Since 2010, the thriller genre has undergone a renaissance on television, with streaming platforms and cable networks pushing boundaries and delivering some of the most pulse-pounding, binge-worthy series ever created. Whether it's a slow-burn spy drama, a dark crime saga, or a cleverly comedic murder mystery, these shows have redefined what it means to keep audiences guessing. Here are the best thriller TV shows since 2010, ranked for your viewing pleasure.
6. Only Murders in the Building (2021-Present)
Who says thrillers can't be funny? Only Murders in the Building blends comedy and mystery to perfection, following three true-crime-obsessed neighbors—Charles-Haden Savage (Steve Martin), Oliver Putnam (Martin Short), and Mabel Mora (Selena Gomez)—who live in a posh New York City apartment building called the Arconia. When a suspicious death occurs in their building, they decide to investigate and start their own podcast about it. What follows is a witty, twist-filled whodunit that cleverly satirizes our obsession with true crime while delivering genuine suspense.
The show's charm lies in its multi-generational cast and the chemistry between its leads, who are joined by a parade of A-list guest stars like Meryl Streep, Paul Rudd, and Tina Fey. With its sharp writing and cozy yet thrilling tone, Only Murders in the Building has become a standout in the genre, proving that thrillers can be both heartwarming and edge-of-your-seat entertaining.
5. Ozark (2017-2022)
Many shows have tried to replicate the success of Breaking Bad, but few have succeeded as brilliantly as Ozark. This Netflix crime thriller stars Jason Bateman as Marty Byrde, a financial planner who uproots his family to the Missouri Ozarks after a money-laundering scheme for a Mexican drug cartel goes wrong. Over four seasons, Marty and his wife Wendy (Laura Linney) navigate a treacherous world of local criminals, corrupt politicians, and ruthless drug lords, all while trying to keep their family intact.
Ozark is a masterclass in tension, with its bleak, blue-tinted cinematography and morally complex characters. Julia Garner's portrayal of Ruth Langmore earned her multiple Emmy Awards, and the show's relentless pacing keeps viewers hooked from start to finish. It's a gritty, unflinching look at the cost of survival, and it remains one of Netflix's most acclaimed originals.
4. The Americans (2013-2018)
Widely considered one of the greatest spy thrillers ever made, The Americans subverts the genre with its focus on the emotional and psychological toll of espionage. Set during the Cold War, the series follows Philip and Elizabeth Jennings (Matthew Rhys and Keri Russell), two Soviet KGB officers posing as an American couple in suburban Washington, D.C. As they carry out dangerous missions, they must also navigate their complicated marriage and raise their children, all while living next door to an FBI agent.
The show's brilliance lies in its ability to make every episode feel like a ticking time bomb, blending high-stakes action with intimate character drama. Its final season is widely regarded as one of the best in television history, delivering a conclusion that is both satisfying and emotionally devastating. The Americans is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates slow-burn suspense and exceptional storytelling.
3. Mindhunter (2017-2019)
From David Fincher comes Mindhunter, a psychological thriller that delves into the origins of criminal profiling. Set in the late 1970s, the show follows FBI agents Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany) as they interview incarcerated serial killers to understand their psychology. Their work lays the foundation for modern behavioral science, but it also takes a toll on their own mental health.
Mindhunter is a slow-burn masterpiece, with Fincher's meticulous direction creating an atmosphere of dread and unease. The interviews with real-life killers like Ed Kemper and Charles Manson are chillingly authentic, and the show's exploration of the dark side of human nature is both fascinating and unsettling. Though it was canceled after two seasons, it remains a cult favorite and a benchmark for psychological thrillers.
2. Killing Eve (2018-2022)
Killing Eve is a stylish and addictive cat-and-mouse thriller that follows MI5 officer Eve Polastri (Sandra Oh) and assassin Villanelle (Jodie Comer). The show's premise is simple—Eve is tasked with capturing Villanelle—but its execution is anything but. The two women become obsessed with each other, leading to a dangerous and intoxicating game of wits that blurs the lines between hunter and prey.
The series is known for its sharp writing, dark humor, and unforgettable performances, particularly Comer's portrayal of the psychopathic yet charismatic Villanelle. Killing Eve keeps viewers on edge with its unpredictable twists and turns, and its exploration of obsession and identity makes it more than just a typical spy thriller. It's a wild ride from start to finish.
1. True Detective (2014-Present)
When True Detective premiered in 2014, it changed the television landscape. The anthology series, created by Nic Pizzolatto, features a new cast and storyline each season, but it's the first season that remains the gold standard. Starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson as two Louisiana detectives investigating a bizarre murder over 17 years, the show is a haunting exploration of obsession, morality, and the darkness that lurks beneath the surface.
The show's atmospheric direction, philosophical dialogue, and unforgettable performances made it an instant classic. While subsequent seasons have had their moments, the first season's impact is undeniable. True Detective is a must-watch for anyone who appreciates complex characters and a story that lingers long after the credits roll.
These shows represent the best of what the thriller genre has to offer since 2010. Whether you're in the mood for a gritty crime saga, a psychological mind-bender, or a cleverly comedic mystery, there's something here for everyone. So grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready for a binge-watching session you won't soon forget.
