Top 20 Teen Dramas to Stream Right Now

It’s remarkable to consider that just a few decades ago, the teen drama genre was virtually nonexistent. Since then, it has evolved into a thriving landscape showcasing an array of narratives, from the supernatural to the musical, and packed with mysteries to solve.

If you’re feeling nostalgic, shows like Dawson’s Creek are a go-to. For a gripping mystery, try Yellowjackets. If you’re in the mood to binge something new, read on for our favorite teen dramas available for streaming right now.

Betty (2020–2021)

Based on Crystal Moselle’s film Skate Kitchen, Betty follows a group of Gen Z skater girls in New York City. Carving out their own space in a male-dominated sport, these girls are funny and real, grounded by a cast of up-and-comers. Betty is one of HBO’s hidden gems—funny, touching, and empowering.

Where to watch: Max

Cast: Nina Moran, Dede Lovelace, Kabrina Adams, Ajani Russell, Rachelle Vinberg

Beverly Hills, 90210 (1990–2000)

Created by Darren Star, this iconic teen soap follows a group of friends from high school in Beverly Hills to adulthood. Unafraid to address issues like homophobia, racism, and teen pregnancy, the show catapulted its cast into stardom and spawned multiple spinoffs.

Where to watch: Paramount+

Cast: Jason Priestley, Shannen Doherty, Jennie Garth, Ian Ziering, Gabrielle Carteris, Luke Perry, Brian Austin Green, Douglas Emerson, Tori Spelling

Buffy the Vampire Slayer (1997–2003)

Buffy Summers, portrayed by Sarah Michelle Gellar, balances high school life with her destiny as a vampire slayer. Helped by Xander, Willow, and her Watcher, Giles, Buffy fights various evils. The series combines clever writing with transformative character arcs, remaining an indelible mark on pop culture.

Where to watch: Hulu

Cast: Sarah Michelle Gellar, Nicholas Brendon, Alyson Hannigan, Charisma Carpenter, Anthony Stewart Head, David Boreanaz, Seth Green, James Marsters

Dawson’s Creek (1998–2003)

This coming-of-age series set in Capeside, Mass, explores the lives of Dawson, Joey, Pacey, and Jen. Known for its down-to-earth protagonists and significant moments, including the first male/male kiss on primetime TV, the show remains a staple of teen drama.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

Cast: James Van Der Beek, Katie Holmes, Michelle Williams, Joshua Jackson, Mary-Margaret Humes, John Wesley Shipp

Euphoria (2019–present)

Starring Zendaya as Rue Bennett, this gritty drama delves into the emotional excesses of Gen Z. Covering topics like relationships, identity, and substance abuse, the series has made significant cultural impact, earning Zendaya an Emmy and building stars out of its cast.

Where to watch: Max

Cast: Zendaya, Hunter Schafer, Jacob Elordi, Sydney Sweeney, Alexa Demie, Barbie Ferreira, Angus Cloud, Maude Apatow, Eric Dane, Storm Reid, Colman Domingo

Elite (2018–2024)

This Spanish soap opera follows scholarship students at an elite private school, mixing mystery and melodrama. Elite is perfect for binge-watching with its complex romances and shifting alliances, making it a Netflix hit.

Where to watch: Netflix

Cast: Itzan Escamilla, Mina El Hammani, Miguel Herrán, Miguel Bernardeau, Arón Piper, Omar Ayuso, Claudia Salas, Georgina Amorós, Manu Rios

Glee (2009–2015)

Ryan Murphy’s musical series follows Spanish teacher Will Schuester as he revives a high school glee club. Known for its unusual humor and talented ensemble, Glee remains a distinctive piece of pop culture.

Where to watch: Hulu

Cast: Lea Michele, Cory Monteith, Chris Colfer, Amber Riley, Naya Rivera, Dianna Agron, Kevin McHale, Heather Morris, Jenna Ushkowitz, Matthew Morrison, Jane Lynch

Gossip Girl (2007–2012)

Set in Manhattan’s Upper East Side, the show follows It Girl Serena van der Woodsen and her friends, whose secrets are exposed by an anonymous blogger. Despite its scandalous nature, Gossip Girl remains an iconic teen drama with a lasting legacy.

Where to watch: Max

Cast: Blake Lively, Leighton Meester, Kristen Bell, Penn Badgley, Chace Crawford, Taylor Momsen, Ed Westwick

Heartstopper (2022–present)

Adapted from Alice Oseman’s graphic novels, the series depicts the tender romance between Charlie and Nick. The wholesome love story and diverse cast make it an important representation of LGBTQ+ relationships.

Where to watch: Netflix

Cast: Kit Connor, Joe Locke, William Gao, Yasmin Finney, Corinna Brown, Kizzy Edgell, Tobie Donovan, Rhea Norwood, Olivia Colman

Never Have I Ever (2020–2023)

Created by Mindy Kaling, this series follows Devi Vishwakumar, a high-achieving teen dealing with her father’s death and making questionable choices. The show blends humor with serious themes like mental health and grief.

Where to watch: Netflix

Cast: Maitreyi Ramakrishnan, Poorna Jagannathan, Richa Moorjani, Jaren Lewison, Darren Barnet, Ramona Young, Lee Rodriguez, John McEnroe

The O.C. (2003–2007)

This drama follows Ryan Atwood, a troubled teen adopted into a wealthy family, and his experiences in Newport Beach. The show is known for its indie music soundtrack, cultural impact, and complex family dynamics.

Where to watch: Hulu

Cast: Peter Gallagher, Kelly Rowan, Ben McKenzie, Mischa Barton, Adam Brody, Chris Carmack, Tate Donovan, Melinda Clarke, Rachel Bilson, Alan Dale

Pen15 (2019–2021)

Set in the early 2000s, this comedy-drama follows BFFs Maya and Anna navigating the trials of seventh grade. Created by Maya Erskine and Anna Konkle, the series captures the universal experience of girlhood through a millennial lens.

Where to watch: Hulu

Cast: Maya Erskine, Anna Konkle, Mutsuko Erskine, Richard Karn, Taylor Nichols, Melora Walters, Taj Cross, Dallas Liu

Pretty Little Liars (2010–2017)

After their friend Alison disappears, four high school girls receive mysterious texts from “A” threatening to expose their secrets. The drama and plot twists make it a gripping teen murder mystery.

Where to watch: Max

Cast: Troian Bellisario, Ashley Benson, Shay Mitchell, Lucy Hale, Sasha Pieterse, Janel Parrish, Holly Marie Combs, Ian Harding, Bianca Lawson

Riverdale (2017–2023)

Following classic Archie Comics characters, this series mixes solving mysteries with supernatural elements. Known for its escalating drama and ever-changing plotlines, Riverdale keeps viewers hooked.

Where to watch: Netflix

Cast: KJ Apa, Lili Reinhart, Camila Mendes, Cole Sprouse, Marisol Nichols, Madelaine Petsch, Ashleigh Murray, Mädchen Amick, Luke Perry

Sex Education (2019–2023)

This series follows high schooler Otis, who starts a sex therapy clinic with a rebellious classmate. Mixing humor with serious themes like homophobia and sexual assault, the show is charming and impactful.

Where to watch: Netflix

Cast: Asa Butterfield, Gillian Anderson, Ncuti Gatwa, Emma Mackey, Connor Swindells, Kedar Williams-Stirling, Alistair Petrie, Mimi Keene, Aimee Lou Wood

The Summer I Turned Pretty (2022–present)

Belly Conklin returns to Cousins Beach with a newfound beauty that attracts attention from two brothers. Based on Jenny Han’s novels, the show explores teenage romance with a compelling young cast.

Where to watch: Amazon Prime Video

Cast: Lola Tung, Jackie Chung, Rachel Blanchard, Christopher Briney, Gavin Casalegno, Sean Kaufman, Alfredo Narciso, Minnie Mills

Teen Wolf (2011–2017)

Based on the 1985 film, this series follows Scott McCall, a teen turned werewolf, as he and his friends battle supernatural forces. The show balances humor and drama, launching Dylan O’Brien to fame.

Where to watch: Hulu

Cast: Tyler Posey, Dylan O’Brien, Crystal Reed, Holland Roden, Tyler Hoechlin, Colton Haynes

Veronica Mars (2003–2007; 2019)

After her best friend’s death and her father’s fall from grace, Veronica Mars becomes a high school student by day and private detective by night. The series, known for its smart writing and stellar cast, garnered a passionate fanbase and earned a movie and revival season.

Where to watch: Hulu

Cast: Kristen Bell, Percy Daggs III, Teddy Dunn, Jason Dohring, Sydney Tamiia Poitier, Francis Capra, Enrico Colantoni, Ryan Hansen, Kyle Gallner, Tessa Thompson

Yellowjackets (2021–present)

After a high school soccer team’s plane crashes, the survivors are left to fend for themselves in the wilderness. Nominated for 10 Emmys, the show mixes horror and drama, with perfect teen casting and a compelling mystery.

Where to watch: Paramount+

Cast: Melanie Lynskey, Tawny Cypress, Ella Purnell, Sophie Nélisse, Jasmin Savoy Brown, Sophie Thatcher, Samantha Hanratty, Steven Krueger, Warren Kole, Christina Ricci, Juliette Lewis

Source: EW