Netflix has become a powerhouse for teen television, offering a diverse array of shows that range from lighthearted coming-of-age comedies to intense dramas exploring the complexities of identity, relationships, and mental health. Whether you're looking for nostalgic 1980s sci-fi like Stranger Things, heartwarming LGBTQ+ romances like Heartstopper, or sharp, culturally grounded humor in Derry Girls, Netflix has a teen show to match every viewer's taste. Here's a look at the top 10 teen TV shows currently available on Netflix, ranked based on their popularity, critical acclaim, cultural impact, and how well they resonate with both teen audiences and adult viewers who enjoy nostalgic and relatable storytelling.
10. Julie and the Phantoms (2020)
Julie and the Phantoms may have only lasted for one season, but it left a lasting impression on viewers. This musical series follows Julie, a teenager who rediscovers her passion for music after summoning the spirits of three teenage musicians. The show's blend of music, humor, and heart quickly propelled it to Netflix's top charts upon release.
Despite its short run, Julie and the Phantoms received critical acclaim, earning an Emmy nomination for Outstanding Young Adult Series. The show's cancellation after just one season sparked outrage among fans, demonstrating its strong impact and devoted following.
Watch Julie and the Phantoms on Netflix
9. Outer Banks (2020-Present)
Set in the picturesque Outer Banks of North Carolina, this mystery adventure series has become one of Netflix's most talked-about teen shows. The story revolves around John B. and his group of friends, known as the "Pogues," as they unravel the mystery surrounding John's missing father.
Outer Banks combines elements of teen drama with thrilling adventure, creating a compelling narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The show's popularity led to a quick renewal for a second season, just three months after its initial release. With its mix of romance, tension, and mystery, Outer Banks continues to captivate audiences with each new season.
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8. I Am Not Okay With This (2020)
Although I Am Not Okay With This was unfortunately canceled after only one season, it remains one of Netflix's most beloved teen shows. Based on a comic book by Charles Forsman, the series follows Sydney Novak, a teenager grappling with her newfound telekinetic powers while navigating the turbulent waters of high school.
The show garnered praise for its themes and representation of LGBTQ+ teen characters. Sophia Lillis's lead performance was particularly lauded, contributing to the show's cult status despite its short run. I Am Not Okay With This stands as a testament to the power of unique storytelling in the teen genre.
Watch I Am Not Okay With This on Netflix
7. The End of the F**ing World* (2017-2019)
This darkly comedic series offers a unique take on the teen relationship story. Based on another Charles Forsman comic, The End of the F**ing World* follows two teenagers on a life-changing road trip. The show's blend of dark humor and poignant storytelling earned it both critical and commercial success.
Running for two seasons, the series received numerous accolades, including a British Academy Television Award for Best Drama Series and a Peabody Award. Its unconventional approach to teen narratives set it apart from more traditional offerings in the genre.
Watch The End of the F***ing World on Netflix
6. Never Have I Ever (2020-2023)
Created by Mindy Kaling, Never Have I Ever quickly won over Netflix subscribers with its fresh take on the high school experience. The series follows Devi, a sophomore determined to improve her social standing after a difficult freshman year. The show tackles typical teen issues like romantic complications and friendship struggles, while also exploring deeper themes such as grief and cultural expectations.
Never Have I Ever stands out for its authentic portrayal of a first-generation Indian-American teenager's experience. The show's final season wrapped up the series in a satisfying and relatable way, cementing its place as one of Netflix's best teen offerings.
Watch Never Have I Ever on Netflix
5. Heartstopper (2022-Present)
Based on Alice Oseman's popular web comic and graphic novel series, Heartstopper became an instant hit upon its release in April 2022. The show centers on Charlie, a gay teenager at an English boarding school, and his budding relationship with Nick, a popular older classmate.
Heartstopper has been widely praised for offering LGBTQ+ teenagers a positive and heartwarming love story. Its success led to a quick renewal, with new episodes set to release in August 2023. The show's authentic portrayal of young love and self-discovery has resonated strongly with viewers, making it one of Netflix's most beloved teen series.
Watch Heartstopper on Netflix
4. Sex Education (2019-Present)
Sex Education has earned its place as not only one of Netflix's best teen series but also one of the streaming service's best original series overall. The show follows Otis, a socially awkward teenager who sets up an underground sex therapy clinic at his high school, using knowledge gleaned from his sex therapist mother.
The British dramedy quickly built a massive following, with its first season garnering 40 million views. Known for its frank discussions of sexuality and relationships, Sex Education has been praised for its inclusive representation and honest portrayal of teen issues. With three successful seasons and a fourth on the way, the show continues to be a cornerstone of Netflix's teen programming.
Watch Sex Education on Netflix
3. Derry Girls (2018-2022)
Derry Girls offers a unique perspective on the teen experience, set against the backdrop of 1990s Northern Ireland. The show follows a group of girls (and their one male friend) navigating adolescence in the small town of Londonderry during the final years of the Troubles.
What sets Derry Girls apart is its ability to balance sharp Irish wit with the serious subject matter of the ongoing conflict. The show manages to find humor and heart in even the most challenging circumstances, offering a coming-of-age story unlike any other. Its third and final season concluded with a touching message that spoke to both the history of the show and the lives of its young characters.
Watch Derry Girls on Netflix
2. Stranger Things (2016-Present)
While not exclusively a teen show, Stranger Things has become one of Netflix's biggest hits, with its core cast of young characters growing up before viewers' eyes. Set in the 1980s, the series blends supernatural elements with classic coming-of-age storylines.
Stranger Things offers everything you can expect from a teen drama—from crazy parents to fun adventures with a tight-knit group of friends. Its nostalgic setting, compelling mysteries, and strong character development have made it one of Netflix's most popular and critically acclaimed series. As the show enters its final season, it remains a cornerstone of the platform's offerings for teen and adult viewers alike.
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1. Ginny & Georgia (2021-Present)
Ginny & Georgia has become one of Netflix's most popular teen dramas since its debut. The show follows 15-year-old Ginny and her 30-year-old mother Georgia as they settle into a new life in a small New England town.
Ginny & Georgia tackles complex issues such as race, identity, and family dynamics with a blend of drama and dark humor. The show's popularity led to a quick renewal for a second season, which further expanded on the characters' backstories and relationships. Its exploration of the mother-daughter dynamic, along with typical teen struggles, has resonated with a wide audience, making it one of Netflix's top teen offerings.
Watch Ginny & Georgia on Netflix
Conclusion
Netflix's teen TV shows offer a diverse range of stories and perspectives, from lighthearted comedies to intense dramas. These series tackle important issues facing today's youth while providing entertaining and relatable content. Whether exploring sexuality, grappling with identity, or simply navigating the complexities of high school life, these shows have something to offer for every teen viewer and those who remember the tumultuous years of adolescence.
FAQs:
What is the most popular teen show on Netflix?Stranger Things and Ginny & Georgia are among Netflix's most popular teen series, both garnering massive followings.
Which teen show has the best LGBTQ+ representation?Heartstopper is widely praised for its authentic and heartwarming LGBTQ+ representation.
Are there any teen shows on Netflix that explore serious topics?Yes, Sex Education and Ginny & Georgia delve into issues like mental health, sexuality, and family dynamics.
What makes Derry Girls unique among teen shows?Its blend of sharp humor and historical context during the Troubles in Northern Ireland sets it apart.
Why was Julie and the Phantoms canceled?Despite its popularity, the show was canceled after one season, leaving fans disappointed.
Is Outer Banks suitable for all teens?The show contains some mature themes and is best suited for older teens.
What themes does I Am Not Okay With This explore?It tackles themes of self-discovery, grief, and LGBTQ+ identity.
Is Never Have I Ever culturally significant?Yes, it authentically portrays the experiences of a first-generation Indian-American teen.
How many seasons does The End of the Fing World* have?**The show has two critically acclaimed seasons.
When will the next season of Stranger Things air?The release date for the final season has not yet been announced.
If you're on the hunt for your next favorite TV show, there's no shortage of resources to help you discover the perfect series tailored to your tastes. Whether you're in the mood for something new or a timeless classic, the following platforms and communities offer a wealth of recommendations and insights:
IMDb: The premier source for movie and TV show information. Visit IMDb
Rotten Tomatoes: A site that aggregates movie and TV show reviews from critics and audiences. Visit Rotten Tomatoes
Metacritic: It compiles reviews and assigns scores to movies, TV shows, and games. Visit Metacritic
Wikipedia: A comprehensive resource for detailed information about various shows, including plot summaries and production details. Visit Wikipedia
TV Guide: A well-known source for television listings and reviews. Visit TV Guide
Entertainment Weekly: Offers entertainment news, reviews, and features on movies and television. Visit Entertainment Weekly
Deadline Hollywood: An online news site focused on the entertainment industry, providing updates and insights. Visit Deadline
The Hollywood Reporter: A leading source for entertainment news, analysis, and reviews in film and television. Visit The Hollywood Reporter
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