100 Best Teen Dramas Part 6: Gritty Realism & British Brilliance

Not all teen shows are glossy and polished. Some shows aim to show the “unfiltered” reality of being young—the parties, the mistakes, the mental health struggles, and the hedonism. This category features some of the most critically acclaimed and controversial shows in the genre.

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51. Skins (UK) (2007–2013)

The show that changed everything. Skins followed groups of teenagers in Bristol, UK, with a new “generation” of cast members every two seasons.

• Why it’s a must-watch: It was raw, hedonistic, and deeply emotional. It didn’t preach; it just showed the beauty and tragedy of youth.
• Best Character: Effy Stonem (The enigmatic, troubled icon of Gen 2).

52. Euphoria (2019–Present)

A visually stunning, high-octane look at modern teenage experiences, addiction, and identity. It stars Zendaya as Rue, a teenager struggling with drug abuse.

• Why it’s a must-watch: The cinematography, makeup, and performances (especially Zendaya and Hunter Schafer) are on another level.
• Best Character: Rue Bennett.

53. Degrassi: Next Class (2016–2017)

The Netflix continuation of the long-running Canadian franchise. It maintained the “real-world” focus while updating it for the social media generation.

• Why it’s a must-watch: It tackles issues like gender identity, racism, and cyberbullying with a high level of responsibility.
• Best Character: Lola Pacini.

54. My Mad Fat Diary (2013–2015)

Set in the 90s, it follows 16-year-old Rae Earl as she leaves a psychiatric hospital and tries to reconnect with her friends while dealing with body image issues.

• Why it’s a must-watch: It is one of the most honest and compassionate portrayals of mental health and body image ever put on screen.
• Best Character: Rae Earl.

55. The End of the F***ing World (2017–2019)

A dark comedy-drama about a self-proclaimed psychopath and a rebellious girl who go on a road trip to find her father.

• Why it’s a must-watch: It’s short, punchy, and surprisingly touching. The deadpan humor is incredible.
• Best Character: James.

56. Genera+ion (2021)

A diverse, vibrant look at a group of high school students in Orange County exploring their sexuality and identity.

• Why it’s a must-watch: It’s a very “Gen Z” show—fluid, colorful, and unapologetically queer.
• Best Character: Chester.

57. Grand Army (2020)

Set in a large public high school in Brooklyn, it follows five students as they struggle with sexual assault, racism, and poverty.

• Why it’s a must-watch: It feels grounded and avoids the usual “glossy” teen tropes. It’s a hard but necessary watch.
• Best Character: Dominique Pierre.

58. Glue (2014)

A British “rural noir” about a group of teenagers in a farming community whose lives are torn apart by the murder of one of their friends.

• Why it’s a must-watch: It offers a unique look at rural teenage life, far removed from the cities.
• Best Character: Tina Fallon.

59. Misfits (2009–2013)

A group of young offenders doing community service gain superpowers after a freak electrical storm.

• Why it’s a must-watch: While it has powers, the characters are incredibly realistic, foul-mouthed, and hilarious. It’s a subversion of the superhero genre.
• Best Character: Nathan Young (One of the funniest characters in TV history).

60. Sugar Rush (2005–2006)

A British series about a teenage girl who is hopelessly in love with her best friend, Sugar.

• Why it’s a must-watch: It’s a pioneering piece of LGBTQ+ teen television—energetic, stylish, and heartbreaking.
• Best Character: Kim.

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Next: Part 7 - Coming-of-Age Dramedies: Heart & Humor