The article highlights HBO series whose first seasons were uneven or primarily devoted to establishing their worlds, but which became stronger as their characters and storylines developed. It argues these underappreciated shows eventually became compelling sleeper hits across crime, period drama, comedy and other genres.

– *Banshee* grew from a clunky, shock-heavy opening into a four-season cult crime drama.
– *The Deuce* became more character-focused after Season 1, particularly through its female characters, and concluded strongly in Season 3.
– *Silicon Valley* reached its peak in Seasons 2 and 3, despite later becoming more formulaic.