If you’re a fan of the gritty, intense drama of Sons of Anarchy, you’re likely on the hunt for more shows that capture the same raw energy and complex storytelling. This genre, filled with crime, drama, and action, offers an array of TV shows that will keep you on the edge of your seat. Here are 19 TV shows like Sons of Anarchy that you’ll definitely want to check out.
1. Breaking Bad
Breaking Bad follows the transformation of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer. Starring Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul, this series delves deep into the consequences of crime and moral ambiguity.
2. Mayans M.C.
Mayans M.C. is a spin-off of Sons of Anarchy that continues the story with the Mayans Motorcycle Club. Starring J.D. Pardo and Clayton Cardenas, this series explores the struggles and conflicts within the biker gang world.
3. The Sopranos
The Sopranos centers on mob boss Tony Soprano as he navigates the challenges of leading a criminal organization while dealing with personal issues. James Gandolfini stars in this critically acclaimed series that blends crime drama with psychological depth.
4. Peaky Blinders
Peaky Blinders is set in post-World War I Birmingham and follows the Shelby crime family. Cillian Murphy stars as Tommy Shelby, the ambitious leader of the gang, in this stylish and intense series.
5. Ozark
Ozark follows financial planner Marty Byrde, played by Jason Bateman, as he relocates his family to the Ozarks to launder money for a drug cartel. Laura Linney co-stars in this dark and gripping drama.
6. The Shield
The Shield is about a corrupt Los Angeles police unit and its leader, Vic Mackey, played by Michael Chiklis. The series explores themes of morality, justice, and the thin line between right and wrong.
7. Boardwalk Empire
Boardwalk Empire is set during Prohibition and follows political figure Enoch “Nucky” Thompson, played by Steve Buscemi, as he controls Atlantic City’s criminal underworld. The series is known for its rich historical detail and complex characters.
8. Justified
Justified stars Timothy Olyphant as U.S. Marshal Raylan Givens, who enforces his own brand of justice in rural Kentucky. The series is praised for its sharp dialogue and compelling characters.
9. Narcos
Narcos chronicles the rise and fall of the infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar, played by Wagner Moura. The series offers a gritty and realistic look at the drug trade and law enforcement’s efforts to combat it.
10. Ray Donovan
Ray Donovan stars Liev Schreiber as a professional “fixer” for the rich and famous in Los Angeles. The series delves into Ray’s complicated family life and his morally ambiguous profession.
11. Hap and Leonard
Hap and Leonard follows two best friends, Hap Collins and Leonard Pine, as they get involved in a series of criminal escapades. James Purefoy and Michael Kenneth Williams star in this darkly comedic drama.
12. Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom centers on a Southern California family involved in criminal activities, led by the matriarch Smurf, played by Ellen Barkin. The series explores family dynamics and loyalty in a high-stakes environment.
13. Banshee
Banshee follows an ex-con who assumes the identity of a murdered sheriff in the small town of Banshee. Antony Starr stars in this action-packed series that combines crime, drama, and martial arts.
14. Power
Power tells the story of James “Ghost” St. Patrick, a nightclub owner leading a double life as a drug kingpin. Omari Hardwick stars in this intense series that explores ambition, betrayal, and the quest for power.
15. Gomorrah
Gomorrah is an Italian series that delves into the inner workings of the Camorra, a powerful Neapolitan crime syndicate. The show is known for its realistic portrayal of organized crime and its complex characters.
16. True Detective
True Detective is an anthology series that explores different crime stories each season. With standout performances by Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, and Mahershala Ali, the series is known for its atmospheric storytelling and intricate plots.
17. Sons of Liberty
Sons of Liberty is a historical miniseries that follows the events leading up to the American Revolution. Starring Ben Barnes and Henry Thomas, the series offers a dramatic retelling of the birth of a nation.
18. Yellowstone
Yellowstone stars Kevin Costner as John Dutton, the patriarch of a powerful ranching family in Montana. The series explores themes of land ownership, family loyalty, and conflict with neighboring entities.
19. The Punisher
The Punisher follows Frank Castle, a vigilante who seeks revenge for the murder of his family. Jon Bernthal stars in this action-packed series that delves into themes of justice and retribution.
