HBO has given us some of the most iconic television in history—The Sopranos, The Wire, Sex and the City—but not every gem gets the spotlight it deserves. Some shows shine brightly during their run, earn critical praise, and then quietly fade into the streaming abyss. If you're looking for a binge that's practically perfect from opening scene to final frame, these overlooked HBO series are your ticket.
Hung (2009–2011)
Thomas Jane stars as Ray Drecker, a high school coach whose life goes up in flames—literally—when his house burns down and he has no insurance. Desperate for cash, he turns to an unconventional side hustle: prostitution. Blessed with above-average endowments, Ray finds clients surprisingly easy to come by, with help from his friend Tanya (Jane Adams). The show flips the usual gender dynamic, putting a man in the oldest profession, and it's refreshingly funny without being tasteless. The late Anne Heche plays Ray's ex, and Stephen Amell shows up in season three as a rival. It's a comedy-drama that balances desperation with heart, and it's a shame more people don't remember it.
The Leftovers (2014–2017)
Justin Theroux leads this supernatural post-apocalyptic drama about a world where 2% of the population vanishes in an instant. As police chief Kevin Garvey, Theroux navigates a fractured society where cults like the Guilty Remnant and charismatic figures like Holy Wayne (Paterson Joseph) prey on the vulnerable. The show starts dark but evolves into something profound, earning a cult following despite modest ratings. Its storytelling, direction, and emotional depth make it a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking sci-fi.
Rome (2005–2007)
Long before Game of Thrones, HBO tackled ancient history with Rome, a lavish epic starring Kevin McKidd and Ray Stevenson as soldiers Lucius Vorenus and Titus Pullo. Set during the transition from Republic to Empire, the show blends real historical figures with fictional drama. It was a massive production, co-produced with the UK and Italy, and it paid off with strong ratings and awards. But the high cost meant it was cut short after two seasons instead of the planned five. Today, it feels ahead of its time—had it premiered in the streaming era, it might have run for a decade.
Landscapers (2021)
This four-part true crime black comedy is a hidden gem starring Olivia Colman and David Thewlis as Susan and Christopher Edwards, a quiet couple who murder Susan's parents and bury them in the garden. Based on the real 1998 Wycherley murders, the miniseries is a bizarre, darkly funny tale that's hard to believe is true. Despite Colman's star power, Landscapers flew under the radar, but it holds a near-perfect 98% on Rotten Tomatoes. If you're into crime stories with a twist, this is one of the best unforgettable opening scenes you'll find.
Bored to Death (2009–2011)
Jason Schwartzman plays Jonathan Ames, a struggling writer who becomes a private investigator in this quirky comedy. The show also stars Zach Galifianakis and Ted Danson, and it's a delightful mix of noir and humor. Fans campaigned for its return after cancellation, and while a movie never materialized, the three seasons that exist are pure joy. It's a shame more people don't talk about it—it's one of HBO's most charming comedies.
Other Forgotten Gems
The list doesn't stop there. Generation Kill, a miniseries about the Iraq War, is a gripping, realistic look at combat. Enlightened, starring Laura Dern, is a brilliant dramedy about a woman trying to rebuild her life. The Comeback with Lisa Kudrow is a sharp satire of reality TV. How to Make It in America captures the hustle of New York's fashion scene. Vinyl, though short-lived, is a rock 'n' roll feast. And The Night Of is a tense legal drama that deserves more attention.
These shows may not have the cultural footprint of The Sopranos, but they're just as worthy of your time. Whether you're in the mood for a weekend binge or a deep dive into flawless sci-fi, these forgotten HBO series deliver. So next time you're scrolling through the streaming vault, give one of these a shot—you won't be disappointed.
