The Best TV Dramas On Netflix To Watch Now

Updated October 27, 2023 15.1K votes 1.7K voters 57.3K views

Over 1.7K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best TV Dramas On Netflix To Watch Now

Voting Rules

Vote up the best drama series currently streaming on Netflix.

Latest additions: Tore, The Fall of the House of Usher, Social Distance

Most divisive: Altered Carbon

Here are the best television drama series streaming now on Netflix. Whether you're looking for courtroom dramas, police procedural shows, or historical dramas, this list of dramatic shows currently on Netflix is regularly updated with new and popular TV series. What are the best TV dramas to watch on Netflix?

One of the best-written TV shows ever, House of Cards is also ranked high on the most popular Netflix original series. Other good TV dramas on Netflix include The Crown, Breaking Bad, The Walking Dead, and Ozark. When Netflix saved Lucifer from cancellation it became another top drama on Netflix.

Check out the best drama shows on Netflix, and vote up the very best.

Ranked by

1
Breaking Bad
Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn
348 votes
- Premiered: January 20, 2008
Breaking Bad, a critically acclaimed drama series, masterfully unravels the story of Walter White (Bryan Cranston), a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer. Alongside his former student, Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul), they navigate the treacherous world of drug production and distribution. The show skillfully balances intense character development with dark humor, contributing to its numerous accolades, including 16 Primetime Emmy Awards. As the narrative progresses, viewers are drawn into the complex moral dilemmas faced by the protagonists, leaving them questioning the limits of their own principles. Breaking Bad's gripping storytelling and unforgettable performances make it a standout in television history.
2
Stranger Things
Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Millie Bobby Brown
351 votes
- Premiered: July 15, 2016
In a small town shrouded in 80s nostalgia, Stranger Things unravels an enigmatic tale of supernatural occurrences and covert government experiments. The series has garnered numerous accolades for its stellar performances by a talented ensemble cast, including the young telekinetic Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) and dedicated police chief Jim Hopper (David Harbour). Seamlessly blending elements of sci-fi, horror, and coming-of-age drama, the show captivates audiences with its engaging storytelling and memorable characters. With each season, viewers are transported to the fictional town of Hawkins, Indiana, where they delve deeper into the mysteries that lie beneath the seemingly ordinary surface.
NEW
#111 needs votes
Django
Matthias Schoenaerts, Nicholas Pinnock, Lisa Vicari
0 votes
- Premiered: February 17, 2023
Dangerous wanted man Django arrives in New Babylon, where all outcasts are welcome.
- #176 of 590
  The 500+ Best TV Shows Of The Last 5 Years
- #140 of 568
  The 500+ Best Current Shows On Netflix
- #63 of 84
  The Best Drama TV Shows Airing Now
3
The Last Kingdom
Alexander Dreymon, Emily Cox, Timothy Innes
187 votes
- Premiered: October 10, 2015
Set against the backdrop of the tumultuous 9th century, The Last Kingdom unravels the gripping narrative of Uhtred (Alexander Dreymon), a Saxon-born warrior who finds himself torn between two worlds. As the series unfolds, viewers are transported through the power struggles and alliances that shaped England's history. With its impeccable storytelling and richly developed characters, this historical drama has garnered critical acclaim and a devoted fanbase. The Last Kingdom continues to enthrall with its potent mix of brutal battles, political intrigue, and personal vendettas, all while staying true to its source material - Bernard Cornwell's best-selling novels.
4
Ozark
Jason Bateman, Laura Linney, Sofia Hublitz
234 votes
- Premiered: July 21, 2017
In the shadowy world of financial crime, Ozark weaves a gripping narrative that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. This critically acclaimed drama series, with multiple Emmy and Golden Globe nominations to its name, follows the perilous journey of Marty Byrde (Jason Bateman) as he navigates the treacherous waters of money laundering for a ruthless drug cartel. Alongside his resourceful wife Wendy (Laura Linney), the couple encounters an array of complex characters and dangerous situations in the seemingly tranquil lakeside town. With its masterful storytelling and captivating performances, Ozark offers a thrilling exploration of morality, family dynamics, and the consequences of one's actions.
- #8 of 85
  The Best Drama TV Shows Airing Now
- #20 of 306
  The Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #9 of 557
  The 500+ Best Drama Shows
5
Sherlock
Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Andrew Scott
187 votes
- Premiered: July 25, 2010
Delving into the intricate world of crime-solving, Sherlock presents a contemporary adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's beloved detective stories. With its clever writing and masterful performances from Benedict Cumberbatch as the enigmatic Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as the loyal Dr. John Watson, this British television series has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase. Amidst its four seasons, the show has earned numerous accolades, including BAFTA and Emmy awards. Each episode unravels a new mystery, keeping viewers on their toes with unexpected twists and turns, all while showcasing the undeniable chemistry between the lead characters.
- What to Watch If You Love 'Sherlock'
- #1 of 251
  The Best BBC One Shows
- #11 of 306
  The Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
6
Peaky Blinders
Cillian Murphy, Natasha O'Keeffe, Paul Anderson
158 votes
- Premiered: September 12, 2013
Set against the gritty backdrop of post-WWI Birmingham, Peaky Blinders is a gripping crime drama that delves into the lives of the Shelby family as they navigate the treacherous underworld. Led by the cunning and enigmatic Thomas Shelby (Cillian Murphy), this notorious gang rises to power through a combination of ruthless ambition and calculated moves. With its intense storytelling and stellar performances, the series has garnered numerous accolades, including BAFTA Television Awards. The show's dark atmosphere and rich historical context make it an enthralling watch, while the complex relationships between characters provide additional layers of intrigue.
- #4 of 85
  The Best Drama TV Shows Airing Now
- #8 of 29
  Current British TV Shows You've Been Missing This Whole Time
- #108 of 116
  The 115+ Best Indie TV Shows, Ranked By Fans

Breaking Bad

Stranger Things

Django

The Last Kingdom

Ozark

Sherlock

Peaky Blinders