Top 35 Mafia and Gangster TV Shows of All Time
Mafia and gangster TV shows pull me into a world where loyalty, power, and betrayal collide in gritty, thrilling stories. These series captivate with their raw look at crime, family ties, and moral dilemmas, making them perfect for anyone who loves intense drama.
Let’s dive into the shadowy underworld of these unforgettable series.
35. ‘Peaky Blinders’ (2013-2022)

Set in post-World War I Birmingham, this British drama follows Tommy Shelby and his family’s crime gang as they rise to power. Cillian Murphy’s chilling performance drives the story of ambition and betrayal.
I was hooked by its stylish visuals and intense family dynamics. It’s a standout for fans of historical crime epics.
34. ‘Corleone’ (2007)

This Italian miniseries traces the life of Salvatore Riina, a ruthless Sicilian mafia boss. Its raw depiction of the Cosa Nostra’s rise is gripping and unsparing.
I found its focus on real-life mob history chilling and authentic. It’s a must-watch for those who crave intense, grounded crime dramas.
33. ‘Gomorrah’ (2014-2021)

Set in Naples, this Italian series dives into the brutal world of the Camorra, following Ciro’s quest for power. Its gritty realism and complex characters pull you in.
I was gripped by its unflinching look at crime’s toll on families. It’s perfect for viewers who love raw, immersive mob stories.
32. ‘Ozark’ (2017-2022)

A financial advisor relocates his family to the Missouri Ozarks to launder money for a drug cartel. Jason Bateman’s transformation from everyman to criminal mastermind is riveting.
I enjoyed its tense pacing and moral dilemmas. It’s a great pick for fans of modern crime thrillers with family at the core.
31. ‘Bad Blood’ (2017-2018)

This Canadian drama chronicles Montreal mob boss Vito Rizzuto’s reign and struggles. Its blend of action and real-life crime history keeps you glued.
I found its portrayal of loyalty and betrayal compelling. It’s ideal for those who enjoy true crime-inspired gangster tales.
30. ‘The Black Donnellys’ (2007)

This short-lived series follows four Irish-American brothers in New York’s Hell’s Kitchen navigating the criminal underworld. Their loyalty to each other drives the story through a mix of revenge and ambition.
Despite its single season, I found the show’s raw energy and focus on brotherhood compelling. It’s a hidden gem for anyone craving a fast-paced gangster tale.
29. ‘Falcone’ (2000)

Centered on an FBI agent infiltrating the Colombo crime family, this show draws from the real-life story of Joseph Pistone, also known as Donnie Brasco. Its intense undercover drama keeps you on edge.
Though it only ran for one season, I enjoyed its authentic feel and gritty portrayal of mafia life. It’s a must-watch for fans of true crime stories.
28. ‘Brotherhood’ (2006-2008)

Set in Providence, Rhode Island, this series tracks two brothers—one a gangster, the other a politician—caught in a web of crime and power. Their clashing worlds create gripping tension.
I was drawn to its focus on family dynamics and moral conflicts. It’s a solid pick for those who like their crime dramas with a personal touch.
27. ‘The Untouchables’ (1959-1963)

This classic follows Prohibition agent Eliot Ness and his team as they battle Al Capone’s Chicago mob. Its black-and-white style adds a nostalgic edge to the action.
I appreciated its historical vibe and straightforward storytelling. It’s a great choice for viewers who enjoy old-school gangster tales.
26. Suburra: Blood on Rome (2017-2020)

Set in Rome, this Italian series explores a power struggle between gangs, politicians, and the Vatican over a lucrative land deal. Its dark, tangled web of crime and corruption is relentless.
I was drawn to its gritty portrayal of Rome’s underworld and complex characters. It’s a top choice for fans of intense, modern mafia dramas.
25. ‘Reprisal’ (2019)

This neo-noir series centers on a woman seeking revenge against a gang that left her for dead. Its stylish visuals and fierce lead make it stand out.
I loved its bold female protagonist and dark, moody tone. It’s perfect for fans of gritty, character-driven crime stories.
24. ‘Mob City’ (2013)

Based on real-life accounts, this show explores the LAPD’s fight against mobsters in 1940s Los Angeles. Its noir aesthetic and historical detail create a cinematic feel.
I enjoyed its authentic take on early mafia power struggles. It’s a great fit for viewers who love period crime dramas.
23. ‘Magic City’ (2012-2013)

Set in 1950s Miami, this series follows a hotel owner tied to a Jewish mob boss. The glamorous backdrop contrasts with its dark criminal underbelly.
I was hooked by its mix of luxury and danger. It’s a compelling watch for those who enjoy stylish, character-focused stories.
22. ‘Your Honor’ (2020-2023)

A New Orleans judge gets entangled with the mob after his son’s involvement in a hit-and-run. The ethical dilemmas and tense pacing keep you glued.
I found its exploration of justice versus family loyalty gripping. It’s ideal for fans of legal dramas with a gangster twist.
21. ‘ZeroZeroZero’ (2020)

This miniseries traces the global cocaine trade, from Mexican cartels to Italian mafias. Its raw, realistic portrayal of crime spans continents.
I was impressed by its unflinching look at the drug world’s brutality. It’s a must-see for those who want a global crime saga.
20. ‘The Deuce’ (2017-2019)

Set in 1970s New York, this show explores the mafia’s control over the sex industry in Times Square. Its character-driven story blends grit and heart.
I enjoyed its deep dive into a seedy yet human world. It’s perfect for viewers who like their crime dramas with social commentary.
19. ‘Lilyhammer’ (2012-2014)

A New York mobster relocates to Norway under witness protection, only to slip back into his old ways. The fish-out-of-water humor adds a fresh spin.
I loved its blend of comedy and crime. It’s a great choice for anyone wanting a lighter take on the gangster genre.
18. ‘McMafia’ (2018)

A London banker gets pulled into his family’s Russian mafia ties, navigating a global criminal network. Its sleek, modern take on crime feels urgent.
I found its international scope and moral complexity engaging. It’s ideal for fans of sophisticated, globe-spanning thrillers.
17. ‘Giri/Haji’ (2019)

This British-Japanese series follows a Tokyo detective searching for his Yakuza-linked brother in London. Its cross-cultural story and slick visuals stand out.
I was captivated by its unique blend of cultures and crime. It’s a top pick for those who enjoy stylish, global dramas.
16. ‘Warrior’ (2019-2023)

Set in 1870s San Francisco, this show dives into the Tong Wars among Chinese gangs. Its martial arts action and historical setting make it unique.
I loved its high-energy fights and rich cultural backdrop. It’s perfect for fans of action-packed crime stories.
15. ‘Mirzapur’ (2018-Present)

This Indian series follows a ruthless mafia don controlling a city’s crime and carpet trade. Its intense power struggles and raw violence grip you.
I was drawn to its bold, unfiltered take on Indian organized crime. It’s a great watch for those seeking something outside the Western lens.
14. ‘Romanzo criminale – La serie’ (2008-2010)

Based on a real Italian gang, this series tracks the rise of the Banda della Magliana in 1970s Rome. Its gritty realism and complex characters shine.
I found its raw depiction of Italy’s underworld compelling. It’s a must for fans of authentic, historical crime dramas.
13. ‘Power’ (2014-2020)

A New York nightclub owner lives a double life as a drug kingpin in this fast-paced drama. The mix of glamour and crime keeps you hooked.
I enjoyed its high-stakes tension and layered characters. It’s ideal for viewers who love urban crime stories with flair.
12. ‘BMF’ (2021-Present)

This series tells the true story of the Black Mafia Family, a Detroit drug empire led by two brothers. Its real-life roots add weight to the drama.
I was gripped by its authentic portrayal of 1980s crime. It’s a strong pick for fans of true crime narratives.
11. ‘Tulsa King’ (2022-Present)

A New York mafia capo, played by Sylvester Stallone, rebuilds his empire in Oklahoma after prison. The fish-out-of-water setup blends humor and grit.
I loved Stallone’s commanding presence and the show’s fresh setting. It’s great for those who enjoy a modern mob twist.
10. ‘MobLand’ (2025-Present)

This series follows the Harrigan crime family, led by a powerful couple, navigating a changing criminal landscape. Its stellar cast, including Tom Hardy, elevates it.
I was hooked by its intense family dynamics and modern mafia take. It’s a top choice for fans of star-driven crime sagas.
9. ‘The Family Business: New Orleans’ (2025-Present)

A spin-off of ‘The Family Business,’ this show dives into a New Orleans crime family’s power struggles. Its vibrant setting and family focus stand out.
I enjoyed its rich cultural backdrop and tense drama. It’s perfect for viewers who love regional crime stories.
8. ‘Interior Chinatown’ (2024-Present)

This unique series blends crime and satire, following a background actor caught in a Chinatown gang war. Its fresh perspective and humor shine.
I found its creative storytelling and social commentary refreshing. It’s a great pick for those wanting a different gangster vibe.
7. ‘Animal Kingdom’ (2016-2022)

A matriarch leads her criminal family in this intense drama about bank heists and power struggles. Its focus on a female boss sets it apart.
I was drawn to its raw family dynamics and high-stakes action. It’s ideal for fans of unconventional crime stories.
6. ‘Narcos’ (2015-2017)

This series chronicles the rise of drug lords like Pablo Escobar and the DEA’s efforts to stop them. Its blend of history and drama is riveting.
I loved its intense pacing and real-life stakes. It’s a must-watch for those who enjoy global crime epics.
5. ‘Godfather of Harlem’ (2019-Present)

Forest Whitaker stars as Bumpy Johnson, a 1960s Harlem gangster reclaiming his turf. Its historical roots and strong cast make it shine.
I was gripped by its authentic portrayal of Harlem’s underworld. It’s perfect for fans of real-life mob stories.
4. ‘Gangs of London’ (2020-Present)

A power struggle erupts in London’s criminal underworld after a mob boss’s murder. Its brutal action and diverse gangs keep you glued.
I found its raw violence and global scope thrilling. It’s a top pick for fans of intense, modern crime dramas.
3. ‘Boardwalk Empire’ (2010-2014)

Steve Buscemi stars as Nucky Thompson, a corrupt politician running Atlantic City’s bootlegging empire. Its historical depth and rich characters captivate.
I loved its vivid Prohibition-era setting and complex storytelling. It’s a must for fans of lavish crime sagas.
2. ‘Sons of Anarchy’ (2008-2014)

This series follows an outlaw motorcycle club balancing loyalty and violence. Jax Teller’s journey through crime and family is gripping.
I was hooked by its raw emotion and brotherhood themes. It’s perfect for viewers who love gritty, character-driven dramas.
1. ‘The Sopranos’ (1999-2007)

Tony Soprano, a New Jersey mob boss, navigates crime and family life while seeking therapy. Its groundbreaking blend of psychology and crime redefined TV.
I found its deep character focus and raw storytelling unmatched. It’s the gold standard for gangster shows, a must-watch for any fan.
Which mafia or gangster show is your favorite, or did I miss a hidden gem? Drop your thoughts in the comments!


