Boardwalk Empire is a captivating crime drama that has left many viewers craving more shows with similar themes. If you’re a fan of the genre, you might be looking for other series that blend historical context with gripping narratives. Here are 17 TV shows that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

1. Peaky Blinders

Set in post-World War I Birmingham, Peaky Blinders follows the Shelby crime family as they navigate the dangerous world of organized crime. Starring Cillian Murphy and Helen McCrory, this series is known for its gritty storytelling and stylish cinematography.

2. The Sopranos

The Sopranos centers around mob boss Tony Soprano, played by James Gandolfini, as he juggles the demands of his crime family and personal life. This iconic series set the standard for modern crime dramas with its complex characters and intricate plots.

3. Breaking Bad

In Breaking Bad, high school chemistry teacher Walter White, portrayed by Bryan Cranston, turns to cooking methamphetamine after a terminal cancer diagnosis. The show explores the transformation of an ordinary man into a ruthless criminal mastermind.

4. Narcos

Narcos chronicles the rise and fall of infamous drug lord Pablo Escobar and the Medellín Cartel. Starring Wagner Moura as Escobar, the series offers a gripping look at the drug trade in Colombia and the efforts to bring down its most powerful kingpin.

5. The Wire

The Wire provides a multi-faceted view of Baltimore’s drug trade, from the perspectives of law enforcement, drug dealers, and residents. With standout performances by Idris Elba and Dominic West, the show is praised for its realistic portrayal of urban life.

6. Mad Men

Set in the 1960s, Mad Men delves into the world of advertising through the eyes of Don Draper, played by Jon Hamm. The series offers a nuanced look at the social and cultural changes of the era, wrapped in a compelling narrative.

7. Deadwood

Deadwood takes place in the lawless town of Deadwood, South Dakota, during the late 1800s. With a cast led by Ian McShane and Timothy Olyphant, the show blends historical events with fictional drama to create a rich, immersive experience.

8. Sons of Anarchy

Sons of Anarchy follows the lives of an outlaw motorcycle club in California. Starring Charlie Hunnam and Katey Sagal, the series explores themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the consequences of a life of crime.

9. Ozark

Ozark centers on financial planner Marty Byrde, played by Jason Bateman, who relocates his family to the Ozarks to launder money for a Mexican cartel. The show is known for its dark tone and complex, morally ambiguous characters.

10. True Detective

Each season of True Detective features a new cast and storyline, with the first season starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson as detectives investigating a series of murders in Louisiana. The show’s anthology format allows for diverse, intricate narratives.

11. Fargo

Inspired by the Coen Brothers’ film, Fargo is an anthology series that weaves dark humor with crime drama. Each season features a new story and cast, including standout performances by Billy Bob Thornton and Martin Freeman.

12. Boardwalk Empire

Set during Prohibition, Boardwalk Empire follows political figure Enoch “Nucky” Thompson, played by Steve Buscemi, as he controls Atlantic City’s criminal underworld. The show masterfully blends historical events with fictional drama.

13. Better Call Saul

A prequel to Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul explores the transformation of Jimmy McGill, portrayed by Bob Odenkirk, into the shady lawyer Saul Goodman. The show delves into the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by its characters.

14. Gomorrah

Gomorrah offers a gritty look at the Neapolitan crime syndicate, the Camorra. The series, featuring Marco D’Amore and Salvatore Esposito, is praised for its realistic portrayal of organized crime in Italy.

15. The Americans

The Americans follows two Soviet KGB officers, played by Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys, posing as an American married couple during the Cold War. The show masterfully blends espionage with domestic drama.

16. Ray Donovan

Ray Donovan stars Liev Schreiber as a “fixer” for the rich and famous in Los Angeles. The series explores the complexities of Ray’s personal and professional life, with standout performances by Jon Voight and Paula Malcomson.

17. Penny Dreadful

Penny Dreadful combines horror with historical drama, bringing together iconic characters like Dr. Frankenstein and Dorian Gray. Starring Eva Green and Josh Hartnett, the show is known for its dark, gothic atmosphere and compelling storytelling.

These TV shows offer a mix of historical settings, complex characters, and gripping narratives that are sure to satisfy any fan of Boardwalk Empire.