January 8, 2025 | Alex Summers

Forgotten TV Shows Worth Rewatching


Rediscover Old Favorites

With the insane volume of television production, so many amazing shows fade into obscurity and rarely get talked about anymore. These amazing shows are absolutely worth remembering and watching again.

Intro

Deadwood

Deadwood (2004) is an Old West show with a tinge of dark humor and historical depth. It is set in the lawless town of Deadwood, South Dakota, and the series merges real-life figures like Wild Bill Hickok and Calamity Jane with fictional characters.

Screenshot from the TV series Deadwood (2004-2006)HBO, Deadwood (2004-2006)

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Deadwood (Cont.)

The element that makes Deadwood stand out is its unapologetic portrayal of life in the 1800s, where moral lines blur and survival takes precedence. If you’ve never watched it, now might be the time to discover why it’s hailed as a Western masterpiece.

Wild Bill Hickok FactsDeadwood (2004-2006), HBO

Six Feet Under

The name might have you shiver a bit, but hold that thought first; it will make sense in a few seconds. This piece is set in a Los Angeles funeral home and goes deep into the complexities of family, life, and death. If you love dark comedy, this is the show to watch.

HBO FactsSix Feet Under,HBO

Six Feet Under (Cont.)

The Fishers are a family that runs the funeral business, and they never fail to deliver a mix of emotional depth and biting wit in every episode. From its haunting opening theme by Sia to the raw exploration of grief, Six Feet Under redefined family dramas.

Six Feet Under (2001-2005)HBO, Six Feet Under (2001-2005)

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The OA

When The OA premiered on Netflix in 2016, viewers were immediately hooked to its mysterious, multidimensional narrative. The show follows Prairie Johnson, a blind woman who mysteriously returns home after being missing for seven years, claiming to have the ability to travel between dimensions. 

Screenshot from the TV show The OA (2016-2019)Netflix, The OA (2016-2019)

The OA (Cont.)

When you prepare to watch this series, get ready to experience some supernatural elements with suspense—a fresh take on the sci-fi genre. Although The OA was canceled after two seasons, its mind-bending premise left many asking questions. This series's goal is to challenge your perception of reality. Ready?

Screenshot from the television series The OA (2016-2019)Netflix, The OA (2016-2019)

The X-Files

What made The X-Files (1993) so iconic? It was the dynamic duo of Mulder and Scully—two FBI agents investigating paranormal phenomena. From alien abductions to government conspiracies, no topic was off-limits. The series blended horror, sci-fi, and mystery with such style that it became an undeniable cultural phenomenon.

Screenshot from the television series The X-Files (1993-2018)FOX, The X-Files (1993-2018)

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The X-Files (Cont.)

The influence of The X-Files on the sci-fi genre and television cannot be overstated. Its eerie atmosphere, catchy theme music, and Mulder and Scully's iconic chemistry continue to inspire modern TV shows. You’ll find yourself hooked on its strange and chilling mysteries.

The X-Files (1998)Twentieth Century, The X-Files (1998)

The Twilight Zone

Rod Serling’s The Twilight Zone (1959) didn’t just entertain viewers—it left them questioning the nature of reality itself. As an anthology series, it brought viewers standalone episodes of sci-fi, horror, and social commentary. Every twist delivered a sense of dread and a powerful moral message, making it timeless.

Screenshot of the movie The Twilight ZoneCBS, The Twilight Zone (1959–1964)

The Twilight Zone (Cont.)

Considered one of the best shows of all time, The Twilight Zone remains influential in television and popular culture. It brought us tales of time travel and moral lessons wrapped in surreal circumstances. This piece is a masterpiece; add it to your list.

Screenshot of The Twilight Zone (1959–1964)CBS, The Twilight Zone (1959–1964)

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Jericho

Oh, Jericho. You will love this one. It’s a post-apocalyptic series but with a twist on what happens to a small American town when a series of nuclear explosions devastates major US cities. The residents MUST survive and rebuild society while dealing with external threats and internal turmoil.

Dean Martin in Rough Night in Jericho (1967)Universal, Rough Night in Jericho (1967)

Jericho (Cont.)

Similar to The OA, this one also lasted two seasons. But you know why we suggest it? You need to enjoy the cast and witness the constant struggle between survival and human nature. When it digs deeper into societal collapse and the breakdown of political systems, it makes you wonder.

JerichoCode Name Jericho (13) by ForeverBlueClassics

The Fades

This one is another short and sweet series that packed a punch in just one season. Its setting is the UK, and it follows a teenager named Paul who starts seeing "Fades", spirits of the departed stuck in the mortal world. Things turn sinister when Paul….. 

The FadesWhat are the Fades? | The Fades | BBC Studios by BBC Studios

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The Fades (Cont.)

… gets tangled up in the supernatural conflict between the living and the departed. Here, expect horror and coming-of-age drama. It brings a unique twist to the typical ghost story, filled with deep emotional stakes. This one is for a supernatural drama junkie.

The FadesWhat are the Fades? | The Fades | BBC Studios by BBC Studios

Firefly

This 2002 series, created by Joss Whedon, another one-seasoner, introduces you to a ragtag crew aboard the spaceship Serenity as they move through the lawless reaches of space and their personal conflicts. The best parts? It's a unique mix of humor, action, and moral complexity. 

Firefly and Serenity FactsFirefly,Fox

Firefly (Cont.)

Despite being short-lived, people love it, so the show’s fan base remains incredibly loyal. This is all thanks to its memorable characters and engaging storylines. Firefly is a must-watch. Imagine this: space, cowboys. How intriguing.

Firefly and Serenity FactsFirefly,Fox

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Pushing Daisies

This one is for the books (and TV) because it executes a whimsical storytelling style and delivers it in the most stunning visual style. Pushing Daisies (2007) stands out as it follows Ned, a pie maker with the gift to bring the departed back to life—if only temporarily. 

Lee Pace as Ned and Anna Friel as Charlotte 'Chuck' CharlesJinks/Cohen Company, Pushing Daisies (2007-2009)

Pushing Daisies (Cont.)

With great power comes? You know the answer, and Ned learned the hard way because his gift leads to a fascinating mix of mystery, romance, and surreal humor. One minute, you will be laughing, and the next, fighting a tear. It's a rollacosta you will love.

Pushing Daisies Pushing Daisies 1x01 [HD]

Hannibal

Focusing on the relationship between FBI agent Will Graham and the brilliant yet dangerous psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal Lecter, played by Mads Mikkelsen, the best part is the psychological twists. The pair’s psychological cat-and-mouse game is twisted, chilling, and mesmerizing in one go.

Screenshot from the television series Hannibal (2013-2015)NBC, Hannibal (2013-2015)

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Hannibal (Cont.)

This show will have you confused about what to feel because it is that good. The drama is well curated in an artistic direction—psychological horror and visual beauty. Psychology thriller fans, take this to the very top of your watch list. Now.

Hannibal (2013-2015)Dino De Laurentiis, Hannibal (2013-2015)

Twin Peaks

David Lynch knew what he was doing because he gave us the masterpiece we know today as Twin Peaks in 1990. He mixes mystery, drama, and the supernatural, and here is a sneak peek without giving too much. Twin Peaks follows the investigation into the homicide of a high school student.

Screenshot from the television series Twin Peaks (1990-1991)ABC, Twin Peaks (1990-1991)

Twin Peaks (Cont.)

The student is Laura Palmer, who lives in the small town of Twin Peaks, Washington. So, that name is quite literal. The series remains unforgettable to many because of its uncanny blend of eerie atmosphere and quirky characters. Another plus? The show’s surreal style, cryptic storytelling, and iconic soundtrack.

Twin PeaksLynch/Frost Productions, Twin Peaks (1990-1991)

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Wonderfalls

If you are seeking an offbeat comedy-drama, Wonderfalls is the real deal. It is about a young woman named Jaye who works at a souvenir shop in Niagara Falls and begins receiving cryptic messages from inanimate objects. Sounds cool already, right?

Caroline Dhavernas as Jaye TylerTwentieth Century, Wonderfalls (2004)

Wonderfalls (Cont.)

These messages guide her to help others, leading her into bizarre and unexpected situations. Unfortunately, the show never made it to season two, but the fans still love it. IMDb gave it an 8.3/10. That’s a good rating, so watch it.

WonderfallsWONDERFALLS - Tribute by donnie'scorner

Freaks And Geeks

In 1999 and the early 2000s, the world couldn’t shut up about Freaks And Geeks. Know why? It is one of those rare teen dramas that feels authentic and timeless. Set in the 1980s, it follows a group of high school students doing what they do best—living through adolescence.

Linda Cardellini as Lindsay Weir and Jason Segel as Nick AndopolisDreamWorks, Freaks and Geeks (1999–2000)

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Freaks And Geeks (Cont.)

This show will make you remember how you dealt with social pressures and family conflicts when thirteen hit. BTW, this is the show that launched the careers of James Franco and Seth Rogen. This one is also another one-hit wonder, but you will love it.

Freaks and Geeks (1999-2000)Apatow Productions, Freaks and Geeks (1999-2000)

Rubicon

Rubicon (2010) takes you to the political side of things but in thriller form. The show's star is Will Travers, a puzzle solver at a think tank who uncovers a global conspiracy. Are you curious as to what that might be? You just have to watch it. No spoilers here.

RubiconRubicon promo trailer (AMC) by 720ptv

Rubicon (Cont.)

What you need to know is that you’ll experience a lot of “huh”, “what”, and “Are you kidding me”? The show's focus on the intersection of politics, intelligence, and corporate power creates a complex web of intrigue and betrayal: It all unfolds slowly.

RubiconRubicon promo trailer (AMC) by 720ptv

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The Middle

On the surface, The Middle did not receive as much attention as other family sitcoms, but it’s a delightful, underappreciated show highlighting the essence of suburban life. As you might have guessed, it is a family-centric show following the Heck family.

The MiddleFunniest Moments from Season 1 | The Middle by ClipZone: Sitcoms

The Middle (Cont.)

The number one thing we love about this show is just how relatable it is. Things like raising kids, balancing work-life balance, and trying to get by are things we go through daily. Another thing: you will laugh your socks off and probably keep it on your forever rewatch list

The MiddleFunniest Moments from Season 1 | The Middle by ClipZone: Sitcoms

The Adventures Of Brisco County, Jr.

In the early 90s, The Adventures of Brisco County, Jr. (1993) tried mixing Western and sci-fi elements in a wildly original way. It worked. Starring Bruce Campbell as the titular character, the show follows Brisco, a Harvard-educated bounty hunter. 

The Adventures Of Brisco County, Jr.Adventures of Brisco County Jr - Pete's Piece by PJ Maybe

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The Adventures Of Brisco County, Jr. (Cont.)

Wait, Harvard-educated bounty hunter? That alone should intrigue you, watch it. Our guy (Brisco) is on a vengeance and justice mission in a weirdly futuristic Old West way. It's such a weird mix because the directors added elements from the supernatural. Think of it as “chemical X”.

The Adventures Of Brisco County, Jr.Adventures of Brisco County Jr - Pete's Piece by PJ Maybe

My So-Called Life

From the '90s to the 2010s, teenage dramas ruled the day. Remember The OC and 90201? My So-Called Life, released in 1994, is right up that alley. Again, adolescence experiences shine with awkwardness. Our star here is a lady, Angela Chase, played by Claire Danes.

Jared Leto as Jordan CatalanoThe Bedford Falls Company, My So-Called Life (1994–1995)

My So-Called Life (Cont.)

The title is self-explanatory, and you’ll see it as Angela lives through her high school years dealing with friendships, family drama, and her crush on the brooding Jordan Catalano. The show is real, non-stereotypical, and a tad bit melodramatic. You’ll love it.

Shows Canceled Too Soon factsMy So-Called Life(1994-1995), ABC

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Party Down

Slow your horses; this isn’t another teenage drama; relax. Instead, it is an adult piece that follows a group of caterers working at various events. Party Down delivers sharp wit thanks to a stellar ensemble cast and hilarious premise. Each episode is a new adventure in a new event they are planning.

Shows Canceled Too Soon factsParty Down (2009–2010), FOX

Party Down (Cont.)

Have you ever wondered if event planners have drama? If so, here is a glimpse of that. The series goes into various events, from corporate parties to weddings. Before watching it, be ready for absurdity, humor, and existential angst in the catering world. After this, attending parties will change. Forever.

Party Down Party Down | Season 3 Official Trailer | STARZ by STARZ

The IT Crowd

The IT here means information technology, and as you would have guessed, it entails some computer geeks. In this case, the geeks are a British team of smarties who brilliantly tackle the chaos of a corporate IT department. The irony is that the characters know nothing about computers.

The IT Crowd (2016-2013)FremantleMedia, The IT Crowd (2016-2013)

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The IT Crowd (Cont.)

The main characters are Roy and Moss, two socially awkward tech employees, and their manager, Jen. The trio’s hilarious misadventures, fueled by awkward social dynamics and tech disasters, make this a cult classic. Here, you’ll experience quirky characters and absurd situations.

Screenshot from the television series The IT Crowd (2007)NBC, The IT Crowd (2007)

The Good Guys

Comedy lovers seeking that humorous fix, this is a comedic cop show that blends buddy-cop tropes with a retro twist. Starring Bradley Whitford and Colin Hanks, the series follows a down-on-his-luck detective and his overly enthusiastic partner tackling cases in a gritty Dallas setting. 

The Good GuysThe Good Guys - Series Trailer by GianniGuy

The Good Guys (Cont.)

The charm of The Good Guys lies in its humor and the chemistry between its leads. Though a one-season-wonder, The Good Guys still delivers many laughs and compelling stories. This is what you watch for: That light-hearted humor, action, and offbeat charm. It's a triple threat of some sort. 

The Good GuysThe Good Guys - Series Trailer by GianniGuy

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Outsiders

The Farrell family, a mountain-dwelling clan living in the Appalachian mountains, struggles with outsiders attempting to take their land. The mix of family drama, intense action, emotions, and acting here is top-notch. You should give it a try mainly because of its….

Tom Cruise MoviesThe Outsiders, 1983, American Zoetrope

Outsiders (Cont.)

…. unique setting and unorthodox characters. Outsiders are created in a way that feels like a distinct, gritty, and raw world. While it only ran for two seasons, the show left a significant impact. If you’re craving a drama that’s both intense and filled with moral complexity, Outsiders will pull you in.

Screenshot from the film The Outsiders (1983)Warner Bros., The Outsiders (1983)

Terriers

Closing our list is a hidden gem of a crime series focusing on two unlicensed private investigators. While Terriers’s  premise seems like a typical detective story, the show goes much deeper, digging deeper into personal struggles, moral dilemmas, and flawed characters.

TerriersTerriers on FX - Big Time by MadchesterRu

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Terriers (Cont.)

Despite its critical acclaim, Terriers was tragically canceled after one season. Still, to date, it has a cult following thanks to its character-driven narrative and excellent performances from Donal Logue and Michael Raymond-James. If you enjoy detective stories, Terriers is one you don’t want to miss.

TerriersTerriers on FX - Big Time by MadchesterRu


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