The 50+ Best Suspenseful TV Shows, Ranked

Updated October 30, 2023 1.4K votes 236 voters

Over 200 Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Greatest Suspense Series

Latest additions: Wallander, Kaala Paani, The Fall of the House of Usher

Most divisive: Criminal Minds

Of all the many genres represented on television, suspense is easily the most fun to watch. Suspense offers the audience a way to get involved in what's happening on their screens and such shows have a way of pulling you in. Whether you're worried the main character will get away with murder like on Dexter or if the folks from Alexandria will be able to survive whatever horrors are being thrown at them on The Walking Dead, there are plenty of options for fans of suspense TV shows to watch!

Finding the right and most suspenseful TV shows to watch isn't always easy, which is why this list has been put together compiling the very best of the best. Whether your preferences are towards action-thriller series of a suspenseful nature or you prefer more captivating mystery shows, there are some excellent recommendations on this list for you to watch. From top dramas like True Detective to the fun fantasy series Goosebumps, you'll find plenty to try out next.

For more recommendations, browse this list of the best suspense shows and feel free to add any similar series you think are missing!

Ranked by

1
Breaking Bad
Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn
93 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
Dexter
Michael C. Hall, Jennifer Carpenter, C.S. Lee
72 votes
- Premiered: October 1, 2006
A gripping drama with a dark and twisted premise, Dexter revolves around an unassuming blood-spatter analyst who moonlights as a vigilante serial killer. The protagonist, Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall), navigates a double life, satisfying his insatiable thirst for justice while maintaining a facade of normalcy. Set against the backdrop of sun-soaked Miami, this award-winning series expertly blends elements of crime, mystery, and psychological thriller. Dexter's complex relationships with sister Debra (Jennifer Carpenter) and love interest Rita (Julie Benz) add depth and emotion to the narrative, ensuring that viewers remain invested in the characters' fates throughout the show's suspenseful eight-season run.
NEW
#49 needs votes
Kaala Paani
Mona Singh, Ashutosh Gowariker, Amey Wagh
0 votes
- Premiered: October 18, 2023
Individuals with intertwined destinies find themselves in a fight to survive nature's wrath.
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3
The Blacklist
James Spader, Diego Klattenhoff, Hisham Tawfiq
31 votes
- Premiered: September 23, 2013
The Blacklist, a gripping crime thriller series, unfolds as an intriguing dance between criminals and law enforcement agencies. Its compelling narrative boasts a stellar performance by James Spader, who masterfully portrays the enigmatic Raymond "Red" Reddington. With its ever-evolving plotlines and unexpected alliances, the show has garnered multiple award nominations, including two Golden Globe nods for Spader. As viewers delve into the shadowy world of high-profile crime, they witness the complex relationship between Red and Elizabeth Keen (Megan Boone), an FBI profiler. The Blacklist artfully maintains suspense without revealing too much, keeping audiences on the edge of their seats throughout its eight-season run.
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4
Sherlock
Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Andrew Scott
55 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.
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5
Revenge
Emily VanCamp, Madeleine Stowe, Nick Wechsler
27 votes
- Premiered: September 21, 2011
In a seemingly idyllic coastal town, the intricate web of secrets and deception unfolds in this drama-thriller series. Revenge showcases Emily Thorne (Emily VanCamp), a woman with a hidden agenda, seeking retribution for her father's unjust downfall. As she navigates through the complex relationships of the wealthy Grayson family, the audience is taken on a rollercoaster of suspense and emotional turmoil. The show has garnered critical acclaim, receiving multiple nominations at the Teen Choice Awards and a Golden Nymph Award nod. Its clever plot twists and gripping narrative keep viewers enthralled, while exploring themes of loyalty, betrayal, and the blurred lines between good and evil.
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6
True Detective
Mahershala Ali, Stephen Dorff, Carmen Ejogo
54 votes
- Premiered: January 12, 2014
In the realm of crime dramas, few series have managed to capture the essence of human complexity and dark intrigue as effectively as True Detective. This anthology series weaves together intricate narratives across multiple seasons, each boasting a star-studded cast and compelling storylines. With standout performances from the likes of Matthew McConaughey (Rust Cohle) and Woody Harrelson (Marty Hart), the show has earned critical acclaim and numerous accolades, including a Golden Globe for McConaughey's riveting portrayal. Delving into the sinister underbelly of society, True Detective masterfully unravels its mysteries with finesse, leaving viewers eager for more.

Breaking Bad

Dexter

Kaala Paani

The Blacklist

Sherlock

Revenge

True Detective