Gen Z knows that the right show isn’t just entertainment—it’s an experience. Whether you’re drawn to stories of self-discovery, intense thrillers, or series that make you laugh and cry in the same episode, we’ve got you covered. This list isn’t just another generic watchlist; it’s packed with shows that truly reflect the highs, lows, and everything in between of Gen Z life. From major hits to hidden gems, these are the 10 must-watch web series for Gen Z, you don’t want to miss!
1- Euphoria – The Rawest Take on Teenage Struggles
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Euphoria isn’t just a show—it’s a cultural phenomenon that pushes the boundaries of storytelling with its breathtaking cinematography, complex characters, and unfiltered portrayal of teenage struggles. It’s raw, intense, and visually mesmerizing. The series has been praised for its honest depiction of mental health, addiction, and relationships, making it one of the most talked-about shows of this generation. Zendaya delivers an Emmy-winning performance that is nothing short of spectacular, capturing every nuance of Rue’s emotional turmoil.
Synopsis: Rue Bennett, a teenager battling addiction, tries to navigate love, friendships, and self-discovery in a world that feels both thrilling and suffocating. Alongside a diverse group of high school friends, she faces the complexities of trauma, identity, and self-destruction. Each episode is an emotional rollercoaster, packed with stunning visuals and gripping narratives that keep viewers hooked.
Where to Watch: Euphoria is available for streaming on HBO Max.
Cast & Director: Created by Sam Levinson, the show stars Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, Jacob Elordi, and Sydney Sweeney, each bringing depth to their roles with unforgettable performances.
2- Sex Education – The Hilariously Real Take on Teen Life
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Sex Education is a brilliant mix of humor, heart, and hard-hitting topics, making it one of the best web series for Gen Z. With its diverse cast, it boldly tackles issues like relationships, identity, self-esteem, and awkward teenage experiences in a way that feels fresh, insightful, and incredibly relatable. It’s not just about sex; it’s about growing up, finding yourself, and learning to embrace who you are.
Synopsis: Otis Milburn, a socially awkward high school student, has spent his life absorbing knowledge about intimacy from his sex therapist mother. But despite his theoretical expertise, he struggles with his own relationships. That changes when he teams up with the confident and rebellious Maeve Wiley to run a secret sex therapy clinic for their fellow students, helping them navigate their most embarrassing and complex problems. Along the way, Otis and his friends face their own journeys of self-discovery, heartbreak, and growth.
Where to Watch: Sex Education is available for streaming on Netflix.
Cast & Director: Created by Laurie Nunn, the series stars Asa Butterfield, Gillian Anderson, Emma Mackey, and Ncuti Gatwa, all of whom deliver standout performances that make their characters feel incredibly real and relatable.?
3- Outer Banks – Treasure Hunts, Friendship, and Thrills
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Outer Banks is the ultimate adventure-packed binge, delivering non-stop action, treasure hunts, and intense class conflicts. With its fast-paced storytelling, stunning beachside cinematography, and well-developed friendships, this series captures the spirit of youth and rebellion. It’s an addictive mix of mystery, thrill, and romance that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
Synopsis: In the Outer Banks of North Carolina, a close-knit group of working-class teens, known as the Pogues, stumble upon a long-lost treasure connected to the disappearance of their leader’s father. As they dive deeper into the mystery, they must evade law enforcement, rival groups, and hidden dangers, all while navigating friendships, betrayals, and love.
Where to Watch: Outer Banks is available for streaming on Netflix.
Cast & Director: Created by Shannon Burke, Jonas Pate, and Josh Pate, the show stars Chase Stokes, Madelyn Cline, Rudy Pankow, and Jonathan Daviss, whose performances bring both the intensity and charm needed for this thrilling series.
4- Never Have I Ever – A Refreshingly Relatable Coming-of-Age Comedy
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Never Have I Ever is a Netflix Show with a perfect mix of humor, drama, and heartwarming moments, making it one of the best Gen Z coming-of-age comedies. It brilliantly captures the ups and downs of teenage life, family expectations, and identity struggles. This series is packed with witty dialogues, hilarious yet emotional storytelling, and relatable characters that make it a binge-worthy favorite.
Synopsis: Devi Vishwakumar, a high-achieving but impulsive Indian-American teenager, tries to reinvent herself after a traumatic year. Between dealing with academic pressure, cultural identity, grief over her father’s death, and a complicated love triangle, she finds herself in chaotic yet humorous situations that resonate with Gen Z audiences.
Where to Watch: Never Have I Ever is available for streaming on Netflix.
Cast & Director: Created by Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher, the show features a stellar cast including Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Poorna Jagannathan, Darren Barnet, and Jaren Lewison, delivering performances that bring humor, depth, and authenticity to their characters.
5- Elite – The Dark and Twisty Teen Drama You Can’t Stop Watching
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Elite is a gripping teen drama that blends the high-stakes world of the wealthy elite with thrilling murder mysteries, social conflict, and steamy romance. If you love shows with jaw-dropping twists, complex characters, and an international perspective, this Spanish hit is a must-watch. The show doesn’t just serve up mystery—it also tackles themes of class struggle, identity, and moral ambiguity, making it a perfect pick for Gen Z binge-watchers who love thought-provoking storytelling.
Synopsis: When three scholarship students from working-class backgrounds enroll at Las Encinas, Spain’s most exclusive private school, their arrival disrupts the social hierarchy. What starts as a culture clash soon escalates into secrets, betrayals, and ultimately, murder. As friendships are tested and relationships spark, the truth behind the crime slowly unravels, exposing shocking truths that will change their lives forever.
Where to Watch: Elite is available for streaming on Netflix.
Cast & Director: Created by Carlos Montero and Darío Madrona, the show stars a stellar ensemble cast including Itzan Escamilla, Miguel Bernardeau, Danna Paola, Arón Piper, and Ester Expósito, all of whom deliver captivating performances that make this series addictive from start to finish.
6- The End of the F**ing World* – A Dark, Quirky, and Totally Unique Ride
Why It’s a Must-Watch: The End of the F**ing World* is a darkly comedic masterpiece that blends quirky storytelling, sharp dialogue, and deep emotional undertones. With its offbeat humor, gripping narrative, and raw portrayal of teenage alienation, it’s a must-watch for anyone who loves thought-provoking drama with a rebellious edge. The series is stylishly shot, featuring a moody aesthetic that perfectly complements its themes of self-discovery and impulsive adventure.
Synopsis: James, a self-proclaimed psychopath, and Alyssa, a fearless and outspoken teen, embark on a spontaneous road trip in search of freedom and escape from their dysfunctional lives. What starts as an impulsive getaway quickly spirals into an unexpected journey of crime, chaos, and emotional transformation, forcing them to confront their deepest fears and desires.
Where to Watch: The End of the F**ing World* is available for streaming on Netflix.
Cast & Director: Created by Jonathan Entwistle and based on the graphic novel by Charles Forsman, the show stars Alex Lawther and Jessica Barden, whose powerful performances bring depth and authenticity to their unconventional characters. Their on-screen chemistry and raw emotions elevate this unique coming-of-age story to a cult favorite status.
7- I Am Not Okay With This – Superpowers Meets Teenage Angst
Why It’s a Must-Watch: I Am Not Okay With This is the perfect blend of supernatural intrigue and deeply personal storytelling. With its nostalgic yet fresh take on teenage angst, the series taps into the emotional struggles of adolescence while adding an exciting sci-fi twist. If you love coming-of-age stories with an edge of mystery and psychological depth, this show is a must-watch.
Synopsis: Sydney Novak, a seemingly ordinary high schooler, is dealing with the usual teenage woes—crushes, friendships, family troubles—but things take a bizarre turn when she starts developing mysterious, uncontrollable superpowers. As she tries to balance the chaos of her life and the weight of these newfound abilities, she soon realizes that her past may hold the key to understanding her powers.
Where to Watch: I Am Not Okay With This is available for streaming on Netflix.
Cast & Director: Created by Jonathan Entwistle and based on the graphic novel by Charles Forsman, the series stars Sophia Lillis, Wyatt Oleff, and Sofia Bryant, who bring raw and compelling performances to this darkly humorous, supernatural drama.
8- On My Block – Heartfelt, Hilarious, and Seriously Underrated
Why It’s a Must-Watch: On My Block is a refreshing blend of humor, heart, and real-life issues, making it one of the best coming-of-age series for Gen Z. This show masterfully balances comedy and emotional depth while addressing topics like gang violence, friendship, and socioeconomic struggles. The characters feel authentic, and their journeys are deeply relatable, making it an emotional rollercoaster that keeps you invested from start to finish.
Synopsis: A tight-knit group of friends—Cesar, Monse, Jamal, and Ruby—navigate the trials and tribulations of high school while growing up in a rough Los Angeles neighborhood. As they deal with love, loss, and survival, their friendships are tested in ways they never expected. With a mix of thrilling twists, heartfelt moments, and laugh-out-loud comedy, On My Block delivers a compelling story that captures the essence of adolescence.
Where to Watch: On My Block is available for streaming on Netflix.
Cast & Director: Created by Lauren Iungerich, Eddie Gonzalez, and Jeremy Haft, this hit series features an outstanding ensemble cast, including Sierra Capri, Diego Tinoco, Jason Genao, and Brett Gray, whose powerful performances bring depth and authenticity to their characters.
9- The Society – What Happens When Teens Run the World?
Why It’s a Must-Watch: The Society is a gripping dystopian drama that masterfully combines mystery, psychological tension, and deep character development. It explores themes of power, survival, and morality, making it a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking storytelling. The show immerses viewers in a world where teenagers must step up and take control, offering a fresh and intense take on coming-of-age narratives.
Synopsis: A group of high school students returns from a canceled field trip to find their town mysteriously abandoned—there are no adults, no way to escape, and no explanation. As they struggle to maintain order, they must establish their own rules while uncovering the shocking truth behind their situation. Friendships are tested, alliances form and break, and the mystery deepens as chaos looms over their newfound society.
Where to Watch: The Society is available for streaming on Netflix.
Cast & Director: Created by Christopher Keyser, the show features an outstanding ensemble cast, including Kathryn Newton, Sean Berdy, Natasha Liu Bordizzo, and Gideon Adlon. Their compelling performances add depth to the intense storyline, making each episode an emotional rollercoaster.
10- Derry Girls – The Funniest Coming-of-Age Show You Need
Why It’s a Must-Watch: Derry Girls is a brilliantly written comedy that blends laugh-out-loud moments with deep nostalgia and cultural significance. Set against the backdrop of 1990s Northern Ireland during The Troubles, the show masterfully intertwines political tension with the hilarity of teenage life. With sharp wit, relatable friendships, and unforgettable characters, Derry Girls delivers a heartfelt and entertaining coming-of-age experience.
Synopsis: The series follows Erin Quinn and her eccentric group of friends—Orla, Clare, Michelle, and James—as they navigate the ups and downs of Catholic school life, rebellious teenage antics, and family chaos, all while growing up in a politically charged environment. Their misadventures, often outrageous and sometimes touching, highlight the universal experience of adolescence, making it an absolute must-watch.
Where to Watch: Derry Girls is available for streaming on Netflix.
Cast & Director: Created by Lisa McGee, the series stars Saoirse-Monica Jackson, Louisa Harland, Nicola Coughlan, Jamie-Lee O’Donnell, and Dylan Llewellyn. Their impeccable comedic timing and chemistry bring an authenticity that makes the show even more endearing. Directed by Michael Lennox, Derry Girls has garnered widespread acclaim for its unique blend of humor and historical context.
📺 Ready to Binge?
Which of these shows is your ultimate comfort binge? Or did we miss an underrated masterpiece? Let us know in the comments! 👇🏼
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