15 Best TV Shows About Serial Killers

Serial killers grip our imagination with their chilling crimes and complex minds. TV shows about these figures pull us into stories of suspense, psychology, and investigation that keep us glued to the screen. Whether it’s a fictional tale or a dive into real-life cases, these series blend thrills with deep questions about human nature. I’ve always found myself drawn to how these shows balance horror with insight, making us think while we shiver.

This article rounds up 15 of the best TV shows about serial killers, each offering a unique angle on the genre. From gritty procedurals to psychological deep dives, these series stand out for their storytelling, characters, and ability to haunt us long after the credits roll. Let’s explore what makes each one a must-watch.

Dexter (2006-2013)

‘Dexter’ follows Dexter Morgan, a Miami forensic analyst with a dark secret—he’s a serial killer. By day, he examines blood spatter for the police. By night, he hunts criminals who slip through the justice system, guided by a strict moral code taught by his adoptive father. The show spans eight seasons, blending crime drama with dark humor as Dexter juggles his double life and personal relationships.

What makes ‘Dexter’ a standout is its bold premise—a serial killer we root for. Michael C. Hall’s magnetic performance brings depth to Dexter’s inner conflict, making him both chilling and relatable. The show’s mix of suspense, moral questions, and clever twists keeps us hooked, redefining how we view killers in TV narratives.

Mindhunter (2017-2019)

Set in the late 1970s, ‘Mindhunter’ tracks FBI agents Holden Ford and Bill Tench as they pioneer criminal profiling. They interview real-life serial killers like Edmund Kemper to understand their motives, aiming to solve ongoing cases. The show, rooted in John E. Douglas’s book, ran for two seasons and dives deep into the early days of behavioral science.

Its strength lies in its slow-burn intensity and historical accuracy. The chilling interviews, paired with Jonathan Groff and Holt McCallany’s grounded performances, make ‘Mindhunter’ a gripping study of evil. It’s less about flashy action and more about the psychological chess game, which sets it apart in the genre.

Hannibal (2013-2015)

‘Hannibal’ reimagines Thomas Harris’s novels, focusing on the twisted bond between FBI profiler Will Graham and psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a secret cannibalistic killer. Across three seasons, the show blends lush visuals, psychological horror, and crime-solving as Lecter manipulates those around him.

This series shines for its artistry and bold storytelling. Mads Mikkelsen’s chilling yet charismatic Lecter steals the show, while the cat-and-mouse dynamic with Hugh Dancy’s Graham keeps us on edge. Its blend of gruesome beauty and deep character studies makes ‘Hannibal’ a unique, unforgettable take on serial killer tales.

Criminal Minds (2005-2020)

‘Criminal Minds’ follows the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit, a team of profilers tackling serial killer cases across the U.S. Led by figures like Aaron Hotchner and David Rossi, the show ran for 15 seasons, mixing procedural drama with psychological insight as the team dives into the minds of unsubs.

Its enduring appeal comes from its ensemble cast and varied cases. Each episode feels fresh, with killers ranging from methodical to unhinged, and the team’s camaraderie—think Joe Mantegna or A.J. Cook—grounds the horror. ‘Criminal Minds’ balances heart-pounding suspense with human connection, making it a genre staple.

You (2018-2025)

‘You’ centers on Joe Goldberg, a charming bookstore manager who’s secretly a obsessive stalker and killer. Across four seasons, we follow Joe’s twisted quest for love, narrated through his chilling inner monologue. The show shifts settings, from New York to Los Angeles, keeping the tension high.

Penn Badgley’s unsettling performance makes ‘You’ a standout. Joe’s ability to seem like a ‘nice guy’ while committing horrific acts creates a gripping contrast. The show’s blend of dark humor, social commentary, and relentless pace makes it a fresh, addictive entry in the serial killer genre.

The Fall (2013-2016)

‘The Fall’ tracks DSI Stella Gibson as she hunts Paul Spector, a family man and grief counselor who’s secretly a serial killer targeting women in Belfast. Over three seasons, the show explores their parallel lives, building tension as Gibson closes in on her elusive prey.

Its strength lies in its unflinching realism and stellar leads. Gillian Anderson’s steely Gibson and Jamie Dornan’s eerie Spector create a riveting dynamic. By showing both the hunter and hunted in equal depth, ‘The Fall’ offers a raw, psychological lens on serial killing that lingers.

Bates Motel (2013-2017)

‘Bates Motel’ is a modern prequel to Alfred Hitchcock’s ‘Psycho,’ exploring Norman Bates’s teenage years and his toxic bond with his mother, Norma. Across five seasons, we see Norman’s descent into madness, set in a small town filled with secrets.

The show excels with its intimate character focus. Freddie Highmore and Vera Farmiga deliver powerhouse performances, making Norman and Norma’s relationship both heartbreaking and creepy. Its slow unraveling of a future killer, paired with a moody atmosphere, makes ‘Bates Motel’ a haunting gem.

True Detective (2014-2024)

‘True Detective’ is an anthology series, with its first season diving into a serial killer case in 1995 Louisiana. Detectives Rust Cohle and Marty Hart investigate ritualistic murders, grappling with personal demons over decades. Later seasons shift focus, but season one remains iconic.

Season one’s moody vibe and stellar leads—Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson—set it apart. The case’s eerie, almost cosmic horror, paired with deep philosophical undertones, elevates it beyond typical crime dramas. It’s a masterclass in storytelling that redefines serial killer narratives.

The Following (2013-2015)

‘The Following’ centers on ex-FBI agent Ryan Hardy, who hunts Joe Carroll, a charismatic serial killer leading a cult of murderers. Over three seasons, the show delivers high-stakes chases and psychological games as Hardy tries to stop Carroll’s deadly influence.

Its intense pacing and bold premise make it a standout. Kevin Bacon and James Purefoy’s electric performances fuel the relentless cat-and-mouse vibe. By exploring a killer’s ability to inspire others, ‘The Following’ adds a chilling layer to the genre, keeping us gripped.

Killing Eve (2018-2022)

‘Killing Eve’ follows MI6 agent Eve Polastri as she tracks Villanelle, a psychopathic assassin with a flair for stylish kills. Their mutual obsession drives four seasons of spy thrills, dark humor, and emotional depth, rooted in sharp writing.

The show’s charm lies in its leads—Sandra Oh and Jodie Comer—and their electric chemistry. Villanelle’s playful yet brutal nature redefines the serial killer archetype, while Eve’s unraveling adds stakes. ‘Killing Eve’ blends wit and violence into a wildly entertaining ride.

Prodigal Son (2019-2021)

‘Prodigal Son’ follows Malcolm Bright, a profiler whose father, Martin Whitly, is a notorious serial killer called The Surgeon. Over two seasons, Malcolm consults on murder cases while grappling with his father’s legacy and his own dark impulses.

Its mix of family drama and crime makes it unique. Tom Payne and Michael Sheen’s dynamic—Malcolm’s intensity versus Martin’s creepy charm—drives the tension. By blending personal stakes with twisted cases, ‘Prodigal Son’ offers a fresh, emotional spin on serial killer stories.

The Serpent (2021)

‘The Serpent’ dramatizes the real-life crimes of Charles Sobhraj, a conman and killer targeting travelers in 1970s Southeast Asia. Over one season, we follow Sobhraj’s schemes and the diplomat chasing him, blending true crime with thriller vibes.

Its gripping narrative and period setting make it stand out. Tahar Rahim’s unsettling portrayal of Sobhraj captures his manipulative charm, while the global scope adds intrigue. ‘The Serpent’ excels by grounding real horrors in a taut, stylish story.

Des (2020)

‘Des’ is a three-part miniseries about Dennis Nilsen, a Scottish serial killer caught in 1983 after human remains clog his drains. It follows the investigation and Nilsen’s chilling confessions, focusing on detective Peter Jay’s pursuit.

David Tennant’s eerie performance as Nilsen anchors the show. Its tight focus on a single case, paired with a grim, realistic tone, sets it apart. ‘Des’ avoids sensationalism, offering a sobering look at a killer’s psyche and the toll of catching him.

Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story (2022)

‘Monster: The Jeffrey Dahmer Story’ chronicles the life and crimes of Jeffrey Dahmer, one of America’s most infamous serial killers. Across 10 episodes, it explores his murders from 1978 to 1991, his troubled youth, and the investigation that stopped him.

Evan Peters’s chilling portrayal makes this a must-watch. The show’s unflinching look at Dahmer’s atrocities, paired with its focus on victims and systemic failures, adds depth. It’s a tough but powerful dive into a real-life horror that resonates.

The Alienist (2018-2020)

‘The Alienist’ is set in 1896 New York, following Dr. Laszlo Kreizler, a psychologist, and his team as they hunt a serial killer targeting young boys. Over two seasons, it blends historical drama with gritty crime-solving, rooted in Caleb Carr’s novel.

Its rich period detail and strong cast—Daniel Brühl, Luke Evans—make it shine. The show’s focus on early psychology and societal issues adds layers to the manhunt. ‘The Alienist’ stands out for its atmospheric, cerebral take on serial killer chases.