By Maria Bregman
The 2010s were a golden era for television, marked by the expansion of streaming platforms and the rise of unique voices in the world of scripted series. Amidst the explosion of content, certain shows achieved cult status, gaining fiercely loyal followings despite limited mainstream attention or short-lived runs. These series captivated viewers through bold storytelling, complex characters, and distinct aesthetics that set them apart from the rest. Here is a carefully curated list of the top 15 cult shows of the 2010s, each of which left a lasting impact on the landscape of modern television.
1. Black Mirror (2011-present)
Charlie Brooker’s Black Mirror redefined the anthology format, blending dystopian futures with sharp social commentary. Each stand-alone episode explores the dark side of technology, highlighting how innovations might twist human behaviour in unexpected ways. The series’ ability to tap into contemporary anxieties resonated deeply with viewers, leading to a devoted global audience. Episodes like “San Junipero” and “Nosedive” became cultural touchstones, solidifying Black Mirror as one of the most influential shows of the decade.
2. The Leftovers (2014-2017)
The Leftovers is a haunting exploration of grief, faith, and existential despair in a world where 2% of the population mysteriously vanishes. Based on Tom Perrotta’s novel and co-created by Damon Lindelof, the show delves into how those left behind cope with loss and uncertainty. While it struggled to find mainstream success, its poetic storytelling and philosophical depth earned it critical acclaim and a passionate fan base. The series’ final season, in particular, has been hailed as one of the finest conclusions in television history.
3. Hannibal (2013-2015)
Bryan Fuller’s Hannibal is a visually stunning and psychologically complex reimagining of the iconic relationship between FBI profiler Will Graham and the cannibalistic Dr Hannibal Lecter. The show’s dark elegance, cinematic artistry, and intricate character dynamics captivated audiences, despite its often gruesome subject matter. Though it was cancelled after three seasons, Hannibal’s influence has endured, with its fan base (self-dubbed “Fannibals”) continuing to push for a revival.
4. Fleabag (2016-2019)
Phoebe Waller-Bridge’s Fleabag burst onto the scene with its raw, unfiltered exploration of love, loneliness, and self-destruction. Waller-Bridge’s razor-sharp writing and fourth-wall-breaking performance delivered a unique blend of dark humour and poignant drama. The second season, in particular, was lauded for its nuanced depiction of relationships and faith. Fleabag’s success paved the way for Waller-Bridge’s meteoric rise and established the show as a cult sensation with a legacy far beyond its brief run.
5. Sense8 (2015-2018)
Created by the Wachowskis and J. Michael Straczynski, Sense8 was a bold experiment in inclusive, global storytelling. The series follows eight individuals from different parts of the world who discover they are mentally and emotionally connected. Its celebration of diversity, identity, and human connection earned it a dedicated fan base, even as its complex narrative and ambitious production led to its cancellation after two seasons. Fans rallied for closure, resulting in a final special that wrapped up the series’ sprawling story.
6. Penny Dreadful (2014-2016)
Penny Dreadful brought together classic horror literature’s greatest characters – Dracula, Frankenstein’s monster, Dorian Gray, and more – into a gothic, richly atmospheric drama. The show’s blend of psychological horror, Victorian melodrama, and poetic dialogue made it a unique offering in the 2010s television landscape. Eva Green’s powerhouse performance as the tormented Vanessa Ives was a highlight, anchoring the show’s exploration of darkness and redemption.
7. Bojack Horseman (2014-2020)
What began as an absurd animated comedy about a washed-up sitcom star quickly evolved into one of the most profound meditations on depression, addiction, and self-worth in television history. Bojack Horseman’s mix of biting satire, surreal humour, and deeply emotional storytelling resonated with audiences who connected with its unflinching portrayal of mental health struggles. The show’s ability to balance dark themes with sharp wit and memorable characters made it a cult favourite.
8. Orphan Black (2013-2017)
Tatiana Maslany’s astonishing performance as multiple clones is the beating heart of Orphan Black. This sci-fi thriller delves into themes of identity, ethics, and corporate greed, all while maintaining a high-octane pace and an engaging, twist-filled plot. The series attracted a devoted following thanks to its compelling world-building, strong feminist undertones, and Maslany’s ability to inhabit several distinct characters. Its innovative premise and tight-knit fan community earned it a place in the pantheon of cult TV.
9. Legion (2017-2019)
Noah Hawley’s Legion was a visually audacious, mind-bending departure from typical superhero fare. Based on the Marvel Comics character David Haller, the show explored the boundaries between reality and delusion, blending surrealist imagery, non-linear storytelling, and psychological horror. Legion’s experimental approach to narrative and form, combined with its striking visuals and performances, created a distinctive cult classic that stood out in a crowded field of comic-book adaptations.
10. The Expanse (2015-2022)
Adapted from James S.A. Corey’s novels, The Expanse quickly became a touchstone for modern space operas. Set in a future where humanity has colonised the solar system, the series blends political intrigue, hard science fiction, and deep character drama. Its detailed world-building, complex moral questions, and dedication to scientific accuracy attracted a dedicated fan base who fought for its continuation after initial cancellation. The Expanse’s ability to tell a story of galactic scale while maintaining intimate human stakes solidified its cult status.
11. Mr. Robot (2015-2019)
Mr. Robot captivated audiences with its exploration of hacking culture, mental illness, and corporate corruption. Sam Esmail’s series, led by Rami Malek’s standout performance as the socially anxious, anarchist hacker Elliot Alderson, tapped into the zeitgeist of distrust in institutions and the rise of digital rebellion. With its unreliable narration, bold stylistic choices, and complex themes, Mr. Robot drew a fiercely loyal fan base, solidifying its place as one of the most innovative and visually striking shows of the decade.
12. The OA (2016-2019)
Brit Marling and Zal Batmanglij’s The OA defied categorisation, blending sci-fi, fantasy, and metaphysical mystery into a narrative that challenged conventional storytelling. The show’s enigmatic plot, focusing on a blind woman who returns after being missing for seven years with her sight restored, captivated viewers willing to embrace its ambitious, surreal narrative. Though it was cancelled after two seasons, The OA’s devoted fan base continues to champion its unique vision and dream of a revival.
13. Crazy Ex-Girlfriend (2015-2019)
Crazy Ex-Girlfriend was a daring blend of musical comedy and sharp social critique, subverting romantic comedy tropes while delving into mental health issues. Co-created by and starring Rachel Bloom, the show’s satirical songs, nuanced exploration of complex relationships, and willingness to tackle serious topics with humour and empathy won it a dedicated following. Its candid portrayal of self-discovery and emotional growth made it one of the most original and beloved cult series of the 2010s.
14. The End of the Fing World* (2017-2019)**
This dark British dramedy, based on Charles Forsman’s graphic novel, follows two troubled teenagers on a road trip that spirals into violence and self-discovery. With its sharp writing, unique visual style, and stellar performances from Jessica Barden and Alex Lawther, The End of the F*ing World captured the attention of viewers who appreciated its blend of black humour and poignant storytelling. The show’s offbeat charm and exploration of trauma, love, and belonging quickly earned it cult status.
15. The Midnight Gospel (2020)
Created by Pendleton Ward (of Adventure Time fame) and comedian Duncan Trussell, The Midnight Gospel is a psychedelic exploration of life, death, and everything in between. The series combines Trussell’s podcast interviews with surreal animated adventures, creating a show that is both deeply philosophical and visually arresting. Its meditative themes, combined with its bold experimental style, have garnered a niche but passionate audience, making it a unique entry in the pantheon of cult classics.
Editor’s Choice: Black Mirror and The Leftovers
While each of these shows left an indelible mark on the 2010s, Black Mirror and The Leftovers stand out for their profound cultural impact. Black Mirror’s eerie prescience and biting social commentary continue to influence how we view technology’s role in society. Meanwhile, The Leftovers offered a deeply human exploration of loss and belief, resonating with viewers who sought more than just escapism in their television. These series remain benchmarks for quality storytelling in a decade defined by innovation.
The 2010s were a transformative period for television, where creativity flourished, and cult series broke new ground, offering viewers a diverse range of experiences that went beyond conventional narratives. These shows may not have been the biggest hits of their time, but they have left a lasting legacy in the ever-evolving world of television storytelling.
