10 Hidden TV Program Gems that Premiered on Streaming Services

Streaming platforms have ushered in a new era of television, offering a myriad of choices right at our fingertips. While it’s easy to gravitate towards big names and popular titles, there are numerous shows that may have escaped your notice but absolutely deserve your attention. Below, you’ll find 10 hidden gems that premiered on streaming services in the past five years, each boasting at least two seasons of content. From riveting dramas to delightful comedies, these shows are worth adding to your must-watch list.

Dramas

1. “Ozark” (Netflix, 2017-present)

Although it received some Emmy attention, “Ozark” often goes overlooked in broader discussions of peak TV drama. This dark and gritty series focuses on a family who relocates to the Ozarks to launder money for a drug cartel. With stunning performances by Jason Bateman and Laura Linney, the show delivers a compelling blend of crime, family drama, and suspense.

2. “Hanna” (Amazon Prime, 2019-present)

Based on the 2011 film of the same name, “Hanna” dives deep into the life of a young girl trained to be an assassin. With an absorbing storyline and stellar performances, this show deserves more attention than it often gets. It seamlessly combines elements of action, drama, and coming-of-age narratives to create a truly unique experience.

3. “Patriot” (Amazon Prime, 2015-2018)

A quirky blend of dark comedy and drama, “Patriot” revolves around an intelligence officer who assumes a cover as a corporate employee. The show is a brilliant commentary on American foreign policy, bureaucracy, and the complexities of work-life balance in high-stakes professions. Despite its short run, it’s a powerful and overlooked series deserving of a second look.

4. “Trinkets” (Netflix, 2019-2020)

Following the lives of three high school girls who form an unexpected friendship after meeting at a Shoplifters Anonymous meeting, “Trinkets” offers a refreshing take on the teen drama genre. It deals with issues such as identity, friendship, and the emotional struggles of adolescence with subtlety and grace.

Comedies

5. “One Day at a Time” (Netflix, Pop TV, 2017-2020)

Originally premiered on Netflix and later moved to Pop TV, “One Day at a Time” is a reboot of the 1970s sitcom, but with a Cuban-American family at its center. While it touches on serious topics like immigration, mental health, and LGBTQ+ issues, the show maintains a comedic tone and never loses its heart.

6. “The Great” (Hulu, 2020-present)

This historical comedy-drama takes immense liberties with the life of Russian Empress Catherine the Great, but its irreverent tone and humor make it stand out. Elle Fanning and Nicholas Hoult offer standout performances in this often-overlooked gem.

7. “Dickinson” (Apple TV+, 2019-present)

A period drama with a modern twist, “Dickinson” dives into the life of famed poet Emily Dickinson. Though it’s set in the 19th century, the show incorporates contemporary language and music, making it an edgy and fresh take on a historical figure.

Genre-Bending

8. “The Umbrella Academy” (Netflix, 2019-present)

Based on the comic book series by Gerard Way, “The Umbrella Academy” is an engaging mix of fantasy, drama, and comedy. While it has a dedicated fanbase, its unique storytelling and compelling characters deserve a wider audience. It’s a superhero show for people who are tired of superhero shows.

9. “Russian Doll” (Netflix, 2019-present)

Starring Natasha Lyonne, who also co-created the show, “Russian Doll” is a mind-bending series that plays with the concept of time loops. Despite its complex premise, it remains accessible and emotionally resonant, often diving deep into themes of mortality and human connection.

10. “Dark” (Netflix, 2017-2020)

This German series has been compared to “Stranger Things,” but it offers a much darker and more complex narrative. It blends elements of science fiction, thriller, and drama to create a compelling story about four interconnected families as they uncover dark secrets across different timelines.

Wrap-Up

The age of streaming has given us a plethora of content to consume, but it also means that some truly remarkable shows get lost in the shuffle. The above ten shows offer a blend of rich storytelling, compelling characters, and original concepts that set them apart from more mainstream fare. These hidden gems show the variety and depth of content that is available on streaming platforms, proving that sometimes the best shows are the ones you haven’t heard of yet. Whether you’re a fan of heartfelt dramas, irreverent comedies, or genre-defying narratives, there’s something on this list for everyone. So why not take a chance on one of these underrated shows? You won’t be disappointed.