If you’re a fan of the crime drama genre, then you’ve probably been captivated by True Detective. This critically acclaimed series has set the bar high with its intricate storytelling and stellar performances. If you’re looking for more shows that capture the same essence, here are 19 TV shows that you should definitely check out.
1. Mindhunter
Mindhunter dives into the early days of criminal psychology and criminal profiling at the FBI. Starring Jonathan Groff and Holt McCallany, this series is based on real events and offers a chilling look into the minds of serial killers.
2. Broadchurch
Set in a small coastal town, Broadchurch follows detectives Alec Hardy (David Tennant) and Ellie Miller (Olivia Colman) as they investigate the murder of a young boy. The show is known for its emotional depth and stunning scenery.
3. The Killing
The Killing centers around the investigation of a young girl’s murder in Seattle. Starring Mireille Enos and Joel Kinnaman, the series is praised for its dark atmosphere and complex characters.
4. Top of the Lake
In Top of the Lake, detective Robin Griffin (Elisabeth Moss) investigates the disappearance of a pregnant 12-year-old girl in New Zealand. The show is a gripping exploration of crime and gender dynamics.
5. True Blood
True Blood is a supernatural drama that, while different in tone, shares the dark and mysterious elements of True Detective. Starring Anna Paquin and Stephen Moyer, it explores the coexistence of vampires and humans in a small town.
6. Hannibal
Hannibal delves into the relationship between FBI special investigator Will Graham (Hugh Dancy) and Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Mads Mikkelsen). The series is known for its psychological depth and visually stunning scenes.
7. The Fall
The Fall follows Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson (Gillian Anderson) as she hunts down a serial killer in Belfast. The show is a tense and unsettling exploration of crime and human psychology.
8. Sherlock
Sherlock brings a modern twist to Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic detective stories. Starring Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman, the series is known for its clever writing and captivating performances.
9. Narcos
Narcos chronicles the rise and fall of the infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar. Starring Wagner Moura and Pedro Pascal, the show offers a gritty look at the drug trade and law enforcement in Colombia.
10. Fargo
Inspired by the Coen Brothers’ film, Fargo presents a series of crime stories set in the Midwest. With a rotating cast including Billy Bob Thornton and Martin Freeman, each season is a darkly comedic and thrilling ride.
11. Twin Peaks
Twin Peaks is a cult classic that follows FBI agent Dale Cooper (Kyle MacLachlan) as he investigates the murder of Laura Palmer. The show is renowned for its surreal and eerie atmosphere.
12. Dexter
Dexter centers on Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall), a forensic expert who leads a double life as a vigilante serial killer. The series is a fascinating blend of crime drama and psychological thriller.
13. The Night Of
The Night Of explores the complexities of a murder case in New York City. Starring Riz Ahmed and John Turturro, the series delves into the criminal justice system and the lives it impacts.
14. Luther
Luther follows Detective Chief Inspector John Luther (Idris Elba) as he tackles some of London’s most heinous crimes. The show is known for its intense storytelling and Elba’s powerful performance.
15. Ozark
Ozark follows financial planner Marty Byrde (Jason Bateman) as he relocates his family to the Ozarks to launder money for a drug cartel. The series is a dark and gripping tale of crime and survival.
16. Ray Donovan
Ray Donovan stars Liev Schreiber as a “fixer” for a powerful law firm, dealing with the seedy underbelly of Los Angeles. The show delves into the complexities of family and morality.
17. True Blood
True Blood is a supernatural drama that, while different in tone, shares the dark and mysterious elements of True Detective. Starring Anna Paquin and Stephen Moyer, it explores the coexistence of vampires and humans in a small town.
18. Bosch
Bosch follows LAPD detective Harry Bosch (Titus Welliver) as he navigates complex murder cases. The series is praised for its realistic portrayal of police work and compelling narrative.
19. Justified
Justified centers on U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens (Timothy Olyphant) as he enforces his own brand of justice in rural Kentucky. The show is a gripping blend of crime drama and modern Western.
