Every product on this page was carefully chosen. I may earn a commission if you make a purchase through a link. See my full disclosure.
Are you tired of scrolling through endless show and movie options, unsure of what to watch? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of the forty best teen shows that are guaranteed to keep you glued to your screen.
From irresistible love stories to thrilling mysteries, these programs are the ideal binge-watching companions. Get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating worlds of Riverdale and Stranger Things, or experience the excitement and drama of Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Wednesday.
Whether you’re a fan of the classics or looking for the latest and greatest, we’ve got you covered. So kick back, relax, and prepare yourself for some serious entertainment with these must-watch teen shows.
Stranger Things
If you’re up for an unforgettable ride, Stranger Things is the show for you. This sci-fi thriller, set in the 1980s, follows a group of friends as they try to solve the mysterious disappearance of one of their own while also uncovering the dark secrets of their small town.
As they’re drawn deeper into a dangerous government conspiracy, the kids encounter supernatural entities, including a girl with telekinetic powers who may hold the key to everything. With its nostalgic nods to ’80s pop culture and heartwarming friendships, Stranger Things will become your new favorite obsession.
Euphoria
Euphoria is a show that captures the realities of teenage life in a way that is both unflinching and mesmerizing. Starring Zendaya, the series takes a deep dive into the dark and tumultuous world of high school, where issues like drug abuse, mental illness, and sexual identity are front and center. The storytelling is raw and honest, and the characters are flawed and complex, making for a viewing experience that is both compelling and emotionally charged.
Buffy the Vampire Slayer
Looking for a teen show with a touch of the supernatural? Look no further than Buffy the Vampire Slayer. This series centers around Buffy Summers, a teenage girl chosen to fight against vampires and other evil forces. Despite her superhero status, Buffy is relatable as she struggles to balance her responsibilities as a Slayer with her everyday life, including school, friends, and relationships.
In short, Buffy the Vampire Slayer is a timeless classic that deserves a spot on any list of must-watch teen shows. Its blend of genres, strong characters, and thoughtful storytelling make it a must-watch.
Gilmore Girls
Fans of witty, fast-paced dialogue and charming small towns will adore the classic series Gilmore Girls. Following the lives of Lorelai and Rory, the show explores the bonds between mother and daughter as well as their relationships and struggles with the quirky residents of Stars Hollow.
Gilmore Girls is a must-watch if you’re looking for a heartfelt and entertaining show that will make you laugh and cry. As one of the most beloved teen dramas of all time, it’s no wonder it continues drawing in new generations of fans.
The Vampire Diaries
If you’re a fan of the supernatural genre, The Vampire Diaries is a must-watch. The show revolves around the life of a teenage girl named Elena Gilbert, who falls in love with a vampire named Stefan Salvatore. As they navigate their tumultuous romance, they uncover secrets about their town and family history.
The Vampire Diaries boasts an extensive storyline with compelling characters and riveting plot twists. With eight seasons and 171 episodes, it’s the perfect show for those who want to indulge in a binge-watch weekend. Additionally, the show’s lead actors, Nina Dobrev and Ian Somerhalder, garnered a massive fan following with their on-screen chemistry.
On My Block
On My Block is a coming-of-age series that follows the lives of four friends growing up in a rough inner-city neighborhood in Los Angeles. The show explores the struggles and joys of being a teenager while touching on serious issues such as gang violence and immigration. Despite its heavy themes, On My Block perfectly balances drama and humor, making it an instant favorite among audiences.
The talented young cast delivers powerful performances that are both authentic and relatable. With each episode, viewers get to know the characters on a deeper level, rooting for them as they navigate their way through high school and life in the inner city.
Heartstopper
If you’re looking for a heartwarming show, Heartstopper is a must-watch. Based on the graphic novel by Alice Oseman, this British series follows the blossoming romance between two teenage boys, Nick and Charlie. The chemistry between the two lead actors is palpable, and the show does an excellent job of portraying the ups and downs of falling in love for the first time.
Outer Banks
Outer Banks is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a show that combines mystery, action, and a little bit of romance. Set in the coastal town of Outer Banks, North Carolina, this show follows a group of friends called the “Pogues” as they search for treasure and uncover a web of deceit. With its stunning scenery and thrilling plot, it’s no wonder that Outer Banks has become a fan favorite.
Pretty Little Liars
If you’re looking for a teen show that combines suspense, romance, and drama, Pretty Little Liars is a must-watch. The series follows a group of high school friends in the aftermath of their leader’s mysterious disappearance and apparent murder. As they try to uncover the truth behind their friend’s fate, they become entangled in a web of lies, secrets, and dangerous games.
Overall, Pretty Little Liars is a must-watch for anyone who loves a good mystery and well-developed characters. Get ready to immerse yourself in this addictive show and try to solve the mystery of “A” alongside the Liars.
Yellowjackets
The stakes are high in Yellowjackets, a gripping drama that will keep you on the edge of your seat. The show follows a group of high school soccer players stranded in the wilderness after a plane crash. As they struggle to survive in the harsh conditions, tensions rise, and dark secrets rise to the surface.
Filled with flashbacks and twists, Yellowjackets takes a deep dive into the psyches of the characters, exploring the complex, often destructive nature of human relationships. The ensemble cast delivers powerful performances, with Christina Ricci and Juliette Lewis standing out as the adult versions of two of the soccer players.
If you’re looking for a show that will challenge you emotionally and intellectually, Yellowjackets is a must-watch.
Freaks and Geeks
One of the most beloved teen shows of all time, Freaks and Geeks only lasted for one season, but its impact on the genre is still felt today. Set in the early ’80s, the show follows a group of high school students from different social circles as they navigate the awkwardness, heartache, and excitement of adolescence.
For viewers who crave teen dramas that don’t shy away from the darker aspects of growing up, Freaks and Geeks is a must-watch. Its cult status is well-deserved, and it’s a true gem of a show.
Cruel Summer
Cruel Summer is a teen drama that tells a story of a seemingly perfect girl who goes missing. As the show unfolds, viewers are taken on a thrilling journey as the truth about the events leading up to the disappearance are revealed. The show is set in the 90s and has a nostalgic feel that will transport you back in time. If you love shows with intricate plot twists and cliffhangers, then Cruel Summer is a must-watch.
Friday Night Lights
Friday Night Lights is a critically-acclaimed drama that follows the lives of high school students in the small town of Dillon, Texas. What makes this show stand out is its realistic portrayal of small town life and the challenges that come with it. From the pressure to win on the football field to the struggles of everyday life, Friday Night Lights will keep you invested in the characters’ stories from beginning to end.
Sex Education
For those who crave a little more depth in their teen dramas, Sex Education is a show that doesn’t hold back. Set in a British high school, the series follows Otis Milburn, a socially awkward teenager whose mother is a sex therapist. Using his knowledge of the subject, Otis teams up with bad girl Maeve to run a secret sex therapy clinic for their fellow students.
For an experience that will leave you laughing, crying, and maybe even blushing a little, you won’t regret giving Sex Education a watch.
Gossip Girl
Gossip Girl is another captivating teen show that offers a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyle of wealthy teenagers. Set in New York City, the series follows the lives of a group of privileged teens as they navigate high school, love, and all the drama that comes with it.
One of the most appealing aspects of Gossip Girl is the fashion. The show’s characters are always dressed to impress, with designer labels and impeccable style. Along with the fashion, Gossip Girl features a complex web of relationships, secrets, and scandals that will keep you hooked until the very end.
Never Have I Ever
Never Have I Ever is a fresh coming-of-age comedy that centers around Devi Vishwakumar, a first-generation Indian American teenager living in California. The show explores the challenges of balancing cultural identity, family expectations, and high school drama.
Led by breakout star Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, the cast delivers hilarious and heartfelt performances that capture the awkwardness and excitement of adolescence. With Mindy Kaling as a co-creator and executive producer, Never Have I Ever offers a smart and nuanced perspective on the teenage experience.
The Umbrella Academy
The Umbrella Academy is a sci-fi and superhero mashup that takes viewers on a wild ride full of action, drama, and family dysfunction. The story follows a group of seven adopted siblings who possess extraordinary abilities and are trained by their eccentric billionaire father to fight evil. However, as they grow older, they drift apart and struggle with their personal demons until they are reunited after their father’s death and must work together to save the world from imminent doom.
What sets The Umbrella Academy apart from other superhero shows is its unconventional characters, complex relationships, and dark humor. Each sibling has a unique personality, backstory, and power that shapes their identity and motives. From the rebellious and drug-addicted Klaus to the stoic and powerful Luther, the cast is diverse and compelling.
Reservation Dogs
If you’re looking for a show that’s just as hilarious as it is heartwarming, Reservation Dogs is a must-watch. The show follows a group of four Indigenous teenagers in rural Oklahoma navigating the complexities of growing up on a reservation. With a cast of talented newcomers and an all-Indigenous writers’ room, Reservation Dogs offers a fresh perspective on coming-of-age stories. The show’s humor is both irreverent and poignant, making it a standout in the crowded TV landscape.
Teen Wolf
Teen Wolf is a supernatural teen drama that captivated audiences during its six-season run. The show takes place in the small town of Beacon Hills and follows Scott McCall, a high school student bitten by a werewolf who must navigate his newfound powers while also dealing with the everyday struggles of being a teenager. One of the standout elements of the show is its use of various supernatural creatures, such as werewolves, banshees, and kitsune, which adds an exciting and unpredictable aspect to the plot.
Love, Victor
If you’re a fan of teen shows that tackle important issues without sacrificing humor and heart, you won’t want to miss Love, Victor. This Hulu original series follows a teenage boy as he navigates his first year of high school while coming to terms with his sexuality. The show explores relevant themes such as identity, family, and relationships in a way that feels both authentic and accessible. Plus, the talented cast and endearing characters will leave you rooting for them every step of the way.
Elite
But if you’re still craving more of that glamorous teenage drama, there’s no better choice than Elite. Set in a prestigious Spanish boarding school, the show follows three working-class students who are granted scholarships to attend. There, they must navigate the intricacies of relationships, social statuses, and a murder that threatens to tear the school apart. With its steamy romances, jaw-dropping plot twists, and gorgeous cast, Elite is a show that will have you hooked from the very first episode.
Derry Girls
Derry Girls is a show that offers a hilarious take on teenage life during a tumultuous time in Northern Ireland’s history. Set in the 1990s during the Troubles, the show follows a group of Catholic schoolgirls as they navigate through their adolescent years amidst the violence and political unrest in their country. The cast delivers witty dialogue and farcical antics that will have you laughing out loud and rooting for their antics.
All American
All American is a show that will take you on a journey through the lives of high school students in South Crenshaw, Los Angeles. The show follows the story of Spencer James, a talented football player recruited to play for Beverly Hills High School. As Spencer adjusts to his new life in Beverly Hills, he faces various challenges, including pressure to perform at an elite level, prejudice, and class differences.
Skins
When it comes to teen dramas, Skins is a show that can’t be missed. This British series follows a group of teenagers grappling with issues such as mental health, sexuality, and addiction. It’s a raw and unfiltered look into the lives of these characters, showcasing the highs and lows of adolescence.
Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
If you’re looking for a show with dark themes and a fresh twist on a familiar story, Chilling Adventures of Sabrina should be next on your list. The show follows the life of half-witch, half-mortal Sabrina Spellman as she navigates through high school and the supernatural world. With a killer cast, stunning cinematography, and a gripping storyline, it’s no surprise that it’s become a favorite among teen viewers.
Julie and the Phantoms
Julie and the Phantoms is a delightful musical comedy that will leave you tapping your feet and humming along to its catchy tunes. The show follows the story of a high school girl named Julie, who forms a band with three ghosts from the 90s. With a mix of humor, heart, and supernatural elements, Julie and the Phantoms offers a unique and entertaining viewing experience that will make you nostalgic for the music and fashion of the past.
If you’re a fan of teen shows that incorporate music into their storytelling, then Julie and the Phantoms is a must-watch. With its talented cast, including rising star Madison Reyes, the show has garnered a dedicated following among teens and adults. Plus, with only one season currently available, it’s the perfect binge-watch for a lazy weekend.
The O.C.
If you’re a fan of teen shows with a bit of a twist, then The O.C. is the perfect series for you. Set in Orange County, California, the show follows the lives of a group of privileged teenagers and their families. But don’t let the backdrop fool you – beneath the sunny exterior lies a world of drama, deceit, and heartbreak.
Ginny & Georgia
But if you’re looking for a show with more lighthearted moments mixed in with the drama, then Ginny & Georgia might be the perfect fit. This mother-daughter duo will have you laughing, crying, and relating to their struggles as they navigate life in a new town. From family secrets to teenage romance, this show tackles various topics with wit and heart. Don’t miss the chance to join Ginny and Georgia on their journey.
The Fosters
The Fosters is a heartfelt family drama that explores themes of diversity, acceptance, and relationships. The show follows Stef and Lena Foster, a married lesbian couple raising a blended family of biological, adopted, and foster children.
With a talented cast that includes Maia Mitchell, David Lambert, and Sherri Saum, The Fosters is a must-watch for anyone looking for a show that is both thought-provoking and heartwarming.
The Summer I Turned Pretty
If you’re looking for a show that digs deep into the bonds of family and friends, The Summer I Turned Pretty is a must-watch. Based on the novel by Jenny Han, the series tells the story of Belly, a young girl who spends her summers at a beach house with her mother and mother’s best friend. As she navigates her teenage years, Belly falls in love and deals with loss, all while trying to find her place in the world.
Veronica Mars
Veronica Mars is a modern cult classic that follows the titular teenage detective as she navigates the seedy underbelly of her affluent California town. While the show only lasted three seasons, it made a lasting impact on viewers with its sharp writing, complex characters, and noir-inspired aesthetic.
Riverdale
When it comes to teenage dramas, Riverdale deserves a spot on our must-watch list. Based on the beloved Archie Comics, this show follows the lives of a group of high school students in the small town of Riverdale. At first glance, it seems like your typical teen drama – love triangles, high school politics, and coming-of-age struggles. But as the series progresses, it takes a dark turn with the uncovering of a murder mystery and a web of secrets that threaten to tear the town apart. With a talented cast and a storyline that keeps you guessing, Riverdale is sure to have you binge-watching until the very end.
Daria
For those who prefer their teen dramas with a dose of humor, Daria is a must-watch. This animated series centers around the titular character, a sarcastic and intelligent high school student who navigates the ups and downs of teenage life with her best friend, Jane. The show is known for its clever writing and relatable characters, making it a cult classic for fans of all ages.
That ‘70s Show
For those looking for a show with a little more edge, That ’70s Show should be on your watchlist. Set in the 1970s, the show follows a group of high school friends growing up in the fictional town of Point Place, Wisconsin. The show’s witty writing, iconic characters, and unique cinematography have made it a classic in the teen genre. Whether you’re a fan of Eric’s comedic timing, Donna’s feminist views, or Hyde’s rebellious attitude, the show has something for everyone.
Shadow and Bone
If you’re a fan of fantasy and adventure, Shadow and Bone is a must-watch. This thrilling show is set in a world of magic and monsters, where orphan mapmaker Alina Starkov discovers her hidden powers and becomes embroiled in a dangerous political plot. Based on the popular book series by Leigh Bardugo, Shadow and Bone has received critical acclaim for its stunning visuals and captivating storylines.
The Society
Our next pick, The Society, combines themes of identity, family, and loyalty with mystery and intrigue. The show follows a group of teenagers who are transported to a seemingly identical version of their wealthy New England town, but with a major twist – all the adults are gone. As they struggle to survive and figure out what happened, tensions rise, and secrets are revealed.
What makes The Society stand out is how it explores the consequences of a society where the rules are made by teenagers rather than adults. It’s not just about the supernatural or a dystopian world; it’s about how power corrupts and how humans react when they are put in difficult situations.
High School Musical: The Musical: The Series
High School Musical fans, rejoice! The beloved franchise has made a comeback in the form of High School Musical: The Musical: The Series. The show follows a group of high school students as they stage a production of High School Musical for their school’s theater program. But with drama both on and off the stage, the show is much more than just a musical.
The series has received acclaim for its catchy original songs, talented cast, and relatable storylines. With two seasons currently available on Disney+, it’s the perfect binge-watch for anyone who grew up watching the original High School Musical movies.
The Wilds
The Wilds is a must-watch for fans of survival dramas with a twist. The show follows a group of teenage girls who become stranded on a deserted island after their plane crashes. With limited resources and conflicting personalities, they must also uncover the truth behind how they ended up on the island and what sinister forces may be at play. With a talented young cast and a unique premise, The Wilds is a binge-worthy addition to any teen drama lineup.
PEN15
Another must-watch teen show that explores the awkwardness of adolescence in a unique and hilarious way is PEN15. This Hulu original series follows the lives of two best friends as they navigate middle school, dealing with all the highs and lows that come with it. What sets this show apart is that the adult actresses who play the lead characters are surrounded by actual teenage actors, creating a hilarious and cringe-worthy dynamic. If you’re looking for a coming-of-age story that will make you laugh and cringe simultaneously, PEN15 is worth checking out.
Grown-ish
If you’re looking for a show that captures the essence of college life, Grown-ish is the answer. The spin-off of the hit series Black-ish follows Zoey, the eldest Johnson child, as she navigates her way through complicated relationships, academic pressures, and finding her place in the world.
Dawson’s Creek
Dawson’s Creek is a classic teen drama that aired in the late 90s and early 2000s. Set in the fictional small town of Capeside, Massachusetts, the show focuses on the lives of a group of teenagers as they navigate high school, relationships, and growing up.
Overall, Dawson’s Creek is a must-watch for fans of teen dramas and coming-of-age stories. Its emotional depth and strong characters make it a show that will stay with you long after the final episode.