15 Top TV Shows Adapted from Podcasts, Ranked

Podcasts have become a goldmine for TV, turning audio stories into visual hits with rich narratives and compelling characters. From true crime to fictional mysteries, these shows bring the intimacy of podcast storytelling to the screen with stunning results.

I’ve ranked 15 of the best TV shows based on podcasts, from 15 to 1, each capturing the essence of their audio origins while adding cinematic flair. Here’s my take on the ones that shine brightest.

15. ‘Up and Vanished’ (2018)

Payne Lindsey’s podcast dives into cold cases, starting with Tara Grinstead’s disappearance. The Oxygen series follows Lindsey’s team as they investigate new leads in real time.

The show’s gritty, documentary-style visuals keep you hooked. It’s a raw look at amateur sleuthing, though the TV format sometimes feels less polished than the podcast.

14. ‘Limetown’ (2019)

This fictional podcast about a journalist probing a vanished research facility became a tense Facebook Watch series. Jessica Biel stars as Lia Haddock, unraveling a creepy mystery.

The show’s atmospheric visuals amplify the podcast’s eerie vibe. Though canceled after one season, its haunting tone makes it a hidden gem.

13. ‘The Thing About Pam’ (2022)

Dateline’s podcast explores Pam Hupp’s role in a murder, narrated by Keith Morrison. The NBC series, with Renée Zellweger, adds dark comedy to the true-crime tale.

Zellweger’s exaggerated performance pops on screen, though the show leans more melodramatic than the podcast’s somber tone. It’s a fun, twisty watch.

12. ‘Song Exploder’ (2020)

Hrishikesh Hirway’s podcast has musicians dissect their songs, and the Netflix series visualizes this process. Artists like Alicia Keys break down their creative journeys.

Stunning visuals of studio sessions and vibrant graphics make it engaging. The show captures the podcast’s intimacy while adding a colorful spin.

11. ‘WeCrashed’ (2022)

Wondery’s podcast charts the rise and fall of WeWork’s Adam and Rebekah Neumann. The Apple TV+ series, with Jared Leto and Anne Hathaway, dramatizes their chaotic ambition.

The show’s sleek visuals and bold performances elevate the podcast’s narrative. It’s a glossy look at startup greed with just enough flair.

10. ‘American Sports Story: Aaron Hernandez’ (2024)

This FX series, based on Wondery’s podcast, explores NFL star Aaron Hernandez’s troubled life. Josh Rivera’s raw performance anchors the true-crime drama.

The show’s moody cinematography mirrors the podcast’s intense storytelling. It dives deep into Hernandez’s psyche, making it a gripping adaptation.

9. ‘Comedy Bang! Bang!’ (2012-2016)

Scott Aukerman’s improv comedy podcast became a zany IFC talk show. With guests like Aziz Ansari and Weird Al, it’s a parade of absurd humor.

The show’s wild sets and colorful skits match the podcast’s chaotic energy. Its five-season run proves podcast comedy can thrive on TV.

8. ‘Gaslit’ (2022)

Slate’s Slow Burn podcast reexamines the Watergate scandal, focusing on lesser-known figures like Martha Mitchell. The Starz series, with Julia Roberts, brings her story to life.

The show’s retro visuals and sharp performances amplify the podcast’s depth. Roberts’ fiery Mitchell makes this a standout political drama.

7. ‘Desus & Mero’ (2019-2022)

The Bodega Boys podcast’s witty banter became a Showtime talk show. Desus Nice and The Kid Mero tackle pop culture with charm and humor.

Vibrant studio sets and their natural chemistry shine on screen. The show captures the podcast’s raw energy, though it ended too soon.

6. ‘The Shrink Next Door’ (2021)

Wondery’s podcast uncovers a psychiatrist’s manipulation of his patient. The Apple TV+ series, with Paul Rudd and Will Ferrell, turns it into a dark comedy.

The show’s sleek visuals and nuanced performances add layers to the podcast’s tale. Rudd’s creepy charm makes it a chilling watch.

5. ‘In the Dark’ (2019-2022)

Madeleine Baran’s investigative podcast dives into true crime, like Curtis Flowers’ case. The CBS series follows the podcast’s gritty reporting with a focus on justice.

The show’s raw, documentary-style visuals capture the podcast’s intensity. It’s a compelling look at real-world mysteries, though it leans heavily on the source.

4. ‘The Dropout’ (2022)

Rebecca Jarvis’ podcast dissects Elizabeth Holmes’ Theranos scam. Hulu’s miniseries, with Amanda Seyfried, dramatizes her rise and fall with gripping detail.

Seyfried’s chilling performance and the show’s slick visuals elevate the story. It balances the podcast’s facts with dramatic flair perfectly.

3. ‘Archive 81’ (2022)

This fictional podcast about an archivist uncovering eerie tapes became a Netflix horror series. Mamoudou Athie stars as Dan, digging into a creepy mystery.

The show’s haunting visuals and tense atmosphere amplify the podcast’s chills. Though canceled, its bold style makes it unforgettable.

2. ‘Dirty John’ (2018-2020)

Wondery’s true-crime podcast about conman John Meehan became a Bravo anthology series. Connie Britton and Eric Bana star in the first season’s twisted tale.

The show’s moody cinematography and strong performances match the podcast’s gripping vibe. Its shift to melodrama adds extra suspense.

1. ‘Homecoming’ (2018-2020)

Gimlet’s fictional podcast about a shady veteran rehab facility became an Amazon thriller. Julia Roberts stars in season one, with Janelle Monáe in season two.

The show’s sleek visuals and tight pacing enhance the podcast’s suspense. Its all-star cast and eerie tone make it a top adaptation.

Which podcast-to-TV show hooked you the most, or is there another adaptation I missed? Share your thoughts in the comments!