As a self-proclaimed TV junkie, I’ve come across my fair share of overlooked and underappreciated classics. And while it’s true that some of these shows may never have reached mainstream success, they’ve managed to cultivate a devoted following among a niche audience. These are the hidden gems of television: the shows that may have been forgotten, but still live on through the love of their fans.

So if you’re looking for a new show to dive into, why not join one of these communities? Here are a few fandoms and communities dedicated to some of TV’s forgotten classics.

Veronica Mars 🕵️‍♀️

Veronica Mars, the neo-noir teen detective series, was ahead of its time. It was witty, smart, and tackled some pretty heavy themes while still managing to keep its characters relatable and accessible. Unfortunately, it was cancelled after only three seasons due to low ratings, but it still has a loyal following. Fans of Veronica Mars have managed to keep the show alive through fanfiction, podcasts, and social media.

💡Tip: Check out the “Veronica Mars Rewatch Podcast” for an in-depth look at each episode, hosted by two die-hard fans.

An image of Kristen Bell in character as Veronica Mars, holding a camera.

Pushing Daisies 🍎

Pushing Daisies was a whimsical and visually stunning show about a pie maker with the ability to bring the dead back to life. It was quirky, charming, and unlike anything else on television at the time. Unfortunately, it struggled to find its audience and was cancelled after only two seasons. But fans of the show have kept it alive through fan meetups, social media, and even a petition to bring the show back.

💡Tip: If you’re a fan of the show’s creator, Bryan Fuller, check out some of his other series like Hannibal and Dead Like Me.

An image of Lee Pace and Anna Friel in character as Ned and Chuck, holding hands and surrounded by colorful flowers.

Firefly 🚀

Firefly was a beloved space western that was cancelled after only one season. Despite its short run, the show continues to have one of the most devoted fandoms in television history. It has spawned a movie, comics, and even a board game. Fans of the show gather at conventions, cosplay as their favorite characters, and keep the show’s spirit alive through their love and dedication.

💡Tip: If you’re a fan of Firefly’s creator, Joss Whedon, check out some of his other series like Buffy the Vampire Slayer and Dollhouse.

An image of the main cast of Firefly standing in front of their spaceship, Serenity.

Freaks and Geeks 🏫

Freaks and Geeks was a coming-of-age comedy-drama series set in a Michigan high school in the 1980s. The show’s cancellation after only one season is often cited as one of the worst decisions in television history. Despite its short run, the show has gained a cult following thanks to its relatable characters, witty writing, and fantastic cast. Fans of the show have kept it alive through podcasts, social media, and even a documentary about the making of the show.

💡Tip: If you’re a fan of the show’s creator, Judd Apatow, check out some of his other series and films like The 40-Year-Old Virgin and Love.

An image of the main cast of Freaks and Geeks standing together in their school hallway.

Community 🎓

Community was a meta-sitcom that followed a group of misfits attending a community college. It was clever, funny, and full of pop culture references. Unfortunately, it struggled with ratings and was cancelled after its fifth season. But fans of the show have managed to turn it into a cultural phenomenon. They’ve created their own episodes, turned its characters into memes, and even staged a worldwide flashmob of the show’s theme song.

💡Tip: If you’re a fan of the show’s creator, Dan Harmon, check out his podcast “Harmontown” for more of his signature wit and humor.

An image of the main cast of Community sitting together at a study table, surrounded by books.

Final Thoughts 🤔

These are just a few examples of the many hidden gems in television that deserve more attention. But if there’s one thing that I’ve learned from these fandoms and communities, it’s that the love and dedication of fans can keep a show alive long after it’s been cancelled. So whether you’re a die-hard fan or a newcomer looking for a new show to binge, consider joining one of these communities and discovering the magic of these forgotten classics.

An image of a TV screen with the words "hidden gems" written in fancy lettering.