Best Coming-of-Age Shows From the Past Decade On Hulu & Netflix!

If you’re looking for some fantastic coming-of-age shows to get you through your teens or to relive those awkward years, we’ve got your back. These Netflix and Hulu originals, including Never Have I Ever, Reservation Dogs, I Am Not Okay With This, and more, are sure to entertain!

Never Have I Ever

 

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Mindy Kaling and Lang Fisher created this Netflix original, and it’s as hilarious as you would expect from the two. After a horrible first year of high school, American-Indian Devi is set on boosting her social status. Alongside her two best friends, Fabiola and Eleanor, Devi navigates new romantic relationships and turbulent family issues. Paired with some profound moments that are sure to resonate with anybody, this show is sure to make you laugh, cry, and possibly yell at the screen. If you haven’t already watched the first three seasons, you’ll want to binge them before the show returns next year.

I Am Not Okay With This

A teenager grapples with the difficulties of high school, her sexuality, and developing superpowers in this Netflix original. The show is refreshing, and each actor brings a unique realness to the characters that gets you invested. Relatable to anyone who has struggled to fit in, the show is sweet and keeps you on the edge of your seat. Unfortunately, the series was canceled after one season, and even though we were left with a cliffhanger, it’s well worth the watch.

Reservation Dogs

 

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This Hulu original follows the lives of four indigenous teens growing up in rural Oklahoma, willing to do whatever it takes to make it to California. The series is stellar in its storytelling and acting and does not miss with the music choices. In addition, the show is an outstanding example of the Native experience depicted in Hollywood with an all-Native team of writers, directors, and series regulars. The first two seasons were phenomenal, and we can’t wait for the third.

Looking for Alaska

This eight-episode Hulu original miniseries is the adaptation of the popular John Green novel of the same name. The show flew under the radar for many, but it doesn’t get much better regarding book-to-series adaptations. The series follows a friend group at a boarding school: Alaska, The Colonel, Pudge, and others and their journey of friendship, hardship, and loss. Beautifully shot, well-written, and extremely heavy, this is a coming-of-age you can’t miss.

The End of the F***ing World

In this Netflix original self-proclaimed psychopath, James sets his sights on classmate Alyssa as his first potential murder victim. The series follows the pair as they set out on a road trip to find Alyssa’s father, and James intends to carry out his plans. However, feelings and other complications get in the way of their way. The show is a must-watch if you haven’t already seen it, and the two seasons are incredibly dark, witty, and captivating.

On My Block

 

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This coming of age centers around four teens in a rough Los Angeles neighborhood as they enter high school and their lifelong friendships are tested. The Netflix original tackles love, heartbreak, friendship, gang violence, and the tribulations of growing up. The writing is deeply felt, the performances are incredibly moving, and there are still no shortages of laughs. There are four seasons to binge, and you won’t want to stop watching.

Atypical

Sam, a teenager on the autism spectrum, decides he wants to start dating. His quest for independence causes a shift in the family dynamic, and throughout the series, we see their journeys and character development. Incredibly heartfelt and hilarious, the show feels like a warm hug. Unfortunately, the show has ended, but there are four incredible seasons to watch on Netflix if you’re looking for a touching coming-of-age.

About the Author

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Maya Garibay-Sahm

Maya Garibay-Sahm is a journalism major at the California State University, Dominguez Hills.