In recent decades, teen television shows have evolved significantly, reflecting the changing tastes and demographics of young audiences. Shows like “Beverly Hills, 90210” in the 1990s set the stage for dramas that explored the complexities of adolescence in affluent settings. The early 2000s brought about shows like “The O.C.” and “One Tree Hill,” which continued to delve into teen issues while integ
Summer’s here, school’s out, and it’s the perfect time to dive into some binge-worthy teen TV shows! Teen television has come a long way over the years, keeping pace with the evolving tastes and interests of young viewers. Remember the iconic “Beverly Hills, 90210” from the ’90s? It kicked off a whole new era of drama, exploring the ups and downs of teenage life in ritzy neighborhoods. Fast forward to the early 2000s, and we got hooked on “The O.C.” and “One Tree Hill,” where modern themes and diverse characters took center stage.
The 2010s and beyond brought us unforgettable series like “Gossip Girl,” “Riverdale,” and “13 Reasons Why,” which mixed drama with social commentary and tackled issues like social media, mental health, and identity politics. These shows do more than entertain—they resonate with young audiences by mirroring their real-life experiences and challenges.
So, whether you’re lounging by the pool or staying cool indoors, here’s a list of the best 22 teen shows to watch this summer—and all year round!
Table of Contents
1. “All American” (2018-Present)
“All American” is a teen drama that premiered in 2018, inspired by the life of professional American football player Spencer Paysinger. The show follows Spencer James, a talented high school football player from South Crenshaw who transfers to Beverly Hills High after being recruited by Coach Billy Baker (Taye Diggs). As Spencer navigates the challenges of fitting into a new school and community, the series explores themes of race, class, and identity. It portrays the contrast between the affluent world of Beverly Hills and the struggles faced in South Crenshaw, offering a nuanced portrayal of modern youth and their aspirations. “All American” became a sleeper hit on Netflix during Covid-19 and has received a larger audience than when on the CW. It was recently renewed for a seventh season following the sixth season finale on July 15th.
2. “Sex Education” (2019-2023)
“Sex Education,” a British comedy-drama series launched in 2019, revolves around Otis Milburn, a socially awkward teenager whose mother, Jean, is a sex therapist. Drawing upon his unusual upbringing, Otis teams up with the rebellious Maeve Wiley to start an underground sex therapy clinic at school, offering advice to their fellow students on a range of intimate issues. Set in a retro, ambiguous time period, the show cleverly combines humor with heartfelt moments, addressing topics such as sexual identity, consent, and relationships in a refreshingly candid manner. “Sex Education” has been widely acclaimed for its diverse cast, sharp writing, and willingness to tackle sensitive subjects with both wit and sensitivity, making it a standout among modern teen and young adult television offerings. “Sex Education” is streaming on Netflix.
3. “Never Have I Ever” (2020-2023)
“Never Have I Ever,” created by Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher, premiered in 2020 and follows the life of Devi Vishwakumar, an Indian-American teenager navigating the challenges of high school while dealing with the recent loss of her father. Determined to improve her social status, Devi navigates friendships, family expectations, and romantic interests with humor and determination. The series explores themes of cultural identity, grief, and coming-of-age in a comedic yet poignant manner, offering a fresh perspective on the experiences of first-generation immigrants and the complexities of teenage life. “Never Have I Ever” has been praised for its diverse representation and witty storytelling, resonating with audiences for its blend of humor and performances. “Never Have I Ever” is streaming on Netflix.
4. “Heartstopper” (2022-Present)
“Heartstopper” is a British romantic drama series based on the popular webcomic by Alice Oseman. The show, which premiered in 2022, centers on the evolving relationship between Charlie Spring, a shy and openly gay teenager, and Nick Nelson, a popular and seemingly straight rugby player at their all-boys school. As their friendship deepens into a tender romance, the series explores themes of identity, acceptance, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ youth. “Heartstopper” has been praised for its heartfelt portrayal of young love, authentic representation of LGBTQ+ characters, and sensitive handling of issues such as coming out and navigating relationships in adolescence. The show has resonated strongly with audiences for its warmth, sincerity, and emotional depth. “Heartstopper” is streaming on Netflix with a new season premiering on October 3rd 2024.
5. “One Tree Hill” (2003-2012)
“One Tree Hill,” which aired from 2003 to 2012, is a beloved American teen drama that revolves around the lives of half-brothers Lucas Scott and Nathan Scott, who navigate the challenges of high school and beyond in the fictional town of Tree Hill, North Carolina. The series delves into themes of friendship, rivalry, love, and personal growth against the backdrop of basketball, a sport central to the characters’ lives. Throughout its nine-season run, “One Tree Hill” captivated audiences with its engaging storylines, memorable characters, and heartfelt exploration of complex issues such as family dynamics, relationships, and ambition. The show remains cherished for its emotional depth, iconic moments, and enduring appeal to fans of coming-of-age dramas.
6. “Glee” (2009-2015)
“Glee,” which aired from 2009 to 2015, is a musical comedy-drama television series that captured the hearts of audiences with its blend of music, humor, and heartfelt storytelling. Set in the fictional William McKinley High School in Ohio, the show follows the members of the school’s glee club, known as New Directions, as they navigate the challenges of high school life while pursuing their dreams of performing and competing in show choir competitions. Led by optimistic teacher Will Schuester and featuring a diverse cast of characters, “Glee” tackled themes such as acceptance, identity, and the power of music to inspire and uplift. While not everything has aged the best, it made a lot of people feel seen in the early 2010s. “Glee” remains a cultural phenomenon, remembered for its infectious energy, inclusive message, and lasting impact on both television and music.
7. “Gilmore Girls” (2000-2007)
“Gilmore Girls,” which originally aired from 2000 to 2007 and returned for a revival in 2016, is a beloved dramedy that revolves around the close-knit relationship between single mother Lorelai Gilmore and her daughter, Rory Gilmore, in the fictional town of Stars Hollow, Connecticut. The series follows their lives, friendships, and romantic entanglements, weaving together witty dialogue, cultural references, and a strong emphasis on family dynamics. Known for its fast-paced dialogue and quirky characters, “Gilmore Girls” explores themes of ambition, love, and generational differences while celebrating the bonds between mothers and daughters. The show has maintained a dedicated fan base for its charm, humor, and nuanced portrayal of small-town life and personal growth across multiple generations.
8. “The Sex Lives of College Girls” (2021-Present)
“The Sex Lives of College Girls,” which premiered in 2021, is a comedy-drama series created by Mindy Kaling and Justin Noble. Set on the campus of a prestigious university, the show follows four freshmen roommates as they navigate the challenges of college life, relationships, and sexual exploration. Each character brings a unique perspective to the narrative, from feminist activism to navigating cultural expectations and personal insecurities. “The Sex Lives of College Girls” blends humor with poignant moments, offering a candid exploration of contemporary issues faced by young women, including identity, friendship, and the complexities of modern romance. The series has been praised for its diverse cast, sharp wit, and insightful commentary on the evolving attitudes towards sexuality and relationships among college students.
9. “On My Block” (2018-2021)
“On My Block,” launched in 2018, is a coming-of-age comedy-drama series that follows a group of four bright and street-savvy friends navigating the challenges of adolescence in a rough inner-city Los Angeles neighborhood. The show explores their personal growth, family dynamics, and the pressures of balancing friendship with the realities of their surroundings. As they confront issues such as gang violence, first love, and identity, the series blends humor with poignant moments, highlighting the resilience and strength of its diverse characters. “On My Block” has been celebrated for its authentic portrayal of urban youth and its exploration of social issues, making it a standout in contemporary teen television for its compelling storytelling and representation.
10. “The Vampire Diaries” (2009-2017)
“The Vampire Diaries,” which aired from 2009 to 2017, is a supernatural drama series based on the book series of the same name by L.J. Smith. Set in the fictional town of Mystic Falls, Virginia, the show follows the lives, loves, and supernatural struggles of the Salvatore brothers, Stefan and Damon, and their tangled relationships with the compassionate Elena Gilbert. As the series unfolds, viewers are drawn into a world of vampires, witches, and werewolves, where alliances shift, betrayals occur, and deep-seated family secrets unravel. Known for its passionate fan base and gripping plot twists, “The Vampire Diaries” explores themes of love, redemption, and the complexities of morality against a backdrop of supernatural intrigue. The series remains a cultural phenomenon, remembered for its intense romantic entanglements, compelling characters, and enduring appeal to fans of supernatural fiction.
11. “High School Musical: The Musical: The Series” (2019-2023)
“High School Musical: The Musical: The Series,” premiered in 2019 on Disney+. It follows a group of students at East High School who stage a production of “High School Musical,” the iconic Disney Channel movie. The series combines mockumentary-style filming with a narrative that explores the lives, friendships, and romances of its characters both on and off the stage. Olivia Rodrigo, who played the lead role of Nini Salazar-Roberts, gained significant attention for her performance and for contributing original music to the show. Her breakout single “Drivers License,” which was inspired by her experience on the series, became a global sensation in early 2021, launching her music career to unprecedented heights and solidifying her as a prominent figure in pop music. The series itself garnered praise for its fresh take on the beloved franchise, its talented cast, and its integration of music that resonates with contemporary audiences.
12. “Gossip Girl” (2007-2012, 2021)
“Gossip Girl,” originally airing from 2007 to 2012 and rebooted in 2021, is a teen drama series centered around the scandalous lives of privileged young adults on Manhattan’s Upper East Side. Narrated by an anonymous blogger known as Gossip Girl, the show follows the intertwining lives of elite socialites as they navigate love, betrayal, and societal expectations. The series became renowned for its glamorous portrayal of New York City’s high society, its sharp wit, and its exploration of themes like wealth disparity, identity, and the consequences of power. The 2021 reboot introduced a new generation of characters dealing with similar dynamics in the age of social media, updating the narrative while retaining the essence of the original. “Gossip Girl” continues to captivate audiences with its blend of intrigue, romance, and the allure of a world where secrets are currency.
13. “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” (1990-1996)
“The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air,” which aired from 1990 to 1996, is a beloved sitcom that stars Will Smith as a street-smart teenager from West Philadelphia who moves to the affluent neighborhood of Bel-Air, Los Angeles, to live with his wealthy relatives, the Banks family. The show humorously contrasts Will’s laid-back, streetwise attitude with the Banks family’s upscale lifestyle, often exploring themes of culture clash, family dynamics, and personal growth. Known for its memorable characters, catchy theme song, and Will Smith’s charismatic performance, “The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air” remains a cultural icon that resonates with audiences for its humor, heartwarming moments, and enduring appeal across generations.
14. “Reservation Dogs” (2021-2023)
“Reservation Dogs,” which premiered in 2021 on FX on Hulu, is a groundbreaking comedy-drama series created by Sterlin Harjo and Taika Waititi. Set in rural Oklahoma and featuring an almost entirely Indigenous cast and crew, the show follows a group of four Indigenous teenagers as they navigate life, friendship, and petty crime while dreaming of escaping their small-town existence. “Reservation Dogs” explores themes of identity, community, and the impact of colonization on Indigenous peoples in a refreshingly authentic and humorous manner. Praised for its representation and culturally specific storytelling, the series has garnered acclaim for its unique perspective, sharp writing, and compelling performances, solidifying its place as a significant and innovative addition to contemporary television. Reservation Dogs was nominated for Best Comedy Series at the upcoming 2024 Emmy Awards.
15. “Love, Victor” (2020-2023)
“Love, Victor,” a spin-off from the film “Love, Simon,” debuted in 2020 on Hulu. The series follows Victor Salazar, a new student at Creekwood High School, as he navigates the challenges of self-discovery, family dynamics, and relationships. Victor grapples with his sexual orientation while exploring his feelings for his classmate Benji and navigating friendships with a diverse group of peers. The show delves into themes of identity, acceptance, and the complexities of modern teenage life, offering a heartfelt and inclusive portrayal of LGBTQ+ experiences. “Love, Victor” has been praised for its authenticity, thoughtful storytelling, and for continuing the narrative of “Love, Simon” while addressing issues relevant to today’s youth.
16. “Friday Night Lights” (2006-2011)
“Friday Night Lights,” which aired from 2006 to 2011, is a critically acclaimed drama series based on the book and film of the same name. Set in the fictional town of Dillon, Texas, the show revolves around the Dillon Panthers, a high school football team, and the community that rallies around them. It explores the lives of Coach Eric Taylor, his family, and the players as they navigate the pressures of small-town life, football glory, and personal relationships. Known for its realistic portrayal of American heartland culture, intense sports drama, and complex character development, “Friday Night Lights” garnered praise for its emotional depth, authenticity, and exploration of universal themes such as ambition, loyalty, and the pursuit of dreams.
17. “Riverdale” (2017-2023)
“Riverdale,” which premiered in 2017, is a teen drama series based on characters from Archie Comics. Set in the fictional town of Riverdale, the show follows a group of high school students—Archie Andrews, Betty Cooper, Veronica Lodge, and Jughead Jones—as they unravel the dark mysteries lurking beneath their seemingly wholesome town. Combining elements of mystery, romance, and supernatural intrigue, “Riverdale” delves into the characters’ personal lives, relationships, and the sinister events that unfold around them. The series has been noted for its edgy reinterpretation of classic comic book characters, its stylized cinematography, and its exploration of contemporary issues such as identity, corruption, and the impact of societal pressures on youth. “Riverdale” captivated audiences with its blend of suspenseful storytelling, memorable characters, and unpredictable plot twists.
18. “Wednesday” (2022-Present)
“Wednesday” is a dark comedy series that reimagines the character from the classic “The Addams Family” films. The show stars Jenna Ortega as “Wednesday” as she navigates supernatural mysteries at her new school. The series expertly blends humor, mystery, and a touch of romance to make for a thrilling watch. Within three weeks of release, it became the second most-watched Netflix English language television series of all time. A few months later, it became the most popular English language television series on Netflix by overtaking “Stranger Things” Season 4. The first season won 4 Emmy Awards and was nominated for “Best Comedy Series”. The second season started production in 2024.
19. “Pretty Little Liars” (2009-2017)
“Pretty Little Liars,” which aired from 2010 to 2017, is a mystery thriller drama series based on the book series by Sara Shepard. Set in the fictional town of Rosewood, Pennsylvania, the show follows four high school friends—Aria Montgomery, Hanna Marin, Spencer Hastings, and Emily Fields—as they navigate the aftermath of their leader Alison DiLaurentis’ mysterious disappearance. The friends soon find themselves tormented by an anonymous figure known as “A,” who knows all their deepest secrets and threatens to expose them. Throughout its run, “Pretty Little Liars” captivated audiences with its suspenseful plot twists, complex characters, and exploration of themes such as friendship, betrayal, and the consequences of deceit. The show became known for its addictive storytelling and the enduring popularity of its ensemble cast, leaving a lasting impact on teen drama television.
20. “Teen Wolf” (2011-2017)
“Teen Wolf,” which aired from 2011 to 2017, is a supernatural drama series loosely based on the 1985 film of the same name. Set in the fictional town of Beacon Hills, California, the show follows Scott McCall, a high school student who is bitten by a werewolf and subsequently must navigate the challenges of adolescence while dealing with newfound supernatural abilities. Alongside his best friend Stiles Stilinski and other allies, Scott encounters various supernatural creatures and threats while uncovering the secrets of his own lineage. “Teen Wolf” blends elements of horror, romance, and coming-of-age drama, exploring themes of identity, loyalty, and the power of friendship. The series gained a dedicated fan base for its engaging storyline, dynamic characters, and thrilling supernatural elements, solidifying its place as a cult favorite in the genre of supernatural teen dramas.
21. “Yellowjackets” (2021-Present)
“Yellowjackets,” premiered in 2021, is a gripping thriller and drama series that follows the survivors of a high school girls’ soccer team whose plane crashes in the remote wilderness. The story alternates between their harrowing struggle for survival in the wilderness in the 1990s and their lives decades later as they grapple with the traumatic events that shaped their lives. As secrets from their past emerge and tensions rise among the survivors, “Yellowjackets” explores themes of trauma, resilience, and the lengths people will go to survive. The series has garnered praise for its complex characters, suspenseful storytelling, and the exploration of psychological and emotional depths within its dual timelines.
22. “Dawson’s Creek” (1998-2003)
“Dawson’s Creek,” which aired from 1998 to 2003, is a seminal teen drama series that revolves around the lives of a group of friends in the fictional town of Capeside, Massachusetts. The show primarily focuses on Dawson Leery, Joey Potter, Pacey Witter, and Jen Lindley as they navigate the complexities of adolescence, friendship, and love. Known for its introspective dialogue, coming-of-age themes, and romantic entanglements, “Dawson’s Creek” captured the zeitgeist of the late 1990s and early 2000s with its portrayal of teenage angst and the trials of growing up. The series is remembered for its iconic characters, memorable soundtrack, and its significant influence on subsequent teen dramas, setting a standard for storytelling and emotional depth in the genre.
Teen dramas have left an indelible mark on pop culture, shaping entertainment trends and catapulting young actors into stardom. These shows hit home by diving into relatable themes like friendship, romance, identity, and personal growth, all set against the dramatic backdrop of high school or other pivotal environments. With their compelling storylines and unforgettable characters, teen dramas have a knack for connecting deeply with viewers, transforming their stars into household names almost overnight. So grab your popcorn, get comfy, and enjoy the rollercoaster ride that only teen TV can deliver!
