10 TV Shows People Hate For No Actual Reason (Just Give Them a Chance)

10 TV Shows People Hate For No Actual Reason (Just Give Them a Chance)

Let’s be honest—some TV shows get dragged through the mud before people even give them a fair shot. Whether it’s because of internet memes, cringey trailers, or overhyped fandoms, a lot of perfectly good series end up with reputations they don’t deserve. But behind all the eye rolls and Twitter takes, many of these “hateable” shows actually have heart, humor, and serious staying power.

1. Emily in Paris

People love to roll their eyes at this show, but that’s part of the fun. It’s not trying to be high art—it’s glossy escapism wrapped in a baguette and topped with couture. Beneath all the fashion and fantasy, there’s a charming story about self-discovery and ambition

Sure, the portrayal of Paris is a little too picture-perfect, and Emily’s work life is a dream no one actually lives. But isn’t that the point? It’s meant to be a sugary break from reality, a 30-minute vacation where the biggest problem is which outfit to wear.

If you stop expecting realism and just enjoy the ride, you’ll find a fun, lighthearted series about chasing dreams and finding yourself in a foreign world. Sometimes, all we need is a bit of fantasy with a French accent.

2. The Big Bang Theory

For years, this show was the punchline of its own jokes. People accused it of making fun of nerd culture rather than celebrating it. But rewatch it now, and you’ll notice something deeper—it helped normalize intelligence and social awkwardness in prime time.

The humor might be broad, but the friendships are real. Sheldon, Leonard, and the gang evolve in surprisingly touching ways as the series goes on. Beneath the jokes about comic books and physics lies a story about finding connection in unlikely places.

It’s not perfect, but few long-running sitcoms are. What makes it special is its heart—and the reminder that even the quirkiest people can find love, friendship, and purpose. Give it another go, and you might find yourself laughing for all the right reasons.

3. Glee

When this show hit TV, it was like nothing else—a chaotic mix of teen drama, comedy, and spontaneous musical numbers. Critics called it over-the-top, and they weren’t wrong. But that wild energy was exactly what made Glee unforgettable.

It dared to be different at a time when most teen shows played it safe. Between the soaring performances and emotional storylines, it tackled real issues—identity, acceptance, and self-worth—with unapologetic flair.

Sure, some plotlines went off the rails, but that’s part of its charm. Glee wasn’t afraid to take risks, even if it meant hitting a few sour notes along the way. It was messy, bold, and endlessly entertaining—just like high school itself.

4. Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life

Fans were divided when the Gilmore girls returned after nearly a decade. Some said it didn’t live up to the original, but nostalgia is a tough act to follow. What many missed is how beautifully the revival explored growing up—even when you’re already grown.

It’s slower, more introspective, and yes, a little frustrating at times. But that’s what makes it feel real. Life doesn’t always give us neat resolutions or witty one-liners.

If you look past your expectations, you’ll find a story about motherhood, identity, and change. The revival reminds us that time moves on—and so do people. It may not have captured every bit of the old magic, but it gave us a poignant glimpse of what comes after happily ever after.

5. New Girl

At first glance, it seems like just another quirky roommate comedy. But scratch beneath the surface, and you’ll find one of the most genuinely funny and heartfelt shows of the 2010s. New Girl turned awkwardness into an art form.

Yes, Jess is a little much sometimes, but that’s what makes her so endearing. She’s messy, idealistic, and unapologetically herself—something we could all use more of. The dynamic between the roommates evolves into a chaotic yet lovable found family.

The show doesn’t rely on perfect punchlines; it thrives on imperfect people figuring out life together. Watch a few episodes past the pilot, and you’ll start to see why it still holds up as one of the most comforting sitcoms around.

6. How I Met Your Mother

Few finales caused as much uproar as this one. But if you focus only on the ending, you’re missing what made the journey so good. How I Met Your Mother wasn’t just about finding love—it was about growing up and learning what really matters.

The clever structure and time-jumping storytelling made it stand out. It balanced hilarious antics with real emotional moments, capturing the chaos of adulthood in your 20s and 30s.

Even with its flaws, the show remains one of the most creative sitcoms ever made. The chemistry among the cast and the heart behind the humor still hold up today. Forget the ending for a moment—it’s the middle that made us fall in love.

7. Girls

People often complain that this show’s characters are unlikeable—and they’re absolutely right. But that’s what made it so groundbreaking. Girls didn’t sugarcoat early adulthood; it showed the confusion, selfishness, and occasional brilliance of trying to find yourself.

It’s raw and uncomfortable at times, but that’s real life. Not everyone gets a picture-perfect coming-of-age arc. The show forced us to look at the flaws we often ignore in ourselves.

If you can handle a little discomfort, you’ll find something deeply honest about the struggle to grow up without having it all figured out. It’s messy, frustrating, and completely human—just like the rest of us.

8. Riverdale

Let’s be honest—this show went off the rails faster than a runaway train. But that’s exactly what makes it so addicting. It’s a chaotic blend of teen drama, mystery, and full-blown absurdity that somehow works.

If you stop expecting logic and start appreciating the creativity, you’ll see how Riverdale became a cult hit. It’s not trying to be Breaking Bad—it’s campy, self-aware, and totally unhinged in the best way.

There’s a certain joy in watching a show that leans so hard into its own madness. It’s pure escapism, wrapped in neon lights and dramatic monologues. If you want a wild ride, buckle up and dive in—you might actually love the chaos.

9. Friends

These six pals from New York have taken their fair share of criticism over the years. People call it outdated, unrealistic, and overly whitewashed. But even with its flaws, Friends remains one of the most quotable and comforting shows ever made.

The humor still lands because it’s built on relatable moments—awkward dates, bad jobs, and the messy joy of adult friendships. It captures a feeling of togetherness that still resonates decades later.

Sure, times have changed, but laughter hasn’t. Watching Friends today feels like revisiting old memories—some cringey, some perfect, all unforgettable. There’s a reason it’s still streaming endlessly: it makes people feel at home.

10. The Office (U.S.)

Plenty of people quit after the first few episodes, put off by the awkward silences and cringey humor. But once you stick around, something magical happens—it transforms into one of the most heartfelt workplace comedies ever.

The characters start as caricatures but grow into some of the most beloved personalities on TV. Behind the paper-company nonsense lies a story about ordinary people trying to find meaning in everyday life.

By the time you reach Jim and Pam’s love story or Michael’s heartfelt goodbyes, you’ll understand why so many fans still rewatch it religiously. It’s weird, awkward, and utterly human—the kind of show that sneaks up on you and stays forever.