Thrillers are, by and large, some of the most popular shows in the world. After all, who doesn’t enjoy the delightful suspense, the gut-wrenching fear of what’s going to happen next, and the wonderful feeling of a surprise twist you never saw coming? No wonder Netflix has so many great thriller shows in its catalog. To help you discover the best thriller shows on Netflix, we've assembled this handy list for your browsing convenience.

Looking for more suspenseful content? Check out our list of the best thriller and psychological thriller movies on the platform, the best supernatural thriller shows, or the best shows or movies on Netflix.

Disclaimer: These titles are available on US Netflix.

Editor's note: This article was updated May 2024 to include Evil.

'Evil' (2019 - 2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 96% | IMDb: 7.8/10

A gripping horror drama series created by Robert and Michelle King, Evil is a supernatural procedural blending mystery and psychological intrigue. The show stars Katja Herbers, Mike Colter, and Aasif Mandvi, who portray three individuals from different backgrounds brought together to investigate possible paranormal occurrences for the Catholic Church. Evil has had a great reception from critics and fans alike. The series’ three leads share excellent chemistry, delivering compelling performances that draw viewers further into the world. The show’s eerie, atmospheric cinematography and dark sense of humor elevate the series, and it’s all tied together with smart writing that balances chilling horrors with emotional depth. It’s often been called one of the best shows ever made in its genre. Originally airing on CBS during its first season, Evil found a new home on Paramount+ starting with Season 2.

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'Baby Reindeer' (2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 98% | IMDb: 8.0/10

Based on a true story, Baby Reindeer is a drama-thriller miniseries created by and starring Scottish comedian Richard Gadd, adapted from Gadd's autobiographical one-man show. The seven-episode show follows Gadd's real-life experience of being stalked. The series stars Gadd as Donny and Jessica Gunning as his stalker, Martha. A thrilling partly fictionalized story of real trauma, Baby Reindeer is a complex and brilliantly conceived show that’s received universal acclaim from critics. The show is produced by Clerkenwell Films, who also did Netflix’s The End of the F***ing World, and there is a clear connection between the two in terms of tone. The narrative can be quite painful and messy at times, but it's all underscored by a dark and twisted sense of humor. The fact that these events are based on reality just makes the show feel even more surreal as Donny and Martha’s story escalates and spirals out of control. This is a series that demands to be binged, as each episode will leave you eager for the next.

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'Fatal Seduction' (2023 - Present)

Rotten Tomatoes: 69% | IMDb: 4.9/10

Created by Steven Pillemer, this South African thriller stars Kgomotso Christopher as Nandi, who, whilst on a trip away with her friend, falls into the romantic clutches of a much younger man. However, Nandi is married, and her husband soon finds out, twisting him into a scornful force ready to take revenge — no matter the stakes. In just 15 episodes, Fatal Seduction packs in more twists and turns than a rollercoaster ride, with the central story of love and deception ready to keep you on your toes. Perfect for a binge-watch, this series is just as tense as it is sexy. - Jake Hodges

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'The Fall of the House of Usher' (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes: 90% | IMDb: 7.9/10

One of Netflix’s most successful series of 2023, The Fall of the House of Usher explores the deaths of controversial pharmaceutical company CEO Roderick Usher’s (Bruce Greenwood) children, including playboy gamer Leo (Rahul Kohli) and cunning PR girlboss Camille (Kate Siegel). What unfolds is a conspiracy that goes right to the top, with the CEO of the company heading up a mission to deceive the public. Unfortunately for him, there are supernatural elements — including Carla Gugino’s chilling Verna — he can’t control at play. Put the enigmatic mind of Mike Flanagan and the inspiration of Edgar Allan Poe together, and it is surely a recipe for success, with this series diving deep into the gothic style that finds so much success on our modern screens. Bolstered by an excellent cast, it is Mary McDonnell who steals the show, even winning a Gracie Allen Award for her trouble. - Jake Hodges

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'Who Is Erin Carter?' (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes: 67% | IMDb: 6.5/10

Told over seven gripping episodes, Who Is Erin Carter? follows the titular character, played by Evin Ahmad, as she works as a British teacher in Barcelona, Spain. However, on a seemingly ordinary day, everything changes when she is caught up in a supermarket robbery, and one of the perpetrators claims to recognize her, leading to the quick downward spiraling of her once serene life. Brooding throughout, Who Is Erin Carter? is a masterclass in creating tension, with even the smallest of eye movements suggesting potential danger. The true champion of the series is Evin Ahmad’s lead performance, with her nuanced and flawed portrayal of Erin Carter both relatable and deliciously frustrating. - Jake Hodges

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'Dare Me' (2019 - 2020)

Rotten Tomatoes: 85% | IMDb: 6.7/10

Gone far too soon, the indulgent Dare Me follows Colette French, the new coach of a high school cheerleading team played by Willa Fitzgerald, as she tries to unpick the toxic hierarchy that she inherited upon arrival. With the student/teacher relationship certainly rocky, how will they cope when a terrible crime shakes their foundations? Based on the beloved novel of the same name by Megan Abbott, each of Dare Me’s teenage characters is far from the average high schooler, with some of their morally reprehensible decision-making a refreshing and honest portrayal of the mistakes made during adolescence. Gripping and stylish, Dare Me is one you won’t want to miss. - Jake Hodges

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'You' (2018 - 2024)

Rotten Tomatoes: 92% | IMDb: 7.7/10

This Netflix smash hit follows the life of Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley), whose narrated love for certain women soon unravels into a stalker’s obsession, with the course of true love quickly running blood red. The genius of You lies in the ability of creators Greg Berlanti and Sera Gamble to twist what should be an abhorrent lead character into someone you quietly find sympathy for, with the story ebbing and flowing with constant twists and turns. A success for a reason, You is one of those shows that everyone must watch at least once — even if it is just for the gravel-soaked tones of Badgley’s narration. - Jake Hodges

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'Inside Man' (2022)

Rotten Tomatoes: 67% | IMDb: 6.6/10

From the mind of Doctor Who’s Steven Moffat, Inside Man tells the tale of David Tennant’s reverend, a man for whom the safety of those around him is paramount. However, whilst trying to protect his son from a miscommunicated accusation, he accidentally imprisons a woman, leading to a spiraling of events into chaos that will eventually involve Stanley Tucci’s Grieff, who is incarcerated halfway across the world. Full of shocking moments and the tearing down of wonderfully crafted characters, Inside Man shines thanks to Tennant’s lead performance, although Tucci’s cross between Sherlock and Hannibal Lecter steals any scene he is in. - Jake Hodges

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'The Diplomat' (2023 - Present)

Rotten Tomatoes: 83% | IMDb: 8.0/10

From writer/producer Debora Cahn, The Diplomat follows Keri Russell’s Kate Wyler, a woman for whom her pending promotion was one step too far. Now in a high-profile political position during a particularly hot crisis, her professional life starts to spiral, as does her personal life, with her marriage on the line. Gritty and real, The Diplomat is as addictive as it is indulgent, with the tiniest details of political warfare analyzed with often fascinating insight. Bursting with an ensemble full of intriguing characters, the inter-working of each of their relationships is fascinating enough on its own. However, the stand-out performance comes from Russell’s magnetic portrayal of Wyler, earning her nominations for both a Critics’ Choice Award and a Primetime Emmy. - Jake Hodges

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'The Night Agent' (2023 - Present)

Rotten Tomatoes: 74% | IMDb: 7.5/10

This hard-hitting Netflix series, inspired by Matthew Quirk’s novel, stars Gabriel Basso as the titular Night Agent, a man whose low-level job in the FBI leads to him manning a phone overnight that never rings. However, when one day it finally does, he is thrust into a world of espionage and political fire that would challenge even the hardest of veterans, with a conspiracy leading him right to the top of government. The Night Agent manages to balance both exciting action set-pieces and nuanced drama, with this much more than the violent romp many thought it would be. Whether it’s the neat emotional tension that permeates through each episode or the constant twists ready to keep you on your toes, The Night Agent is like glue for the senses, leaving you happily stuck, unable to turn away. - Jake Hodges

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'Red Rose' (2023)

Rotten Tomatoes: 100% | IMDb: 6.4/10

With its finger on the pulse of modern society, Red Rose tells the story of a group of teenagers who become addicted to the latest trendy app, “Red Rose.” However, this app is much more sinister than people once thought, with the ever-worsening instructions given by the app to the teens not as scary as the consequences threatened should they not complete their demands. The fear of the unknown is rife, especially when it comes to the seemingly endless horrors of the internet and social media. Red Rose manages to neatly tap into this fear, showcasing a gripping story with a penchant for twisted thrills that will likely lead many to switch off their phones straight after watching. - Jake Hodges

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'Pieces of Her' (2022)

Rotten Tomatoes: 51% | IMDb: 6.3/10

Toni Collette stars in Charlotte Stoudt’s Pieces of Her, the story of a mother, played by Collette, whose secret history is suddenly revealed to both the world and her daughter, Andy (Bella Heathcote). With her mother forced to go on the run from her dark past, Andy’s life is shattered into pieces, with her attempt to reassemble leading to many more sinister discoveries. What starts as a tender family drama explodes into life after the ‘mall incident,’ with the sudden shift in tone making for a stark and striking viewing experience. Pieces of Her’s genius is cemented in its story, with Collette and the rest of the ensemble thriving thanks to a set of scripts that will have your eyes magnetized to the screen. Simply put, Pieces of Her is fascinating. - Jake Hodges

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'Designated Survivor' (2016 - 2019)

Rotten Tomatoes: 71% | IMDb: 7.4/10

This political thriller from David Guggenheim stars Keifer Sutherland as Thomas Kirkman, the government’s Secretary of Housing and Urban Development, who is suddenly, following a tragic event, placed in the role of President, a role he was less than prepared for. Now expected to lead the country following one of its most shocking tragedies, how will Kirkman cope with the pressure? Designated Survivor’s clever concept is more than capitalized on with a story that flows from episode to episode with ease, never missing a politically charged beat. An ensnaring series ready to whisk you into a power suit and place you in the middle of a governmental storm, Designated Survivor is sure to keep you hooked. - Jake Hodges

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'The Recruit' (2022 - Present)

Rotten Tomatoes: 68% | IMDb: 7.4/10

Heartthrob Noah Centineo was waiting patiently for his breakout role, with his raw talent finally exposed by The Recruit. The series follows Centineo as Owen Hendricks, a CIA lawyer who, despite only being on his first week on the job, is suddenly thrust into the middle of a government-wide conspiracy that will potentially prove him to be the brightest new agent in the CIA… if all goes well, that is. Full of fire and frenzy, The Recruit speeds along at a powerful pace, whisking along its gripped audience for the ride. Unlike many of its peers, The Recruit thrives thanks to its humorous edge that pierces through the action, with creator Alexi Hawley sprinkling his comedic talents over each episode. - Jake Hodges

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'Keep Breathing' (2022)

Rotten Tomatoes: 53% | IMDb: 5.3/10

Keep Breathing stars Melissa Barrera as Liv, an intelligent city woman who, after a plane crash, faces the Canadian wilderness all on her own. With the odds well and truly stacked against her, just how will she survive? Keep Breathing is a captivating tale that heavily relies on the talents of its lead performer, with Barrera putting in a terrific performance from start to finish. Not only that but each episode is shot with an eye for beauty, making even the most devastating of settings look picture-perfect. Although Liv’s textual survival is unrelatable, the way in which she has to cope with feeling lost emotionally is a painfully true sentiment shared by everyone in the audience. - Jake Hodges

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'Echoes' (2022)

Rotten Tomatoes: 22% | IMDb: 5.9/10

Michelle Monaghan provides a double performance as twins Leni and Gina in Echoes. In a Parent Trap-esque twist on the mystery/thriller genre, the twins have been swapping lives since they were children, meaning that, as adults, their entire private and public lives are shared. However, after one of the twins goes missing, their perfectly woven web of deception starts to unravel at a frightening speed. Never far from a shocking subversion, Echoes has so many twists and turns that describing it as a rollercoaster ride simply wouldn’t do it justice. Beyond its clever narrative and neat direction, it is Monaghan’s lead performance that demands the most credit, with her ability to play both twins with detailed differences nothing short of remarkable. - Jake Hodges

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'The Lincoln Lawyer' (2022 - Present)

Rotten Tomatoes: 85% | IMDb: 7.7/10

A series beloved by millions, The Lincoln Lawyer stars Manuel Garcia-Rulfo as Mickey Haller, a talented lawyer and recovering addict who has been forced to run his law practice from the back of his car. Although he might find his professional life to be a breeze, juggling the role of father and a two-time ex-husband often proves too much for Haller. Featuring a stellar set of ensemble performances from the likes of Garcia-Rulfo, Neve Campbell, and Becki Newton, The Lincoln Lawyer is simply addictive television that never lets up on its promise to keep audiences gripped across its two seasons to date. With a third season on the way, there’s plenty of juicy content and unpredictable cases to sink your teeth into, with the series showing no signs of slowing down. - Jake Hodges

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'Squid Game' (2021 - Present)

Rotten Tomatoes: 95% | IMDb: 8.0/10

In 2021, no series captured the world’s attention quite like Squid Game. The Hunger Games-esque plot is simple: a group of down-on-their-luck individuals are coaxed into joining the titular games in which they must all partake in a selection of children's games on the hunt for victory. The prize? An eye-watering amount of money. But there’s a catch — if you lose, you die. Packed full of twists and turns, Squid Game more than deserved its hype, with a neat tale of class inequality and the exploitation of working people by the elite. Beyond its sobering message, the series is also an enormous amount of fun that grabs the entire spectrum of human emotion and cherry-picks the hardest-hitting ones, with the marble scene, in particular, sure to leave you in tears. - Jake Hodges

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'Archive 81' (2022)

Rotten Tomatoes: 87% | IMDb: 7.3/10

This twisting horror follows film archivist Dan Turner (Mamoudou Athie) as he is invited to restore the videotapes of a filmmaker that had been damaged in a burning blaze. What begins as an average job for Dan soon turns sour when the reassembling of the tapes reveals the shocking truth behind the footage, with the original filmmaker having documented a frightening cult and their practices. Brimming with intrigue and mystery, Archive 81 blends the sci-fi, horror, and thriller genres in order to create a unique viewing experience tonally akin to the viewing experience of the show’s protagonist. Despite a slow start, the series picks up pace until it hits an energetic end that will keep you hooked. - Jake Hodges

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'Outer Banks' (2020 - Present)

Rotten Tomatoes: 72% | IMDb: 7.5/10

This teen drama has been an almighty success for Netflix, thanks in no small part to its gripping, melodramatic story. Narrated by Chase Stokes’ John B, the tale follows the disappearance of his father and, despite the insistence of the community that he is dead, his enlistment of his friends to help solve the mystery and find his dad. Young, fun, and set in gorgeous North Carolina, Outer Banks is packed full of drama ready for fans of teen series to sink their teeth into. Nostalgic and bags of fun, Outer Banks is an escapist series ready and waiting for you to join in on the adventure. - Jake Hodges

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