If you’re a fan of the dark crime drama genre like Fargo, you’re in for a treat. Below is a list of 19 TV shows that capture the same thrilling essence, gripping storytelling, and complex characters. Dive into these shows to satisfy your craving for suspense and mystery.
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1. True Detective
True Detective is an anthology crime drama series that delves into different investigations each season, often featuring enigmatic detectives and sinister crimes. The show stars heavyweights like Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson in its first season.
2. Breaking Bad
Breaking Bad follows the transformation of a high school chemistry teacher, Walter White, into a ruthless methamphetamine manufacturer. Starring Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul, this show is a masterclass in storytelling and character development.
3. Mindhunter
In Mindhunter, FBI agents delve into the psychology of serial killers to understand and catch them. Starring Jonathan Groff and Holt McCallany, this series offers a chilling look into criminal minds.
4. Ozark
Ozark centers on a financial planner who relocates his family to the Ozarks after a money-laundering scheme goes wrong. Featuring Jason Bateman and Laura Linney, the show is a tense, atmospheric thriller.
5. Narcos
Narcos chronicles the rise and fall of the infamous drug kingpin Pablo Escobar and the MedellÃn cartel. Starring Wagner Moura and Pedro Pascal, it provides a gritty look at the drug trade.
6. The Americans
The Americans is a spy thriller about two Soviet KGB officers posing as an American married couple during the Cold War. With Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys in lead roles, it’s a high-stakes drama filled with espionage and intrigue.
7. Better Call Saul
A prequel to Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul explores the transformation of Jimmy McGill into the morally challenged lawyer, Saul Goodman. Starring Bob Odenkirk, the series is both a character study and a legal drama.
8. The Sinner
The Sinner is an anthology series that starts with a seemingly ordinary person committing a shocking crime, then unravels the reasons behind it. Featuring Jessica Biel and Bill Pullman, it’s a psychological thriller that keeps you guessing.
9. Broadchurch
Broadchurch is a British crime drama that follows detectives investigating the murder of a young boy in a small town. David Tennant and Olivia Colman lead a stellar cast in this emotionally charged series.
10. The Killing
The Killing revolves around the investigation of a young girl’s murder and its impact on the community. Starring Mireille Enos and Joel Kinnaman, it’s a slow-burn mystery with deep character exploration.
11. Hannibal
Hannibal explores the relationship between FBI special investigator Will Graham and Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a forensic psychiatrist and cannibalistic serial killer. With Mads Mikkelsen and Hugh Dancy, it’s a visually stunning and psychologically complex series.
12. Twin Peaks
Twin Peaks is a cult classic that follows an FBI agent investigating the murder of a young woman in a small town. Created by David Lynch and starring Kyle MacLachlan, it’s a surreal and enigmatic series.
13. The Night Of
The Night Of is a limited series that examines the criminal justice system through the eyes of a young man accused of murder. Starring Riz Ahmed and John Turturro, it’s a gripping and thought-provoking drama.
14. Peaky Blinders
Peaky Blinders follows the Shelby crime family in post-World War I Birmingham, England. With Cillian Murphy and Tom Hardy, the show combines historical drama with crime and action.
15. Luther
Luther is a British series about a brilliant but troubled detective who tackles heinous crimes while battling his own demons. Starring Idris Elba, it’s a gritty and intense crime drama.
16. True Blood
True Blood is a supernatural drama set in a world where vampires have come out of the coffin and live among humans. Starring Anna Paquin and Stephen Moyer, it’s a mix of horror, romance, and mystery.
17. Ray Donovan
Ray Donovan centers on a professional fixer for the rich and famous in Los Angeles, who can make anyone’s problems disappear except his own. Starring Liev Schreiber and Jon Voight, it’s a dark and compelling drama.
18. Justified
Justified follows U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens as he enforces his own brand of justice in his hometown in Kentucky. Starring Timothy Olyphant, it’s a modern Western with sharp dialogue and complex characters.
19. The Wire
The Wire is a groundbreaking series that examines the various facets of Baltimore, from the drug trade to the school system. With an ensemble cast including Dominic West and Idris Elba, it’s a realistic and profound social commentary.
Each of these shows offers a unique take on the crime drama genre, ensuring you’ll find plenty to enjoy if you loved Fargo. Happy watching!