Whether it’s a murder investigation or a murderer-in-the-making, there’s nothing like a suspenseful TV series to get your blood pumping. This list of the top 10 best thriller TV shows has you covered, featuring suspenseful dramas and intense murder mystery shows that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
From classic crime dramas to the best new suspense series, this list has the most popular shows available today. From Law & Order: Special Victims Unit to Dark Winds, these thrilling series deliver unforgettable twists and turns that keep viewers guessing. Be sure to keep an eye on this list for the latest updates—you won’t want to miss out.
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Watch Guide Methodology: Using proprietary viewership data, DIRECTV Insider curates lists of the most popular TV shows and movies being watched by real people, in real time, to help you pick the best trending content to watch across networks. Our rolling data collection also allows readers to see how a trending show’s ranking has changed week over week.
TOP 10 SUSPENSE SHOWS TO WATCH
Let’s get started. Here are the trending suspense shows that TV-watchers are enjoying right now, with all the information you need to check them out for yourself.
1. ‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’
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Law & Order: Special Victims Unit pits the justice system against the most heinous of crimes. Led by seasoned detectives like Olivia Benson, the series brings viewers into the high-intensity world of the New York City Police Department’s Special Victims Unit.
With intense storylines and compelling performances, it powerfully illuminates relevant social issues within the framework of an emotionally captivating crime drama.
2. ‘Chicago P.D.’
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Chicago P.D., along with its sister shows Chicago Fire and Chicago Med, provide audiences with a gritty and captivating look into the lives of those working in District 21 of the Chicago Police Department. From Emmy award-winning producer, Dick Wolf, this police procedural delivers not only high stakes action but also emotional depth, making it a must-watch for drama lovers young and old.
3. ‘Criminal Minds’
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Enter the dark and intense world of FBI profilers with Criminal Minds. Follow special agent Aaron Hotchner and his elite team of experts, known as the Behavioral Analysis Unit, as they delve into the twisted minds of dangerous perpetrators, interrupting violent crime sprees across America.
The training and psychological prowess of these dedicated agents unravel even the most intricate criminal puzzles. The engrossing, high-tension drama that showcases human behavior at its most sinister makes this show a must-watch for all thriller and crime-drama enthusiasts.
4. ‘The Old Man’
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In The Old Man, a retired CIA officer living in seclusion finds his past catching up to him. Navigating through an adrenaline-fueled game of cat and mouse, he must apply his old tricks and tactics once again to evade his dangerous pursuers.
This thrilling drama series interlaces elements of espionage, suspense and secret life dilemmas, showcasing the narrative’s unique take on age and adventure. Experience a riveting blend of secret agent thrills and intense drama as Bridges masters the art of staying alive in The Old Man.
5. ‘Snowpiercer’
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Snowpiercer is a gripping TV series set in a dystopian future where the Earth has become a frozen wasteland. The show takes place aboard a massive, perpetually moving train that circles the globe, carrying the last remnants of humanity. Inside the train, a strict class system divides the passengers, leading to tension, conflict, and rebellion.
With an ensemble cast led by Jennifer Connelly and Daveed Diggs, Snowpiercer delves deep into themes of survival, social inequality, and the human condition. Packed with suspense, drama, and unexpected twists, this series offers a thought-provoking and visually stunning exploration of a world on the brink.
6. ‘Harry Wild’
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Immerse yourself in the exciting world of crime-solving with Harry Wild. This show features Harry, a recently retired literature professor played by Jane Seymour who finds her quiet retirement life peppered with the pulse-pounding thrill of criminal investigation.
With her keen intellect and analytical mind, she becomes an unexpected ally to the police force, solving some of their toughest cases. Following challenging leads and unravelling complex mysteries, Harry Wild is a captivating blend of drama and suspense that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
7. ‘Luna & Sophie’
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Dive into the complex world of Luna and Sophie, two half-sisters who never knew of each other’s existence until fate, and their father’s death, brought them together. Luna, an ambitious detective, and Sophie, a successful restorer, make a unique duo as they unravel mysteries and learn about their shared past.
Engage in the tension between the two strong and fiercely independent women, their personal battles and shared love for justice. This German TV drama full of suspense and familial bonds is an absolute must-watch.
8. ‘Hotel Portofino’
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Step into the picturesque Italian Riviera in the 1920s with the British drama series, Hotel Portofino. The show revolves around the life of Bella Ainsworth, the daughter of a nouveau-riche family, who is tasked to manage Hotel Portofino, filled with British clientele.
Follow the lives of the aristocrats, their staff and the Ainsworth family as they navigate through social changes and cultural clashes with a backdrop of breathtaking European elegance. Hotel Portofino presents a riveting fusion of suspenseful drama, romance and history set in the golden age of travel, a captivating watch for viewers who enjoy period dramas with a luxurious setting.
9. ‘Orphan Black: Echoes’
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Step into the world of Orphan Black: Echoes, the thrilling sequel to the groundbreaking series Orphan Black. This intense drama continues the exploration of cloning and human identity that captivated audiences worldwide.
The series navigates through thrilling mysteries as a new generation of women stands on the brink of a technological breakthrough that impacts their clones and discloses secrets that can either destroy or liberate them. With compelling characters and a gripping storyline, Orphan Black: Echoes uncovers the enigma of personal identity in a high-tech world, promising an edge-of-your-seat viewing experience.
10. ‘Dark Winds’
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Venture into the murky world of Dark Winds, a gritty crime drama set in the 1970s southwest United States’ Navajo County. The series follows Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee, a pair of Navajo police officers as they investigate a mysterious crime spree.
It soon becomes apparent that otherworldly forces are involved, and the two officers battle evil both of this world and of another in their search for the truth. Dark Winds masterfully intertwines Navajo culture, mystic tribal legends and gruesome murder mysteries for an adrenaline-packed adventure.
And there you have it: the top 10 suspense shows to stream at home. Stay tuned for updates to come so you can keep up with the best content available right now.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What are some good suspense series to watch in 2024?
Some of the most popular suspense series in 2024 include 'The Lazarus Project,' 'Snowpiercer,' 'Outer Range,' 'You,' and 'Dexter.'
What are some of the longest running suspense TV shows?
There are many thriller suspense shows that have been on for a decade plus, including Law & Order: SVU, 'Law & Order: Criminal Intent,' 'Criminal Minds,' and 'Blue Bloods.'
Are there any new suspense series being released in 2024?
Fans of suspense series can look out for 'Presumed Innocent,' 'Criminal Minds: Evolution,' 'Hotel Cocaine' and 'American Monster.'
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