The Best Thriller Shows Of 2024, Ranked
It's hard to define what exactly makes a show a thriller. For that reason, the best thriller shows of 2024 include sci-fi office dramas like Severance as well as zombie horror The Last of Us. What they all have in common is that uncanny ability to keep viewers' butts in chairs and eyes glued to the screen as the action unfolds.
This year, Jeff Bridges returns for another season of The Old Man - not to be confused with Slow Horses, which stars Gary Oldman. Meanwhile Lockwood & Co, Netflix's newest supernatural offering, introduces what could be one of TV's new favorite mystery solving groups.
What thriller shows do you think are the best? Vote up your favorites and come back to see more additions!
- Alan Ritchson, Willa Fitzgerald, Malcolm GoodwinIn a compelling adaptation of Lee Child's bestselling novels, the crime drama series Reacher introduces viewers to an enigmatic and resourceful protagonist. Jack Reacher (played by Alan Ritchson) is a former military investigator whose keen intellect and unwavering moral compass guide him through a labyrinth of mysteries and conspiracies. The show masterfully weaves intricate plotlines with gripping action sequences, while exploring themes of justice, loyalty, and redemption. Garnering critical acclaim for its storytelling and character development, Reacher continues to enthrall audiences with its dynamic cast and immersive atmosphere. As the series unfolds, viewers can expect unexpected twists and turns that keep them on the edge of their seats.
- Gary Oldman, Kristin Scott Thomas, Jack LowdenSlow Horses, which debuted on April 1, 2022, is a gritty spy thriller series that follows a team of British intelligence agents who serve in a dumping ground department of MI5 called Slough House, due to their career-ending mistakes. The show features Gary Oldman leading the ensemble as the irascible, washed-up Jackson Lamb, and a supporting cast that includes the talents of Kristin Scott Thomas and Jack Lowden. The series is an adaptation of Mick Herron's acclaimed novels and delves into themes of redemption, espionage, and the darkly comic ineptitude within the world of intelligence. Despite the characters' flaws and foibles, Slow Horses offers sharp writing and compelling intrigue. The show has won critical acclaim for its cynical take on spy conventions and Oldman's masterful performance as the brilliantly sardonic Lamb.
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- NEW#39The Veil
- NEW#36Ripley
- Gabriel Basso, Luciane Buchanan, Hong ChauAn FBI agent is plunged him into a deadly conspiracy involving a mole at the White House.
- Adam Scott, Britt Lower, Patricia ArquetteIn a world where work-life balance takes on a whole new meaning, Severance explores the intriguing concept of surgically separating employees' professional and personal lives. This darkly comedic drama, which has garnered critical acclaim and multiple award nominations, delves into the ethical implications and psychological consequences of such a procedure. Mark Scout (Adam Scott) serves as the protagonist, struggling to navigate his bifurcated existence within the enigmatic Lumon Industries. The talented ensemble cast, including Patricia Arquette and John Turturro, brings depth and nuance to their complex characters, while the show's sharp writing and thought-provoking themes keep viewers thoroughly engaged.
- Idris Elba, Neil Maskell, Eve MylesA corporate negotiator tries to use his skills to save everyone on board a hijacked flight.
- Penn Badgley, Tati Gabrielle, Charlotte RitchieA dangerously charming man falls in love with women and inserts himself into their lives.
- Melanie Lynskey, Juliette Lewis, Christina Ricci
Yellowjackets is slated to return in 2025.
Yellowjackets, a thrilling drama series, unravels the complex tale of a high school girls' soccer team whose plane crash in the wilderness leads to a harrowing fight for survival. With its gripping narrative and compelling performances, including Christina Ricci as Misty Quigley and Juliette Lewis as Natalie Williams, the show has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. The storyline masterfully oscillates between the past and present, unveiling the dark secrets that have haunted the characters for decades. Nominated for numerous awards, Yellowjackets is a riveting exploration of human nature and the lengths people will go to survive. - Jeremy Renner, Hugh Dillon, Taylor HandleyThe McLusky family are power brokers in Kingstown, Mich.
- Jeff Bridges, John Lithgow, Amy BrennemanThe Old Man, a thrilling drama series, showcases the enigmatic life of former intelligence officer Dan Chase (Jeff Bridges), who finds himself targeted by a skilled assassin. Masterfully blending elements of espionage and intrigue, the show dives into the complexities of identity and past secrets. With its stellar cast, including John Lithgow and Amy Brenneman, the series has garnered critical acclaim for its gripping narrative and exceptional performances. As the suspense unfolds, viewers are drawn into a world where nothing is as it seems, leaving them eagerly anticipating each twist and turn. Embodying the essence of a modern-day thriller, The Old Man is a must-watch for fans of the genre.
- Keri Russell, Rufus Sewell, David GyasiA woman juggles her job as an ambassador and her turbulent marriage to a political star.
- Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena GomezIn the labyrinthine corridors of a lavish New York City apartment building, three unlikely neighbors find common ground in their shared obsession with true crime. Only Murders In The Building weaves a darkly comedic mystery as Charles (Steve Martin), Oliver (Martin Short), and Mabel (Selena Gomez) launch their own amateur investigation into a suspicious death within their very walls. As secrets unravel and hidden motives emerge, this Emmy-nominated series deftly balances suspenseful twists with character-driven humor, delivering an engaging whodunit that keeps audiences on their toes. The show's ensemble cast, including notable guest stars, contributes to its undeniable charm and intrigue.
- Sharon Horgan, Anne-Marie Duff, Claes BangBad Sisters, a thrilling drama that debuted in 2022, centers around the complicated and twisted relationship between three estranged sisters who are forced to reunite after their mother's mysterious death. As they navigate through their turbulent pasts, dark secrets begin to unravel - leading to shocking revelations. This suspenseful series examines themes of family dynamics, sisterhood, betrayal, and redemption. Its nuanced portrayal of flawed characters and intricate plot has been lauded by critics and viewers alike.
- Zoe Saldana, Laysla De Oliveira, Michael KellyJoe attempts to balance her personal and professional life as the tip of the CIA's spear.
- Toni Collette, Bella Heathcote, Jessica BardenIn an intriguing exploration of the psychological thriller genre, Pieces Of Her unravels a gripping tale of secrets and self-discovery. With its Emmy-nominated performances and masterful storytelling, the series keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. Laura Oliver (Toni Collette) is a seemingly ordinary woman whose past resurfaces in a whirlwind of chaos, forcing her daughter, Andy (Bella Heathcote), to confront the truth behind her mother's hidden identity. As they navigate through a web of deception and danger, audiences are treated to a complex narrative that skillfully balances tension with moments of genuine emotion. This thought-provoking drama leaves a lasting impression, inviting viewers to reflect on the true nature of family bonds and personal redemption.
- Christoph Waltz, Nat Wolff, Brittany O'GradyThe Consultant is a dark comedy thriller that digs into the sinister dynamics of the corporate world. When a new consultant, Regus Patoff (Christoph Waltz), is hired to improve the business at CompWare after a shocking incident, employees find themselves under his intense and unorthodox guidance. The show reveals themes of power, control, and manipulation as Patoff's invasive tactics begin to affect the staff's professional and personal lives. As tensions rise, the series peels back layers of mystery surrounding Patoff's true intentions and the lengths he will go to achieve his version of company success.
- Ansel Elgort, Ella Rumpf, Hideaki ItoJake Adelstein, an American journalist, descends into the neon underbelly of Tokyo.
- Jessica Raine, Peter Capaldi, Nikesh PatelA woman wakes up every night at exactly 3:33am, in the middle of the so-called devil's hour.
- Noah Centineo, Laura Haddock, Aarti MannA fledgling CIA lawyer gets caught up in a dangerous game of international politics.
- Kento Yamazaki, Tao Tsuchiya, Yuki MorinagaArisu finds himself in an emptied-out version of Tokyo in which he must compete in dangerous games.
- Gugu Mbatha-Raw, Oliver Jackson-Cohen, Stephan JamesSurface, a drama series from 2022, unravels the enigma of the deep sea. The plot revolves around an intriguing new form of marine life discovered by a group of people whose lives become entwined in this mystery. As they deal with their personal struggles, they are also tasked with understanding this unprecedented phenomenon. Themes of discovery, survival, and human curiosity are present throughout the show. Surface has been praised for its exciting narrative and top-notch special effects that keep viewers engrossed episode after episode.
- Josh Brolin, Imogen Poots, Lili TaylorCommunity tensions come to a head when a mysterious black void arrives in the Abbotts' pasture.
- Kaley Cuoco, Chris Messina, Tom BatemanThree strangers capitalize on America's obsession with true crime to make their dreams come true.
- Jennifer Garner, Nikolaj Coster-Waldau, Angourie Rice
The Last Thing He Told Me is slated to return in 2025.
The Last Thing He Told Me, a gripping family mystery drama, depicts a tale of secrets and emotional upheaval, as a woman navigates the disappearance of her husband. When Hannah (Jennifer Garner), receives a mysterious note from her spouse, it sends her on a tumultuous quest for truth. Hannah uncovers layers of deceit within the life she thought she knew, together with her teenage stepdaughter, who is fraught with mistrust. The series is a labyrinth of suspense, testing familial bonds and the lengths one will go to protect loved ones. Garner's performance adds a notable layer of authenticity to this absorbing series. - Kevin Janssens, Ini Massez, Robbie CleirenWhen a man sends his family's empire into debt, his brother returns to pick up the pieces.
- Priyanka Chopra Jonas, Richard Madden, Stanley TucciTwo spies embark on a mission to stop a shadowy syndicate.
- Toni Collette, Auli'i Cravalho, John LeguizamoThe Power is a provocative drama series that imagines a world where teenage girls suddenly possess the ability to electrocute people at will. This seismic shift upends power structures globally, as women of all ages discover they can wield this new ability too, leading to widespread revolutions and a reevaluation of societal norms. The show delves into themes of power dynamics, gender politics, and the corruption that comes with newfound authority. Adapted from Naomi Alderman's novel of the same name, The Power features an ensemble cast including Toni Collette and Auli'i Cravalho, John Leguizamo, and Eddie Marsan. The intriguing narrative and timely commentary on empowerment have positioned it as a standout series in the realm of speculative fiction.
- Sinclair Daniel, Ashleigh Murray, Brittany AdebumolaNella is tired of being the only Black girl at her company, so she is excited when Hazel is hired.
- Gail Mabalane, Brendon Daniels, Hein De VriesA house cleaner searches for her husband as a criminal syndicate drives her to violence.
- Alexander Karim, Cécile De France, Leonie BeneschThe Swarm is a gripping eco-thriller series that premiered in February 2023, plunging audiences into a world where nature strikes back. The plot follows a group of scientists combatting marine life forms launching a coordinated attack against humanity. As the scientists race to understand and counter this unprecedented threat, they uncover unsettling truths about mankind's impact on the environment. The series combines suspense, horror, and science fiction. It dives into themes such as ecological imbalance and the consequences of human exploitation of Earth's resources. The show is based on the best-selling novel by Frank Schätzing.
- Giancarlo Esposito, Paz Vega, Rufus SewellA master thief and his crew attempt an epic heist worth $7 billion.