Netflix significantly shapes the television world by offering a diverse array of original productions that grab attention and dominate both popular discussions and their own platform interface. Upon opening the app, viewers are greeted with advertisements for hit series such as Stranger Things, Bridgerton, Wednesday, and Squid Game. The strategic design of Netflix’s algorithms emphasizes these in-house productions, forming a continuous cycle where more prominent exposure leads to increased viewership, which then justifies even greater visibility. This tactic makes good economic sense, as Netflix has committed billions towards developing unique content to distinguish itself from other streaming services in an ever-growing market. Nevertheless, the platform also houses numerous TV shows that it didn’t exclusively obtain.
Hidden beneath the glitz and glamour of Netflix’s own productions, there’s a wealth of fantastic TV series that weren’t made by Netflix themselves. Check out our picks for top-notch shows available to stream on Netflix that aren’t part of their original lineup:
(Note: The second sentence can also be rephrased as “Here are some excellent non-Netflix produced shows you can find streaming on the platform.”)
Derry Girls
In a surprising twist, the turbulent past of Northern Ireland might not be the first setting you’d expect for one of television’s most hilarious sitcoms. However, “Derry Girls” skillfully intertwines side-splitting humor with profound historical depth. The show is set in 1990s Derry during the waning years of The Troubles, where it depicts the everyday struggles of a group of teenagers amidst military checkpoints and political turmoil. Creator Lisa McGee, drawing upon her personal experiences growing up in Derry, cleverly crafts absurd situations, such as mischief at Catholic school or chaotic family get-togethers, all while maintaining an awareness of the significant historical context without allowing it to overshadow the show’s comedic essence. The series thrives on its quick-witted dialogue expertly delivered by a talented young cast and features standout supporting performances from Siobhán McSweeney as the skeptical Sister Michael.
Kim’s Convenience
Prior to taking on the role of Shang-Chi in Marvel movies, Simu Liu played Jung Kim in this heartfelt Canadian sitcom focused around a Korean-Canadian family operating a convenience store in Toronto. What sets Kim’s Convenience apart from ordinary family comedies is its authentic depiction of immigrant lives, skillfully blending cultural nuances with universal family dynamics that strike a chord with various backgrounds. The show’s essence lies in Paul Sun-Hyung Lee’s portrayal of Appa (meaning “dad” in Korean), who presents a rough exterior yet harbors profound affection for his family and community. Jean Yoon, as Umma (Korean for “mom”), delivers both humor and emotional richness. Over five seasons, the series tackles intergenerational disputes, cultural identity, and communal ties without relying on stereotypes or overly simplistic conclusions. Each episode offers clever, well-constructed storytelling that finds humor in everyday situations while maintaining respect for its characters’ depth and complexity.
Heels
Fans of wrestling have been eagerly awaiting an honest depiction of the industry’s backstage life, and the series Heels fulfills that desire by delving deeply into the world of independent wrestling in a small Georgia town. Starring Stephen Amell (Arrow) and Alexander Ludwig (Vikings) as Jack and Ace Spade, brothers who inherited their father’s struggling wrestling promotion, they must grapple not only with each other in the ring but also behind the scenes. The intensity of the wrestling personas reflects the genuine strife between the brothers, their families, and fellow wrestlers, all seeking purpose and success amidst a dying town’s struggles. Creator Michael Waldron (Loki) skillfully blends authentic wrestling sequences with compelling human stories that lend emotional depth to each character, from rising female wrestler Crystal (Kelli Berglund) to veteran Wild Bill Hancock (Chris Bauer), who represent the complexities of people whose love for wrestling clashes with their desire for security and respect.
Detroiters
Detroiters is unique for its exuberant portrayal of camaraderie and hometown affection, with real-life pals Sam Richardson and Tim Robinson as the creators and stars. The series focuses on Sam Duvet and Tim Cramblin, the proprietors of a modest advertising agency producing budget ads for local Detroit enterprises. Their chemistry is contagious, and their unwavering loyalty to each other provides stability amidst an escalating array of bizarre circumstances. Detroiters surpasses typical buddy comedy expectations by genuinely loving Detroit itself. Filmed on location, it showcases genuine local businesses, offering a warm portrayal rather than using the city’s economic struggles for easy humor. The duo’s cringeworthy local commercials (many based on actual Detroit ads) offer consistent comedic moments, but the show’s soul lies in its tribute to creative partnership and community spirit.
Call the Midwife
Few TV series sustain quality as consistently as ‘Call the Midwife’, which has offered powerful, historically accurate medical drama for 13 seasons without any drop in quality. The story unfolds in London’s poor East End during the late 1950s, following nurse-midwives at Nonnatus House who offer vital healthcare to a community grappling with poverty, overcrowding, and limited resources. Despite its medical focus, ‘Call the Midwife’ stands out due to its in-depth exploration of women’s health concerns, social inequalities, and advancements in medicine throughout history, all portrayed with great empathy and minimal sensationalism. Heidi Thomas created this series, inspired by Jennifer Worth’s memoirs, which has expanded beyond its original source material into a multi-decade account of women’s lives and societal transformation post World War II. The rotating cast keeps the storylines fresh while preserving the show’s empathetic, caring atmosphere, with each season introducing relevant medical and social issues reflective of its time period.
Archer
The show, titled “Archer,” chronicles the misfortunes of Sterling Archer, a self-centered spy extraordinaire whose prowess on missions is rivaled only by his troubles in personal interactions. The main character and his peers operate within the unconventional spy agency (originally ISIS, later renamed for obvious reasons). The creator, Adam Reed, employs a unique style of dialogue that blends sophisticated literary allusions with absurd running jokes and intricate callbacks, catering to viewers who pay close attention while still being entertaining through physical humor and character-driven wit. The voice actors deserve special recognition, particularly H. Jon Benjamin’s iconic portrayal of Archer, which pairs beautifully with Jessica Walter’s sharp delivery as his manipulative mother, Malory, and Aisha Tyler’s sarcastic wisdom as fellow agent Lana Kane. Throughout its run, the series has redefined itself through multiple “coma seasons” that shifted the characters into different genres — from hard-boiled detective stories to space odysseys — while preserving their core traits and relationships.
Resident Alien
In the vein of the Dark Horse comic series, “Resident Alien” offers one of television’s most creative takes on the “alien among us” theme. Alan Tudyk plays an extraterrestrial who lands in Colorado after his spacecraft crashes while on a mission to eradicate humanity. Adopting the persona of local doctor Harry Vanderspeigle following the murder of the original owner, this alien gradually develops unexpected feelings for the humans he’s supposed to annihilate. Tudyk delivers an exceptional performance as an extraterrestrial trying to decipher human behavior through clumsy imitation and scientific observation. Concurrently, his inner monologue unveils his growing internal struggle. The show’s fish-out-of-water comedy naturally matures into something deeper as Harry forges genuine bonds with the peculiar residents of Patience, Colorado. Creator Chris Sheridan skillfully blends the central sci-fi concept with intricate subplots about the townsfolk, crafting a multi-layered cast of characters whose everyday human issues serve as a contrast to the extraordinary alien tale.
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2025-03-27 21:46