7 Incredible TV Shows that Flew Under the Radar in 2023

Despite the dual Hollywood strikes causing disruption this year, streaming services continued to receive a steady flow of content. This included both new and returning shows featuring compelling storylines, well-developed characters, and engaging episodes that viewers may have overlooked.

Here are seven worthy series that deserved more love from the past 12 months:

UnPrisoned

Delroy Lindo, Marla Gibbs, Kerry Washington, Faly Rakotohavana and director Numa Perrier.

HULU

Starring Kerry Washington and Delroy Lindo, this witty Hulu comedy follows a type-A therapist whose life is upended when her father is released from prison after nearly two decades and moves in with her. The show delves into the effects of incarceration, the inter-generational divide, forgiveness, and second chances. Washington and Lindo bring out the best in each other in a series that avoids heavy-handedness.

"UnPrisoned" Season 1 is streaming on Hulu.

Young Sheldon

Iain Armitage as Sheldon Cooper in "Young Sheldon."

CBS Photo Archive/CBS/Getty Images

Creating a successful prequel series is no easy feat, and as the CBS comedy approaches its end next year, "Young Sheldon" should be given more recognition for its portrayal of the origin story of "The Big Bang Theory's" Sheldon Cooper. The show also deserves credit for developing a humorous and lovable cast of characters around Sheldon as a child, portrayed by Iain Armitage.

"Young Sheldon" Seasons 1-6 are streaming on Max. - Brian Lowry

Dave

Dave Burd as Dave in "Dave."

Byron Cohen/FX

Following a turbulent second season in 2021 that delved into the ups and downs of creativity and the challenges of writer's block, this unique and occasionally wild series made a strong comeback this year. The latest season follows the neurotic rapper Dave (otherwise known as Lil Dicky) as he experiences both new heights and new lows, including a fake celebrity death on Twitter, causing trouble at the Met Gala, and dealing with obsessive fandom. The show continues to push boundaries between fiction and reality in innovative ways, while the actors revel in thoroughly embodying their characters. This immersive experience is one that devoted viewers thoroughly enjoy.

"Dave" Seasons 1-3 are streaming on Hulu.

Platonic

Seth Rogen and Rose Byrne in "Platonic."

The Apple TV+ comedy series "Platonic," created by the husband and wife writing team Nicholas Stoller and Francesca Delbanco, delves into the age-old question of whether men and women can be just friends. Over 10 episodes, the show charmingly and nuancedly answers that question with a resounding "yes." Through laughter and brutal honesty, the two friends, portrayed by Rose Byrne and Seth Rogen, help each other navigate their individual paths forward by reflecting on their shared past.

"Platonic" Season 1 is streaming on Apple TV+. - Megan Thomas

Rap Sh!t

KaMillion, Aida Osman in "Rap Sh!t" Season 2.

"Rap Sh!t," created by "Insecure's" Issa Rae, follows the journey of Aida Osman and KaMillion, an aspiring rap duo determined to make it big in the music industry. Set in Miami, this comedy series delivers sharp humor and seamlessly weaves together Instagram Lives, Facetime chats, and text messages, offering a fresh perspective on hip-hop culture and a powerful portrayal of female friendship and unwavering ambition.

Season 1 and 2 of "Rap Sh!t" are streaming on Max. - Megan Thomas

The Morning Show

Jon Hamm and Jennifer Aniston in "The Morning Show."

Apple TV+ delivers production values that rival those of a Marvel movie in "The Morning Show," with viewers accustomed to stunning lighting, sets reminiscent of Nancy Meyers' designs, envy-worthy wardrobes, and an all-star cast. Season 3 sees Jon Hamm join the already impressive lineup, exuding brooding-yet-suave businessman vibes. While the show has faced criticism for occasional excess, that's the appeal - the plotlines are ripped from the headlines and served with epic monologues, perfect blowouts, and a touch of luxury from Alex Levy's cashmere collection.

All three seasons of "The Morning Show" are streaming on Apple TV+. - Megan Thomas

For All Mankind

Apple TV+ presents "For All Mankind," a captivating, decade-spanning alternate history sci-fi series. The show delves into a world where the Soviets were the first to land a man on the moon in the 1960s. Each season kicks off with a significant time jump, introducing new characters, heart-wrenching goodbyes, and compelling story arcs. In this alternate history, John Lennon is alive, a female president (Jodi Balfour) is in office, and there are operational bases on the moon and Mars. The series stars Joel Kinnaman, Wrenn Schmidt, and Krys Marshall, who deliver stellar performances that transcend the limits of our solar system.

Season 4 of "For All Mankind" is currently airing on Apple TV+. - Alli Rosenbloom