thought and laughter, this series will be a revelation. Its visual style is captivating.

The Brothers Sun

This action dramedy combines crime, drama, and family comedy. After an attack, Charles Sun, head of a criminal empire, flees Taiwan for Los Angeles. The clashing personalities of the brothers become both a source of conflict and their greatest strength. The dynamic plot blends Eastern martial arts and American family drama.

Why Watch It in 2025?

The Brothers Sun is not just action; it's a heartfelt story about family, generational differences, and understanding. It offers a fresh perspective on genre blending, addressing important themes without sacrificing dynamism and humor. The visuals and characters are compelling.

Somebody Somewhere

This heartwarming HBO comedy-drama concluded its run in 2024, remaining underrated. Sam returns to her hometown after her sister's death, grappling with grief. Supported by friendships, she rebuilds her life. Music and laughter help her rediscover herself.

Why Watch It in 2025?

Somebody Somewhere is a deeply human story about loss, self-acceptance, and community. The satisfying conclusion provides closure and emotional catharsis. It's genuine, warm, and subtly humorous.

Jurassic World: Chaos Theory

This animated Netflix series continues to captivate dinosaur enthusiasts. Set after Camp Cretaceous, it features more mature themes and characters. While the Jurassic World films have fallen short of the original trilogy's wonder, Chaos Theory successfully recreates that sense of awe, adding thrilling moments and drama.

Why Watch It in 2025?

If you crave gripping dinosaur stories, this is an excellent choice. It's appealing to both longtime fans and newcomers. The animation is impressive, and it delves into the human-dinosaur relationship.

Say Nothing

This historical miniseries transports viewers to Northern Ireland during The Troubles. Based on a bestselling book, it tells the tragic stories of Belfast residents from the 1970s to the 1990s, including the murder of Jean McConville. It portrays the descent into conflict through the lives of activists and an IRA commander.

Why Watch It in 2025?

Say Nothing is a profound exploration of violence and political division. It offers a gripping narrative and reflections on human morality during wartime. The performances, atmosphere, and historical recreation are exceptional.

The Fake

This Australian series explores 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.

Why Watch It in 2025?

The Fake is a tense psychological drama addressing trust, manipulation, and self-preservation in the digital age. The performances and narrative are compelling.

High Potential

This American series offers a fresh take on detective stories, blending investigations with comedy. A single mother working as a janitor uses her intellect and memory to assist in solving cases.

Why Watch It in 2025?

High Potential combines humor and intriguing plots. It features a strong female lead balancing family and personal growth. It's inspiring, witty, and warm.

2024 delivered many overlooked masterpieces. These ten underrated series, spanning various genres, are waiting to be discovered in 2025.