These TV Shows are Left Over from Last Year: The Undervalued Projects of 2024

Amid the deluge of TV shows that defined 2024, some genuine gems were easily overlooked, overshadowed by high-profile premieres and established franchises. These series, unfairly neglected despite compelling plots, strong performances, and innovative approaches to their genres, deserve a second look.

This article, following our earlier piece on the best TV shows of 2024, highlights ten underrated shows from 2024 that you might have missed but are well worth your time in 2025. From intimate dramas to daring sci-fi, there's something for everyone.

Table of Contents

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

The Eight Show

This Korean thriller-drama, eclipsed by 2024's blockbuster releases, is a hidden gem for 2025. Its psychological depth and social commentary make it a rewarding watch. Eight participants compete in a confined space, not just for money, but for their dignity, forcing difficult moral choices. The reality show format becomes a potent metaphor for capitalism, exposing social inequality and the fragility of human values.

Why Watch It in 2025?

"The Eight Show" offers intelligent, tense storytelling with sharp social commentary. Inspired by Squid Game, but with a more intimate and psychologically nuanced approach, it prompts reflection on human relationships and the impact of materialism. Its unique atmosphere, excellent acting, and bold critique of consumerism make it a significant, though easily missed, drama.

Shoresy

This Canadian comedy-drama might seem an unusual choice for those seeking serious narratives, but its blend of sharp humor and unexpected sincerity is captivating. The story of a cheeky hockey player transforming a terrible team into a force to be reckoned with is surprisingly heartfelt. The creators of Letterkenny infuse this spin-off with their signature fast-paced wit, adding depth that unfolds with each episode.

Why Watch It in 2025?

Shoresy is more than just hockey; it's a story of perseverance, teamwork, and finding purpose, appealing to fans of dramas like Friday Night Lights. Its heartfelt moments and character growth make it surprisingly endearing. If you want laughter and thoughtful reflection, Shoresy deserves a place on your list.

Under the Bridge

This Hulu crime drama, undeservedly overshadowed in 2024, is a powerful and emotionally resonant series. Based on true events surrounding the tragic death of Reena Virk in 1997, it follows a writer with a traumatic past who becomes involved in investigating a teenager's disappearance. Through meticulously crafted flashbacks, the series illuminates Reena's personality and explores themes of trauma, bias, and justice.

Why Watch It in 2025?

Under the Bridge distinguishes itself by focusing on the victim, setting it apart from typical true-crime narratives. It masterfully blends intense intrigue with psychological insight. The talented cast, led by Riley Keough and Lily Gladstone, delivers an emotionally powerful journey. For those seeking more than just a detective story, this is a must-watch.

Thunderous Applause

This Turkish series subverts expectations, offering an absurdist take on human emotions. While the premise—a protagonist who dreams of becoming an orange, smoking fetuses—might seem bizarre, this grotesque imagery explores childhood trauma, loneliness, and dysfunctional families. Director Berkun Oya's unconventional approach intertwines drama and comedy into a subtle metaphor for human existence.

Why Watch It in 2025?

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

The Brothers Sun

This action dramedy blends crime, drama, and family comedy. After an attack, Charles Sun, head of a criminal empire, flees Taiwan for Los Angeles, where his contrasting relationship with his brother provides both conflict and strength. The dynamic plot, blending Eastern martial arts and American family drama, is engaging and unpredictable.

Why Watch It in 2025?

The Brothers Sun is about more than just action; it's a heartfelt story about family bonds, generational divides, and understanding. It offers a fresh perspective on genre blending, addressing important themes without sacrificing dynamism and humor. Its high-quality visuals and charismatic characters make it excellent for fans of unconventional crime stories.

Somebody Somewhere

This heartfelt HBO comedy-drama, concluding its run in 2024, remains underrated. Sam returns to her hometown after her sister's death, rebuilding her life with the support of friends and family. Music and laughter help her rediscover herself amidst emotional challenges.

Why Watch It in 2025?

Somebody Somewhere is a profoundly human story about loss, self-acceptance, and community. The satisfying finale offers closure and emotional catharsis. It's genuine, warm, and subtly humorous—a show that inspires and comforts.

Jurassic World: Chaos Theory

This animated Netflix series continues to delight dinosaur fans, offering adventure and spectacle often missing from the feature films. The series features more mature characters and themes than Camp Cretaceous, restoring a sense of wonder and awe.

Why Watch It in 2025?

If you crave gripping dinosaur stories combining tension, humor, and visual splendor, this is an excellent choice. It's ideal for fans of the original trilogy and newcomers alike. Chaos Theory offers impressive animation and explores deeper human-dinosaur relationships.

Say Nothing

This historical miniseries transports viewers to Northern Ireland during The Troubles. Based on the bestselling book, it tells tragic stories of Belfast residents from the 1970s to the 1990s, including the kidnapping and murder of Jean McConville. It explores the destructive power of political division and hatred.

Why Watch It in 2025?

Say Nothing is a profound exploration of violence and political division. It offers a gripping narrative and essential reflections on human morality in times of war. Strong performances, atmospheric production, and meticulous historical detail make it a must-watch.

The Fake

This Australian series explores the dark side of online dating and manipulation. Birdie, a writer, encounters a man who seems perfect, but his inconsistencies awaken her suspicions. The story unfolds as a pathological liar exploits vulnerabilities.

Why Watch It in 2025?

The Fake is a tense psychological drama tackling trust, manipulation, and self-preservation in the digital age. Powerful performances and a dynamic narrative keep viewers guessing. It's a compelling blend of drama and thriller.

High Potential

This American series offers a fresh take on the detective genre, blending investigations with comedic moments. Morgan, a single mother working as a janitor at a police station, uses her intellect and photographic memory to help solve cases.

Why Watch It in 2025?

High Potential combines sharp humor with intriguing detective plots. It features a strong female lead who balances family and personal growth. It's inspiring, witty, and warm.

From global hits to lesser-known gems, 2024 offered many overlooked masterpieces. These ten underrated series, spanning various genres, are waiting to be discovered in 2025. Whether you prefer drama, comedy, or something unique, there's plenty to explore.