10 Underrated Winona Ryder TV Shows Everyone Should Watch Again

Winona Ryder is more than just a Hollywood icon of the '90s—she’s delivered mesmerizing performances beyond her iconic roles in Heathers or Beauty and the Beast. While her films often steal the spotlight, her TV work remains underappreciated by many. Whether she’s floating through quirky dramas or delivering chilling performances in genre-bending series, Winona’s TV library is packed with hidden gems. If you’ve missed these underrated shows, it’s time to revisit them—they’re clever, poignant, and a testament to her incredible range.

Here’s a guide to 10 Winona Ryder TV shows that deserve a second (and third!) chance.

Understanding the Context


1. R万亭奇遇记 (U.S. Title: The Forgotten Room) – Mr. Robot

While not strictly centered on Winona, Mr. Robot features a standout, haunting performance by Winona in the emotional episode “The Forgotten Room,” where she portrays a mysterious tenant whose presence amplifies the show’s themes of alienation and psychological disorientation. This indirect but unforgettable appearance adds depth to the series’ exploration of identity and control.


Key Insights

2. STEM (2016) – Winona Ryder in a Multipart Web Series

Produced with quirky indie flair, STEM is a short-lived but entertaining series starring Winona as a high school science teacher embracing unconventional teaching methods. Blending educational satire with character-driven storytelling, Winona’s Warm, nurturing but fiercely quirky protagonist makes each hour of STEM a delightful watch—perfect for rediscovering her underplayed talent in lighter, gender-fluid narratives.


3. Family Business (2020–2022) – Winona Ryder as Hannah Shaw

In this darkly comedic mystical thriller, Winona stars as Hannah, the reticent caretaker of a family-run occult shop haunted by supernatural secrets. Playing a pragmatic yet intuitive woman caught between earthly responsibilities and otherworldly forces, Winona delivers a restrained yet deeply expressive performance that elevates the show’s eerie atmosphere and thematic depth.

Final Thoughts


4. Suspicion (2023) – Winona Ryder’s Mini-Series Spa Visit

Blending psychological intrigue with subtle humor, Suspicion sees Winona take on a layered role as a seasoned journalist investigating a mysterious clinic offering experimental memory treatments. With sharp writing and precision acting, Winona navigates the line between skepticism and vulnerability, making each episode a gripping examination of identity, memory, and trust.


5. Beetlejuice (TV Movie, 2023) – Voice & Brief Appearance

While best known for Tim Burton’s cult classic, the upcoming Beetlejuice TV series features Winona Ryder in a critically acclaimed voice role and subtle cameo, channeling the spectral humor and eccentric charm of the original. Her presence alone breathes new life into this vibrant universe, appealing to longtime fans and newcomers alike.


6. Dopey Hollow (2011–2012)

Winona’s role as the enigmatic librarian in this atmospheric mystery series might feel niche, but it’s a masterclass in understated drama. Her grounded yet mysterious portrayal anchors the small-town thriller with quiet intensity, offering a stark contrast to flashier performances and showcasing her ability to carry emotionally layered agency.