10 Gripping Series Like Breaking Bad on Netflix
If you're craving more shows with Breaking Bad's intense character transformations, moral ambiguity, and high-stakes criminal drama, these Netflix series deliver similar thrills. From Breaking Bad's own prequel to cartel dramas and dark family sagas, these shows explore the same themes of power, corruption, and personal transformation that made Breaking Bad legendary.
Better Call Saul
NetflixAvailable in most regions
This acclaimed prequel delves into the transformation of Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer, into the morally flexible Saul Goodman. With meticulous storytelling and deep character development, it's a must-watch for Breaking Bad fans. The show maintains Breaking Bad's visual style and slow-burn tension while exploring new dimensions of the Albuquerque criminal underworld. Bob Odenkirk's performance rivals Bryan Cranston's Walter White in complexity.
Ozark
NetflixAvailable worldwide
Financial advisor Marty Byrde relocates his family to the Ozarks to launder money for a Mexican cartel. The series explores themes of crime, family, and survival with escalating tension. Jason Bateman's performance as a man descending into criminality draws direct comparisons to Walter White, while Laura Linney's Ruth Langmore offers a Jesse Pinkman-like arc of moral conflict. The show's blue-tinged cinematography and methodical pacing will feel familiar to Breaking Bad fans.
Narcos
NetflixAvailable in most regions
A dramatized account of the rise and fall of Colombian drug kingpin Pablo Escobar and the Medellín Cartel. The series offers a gritty look into the drug trade and law enforcement efforts. While based on real events, Narcos shares Breaking Bad's exploration of power, corruption, and the consequences of the drug trade. Wagner Moura's portrayal of Escobar captures the same terrifying charisma as Bryan Cranston's Heisenberg.
The Gentlemen
NetflixAvailable in select regions
Guy Ritchie's series follows an English aristocrat who inherits a secret cannabis empire. Blending thriller, satire, and gangster elements, it offers a fresh take on the crime genre. While more stylized than Breaking Bad, it shares themes of an ordinary person navigating criminal enterprises. The show's dark humor and intricate plotting will appeal to fans of Breaking Bad's more comedic moments.
Family Business
NetflixAvailable in select regions
This French comedy-drama centers on a family that transforms their kosher butcher shop into a marijuana café. It combines humor with themes of family and entrepreneurship. While lighter in tone than Breaking Bad, it explores similar ideas about family dynamics in criminal enterprises. The show's examination of how legal changes affect small businesses provides an interesting counterpoint to Breaking Bad's meth empire.
Other Notable Series with Similar Themes
The Sopranos
HBO MaxAvailable in select regions
Follows mob boss Tony Soprano as he navigates the challenges of leading a criminal organization while dealing with personal and psychological issues. The groundbreaking series that inspired Breaking Bad shares its blend of family drama and criminal enterprise, with James Gandolfini's iconic performance setting the standard for complex antiheroes.
The Wire
HBO MaxAvailable in select regions
An in-depth look at Baltimore's drug scene through the eyes of both law enforcement and drug dealers, highlighting systemic issues and moral ambiguity. While more ensemble-driven than Breaking Bad, it shares the same uncompromising look at the drug trade's impact on individuals and institutions. Considered one of television's greatest achievements.
Sons of Anarchy
HuluAvailable in select regions
Centers on an outlaw motorcycle club operating in California, exploring themes of loyalty, crime, and family dynamics. Like Breaking Bad, it follows a protagonist (Jax Teller) whose moral compass becomes increasingly compromised. The show's blend of Shakespearean drama and brutal violence makes it compelling for Breaking Bad fans.
Your Honor
NetflixAvailable in select regions
Bryan Cranston stars as a judge who confronts his own morals when his son is involved in a hit-and-run with a crime boss's son. The series delves into justice and corruption. Cranston's return to morally compromised territory makes this essential viewing for Breaking Bad fans, with similar themes about paternal protection spiraling into criminality.
Barry
HBO MaxAvailable in select regions
A dark comedy about a hitman who discovers a passion for acting, leading to a double life filled with tension and introspection. While more comedic than Breaking Bad, it shares themes of identity and transformation. Bill Hader's performance as Barry Berkman offers a different but equally compelling take on a criminal seeking redemption.