Netflix, despite reducing the number of shows it produces, still boasts the largest content library among streaming platforms. With popular titles like Stranger Things and Ozark, among others, it's no surprise that Netflix is still a top pick for viewers. However, there are a number of shows that were discontinued for various reasons, such as low viewership, budget constraints, and even the pandemic. Despite this, there are still hidden gems among the many Netflix canceled shows that are definitely worth watching.
For viewers in the US, UK, and Australia, here are nine shows that may have slipped under your radar, but are still available to stream on Netflix and definitely worth checking out.
1. Mindhunter
Back in October 2017, no one could have predicted that Mindhunter, a psychological crime thriller based on a true-crime book from 1995 titled Mindhunter: Inside the FBI's Elite Serial Crime Unit, would come to an end after only 20 episodes just two years later. The show has garnered critical acclaim with an impressive 8.6 average rating on IMDb and a 96% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. Despite this, the show was ultimately discontinued, leaving fans wondering what could have been.
This true crime show is dark and thrilling, with four episodes being directed by the critically acclaimed David Fincher. The plot is set in the 1970s and tells the story of the first Behavioural Science Unit in the FBI. We previously said that the show was one that deserved another season.
2. The OA
Even though The OA ended abruptly, the 16 episodes across two seasons are still worth watching. The show has gained a cult following since it ended in March 2019, with a rating of 7.8 on IMDb and a 78% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The series revolves around a mysterious woman's journey across multiple dimensions as she attempts to save missing individuals. While the show can be hit or miss at times, it's a great pick for those who enjoy getting lost in the worlds of science fiction. Don't miss the chance to add it to your watchlist.
3. Altered Carbon
Altered Carbon, a post-apocalyptic dystopian series with a thrilling sci-fi story, shares similarities with another Netflix show, Travelers, which was also cancelled. The series ran for two seasons, with its last episode airing in February 2020.
The show's cyberpunk sci-fi setting is reminiscent of Black Mirror, with the digitized consciousness of an elite interstellar soldier being brought back to life to solve a murder. Altered Carbon has received an average rating of 7.9 on IMDb and a 75% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes, making it a solid pick for fans of The OA.
4. Sense 8
Sense 8, much like Mindhunter, is a show that we believe is still worth binging. Despite being cancelled after only two seasons and three years on the air, it has garnered great reviews with an 8.2 rating on IMDb and a 72% approval rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Created by the same minds behind the hit Matrix franchise, Lilly and Lana Wachowski, Sense 8 follows a group of telepathically connected individuals as they attempt to evade a government that wants to turn them into super soldiers. The show's Matrix-like narrative has enthralled audiences, making it a must-watch for fans of sci-fi and action.
5. White Lines
White Lines is a show that may have gone unnoticed by many viewers. With just 10 episodes released in 2020 and average ratings of 6.6 on IMDb and 64% on Rotten Tomatoes, it has the lowest ratings on our list. However, we believe it's a hidden gem that's worth watching.
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This mystery thriller is set in Ibiza and follows a British woman who travels to the Spanish island to identify the body of her missing brother. Despite its somber setting, the show has a dark comedic theme running through it that can be absurdly silly at times, but the mystery at its core is enough to keep viewers hooked. Give White Lines a chance, and you may find yourself pleasantly surprised.
6. The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance
If you're a fan of the '80s sci-fi movie, The Dark Crystal, then you must watch its prequel, The Dark Crystal: Age of Resistance. This dark fantasy series is one of the highest-rated shows on our list, with an 8.4 score on IMDb and an 89% rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
In this new series, three Gelflings fight to save their world, which is set in the same fantasy world of Thra. The show builds up to the plot of the original film, where two Gelflings go on a journey to restore a powerful crystal. If you're a fan of the original movie or love a good fantasy series, this is a must-see show.
7. Away
Away is a series that only ran for one season, but it managed to wrap up the story in its 10 episodes. Although it has a lower rating compared to the other shows on this list, with an average of 6.6 on IMDb and 59% on Rotten Tomatoes, it still has its own charm worth checking out.
The show's cinematic space setting is captivating as it follows the story of a team of astronauts, led by commander Hilary Swank, on a pioneering mission to Mars. Viewers will witness the ups and downs of the journey, as the team works to reach the red planet.
8. Santa Clarita Diet
Santa Clarita Diet is a comedic fantasy series that may sound silly, but it has plenty of laugh-out-loud moments that kept viewers hooked for three years. With a solid rating of 7.8 on IMDb and 78% on Rotten Tomatoes, the show follows the lives of a married real estate couple living in Southern California whose seemingly ordinary lives are suddenly changed after the wife (played by Drew Barrymore) becomes a zombie. The couple must navigate the challenges of keeping her secret while also satisfying her insatiable hunger for human flesh.
9. Girlboss
Despite being canceled after just one season in 2017, Girlboss is a light-hearted comedy that makes for easy watching. The show still has a considerably good score on IMDb of 7.0 and 74% audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes.
Based on the book with the same name, the show tells the story of how the online fashion retailer Nasty Gal was set up. The rebellious self-assured protagonist can be annoying at times, but the episodes are short and light, making it perfect for some easy binge-watching.