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20 Riveting Crime Dramas Like The Killing

If you’re a fan of crime drama and thrilling mysteries, then you’ve probably enjoyed The Killing. The Killing is a gripping series that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its intricate plot and compelling characters. Here are 20 TV shows like The Killing that will satisfy your craving for suspense and intrigue.

1. Broadchurch

Broadchurch is a British crime drama that follows detectives Alec Hardy (David Tennant) and Ellie Miller (Olivia Colman) as they investigate the murder of a young boy in a small coastal town. The show delves deeply into the lives of the townspeople, revealing secrets and lies along the way.

2. True Detective

True Detective is an anthology series with each season featuring a new cast and storyline. The first season, starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, explores the dark and twisted investigation of a series of murders in Louisiana.

3. Top of the Lake

Top of the Lake follows detective Robin Griffin (Elisabeth Moss) as she investigates the disappearance of a pregnant 12-year-old girl in a remote New Zealand town. The show combines stunning cinematography with a haunting mystery.

4. The Fall

The Fall stars Gillian Anderson as Stella Gibson, a detective superintendent tasked with catching a serial killer in Belfast. Jamie Dornan plays the chilling antagonist, Paul Spector, making for a tense cat-and-mouse game.

5. Mindhunter

Mindhunter is based on true events and follows FBI agents Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany) as they interview imprisoned serial killers to understand their psychology and solve ongoing cases.

6. The Bridge

The Bridge is a Scandinavian crime series that begins with a body found on the border between Sweden and Denmark, prompting a joint investigation by detectives from both countries. Sofia Helin and Kim Bodnia star as the lead investigators.

7. Happy Valley

Happy Valley centers around Catherine Cawood (Sarah Lancashire), a strong-willed police sergeant in a small Yorkshire town, as she deals with personal tragedy and complex criminal cases. The show is known for its intense storytelling and character development.

8. Luther

Luther stars Idris Elba as John Luther, a brilliant but troubled detective who often walks a fine line between right and wrong. The series is known for its dark themes and gripping suspense.

9. Marcella

Marcella follows Marcella Backland (Anna Friel), a former detective who returns to the force to solve a series of murders that seem eerily similar to an unsolved case from her past. The show is filled with twists and turns that keep viewers guessing.

10. The Night Of

The Night Of is a limited series that explores the criminal justice system through the eyes of Nasir Khan (Riz Ahmed), a college student accused of murder. The show delves into themes of innocence, guilt, and the complexities of the legal system.

11. Sharp Objects

Sharp Objects stars Amy Adams as Camille Preaker, a journalist who returns to her hometown to cover the murder of two young girls. As she investigates, she confronts her own traumatic past and the dark secrets of the town.

12. The Sinner

The Sinner is an anthology series where each season focuses on a different crime and the motives behind it. The first season stars Jessica Biel as Cora Tannetti, a woman who commits a shocking act of violence with no apparent motive.

13. Hinterland

Hinterland is a Welsh noir series that follows DCI Tom Mathias (Richard Harrington) as he investigates crimes in the rural landscapes of Wales. The show is known for its atmospheric settings and complex characters.

14. The Missing

The Missing is a British anthology series that follows the emotional and psychological impact of a child’s disappearance on the family and the investigators. James Nesbitt stars in the first season, which is set in France.

15. Bosch

Bosch is based on Michael Connelly’s novels and stars Titus Welliver as Harry Bosch, a relentless LAPD detective who solves complex cases while grappling with his own personal demons. The series offers a gritty look at crime and justice in Los Angeles.

16. The Outsider

The Outsider is based on Stephen King’s novel and stars Ben Mendelsohn as detective Ralph Anderson, who investigates the gruesome murder of a young boy. The show blends crime drama with supernatural elements, creating a unique and eerie narrative.

17. Forbrydelsen (The Killing)

Forbrydelsen (The Killing) is the original Danish series that inspired the American version. It follows detective Sarah Lund (Sofie Gråbøl) as she investigates complex murder cases, combining procedural elements with deep character studies.

18. Collateral

Collateral is a British miniseries starring Carey Mulligan as DI Kip Glaspie, who investigates a seemingly random murder that unravels a web of conspiracy and corruption. The show tackles themes of immigration, politics, and social justice.

19. The Valhalla Murders

The Valhalla Murders is an Icelandic series that follows detective Arnar (Björn Thors) as he returns to his homeland to help solve a series of brutal murders connected to a mysterious photograph. The show is known for its chilling atmosphere and intricate plot.

20. Unbelievable

Unbelievable is based on true events and stars Kaitlyn Dever as Marie Adler, a young woman who is disbelieved after reporting her rape. Detectives Karen Duvall (Merritt Wever) and Grace Rasmussen (Toni Collette) work to uncover the truth and bring justice.

These shows offer a mix of suspense, complex characters, and gripping storylines that are sure to keep you hooked. Happy watching!