10 Best Alternative History TV Shows You Must See

Alternate history TV shows pull us into worlds where the past took a different turn. They spark our imagination by asking what could have happened if key moments in history played out differently.

From dystopian nightmares to thrilling reimaginings of real events, these shows blend fact and fiction to create gripping stories. We’ve rounded up ten of the best alternate history series, including ‘Whitechapel’, that deserve a spot on your watchlist.

10. Whitechapel (2009-2013)

‘Whitechapel’ is a British police procedural set in modern London, where detectives tackle crimes that echo historical murders, starting with a copycat Jack the Ripper case. Rupert Penry-Jones leads as DI Joseph Chandler, joined by a team delving into the past to solve present-day horrors.

The show’s gritty atmosphere and ties to real historical crimes make it a unique alternate history spin. Its blend of modern crime drama and Victorian echoes keeps you hooked across four seasons.

9. The Plot Against America (2020)

This HBO series, based on Philip Roth’s novel, imagines a 1940s America where Charles Lindbergh, a Nazi sympathizer, wins the presidency over Franklin D. Roosevelt. The story follows a Jewish family facing growing anti-Semitism and fascism.

Winona Ryder and John Turturro deliver powerful performances in this chilling tale. Its realistic portrayal of a fractured America makes it a gripping cautionary story.

8. Hunters (2020-2023)

Set in 1977 New York, ‘Hunters’ follows a team led by Al Pacino’s Meyer Offerman as they track Nazi war criminals hiding in America, plotting a Fourth Reich. The show blends action, dark humor, and historical reimagining.

Pacino’s rare TV role anchors a diverse cast, though the pacing can waver. It’s a bold, conspiracy-driven series perfect for fans of intense historical twists.

7. Crossbones (2014)

‘Crossbones’ reimagines pirate Blackbeard, played by John Malkovich, surviving his 1718 death to become a political leader in the Bahamas. A British agent hunts him in this swashbuckling drama.

The show’s strength lies in its tense hero-villain dynamic, despite some uneven writing. It’s a fun, short-lived adventure for those who love pirate lore with a historical spin.

6. 11.22.63 (2016)

This Hulu miniseries, based on Stephen King’s novel, follows James Franco as a teacher time-traveling to prevent John F. Kennedy’s 1963 assassination. The 1960s setting is rich with detail, but his mission complicates his new life in the past.

Franco’s emotional performance drives this suspenseful, eight-episode journey. It’s a must-watch for fans of time-travel and historical what-ifs.

5. SS-GB (2017)

This BBC drama envisions a 1941 Britain under Nazi occupation after Germany wins World War II. A British detective navigates a tense, occupied London while uncovering resistance secrets.

Its dark, gritty atmosphere and strong performances make it compelling. The show offers a chilling look at a world where history took a grim turn.

4. For All Mankind (2019-Present)

Apple TV+’s ‘For All Mankind’ imagines the Soviet Union beating the U.S. to the moon in 1969, sparking a prolonged space race. The series highlights women and minorities in NASA’s efforts to catch up.

Joel Kinnaman and Sarah Jones lead a sprawling story across decades, blending sci-fi and drama. It’s a thrilling reimagining of space exploration history.

3. Watchmen (2019)

HBO’s ‘Watchmen’ expands on the graphic novel, set in an alternate America where masked vigilantes are outlawed, and Vietnam is a U.S. state. It tackles racial tensions and political upheaval in a bold world.

Regina King’s commanding performance anchors this visually stunning series. It’s a powerful mix of superhero mythos and historical reimagination.

2. Our Flag Means Death (2022-2023)

This HBO Max comedy reimagines pirates Blackbeard and Stede Bonnet, played by Taika Waititi and Rhys Darby, as unlikely romantic partners sailing the seas. It takes historical figures and spins a lighthearted tale.

The show’s humor and heart make it a standout, despite loose historical ties. It’s a delightful escape for fans of quirky historical twists.

1. Shōgun (2024sent)

FX’s ‘Shōgun’ blends historical figures like John Blackthorne with fictional drama in 1600 Japan. A shipwrecked English sailor gets caught in a power struggle among Japanese lords.

Hiroyuki Sanada and Anna Sawai shine in this visually epic series. Its rich storytelling and cultural depth make it the top alternate history show to watch.

Which alternate history show is your favorite, or did we miss one you love? Share your picks in the comments!