In a time when a plethora of new shows inundate the television landscape, it’s all too common for the most innovative and entertaining series to become overlooked amidst the clutter. The 2020s have certainly produced some buzzworthy hits, yet many of the decade’s most exceptional shows remain hidden gems, quietly transforming the television narrative. What are these unsung masterpieces that are changing the way we view TV?

If you’re on the hunt for something new that evokes laughter, surprise, or even heartfelt moments, your search ends here. We’ve compiled a list of hidden treasures—the standout shows that have garnered critical acclaim yet lack the visibility they truly deserve among mainstream audiences. From The Resort to Somebody Somewhere, these top-tier 2020 series are undeniably worth your viewing time.

12

Discover the Heartwarming Journey of ‘Trying’ (2020–2024)

Created by Andy Wolton

Crafting a beautiful blend of humor, emotion, and introspection within just 30 minutes, Trying, created by Andy Wolton, has often gone unnoticed despite receiving exceptional reviews. The show centers on Nikki (Esther Smith) and Jason (Rafe Spall), a couple from North London yearning to become parents. Their journey through the challenges of adoption spans across four captivating seasons, shedding light on the complexities and joys of becoming a family.

Achieving a remarkable balance between comedy and heartfelt moments, Trying vividly depicts both the struggles and the genuinely funny experiences of parenthood. Critically acclaimed and frequently compared to popular shows like Ted Lasso and Schitt’s Creek, it excels in its warm writing, which navigates the delicate interplay of humor and touching drama. The chemistry among the cast and their exceptional performances further enhance this feel-good series, making it a true hidden treasure.

11

Experience the Hilarious Chaos of ‘Breeders’ (2020–2023)

Created by Chris Addison, Simon Blackwell, and Martin Freeman

Drawing inspiration from Martin Freeman’s own experiences with parenting, Breeders tells the story of Paul (Martin Freeman) and Ally (Daisy Haggard), a couple navigating the exhilarating yet challenging journey of raising two children. Instead of sugarcoating the realities of parenthood, Breeders dives deep into the humorous and chaotic truth of modern family life, particularly in today’s world.

Similar to Trying, Breeders has garnered praise for its raw and honest portrayal of parenting, tackling both the joyful and difficult aspects without reservation. The show stands out due to its richly developed characters and outstanding performances, which have earned it high ratings on platforms such as Rotten Tomatoes. The unique storytelling captures the essence of family life in all its messy glory, making it a must-watch for anyone seeking a genuine representation of parenthood.

10

Uncover the Intriguing Mysteries in ‘The Resort’ (2022–)

Created by Andy Siara

Featuring Cristin Milioti and William Jackson Harper, this dark comedy miniseries chronicles a married couple celebrating their 10th anniversary at a luxurious resort in the Yucatán. Their idyllic getaway takes an unexpected twist when they uncover clues linked to a 15-year-old case involving two missing teenagers. As they dive deeper into this mystery, the genre-blending story becomes even more engaging.

For viewers seeking a series that masterfully interweaves elements of mystery, comedy, drama, and even hints of science fiction, The Resort is a perfect choice. Its inventive narrative structure, which gradually reveals the connections between past and present, keeps the audience captivated. Despite receiving critical acclaim, this Peacock series has struggled to gain mainstream traction, likely due to its unconventional storytelling style.

9

Enjoy the Unique Workplace Comedy of ‘Mythic Quest’ (2020–2025)

Created by Charlie Day, Megan Ganz, and Rob McElhenney

Another hidden gem of the 2020s, Mythic Quest blends heart and humor, offering a fresh perspective on the workplace comedy genre. Set within a vibrant video game development studio, the show, created by Charlie Day, Rob McElhenney, and Megan Ganz, follows the quirky team behind the hit MMORPG as they wrestle with creative differences, office dynamics, and personal aspirations.

Although it has not achieved widespread recognition, Mythic Quest has garnered critical acclaim over its four-season run, with standout performances from Charlotte Nicdao and Rob McElhenney at the forefront. Balancing engaging storytelling with insightful industry satire, the series combines genuine heartfelt moments and complex characters, making its premature cancellation after Season 4 all the more disappointing.

8

Embark on a Surreal Journey with ‘Dispatches from Elsewhere’ (2020)

Created by Jason Segel

Following the lives of four everyday individuals—Peter (Jason Segel), Simone (Eve Lindley), Janice (Sally Field), and Fredwynn (André Benjamin)—who accidentally discover a captivating scavenger hunt in the heart of Philadelphia, Dispatches from Elsewhere invites viewers into a surreal adventure filled with eccentric clues and enigmatic puzzles that blur the lines between reality and imagination.

Dispatches from Elsewhere is an excellent choice for those who appreciate innovative storytelling, as each episode provides a unique perspective through the lens of different characters. Beneath the whimsical surface lies a profound exploration of themes such as loneliness, identity, and the quest for meaning, all wrapped in emotionally resonant narratives. This series, inspired by a real-life alternate reality game known as “The Jejune Institute,” stands out as a truly unique offering in television, making it well worth the watch.

7

Meet the Brilliant Mind Behind ‘High Potential’ (2024–)

Created by Drew Goddard

Created by Drew Goddard for ABC and inspired by the French and French-Belgian hit <em>HPI</em>, this series revolves around Kaitlin Olson’s character Morgan, a single mother of three with an IQ of 160, who works as a cleaner for the LAPD. Upon solving one of the cases using her exceptional intelligence, she gets recruited as a consultant for the Major Crimes division, leading to a partnership with Detective Adam (Daniel Sunjata).

While police procedurals are a staple in television, High Potential distinguishes itself by focusing on a non-police officer, working-class single mother with a unique and relatable perspective. Driven by Olson’s remarkable blend of comedic and dramatic talent, Morgan stands out as a memorable protagonist who significantly contributes to the show’s appeal, particularly in how it reinvents the typical network crime drama with its charmingly quirky lead.

6

Delve into the Chilling World of ‘Archive 81’ (2022)

Created by Rebecca Sonnenshine

This gripping supernatural horror series, Archive 81, created by Rebecca Sonnenshine, follows protagonist Dan Turner, played by Mamoudou Athie, an archivist tasked with restoring a collection of damaged videotapes. As he immerses himself in his work, Dan becomes increasingly captivated by the tapes’ original creator, played by Dina Shihabi, who explores a mysterious cult within a 1990s New York apartment complex. As the boundary between past and present fades, Dan finds himself ensnared in a chilling conspiracy.

Celebrated for its captivating and atmospheric storytelling, Archive 81 offers viewers a slow-burn horror experience filled with mind-bending puzzles that keep them guessing. With its unique blend of psychological thriller and noir elements, this series is genuinely unsettling and unpredictable, creating a pervasive sense of dread throughout. Although it initially attracted strong viewership, the show was unfortunately canceled after just one season.

5

Explore Philosophical Questions in ‘Devs’ (2020)

Created by Alex Garland

For those who relish science fiction, Alex Garland’s Devs stands as a top recommendation among this selection. This eight-episode thriller miniseries follows Lily Chan (Sonoya Mizuno), a software engineer at the enigmatic Silicon Valley firm Amaya, as she investigates the inexplicable disappearance of her boyfriend Sergei shortly after he got involved with the company’s secretive division. As she delves deeper, Lily uncovers a mind-bending conspiracy that challenges her understanding of reality.

Ideal for fans of Severance and Black Mirror, Devs excels in its ambition and intellectual depth, exploring profound philosophical questions surrounding determinism, free will, and the moral implications of cutting-edge technology. Moreover, Garland’s signature atmospheric style is on full display, with stunning cinematography and powerful performances that elevate this overlooked sci-fi gem.

4

Unravel the Dark Comedy of ‘Deadloch’ (2023–)

Created by Kate McCartney and Kate McLennan

Set against the backdrop of the fictional town of Deadloch, Deadloch is an enticing blend of dark crime mystery and sharp comedy, flipping the traditional Nordic noir narrative on its head by transplanting it to Tasmania and infusing it with distinctly Australian humor. The plot kicks off with the discovery of a local man’s body washed ashore, prompting an unlikely partnership between two detectives: the meticulous Senior Sergeant Dulcie (Kate Box) and the chaotic Eddie (Madaleine Sami).

Deadloch excels not only in its entertainment value but also in its social commentary, challenging genre conventions while satirizing and confronting the gender dynamics prevalent in classic crime dramas. Coupled with a gripping narrative, the stunning visuals—shot on location—further enhance the experience, showcasing breathtaking cinematography that is as memorable as the characters themselves.

3

Celebrate the Journey of Self-Expression in ‘We Are Lady Parts’ (2021–)

Created by Nida Manzoor

This British sitcom, We Are Lady Parts, created by Nida Manzoor, delivers a refreshing narrative as it chronicles the journey of an all-female, all-Muslim punk band in London. As they chase their musical aspirations, the members also navigate the complexities of fame, family, faith, and cultural expectations.

Inviting viewers to immerse themselves in the delightful yet thought-provoking world of Lady Parts, this underrated sitcom subverts stereotypes and offers a vibrant portrayal of self-expression. With its infectious positivity and engaging storyline, it promises a delightful viewing experience, especially for fans of the genre. Beyond its entertaining narrative, the show also highlights the power of music as a medium for self-expression and cultural commentary, showcasing captivating visuals that help draw audiences in.