The crime drama genre has seen a shift from the formerly straight-laced format into a gritty interpretation in the last decade or so. One of the most popular series here remains Broadchurch, which ended its run after three seasons. Still, fans keep looking for more where this show came from.
There’s no reason to worry, as there are many other options to choose with TV series that have similar themes. Some might feel quite familiar, while others have their own style that will still accommodate viewers. That said, here are 10 shows you should watch if you’re a fan of Broadchurch.
Updated by Saim Cheeda on August 30th 2020: The release of Broadchurch on streaming services like Netflix has increased its reach worldwide, leading to new fans galore. However, shows that carry this theme in a different style are also worth a watch.
Most of these feature storylines that go straight to the point. This makes them instantly captivating, so watching these shows in true binging style is most likely what you’ll be doing right from the get-go. Here are some additional choices for fans to consider.
The ABC Murders (2018)
The legendary detective Hercule Poirot is baited into investigating murders committed by an unknown individual simply known as A.B.C. When the authorities are left baffled over what to do, Poirot must follow clues left by A.B.C to catch the culprit.
Hercule Poirot is perhaps the most well-known detective of all time, and fans of a good, smart thriller need to check this out. Bolstered by performances from big names like John Malkovich and Rupert Grint, the series is sure to pique your interest.
Luther (2010-2019)
A hardened but committed police officer named Luther throws himself completely into his cases. While he does get the job done, the success comes at the price of a piece of his psyche being lost every time he battles a new, more gripping case.
Filled with characters with rich, fleshed-out personalities, Luther is lauded for showcasing the negative impact terrible cases can have on the human mind. It’s not an altogether a pretty sight to see the suffering the main character goes through, but it is an honest depiction.
The Fall (2013-2016)
Police Superintendent Stella Gibson is transferred to Ireland to investigate a case that has been going on for far too long. It soon becomes apparent that a serial killer is on the loose, a dangerous man who targets women, and Stella might be on his radar as well.
One of the more binge-worthy shows out there, The Fall has an interesting dynamic that goes between the protagonist and the villain. The hook of this story is how the main character zeroes in on capturing this killer, and it makes for some riveting material.
Happy Valley (2014-2016)
A grieving police sergeant is distraught in finding out that the man who sexually assaulted her now-deceased daughter is walking free. Fueled with vengeance, her pursuit of the criminal uncovers a larger plot that involves kidnapping another innocent victim.
Going from one plotline to another, Happy Valley is masterful in intertwining these multiple stories. At the lead is a main character whom viewers will instantly take to, and the hope of seeing the antagonist meeting justice will keep anyone invested.
The Sinner (2017-Present)
An aging detective seeks answers from unique cases of violence and delves into the motivations of the guilty party for their role in committing these crimes. Each time, the man realizes there is far more to these homicides than anyone else can see.
If you’re looking for subtler pacing with a rewarding conclusion, then look no further than The Sinner. An anthology series, it features a new case for the main character to solve within each season, and every story brings in a new take on this genre.
The Killing (2011-2014)
The murder of teenager Rosie Larsen brings in two detectives with troubled histories of their own. As the investigation gathers steam, it becomes clear that there’s more than meets the eye to the case, while the secrets of the victim’s family start coming to light.
Before he was playing a member of the Suicide Squad, Joel Kinnaman was paired with Mireille Enos as they lead this series that had the practice of taking its time to deal the twist in the story. Even after the initial angle is resolved, the demons of the characters’ past bring up exciting new plot lines.
Fargo (2014-Present)
In this anthology driven comedy-thriller, characters set in various eras in Minnesota are shown dealing with various mishaps revolving around a unique kind of violence. With a well-meaning cop being hindered repeatedly during their attempt to apprehend the brutal killers, Fargo deconstructs the dangers behind pushing one’s limits.
A fascinating experience awaits those who check out Fargo, as the series has everything from scares, thrills, and especially black comedy. Each season has eccentric characters getting trapped in situations way over their heads, but the show manages to land a surprise each and every time.
Strike (2017-Present)
A self-loathing war veteran acts as a private investigator to make ends meet, but delivers results every time due to his keen skills. After he’s joined by an intrepid assistant, Cormoran Strike finds new life in his career, as confounding cases arrive at his doorstep.
Adapted from JK Rowling’s best-selling book series, Strike goes one further in focusing on the cases at hand, as each story is stretched out to accommodate its variety of characters. For the most part, every episode feels like a feature-film due to the rich style of storytelling, and the whodunit reveal is worth the wait.
The Bridge (2013-2014)
A judge is found killed on a bridge connecting Mexico and the United States. This prompts two detectives from either country to team together and hunt the person behind it. In due course, it becomes clear there is a serial killer on the loose.
The fact that characters from such different backgrounds are put together makes for a fascinating dynamic to behold, as the two also have to deal with their mental health issues along the way. A lot of criminal issues are touched on The Bridge, yet it’s the personal aspect of the characters that is the most intriguing.
Sherlock (2010-2017)
Sherlock Holmes, a brilliant “consulting” detective struggles with his inflated sense of ego until he meets Dr. John Watson, a war veteran. As these two become unlikely friends, they face numerous cases that are far more personal than they might appear.
Considered to be among the finest performances of the leading actors, Sherlock manages to add in separate cases that form part of a larger plot each season. It all ties up beautifully by the end of the storylines, and fans are left dazzled by the incredible characterizations of the protagonists.
Collateral (2018)
On the face of it, the murder of a pizza delivery man seems like the usual homicide, only for the investigation to spiral into interconnected stories. As detective Kip Glaspie comes closer to solving the case, a larger plot is uncovered that she might not be equipped to handle.
Rather than waste time on the usual police-procedural drama, Collateral keeps things short and sweet. It achieves this by having the supporting cast be intriguing characters whom the audience wants to follow. Along with that, the thrilling nature of the series keeps the action at a fast pace.
Deadwater Fell (2020-Present)
A seemingly unspectacular village is hit by a sudden tragedy when the Kendrick family home is burned down. With only the father surviving, and the revelation that all victims were drugged, the investigation unravels further as the Kendricks’ background turns out to be something else entirely.
Another worthy inclusion in David Tennant’s list of credits, Deadwater Fell is both a crime drama and a mystery series that has a fresh angle present within every episode. The main hook for viewers is the context that is supplied at regular intervals, which serves to completely change the perspective behind the events.
The Tunnel (2013-2018)
Detectives from separate countries are paired together due to a bizarre murder case involving the discovery of half a British woman and half a French woman. This puts them on the course to track down a serial killer who sees themselves as a necessary evil to wiggle out the corruption in both countries.
The unorthodox premise itself should be reason enough for viewers to check out The Tunnel, and the mystery behind the killer is a chase that stokes the audience's curiosity right up until the end. With all episodes out, this is one series that deserves a binge-watch.
True Detective (2014-Present)
In this anthology series, each season details crimes committed that have long-lasting impacts. In every story, there’s a vital piece of information missing that the main characters seek to find. However, their personal demons end up causing serious conflicts to the mission.
With a star-studded cast around whichever season you watch, True Detective is never without a quality performance. It also carries heavy themes of loss and the value of life, something that is thought-provoking and a different speed to the usual crime drama formula.
Gracepoint (2014)
In a small town in the US, the death of a boy under mysterious circumstances ropes in the services of Emmett Carver, a detective seeking to escape his haunted past. Paired with local detective Ellie Miller, the two dive into the lives of the town to find out the identity of the killer.
Yes, there actually is an American version of Broadchurch, with David Tennant even playing the lead role here as well. While much of the show is derived from the UK version, the characterizations are much different, and Gracepoint takes a completely different turn by the end of the series. The prospect of seeing Broadchurch from a different lens makes this series a must-watch for fans.