Updated September 10, 2023 4.8K votes 1.1K voters 54.3K views
Over 1.1K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best Current Shows That Are Darker Than Night
Voting Rules
Vote up the best scripted television shows currently airing new episodes that keep the tone dark, whether they're drama, horror or another heavy genre.
Some television viewers enjoy diving into the dark underbelly of society or the human psyche. There are plenty of horror programs that will air this year that present a supernatural threat that endangers the characters in terrifying ways. Some dark shows instead depict that the biggest monster of all is... man. If these types of shows pique your interest, then you will be pleased to hear that there are plenty of shows with dark themes that will air in the coming year.
Each season of American Horror Story deals with a new set of characters dealing with horrifying monstrosities. There may not be any ghosts or ghouls in True Detective, but that does not stop the characters from having to contend with the darkest aspects of society. Who needs a monster with fangs lurking around the corner when you can see how the world really works when people give in to their base instincts.
These are some of the best series with dark themes you will get new episodes for in the near future. You can vote on which shows are the best and vote down on the shows that are just too dark for your liking. Give in to your dark side with this list.
Mindhunter, the thrilling crime drama series, delves into the labyrinthine minds of serial killers, drawing inspiration from twisting tales of true crime. Showcased against the backdrop of the late 1970s, this gripping show revolves around FBI agents Holden Ford and Bill Tench, played by the talented duo, Jonathan Groff and Holt McCallany. In this captivating saga, the duo employs pioneering tactics, exploring criminal psychology and profiling as they investigate the darkest of minds, giving viewers a chilling look at the underbelly of human nature. This unforgettable series, with its attention to detail and in-depth exploration of complex human behavior, has resonated deeply with its audience making it a bone-chilling experience hard to shake.
Actors: Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, Anna Torv, Joe Tuttle, Stacey Roca
The critically-acclaimed anthology series, Black Mirror, takes its viewers on a riveting journey into the murky depths of humanity's techno-dystopian present and future. Each episode acts as a stand-alone tale, etching thought-provoking cautionary stories set amidst a society where technological advancements far outpace our understanding of their consequences. Created by the witty and insightful Charlie Brooker, the show boasts a remarkable roster of talented actors like Bryce Dallas Howard and Jon Hamm, breathing life into the twisted tales that explore topics such as social media addiction, corporate espionage, and the unnerving repercussions of artificial intelligence. Black Mirror's dark themes and biting satirical commentary will remain relevant and poignant as our technocratic world continues to unfold.
Actors: Daniel Kaluuya, Toby Kebbell, Rory Kinnear
A spine-chilling tour of trauma, loss, and guilt, The Haunting of Hill House serves as a harrowing yet touching exploration of a family's haunted past. The interwoven narratives between the Crain siblings and their parents, masterfully unfolded by creator Mike Flanagan, provide an emotional depth seldom seen in the horror genre. This impeccable ensemble cast, including Victoria Pedretti, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, and Elizabeth Reaser, transports viewers to the edge of their seats as they battle ghosts both literal and figurative. With its palpable atmosphere and heart-wrenching scenes, The Haunting of Hill House stands as a horrific masterpiece that will continue to haunt audiences for years to come.
Actors: Michiel Huisman, Carla Gugino, Timothy Hutton, Elizabeth Reaser, Oliver Jackson-Cohen
HBO's critically-acclaimed neo-noir crime anthology series, True Detective, thrusts its audience into the intricate understanding of time, culture, and the depths of human depravity. Boasting a powerhouse cast in each season – from Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson to Mahershala Ali and Stephen Dorff – the series masterfully portrays raw characters and morally grey situations. Creator Nic Pizzolatto's knack for unraveling complex narratives and excavating the darker dimensions of the human soul truly sets this series apart. Flitting between different timelines and interweaving characters' inner struggles with external conflict, True Detective keeps viewers riveted, leaving indelible imprints that resonate long after the credits roll.
Actors: Mahershala Ali, Stephen Dorff, Carmen Ejogo, Josh Hopkins, Scoot McNairy
Plunging into the seedy underbelly of post-World War I Birmingham, Peaky Blinders showcases the ruthless exploits of the Shelby crime family, led by the cunning and charismatic Tommy Shelby, portrayed by the magnetizing Cillian Murphy. Expounding on the vicissitudes of family loyalty and power dynamics, creator Steven Knight deftly weaves together elements of historical fiction, crime drama, and gripping storytelling with pitch-perfect performances from the ensemble, including the likes of Helen McCrory and Tom Hardy. This gritty yet visually stunning series captivates viewers with its complex characters, nuanced dialogue, and brutal depictions of violence, making it a prominent presence on the global television stage.
Actors: Cillian Murphy, Natasha O'Keeffe, Paul Anderson, Sophie Rundle, Finn Cole
Nestled within the snow-covered landscapes of Minnesota, Fargo unleashes a dark narrative filled with crime, corruption, and ominous humor. This anthology series, inspired by the Coen Brothers' film of the same name, skillfully integrates enigmatic plotlines with a remarkable cast, encompassing the talents of actors such as Billy Bob Thornton, Kirsten Dunst, and Ewan McGregor. Series creator Noah Hawley meticulously adds a dash of the absurd to the grim reality of Midwest life, seamlessly bringing together the topsy-turvy world of Fargo. Both endearing and thrilling, Fargo’s macabre wit and labyrinthine storytelling cements its reputation as a small-screen juggernaut.
Actors: Juno Temple, Jon Hamm, Jennifer Jason Leigh, David Rysdahl, Joe Keery