If you’re a fan of the thrilling psychological drama Dexter, you’re probably on the lookout for TV shows that deliver a similar mix of suspense, morally complex characters, and dark yet gripping storytelling. Dexter, with its fascinating portrayal of a forensic expert who moonlights as a vigilante serial killer, set a high bar for crime dramas. Fortunately, there are several TV shows out there that capture the same essence and provide equally thrilling entertainment. Below is a curated list of top TV shows similar to Dexter, sorted by popularity, and where you can watch them online. Let’s dive in!
1. Breaking Bad
Breaking Bad is often hailed as one of the greatest TV shows of all time, and for good reason. Much like Dexter, this series delves deep into the transformation of its protagonist, Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine kingpin. The show explores moral ambiguity, the allure of power, and the devastating consequences of living a double life.
Breaking Bad keeps you on the edge of your seat with its masterful storytelling, complex characters, and relentless tension. If you loved the psychological depth and criminal intrigue in Dexter, this one is a must-watch.
Watch Breaking Bad full TV show online: Netflix
2. Hannibal
Hannibal is an intensely psychological and visually stunning series that explores the relationship between FBI profiler Will Graham and Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a brilliant psychiatrist with a dark secret. The show’s deep dive into the mind of a serial killer and its intricate cat-and-mouse dynamics will remind you of Dexter’s gripping tension.
Hannibal is darker and more artistic than Dexter, with a focus on psychological manipulation and gourmet cannibalism. Mads Mikkelsen’s portrayal of Dr. Lecter is chillingly brilliant and will leave you captivated.
Watch Hannibal full TV show online: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
3. Mindhunter
Mindhunter is based on real-life events and takes a deep dive into the minds of notorious serial killers. The show follows two FBI agents in the Behavioral Science Unit as they develop criminal profiling techniques by interviewing convicted murderers.
If you enjoyed Dexter’s exploration of criminal psychology, you’ll love Mindhunter’s chilling conversations with killers and the show’s tense, slow-burning atmosphere.
Watch Mindhunter full TV show online: Netflix
4. You
You is a contemporary thriller that centers around Joe Goldberg, a charming but obsessive bookstore manager who becomes infatuated with the people he dates. Similar to Dexter, You’s protagonist leads a double life and constantly justifies his morally questionable actions.
With its modern twists and suspenseful narrative, You offers a compelling look at obsession, manipulation, and the darker side of human nature. Fans of Dexter’s inner monologues will find Joe’s thought process eerily familiar.
Watch You full TV show online: Netflix
5. The Blacklist
The Blacklist follows Raymond “Red” Reddington, a brilliant and enigmatic criminal mastermind who turns himself in to the FBI and offers to help them catch other criminals. However, Red has his own hidden motives, much like Dexter’s secret agenda.
The show is packed with twists, intriguing characters, and high-stakes drama, making it a perfect recommendation for fans of morally gray antiheroes.
Watch The Blacklist full TV show online: Netflix, Peacock
6. True Detective
True Detective is an anthology series that features a different story and cast each season, with the first season being especially reminiscent of Dexter. The show explores the darker side of human nature through complex investigations into gruesome crimes.
The gritty atmosphere, compelling characters, and intense storytelling make it an excellent choice for fans of dark crime dramas. The psychological depth and layered mysteries will leave you hooked.
Watch True Detective full TV show online: HBO Max
7. The Fall
The Fall stars Gillian Anderson as Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson, who is tasked with tracking down a chillingly manipulative serial killer played by Jamie Dornan. The show’s slow-burning tension and psychological focus make it similar to Dexter, particularly in its exploration of the predator-prey dynamic.
The Fall is a gripping and unsettling series that will keep you captivated with its nuanced performances and sharp writing.
Watch The Fall full TV show online: Netflix
8. Mr. Robot
While not a crime drama in the traditional sense, Mr. Robot’s portrayal of its protagonist’s double life will resonate with Dexter fans. The series follows Elliot Alderson, a cybersecurity engineer who becomes involved with a hacktivist group while struggling with mental health issues.
Mr. Robot offers a gripping blend of psychological drama, social commentary, and thrilling twists. Its complex characters and morally ambiguous themes make it a standout show.
Watch Mr. Robot full TV show online: Amazon Prime Video
9. Bates Motel
A prequel to Alfred Hitchcock’s classic film Psycho, Bates Motel explores the relationship between Norman Bates and his mother, Norma, as they navigate their complicated lives. The show delves into Norman’s descent into madness and his transformation into the infamous killer.
Fans of Dexter will appreciate the psychological depth and the focus on a character leading a dual life. The eerie atmosphere and suspenseful storytelling make it a binge-worthy choice.
Watch Bates Motel full TV show online: Peacock, Amazon Prime Video
10. Ozark
Ozark follows Marty Byrde, a financial planner who becomes entangled in money laundering for a drug cartel. Much like Dexter, Marty is forced to navigate a dangerous double life while trying to protect his family.
With its high-stakes drama, complex characters, and morally ambiguous decisions, Ozark delivers the kind of gripping storytelling that Dexter fans crave.
Watch Ozark full TV show online: Netflix
Engage with Us!
Which of these shows have you already watched, and which ones are you excited to start? Do you have other recommendations for Dexter fans? Let us know in the comments below! These shows offer plenty of suspense, psychological drama, and edge-of-your-seat thrills to keep you entertained for hours.
Happy binge-watching!
