Unveiling the Ultimate Gen Z TV Obsessions: 10 Shows That Expertly Nail Gen Z Culture

Television shows often reflect the current society, and in the 2020s, Gen Z takes center stage in many onscreen narratives. With the rise of streaming platforms, there is a greater focus on and celebration of this recent generation's culture. These shows showcase iconic characters who perfectly embody the essence of being a part of Gen Z, leaving audiences eager for more.

Numerous Gen Z television shows revolve around young and multi-dimensional characters navigating high school, college, or the complexities of adulthood in their twenties. Consequently, a large number of individuals from this generation (typically born between 1997-2012) gravitate towards these series as they connect deeply with the stories and characters portrayed. To truly understand Gen Z culture, one need only look to these ten shows for all the answers.

10 Never Have I Ever

9 Euphoria

Never Have I Ever was a hit on Netflix, running for four seasons and surpassing each one with its captivating storytelling. This comedy series skillfully depicted the rollercoaster ride of adolescence, particularly highlighting the challenges and heartaches that come after the loss of a loved one. Devi Vishwakumar, although flawed by bouts of anger, always remained a relatable and authentic character. The show fearlessly tackled difficult conversations and unveiled the harsh realities of youth, serving as a true reflection of what it means to belong to the Gen Z generation.

While Euphoria may not provide the most accurate portrayal of high school for Gen Z (as no school principal would ever approve Lexi's play or allocate funds for it), the series does capture the essence of the culture through its aesthetic, fashion, and underlying character issues. Nevertheless, the show truly shines in its character-driven moments, offering some of the HBO series' most compelling scenes.

Like Devi in Never Have I Ever, Rue lost her father. Consequently, she turned to drugs and developed an addiction. The audience can empathize with her struggle, as well as the challenges faced by other characters. Growing up in a world that constantly seems to be engulfed in chaos is no easy feat. It provides solace to viewers knowing that they are not alone in their battles.

8 Sex Education

Sex Education encompasses many of the core themes prevalent in Gen Z culture, such as the diminishing stigma surrounding sexuality, the significance of embracing diversity, pursuing one's passions, advocating for change, and navigating through identity challenges. Furthermore, similarly to other shows in this genre, the Netflix series does not shy away from showcasing flawed characters. Almost every member of the cast has made a few mistakes throughout the seasons, with Otis having a slightly more pronounced share. Nonetheless, the show's writers allow these characters the opportunity to redeem themselves and learn from their missteps. Despite the possibility of Sex Education ending after season 4, it has managed to establish itself as a safe haven where young individuals can seek solace and understanding.

7 Genera+ion

6 Glamorous

: Despite its premature cancellation, Genera+ion managed to capture the spirit of its generation in a remarkably authentic way. Developed with Gen Z in mind, the HBO Max series instantly showcased its target audience through its very first episode. Offering a diverse ensemble cast hailing from a conservative community in California, the show courageously explored the characters' quest for liberation from societal constraints while questioning the established norms and beliefs of their surroundings.

Unlike other shows on this list, Glamorous tells the story of a young adult determined to make their mark on the world. Meet Marco, a passionate makeup lover and aspiring influencer who surprisingly lands a dream job at a renowned beauty company. However, the harsh realities of the real world prove to be more challenging than anticipated for Marco. Balancing career obstacles with the complexities of self-confidence and romantic entanglements, Glamorous stands out as an authentic portrayal of the Gen Z experience on television.

5 The Sex Lives Of College Girls

4 Outer Banks

: Mindy Kaling's strong understanding of Gen Z culture shines through as two of her shows, Never Have I Ever and The Sex Lives of College Girls, secure a spot on this list. The latter, as the name suggests, revolves around a group of college-aged women and their intricate relationships, both romantic and platonic. While the HBO Max series delves into the topic of sex, it also tackles the challenges these characters face in their academic pursuits, friendships, and beyond. Overall, The Sex Lives of College Girls serves as an outstanding portrayal of the college journey.

While it's unlikely that the average Gen Z teenager stumbles upon hidden treasures, resulting in a flurry of villains chasing after them with threats of imminent death, the personal lives and relationships of the characters in Outer Banks accurately mirror the spirit of this generation. Love triangles and physical altercations abound, serving as fitting representations of the Gen Z experience. Furthermore, aside from the elusive treasure, the primary conflict within the Netflix series revolves around the division between the Pogues (representing the working class) and the Kooks (representing the wealthy). The financial struggles faced by the Pogues resonate strongly with many members of Gen Z.

3 On My Block

2 Dear White People

Interestingly, On My Block also features a captivating quest for hidden treasures. However, the most captivating aspect of this Netflix series lies in its portrayal of four teenage protagonists as they navigate the challenges of their freshman year in high school, while striving to preserve their tight-knit middle school friendships amidst the hardships of an impoverished urban community. Throughout the course of its four seasons, Monsé, Ruby, Jamal, and Cesar face numerous obstacles and experiences that deeply resonate with the show's Generation Z viewers, evoking both empathy and emotional turmoil.

Netflix transformed the 2014 film Dear White People into a television series in 2017. The show revolves around a group of Black college students tackling racial issues in a predominantly white Ivy League university. Not only did the Netflix series authentically portray campus life, but it also delved into pressing social matters that hold immense significance in today's world. Despite its unfortunate conclusion after season 4, Dear White People remains a crucial representation of the Gen Z generation.

1 Elite

Elite, a Netflix series set in a prestigious private school, revolves around three working-class students who secure scholarships to attend the institution. The plot delves into their interactions with their affluent peers. With its global acclaim following the initial season, Elite became a sensation that captivated audiences worldwide. Its upcoming seventh season, slated for release in October 2023, comes as no surprise given the show's enduring popularity. As one of the top high school dramas on Netflix, Elite authentically captures the essence of Gen Z culture, albeit alongside the darker element of murder.