The Creepy-Crawliest Horror TV Shows Ever Made

Updated October 20, 2023 13.5K votes 1.3K voters

Over 1.3K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Creepy-Crawliest Horror TV Shows Ever Made

Voting Rules

Vote up the horror television series that have historically favored creeping horror and creepy scares over jump scares.

Latest additions: Creature, American Horror Story: Delicate, The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon

Most divisive: Kingdom Hospital

When it comes to horror TV shows, they aren't worth much if they don't creep you out just from watching them. On the surface, horror shows are inherently creepy, but not every horror television show is creepier than the next. What makes a horror show creepy has a lot to do with the level of suspense, shock, and outright horror that unfolds on the scene. Where exciting horror series tend to trigger the "fight" side of the fight-or-flight response, creepy horror is all about "flight." Or just hiding.

Anthology series like HBO's Tales from the Crypt did a great job of scaring the crap out of the audience in some episodes, while others were creepy just for the sake of being creepy. On the other side, you have series like Hannibal, which features a villain whose creepiness makes him too scary not to love, so there is a wide range of horror series to choose from when looking for the right kind of creep factor.

Which of these creepy, horror television shows freak you out the most? Vote up your favorites and watch as the creepiest shows rise to the top!

Ranked by

1
The Twilight Zone
Rod Serling, Robert McCord, Jay Overholts
393 votes
- Premiered: October 2, 1959
Venturing into the realm of the unknown, The Twilight Zone presents an anthology series that explores the depths of human imagination and the mysteries of the universe. With each standalone episode, this celebrated classic invites viewers to ponder thought-provoking tales of science fiction, fantasy, and suspense. Boasting multiple Emmy nominations and wins, the show has captured the attention of audiences with its clever storytelling and unforgettable performances, such as William Shatner's portrayal of the tormented Bob Wilson. The Twilight Zone remains a testament to the limitless potential of television as a medium for engaging and stimulating entertainment, leaving viewers both intrigued and inspired.
2
Tales from the Crypt
John Kassir, Kirk Douglas
507 votes
- Premiered: June 10, 1989
Delving into the macabre and spine-chilling, Tales from the Crypt has established itself as an iconic anthology series that has stood the test of time. With each episode narrated by the sinister Crypt Keeper, audiences are treated to a myriad of twisted tales often laced with dark humor. Boasting an impressive roster of guest stars, such as Demi Moore and Tom Hanks, the show has garnered multiple award nominations, including Primetime Emmy Award noms. Encompassing various genres such as horror, thriller, and suspense, Tales from the Crypt leaves viewers on the edge of their seats while exploring the darkest corners of human nature.
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3
The Haunting of Hill House
Michiel Huisman, Carla Gugino, Timothy Hutton
625 votes
- Premiered: October 12, 2018
The Haunting of Hill House, a gripping supernatural drama series, masterfully delves into the complexities of family dynamics and the chilling effects of past traumas. With its intricately woven narrative and superb acting, the show garnered numerous award nominations, including a Saturn Award for Best Streaming Horror & Thriller Series. The Crain family, led by parents Hugh (Henry Thomas) and Olivia (Victoria Pedretti), navigate the harrowing experiences that follow their stay in the notorious Hill House. As the story unfolds, viewers are treated to a rich tapestry of emotional depth and spine-tingling suspense that keeps them guessing until the very end.
4
American Horror Story
Dylan McDermott, Connie Britton, Taissa Farmiga
663 votes
- Premiered: October 5, 2011
Exploring the dark and twisted corners of American culture, this anthology series delves into a variety of spine-chilling tales that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. With each season serving as a self-contained narrative, American Horror Story has garnered numerous accolades, including Golden Globe and Emmy awards. The show's ensemble cast, featuring the likes of Sarah Paulson as Lana Winters and Evan Peters as Tate Langdon, brilliantly brings to life an array of sinister characters and chilling storylines. From haunted houses to twisted carnivals, every installment offers a fresh, eerie perspective on our deepest fears and the macabre aspects of humanity.
5
It
John Ritter, Richard Thomas, Annette O'Toole
516 votes
- Premiered: November 18, 1990
Maine friends struggle with the embodiment of evil.
6
The X-Files
Gillian Anderson, David Duchovny, Mitch Pileggi
489 votes
- Premiered: September 10, 1993
The X-Files, a trailblazing science fiction drama, delves into the unexplained phenomena investigated by FBI agents Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson). With a blend of suspense, intrigue, and occasional humor, the series explores their pursuit of the truth behind extraterrestrial events and government conspiracies. Its compelling narrative and well-developed characters earned The X-Files numerous accolades, including 16 Primetime Emmy Awards. Throughout its 11-season run, the show maintained a loyal fanbase, solidifying its status as a cultural touchstone that continues to captivate audiences and inspire countless other television series in the realm of the paranormal.

The Twilight Zone

Tales from the Crypt

The Haunting of Hill House

American Horror Story

It

The X-Files