The Ultimate Guide to Must-Watch Shows Similar to Mindhunter

Although the series has been officially canceled, there are alternatives for fans of Mindhunter who are disappointed by the absence of its third season. Mindhunter, a Netflix show, is based on real-life events and follows fictional characters who represent individuals from the FBI in the 1970s. These characters were involved in the pioneering work of criminal profiling for serial killers. This fascination extends to modern-day interests in psychology, unsolved cases, and true-crime podcasts. While there is no exact replacement for its unique format, there are a few shows similar to Mindhunter that can help fill the void left by its disappointing conclusion.

After the first two seasons of Mindhunter aired, Netflix decided to indefinitely halt the show. Executive producer David Fincher moved on to other projects, and the cast was released from their contracts. Netflix stated that Fincher could potentially revisit the project in the future. Despite fans' hopes, Fincher later confirmed that there would not be a third season of Mindhunter. Not every show featuring murder mysteries or government agencies can compare to Mindhunter, but there are some that come very close.

15 Killing Eve (2018–2022)

You can watch Killing Eve on Sling TV and BBC America. Unlike true crime shows such as Mindhunter, Killing Eve delves into the minds of its main characters, although it primarily focuses on spycraft instead of serial killers. Eve, played by Sandra Oh, is initially unfulfilled in her desk job at MI5 but her life takes a thrilling turn when she is assigned to bring in the unpredictable assassin Villanelle, portrayed by Jodie Comer, to a secret MI6 task force. As the story unfolds, both women develop an intense obsession with each other.

14 Clickbait (2021)

: Similarly to how Mindhunter warns its agents not to become too friendly with the killers they interrogate, Killing Eve showcases a parallel dynamic. Despite finding themselves on opposite sides as investigator and assassin, Eve and Villanelle are inexplicably drawn to each other, even attempting to kill one another. Through their shared traits, the show suggests that the boundary between killers and those attempting to apprehend them is remarkably thin.

Clickbait

Streamable on Netflix, Clickbait is a compelling limited series comprising only eight episodes. It delves not only into the audience's fascination with mysteries but also explores the influence of social media on their perception. Nowadays, having an online presence plays a significant role in how people engage with pop culture. True-crime podcasts, websites, and Twitter feeds captivate individuals, although some of these sources resort to clickbait tactics merely to attract viewers.

13 Elementary (2012-2019)

Nick Brewer, a seemingly ordinary family man, is abruptly abducted in this extraordinary mystery. His captors deliver a chilling ultimatum: they will only spare his life once a video showcasing his ordeal reaches a staggering 5 million views. Expertly leveraging the insatiable curiosity of their audience, the show's creators effortlessly draw viewers in with every twist and turn. Much like the driven agents in Mindhunter, who seek to comprehend the minds of the individuals they interview, the motivations of each character leave the audience captivated and eager for more.

Elementary

Streaming now on Hulu is Elementary, a contemporary adaptation of the beloved Sherlock Holmes series. The show introduces exciting and innovative alterations to the original storyline, captivating fans of the original books. In this modern rendition, Dr. Watson transforms into Joan, portrayed brilliantly by Lucy Liu. Joan, under the guidance of Sherlock (Jonny Lee Miller), embarks on a journey to master the skills of a consulting detective. Simultaneously, she continues to fulfill her role as a supportive companion on the path to sobriety.

For those who enjoy shows like Mindhunter and are captivated by the unexpected turns in mysteries, or the unveiling of previously undisclosed facts, Elementary is an ideal series to satisfy the void left by Mindhunter's absence. Additionally, with its intricate cases, Elementary offers a slightly quicker pace compared to Mindhunter, making it even more binge-worthy than the slower-paced Netflix series.

12 Only Murders In The Building (2021– Present)

Only Murders in the Building

Only Murders in the Building, a comedy series, can be streamed on Hulu. Starring Martin Short, Steve Martin, and Selena Gomez as apartment building tenants who have an obsession with true-crime stories, they find themselves entangled in one. The upcoming season 3 of Only Murders in the Building will include acclaimed actors Meryl Streep and Paul Rudd, making it one of the most star-studded shows on television.

11 Broadchurch (2013–2017)

The trio resides in the city of Arconia and shares a common interest in the popular murder mystery podcast, All is Not OK in Oklahoma. This podcast perfectly aligns with society's fascination with unsolved criminal cases. When a fellow resident is unexpectedly murdered in their own apartment complex, the three friends join forces to uncover the truth. Initially, they have the idea of documenting their investigation through their own podcast. Although their approach differs from the psychological thriller series, Mindhunter, it shares the same appeal to audiences who are intrigued by understanding the motives and enigma surrounding murder cases. In this instance, the potential audience not only witnesses the crime but becomes actively involved in solving it.

Broadchurch

Content is available for streaming on Prime Video and The Roku Channel.

Unlike other shows similar to Mindhunter, Broadchurch is a police procedural that primarily focuses on one case, rather than introducing a different crime in each episode. However, it is this long-term focus that makes it comparable to Mindhunter. The show follows small-town British detective Ellie Miller (played by Olivia Colman) who is overlooked for a promotion in favor of out-of-town detective Alec Hardy (played by David Tennant). The two are then forced to collaborate on a high-profile case – the death of a young boy. As the episodes of Broadchurch unfold, Ellie and Alec develop a better understanding of each other, while also uncovering the many secrets hidden within the small town.

10 Hannibal (2013–2015)

Hannibal

is available to stream on Hulu

In Hannibal, viewers are engrossed in the enthralling narrative of Will Graham (played by Hugh Dancy) and Hannibal Lecter (played by Mads Mikkelsen), as they delve into the captivating world crafted by Thomas Harris' original novel series. Hannibal, a psychiatrist, and Graham, a brilliant profiler, traverse the fine line between professional detachment and personal involvement.

The core of this tale revolves around the chilling realm of serial killers, where Will and Hannibal employ their exceptional ability to perceive the twisted perspectives of these murderers, comprehend their disturbed motivations, and relentlessly pursue them. The series captivates with its gorgeously macabre visuals and shares a similar atmospheric intensity reminiscent of Mindhunter. Like the acclaimed Netflix show, it offers an immersive experience, allowing viewers to delve into the psyche of these killers and gain insight into the psychology behind their heinous acts.

9 Making A Murderer (2015–2018)

Making a Murderer

is available to stream on Netflix

Content revised:

Making a Murderer is a documentary series on Netflix that delves into the wrongful imprisonment of Steven Avery, who was unjustly accused and incarcerated for almost 20 years. Seeking justice, Avery took legal action against both the county and other individuals involved in his arrest. However, he soon found himself back behind bars for the alleged murder of a young photographer named Teresa Halbach. What makes this show captivating is how it raises doubts about Avery's second arrest and has prompted the public to demand a reopening of the case, shedding light on potential biases in crime research and investigation unlike shows like Mindhunter, which focuses on interviews with real-life serial killers.

8 True Detective (2014– Present)

True Detective

is available to stream on Max

True Detective, an HBO crime anthology series, features different sets of detectives and crimes in each season. Similar to Mindhunter, the show not only focuses on the specific cases but also delves into the lives of the detectives. This is reminiscent of how Bill and Holden's lives are portrayed as subplots within Mindhunter. The overarching plot in True Detective revolves around the cases the detectives are currently investigating, exploring how these crimes impact their personal lives and mental states. Additionally, True Detective boasts a star-studded cast including Mahershala Ali, Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, Alexandra Daddario, and Michelle Monaghan.

7 Conversations With A Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes (2019)

Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes

Content is streaming on Netflix, Max, Discovery Plus, and Tubi TV.

Conversations with a Killer: The Ted Bundy Tapes, another Netflix docuseries, delves into the infamous story of Ted Bundy, one of the most notorious serial killers in the United States. Despite his significance, Bundy's absence from Mindhunter can be attributed to his interviews with the Behavioral Science Unit in 1985. It remains a mystery why he is never mentioned in the series, given that his murders and court case were ongoing during the show's timeline.

6 Criminal Minds (2005– Present)

: Conversations with a Killer offers a captivating accompaniment for fans of shows like Mindhunter, as it skillfully pieces together archived interviews of Bundy during his time on death row.

Criminal Minds

Criminal Minds can be streamed on Paramount Plus, Hulu, and Pluto TV. With over 15 seasons, there is plenty to enjoy. Similar to Mindhunter, this show delves into the crimes and investigations of the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit, while also exploring the personal lives and relationships of the characters. It closely relates to Mindhunter as it primarily focuses on criminal profiling and delves deep into the psychology of the killers that the BAU tracks. The team is even referred to as the "mind hunter" team.

Criminal Minds could have easily served as a follow-up series, showcasing how the modern team has been shaped by the efforts made in comprehending serial killers, mirroring the events of Mindhunter. However, in addition to delving into the minds of these notorious killers, the show also delves into cases involving kidnappings and robberies that transcend state borders, thereby providing the series with the opportunity to explore other avenues of investigation as well.

5 Manhunt (2019-2021)

Manhunt

Content available for streaming on Hoopla, Acorn TV, and Spectrum, this British show comprises two seasons with a total of seven episodes. It delves into the intense manhunt led by Detective Chief Inspector Colin Sutton (played by Martin Clunes) to apprehend the notorious serial killer Levi Bellfield (portrayed by Celyn Jones). Based on a real-life case, the series primarily focuses on Sutton's perspective, similar to shows like Mindhunter, providing an authentic retelling of a chilling true-crime story. While the emphasis lies on tracking down the killer rather than examining their psyche like in Mindhunter, fans of the latter will still find it compelling.

4 The Act (2019)

The Act

is available to stream on Hulu

The Act, a series on Hulu, provides viewers with a similar experience to Mindhunter as it is also based on real events. This true-crime tale delves into the life and murder of Dee Dee Blanchard (played by Patricia Arquette) and her daughter, Gypsy (portrayed by Joey King), who ultimately becomes her killer. The Act vividly illustrates the detrimental effects of Dee Dee's extreme protectiveness, as she suffers from Munchausen syndrome by proxy and adamantly insists that her daughter is plagued with various illnesses.

Dee Dee goes to great lengths to deceive everyone, including Gypsy and medical professionals, by confining her daughter to a wheelchair and misleadingly claiming that she is unable to walk. She fabricates a narrative of Gypsy having cancer and numerous other ailments. However, the dynamic between Gypsy and Dee Dee takes a dark turn when Gypsy begins unraveling the truth behind her mother's lies. While Mindhunter provides insight into the investigators' reactions and recollections of the serial killers, The Act offers a fresh perspective by allowing the audience to view events from the perspective of the killer. It tackles similar themes to Mindhunter but approaches them in a distinctly different manner.

3 Unbelievable (2019)

Unbelievable

is available to stream on Netflix

Unbelievable, a Netflix original true-crime drama, is a gripping story based on real events, albeit with some artistic liberties. The narrative revolves around Marie Adler (played by Kaitlyn Dever), a survivor who endures both a horrific assault by a masked intruder and subsequent mistreatment by the media and detectives who doubted her story. Against all odds, two tenacious female detectives, Grace Rasmussen (Toni Collette) and Karen Duvall (Merritt Wever), delve into the case and follow the evidence to unmask a serial rapist.

Unlike other shows in the genre like Mindhunter, Unbelievable stands apart as it takes a women-centric approach, presenting the story from the perspective of the survivors and the investigating female detectives. This unique angle offers a fresh and compelling viewpoint that all true-crime enthusiasts should definitely explore.

2 Dexter (2006–2013)

Dexter

is available to stream on Fubo TV, Paramount Plus, and Showtime

Dexter: A Dark Tale of Bloodlust and Deception

1 American Crime Story (2016– Present)

Immerse yourself in the chilling world of Dexter Morgan, expertly portrayed by Michael C. Hall, in the mesmerizing crime series, Dexter. As a bloodstain pattern expert lending his expertise to the Miami Metro PD, Dexter's role extends beyond aiding in crime-solving; he himself is a relentless perpetrator. Delve deep into Dexter's psyche as he spirals further into a tangled web of deceit and homicide, mirroring the hauntingly intriguing mindset akin to that of Holden from Mindhunter. Unlike traditional crime dramas, Dexter offers a unique perspective by allowing viewers a chilling glimpse into the fascinating mind of a genuine serial killer, rather than solely focusing on the investigative team's perceptions of the malevolent predator. Even more imminent is the series' triumphant return with Dexter: New Blood, a thrilling new chapter unveiled in 2021.

American Crime Story

American Crime Story, a gripping series on Hulu, brings to life real-life crime stories, captivating viewers with its captivating dramatizations. Created by Ryan Murphy and the talented team behind American Horror Story, this anthology series follows a unique format, with each season delving into a distinct case. Just like its horror counterpart, American Crime Story boasts a remarkable ensemble cast that returns season after season, ensuring an enthralling viewing experience.

The series has depicted well-known cases, such as "The People v. O.J. Simpson" featuring Cuba Gooding Jr. in the lead role, "The Assassination of Gianni Versace" with Darren Criss playing Andrew Cunanan, and "Impeachment" starring Beanie Feldstein as Monica Lewinsky and Clive Owen as Bill Clinton. Similar to Mindhunter, the team strives to accurately cast and portray the actors to resemble their real-life counterparts.