15 HBO Shows That Deserve a Second Look

HBO has long been a home for groundbreaking television, delivering shows that push boundaries and capture audiences. But for every breakout hit that becomes a household name, hidden gems slip under the radar or fade from memory over time. In this journey through HBO’s vast catalog, we’ll unearth 15 forgotten shows that deserve a second look.

Rome (2005-2007)

Before Game of Thrones, HBO ventured into epic historical drama with Rome. This lavish production chronicled the transition of the Roman Republic into the Roman Empire, blending historical figures with fictional characters. Despite high production values and critical acclaim, Rome’s enormous budget led to its cancellation after two seasons.

Carnivàle (2003-2005)

Step right up to this supernatural drama that pits good against evil. With its lush visuals and complex mythology, Carnivàle wove a spellbinding tale of a traveling circus harboring dark secrets. The show got canceled after two seasons as well, even though it had a loyal fan base.

John From Cincinnati (2007)

This 2007 series is one of the most unusual dramas in recent T.V. history. The story is set in a Southern California surf community and focuses on the lives of its residents. Among them is John Monad, a mysterious stranger who arrives in town and exhibits odd behavior and seemingly supernatural abilities.

Tell Me You Love Me (2007)

With its unflinching exploration of intimacy and commitment, Tell Me You Love Me showcases three couples’ lives as they handle their relationships’ complexities. Since it featured a candid portrayal of adult themes, it sparked controversy and acclaim for its raw honesty and realistic depictions of intimacy.

The Comeback (2005, 2014)

Lisa Kudrow shined in this mockumentary-style comedy about a washed-up sitcom actress attempting to revive her career. Initially canceled after one season, The Comeback returned nine years later for a second run. Its meta-commentary on Hollywood and reality TV was ahead of its time, and Kudrow’s performance deserves a mention.

In Treatment (2008-2010, 2021)

An innovative series, it offered a unique format: episodes aired five nights a week, each focusing on a different patient’s session. The show’s intimate, dialogue-driven approach garnered critical acclaim and several Emmy nominations. Despite a brief revival in 2021, the original run remains an often-overlooked gem, offering thought-provoking discussions on mental health.

Treme (2010-2013)

Set in post-Katrina New Orleans, Treme explored the lives of residents rebuilding their community through music, culture, and resilience. Created by David Simon (of The Wire fame), the series didn’t achieve the same level of recognition, but its focus on the city’s spirit made it truly special.

Enlightened (2011-2013)

Laura Dern plays a corporate executive who experiences a life-changing meltdown in Hawaii. Upon returning, she attempts to start afresh while managing the complexities of her dysfunctional family and workplace. The show is a poignant exploration of personal redemption and societal issues, blending humor with heartfelt moments.

Getting On (2013-2015)

In a refreshingly honest portrayal of the healthcare industry, Getting On shines a light on the often-unseen world of a geriatric extended care wing in a California hospital. Despite its brief three-season run, it left a lasting impact, offering a bittersweet and beautifully observed commentary on the realities of life and its end.

The Leftovers (2014-2017)

What if 2% of the world just vanished? The Leftovers dives deep into this mind-bending scenario, following the folks left behind in Mapleton, New York. A creation of Damon Lindelof, this emotional rollercoaster is a haunting yet beautiful exploration of grief and faith that somehow flew under many viewers’ radars.

Togetherness (2015-2016)

Through this dramedy, the Duplass brothers serve up a slice of L.A. life that feels like peeking into your neighbors’ windows—if your neighbors were way more relaxed and funnier. This short-lived series dives into the messy world of grown-up friendships and rocky romances with a perfect mix of cringe and heart.

The Brink (2015)

If you’re looking for a show that can make you laugh while also making you think, The Brink is a must-watch. It’s a unique and refreshing take on a serious subject, proving there’s always room for humor during dark days. The show cleverly satirizes geopolitical tensions in a world on the brink of nuclear catastrophe.

The Night Of (2016)

Talk about a night gone wrong! This nail-biting miniseries follows Nasir Khan as he stumbles into a homicidal mess. It overviews the U.S. justice system, tackling race and prejudice head-on. With standout performances from Riz Ahmed and John Turturro, it is compelling and thought-provoking.

Vinyl (2016)

With an all-star pedigree that included executive producers Martin Scorsese and Mick Jagger, Vinyl seemed destined for success as it chronicled the 1970s music industry. Vinyl offers a vibrant recreation of the city’s punk and disco scenes. Although it had a promising start, the series ended after just one season.

Lucky Louie (2006)

Before he was a stand-up icon, Louis C.K. starred in this raw, multicamera sitcom. Set in a working-class Boston neighborhood, the show pulled no punches with its adult humor and candid look at married life. While it only lasted one season, Lucky Louie paved the way for C.K.’s later success.