Introduction: The Sopranos and the Search for More Gritty Drama
Few TV shows have left an imprint as lasting as The Sopranos. This mob drama, featuring Tony Soprano and his struggle to balance his criminal empire with family life, is still considered a TV masterpiece. If you’re reading this, you’ve probably already finished the iconic show or are well into your binge-watch, and now you’re looking for something else that delivers the same level of intensity, complexity, and suspense.
Well, you’re in luck! From crime dramas that explore dark moral themes to shows that showcase multi-layered characters caught in webs of power, violence, and family, we’ve compiled 15 TV shows like The Sopranos that will keep you glued to your seat.
Let’s dive into these thrilling, high-stakes dramas that will remind you of The Sopranos—or maybe even top it in their own way.
1. The Wire: A Gritty, Realistic Look at Urban Crime
Where to Watch: HBO Max
If you loved The Sopranos, then The Wire is a must-watch. Often hailed as one of the greatest shows in television history, this series explores the intricate dynamics of Baltimore’s drug trade through the eyes of both law enforcement and criminals. Much like The Sopranos, The Wire delves deep into its characters, showcasing how their personal lives and choices shape their worlds.
The beauty of The Wire lies in its authenticity and the complexity of its characters. Whether it’s the corrupt politics, police officers, or drug dealers, each character is multifaceted, with morally ambiguous decisions that will keep you glued to your screen.
2. Breaking Bad: The Transformation of Walter White
Where to Watch: Netflix
Breaking Bad is often compared to The Sopranos due to its portrayal of a man’s descent into darkness. Walter White, a mild-mannered chemistry teacher turned ruthless drug kingpin, undergoes a transformation that parallels Tony Soprano’s rise to power. Just like Tony, Walter makes decisions that impact everyone around him, including his family.
What makes Breaking Bad so compelling is its deep dive into the human psyche. It asks the question: how far would you go for your family? The moral dilemma, combined with suspenseful moments, makes Breaking Bad a perfect companion for fans of The Sopranos.
3. Narcos: Power, Corruption, and the Drug Cartels
Where to Watch: Netflix
Set against the backdrop of Colombia’s drug trade, Narcos chronicles the rise and fall of notorious drug lords, especially Pablo Escobar. Like The Sopranos, Narcos delves into the violent and unpredictable world of organized crime, but with a particular focus on the inner workings of cartels and the government’s attempts to take them down.
With high stakes, complex characters, and intense action, Narcos will keep you hooked. The show also mirrors The Sopranos’ exploration of loyalty, power, and the personal costs of living a life of crime.
4. Boardwalk Empire: The Mob, Power, and Family Loyalty
Where to Watch: HBO Max
Set during Prohibition in the 1920s, Boardwalk Empire is another brilliant drama created by Terence Winter (who also worked on The Sopranos). The series follows Nucky Thompson, a political figure in Atlantic City who becomes embroiled in organized crime. Like Tony Soprano, Nucky navigates the treacherous waters of power, betrayal, and family loyalty.
With a historical twist and strong performances from Steve Buscemi and a stellar ensemble cast, Boardwalk Empire offers a complex look at the mob world—perfect for fans of The Sopranos.
5. Sons of Anarchy: Motorcycle Gangs and Crime
Where to Watch: Hulu
Breaking Bad and The Sopranos may be a bit more grounded in reality, but Sons of Anarchy injects a dose of outlaw spirit with its biker gang drama. Following Jax Teller, the leader of a California motorcycle club, Sons of Anarchy dives into the world of crime, family dynamics, and violent power struggles.
The show has the same dark, gritty feel as The Sopranos, and much like Tony, Jax is a complex character torn between family loyalty and the deadly world he’s involved in. If you enjoyed the intense, violent world of The Sopranos, Sons of Anarchy will deliver in spades.
6. Ozark: A High-Stakes Drama with a Family Twist
Where to Watch: Netflix
The Byrde family’s journey from suburban bliss to the heart of a money-laundering operation is not only filled with danger but also mirrors the internal struggles of Tony Soprano. Ozark is filled with tension, moral dilemmas, and emotional complexity, much like The Sopranos. Jason Bateman’s portrayal of Marty Byrde is chilling in its calm yet calculated nature, much like Tony’s own approach to his criminal dealings.
What stands out about Ozark is its focus on family and the lengths to which the Byrdes will go to protect their loved ones. The show’s intricate plotting and high stakes will keep you coming back for more.
7. Ray Donovan: Fixers, Crime, and Family Drama
Where to Watch: Showtime
Ray Donovan is another show that blends family drama with crime. Ray is a fixer for the rich and famous, cleaning up their messes while struggling to keep his own family together. Like Tony Soprano, Ray has to juggle the pressures of his criminal work and the personal toll it takes on his relationships.
Ray’s moral ambiguity and complicated family dynamics make this show perfect for fans of The Sopranos.
8. Mad Men: A Deep Dive into Power, Identity, and Deception
Where to Watch: Netflix, AMC+
While Mad Men may not have the criminal element of The Sopranos, it shares the same exploration of flawed characters and their psychological struggles. Don Draper, the show’s main character, is a man of mystery, constantly wrestling with his own identity and morality, much like Tony Soprano. The slow burn of Mad Men will captivate you, as it explores themes of power, deception, and the personal costs of success.
9. The Shield: Police Corruption and Crime
Where to Watch: Hulu
Much like The Sopranos, The Shield is a dark and gritty exploration of the moral gray areas of its characters. This police procedural drama follows a corrupt cop, Vic Mackey, as he tries to balance his work in a special strike team with his personal life. Like Tony, Mackey is a deeply flawed character who makes morally questionable decisions that complicate his life and his relationships.
The Shield is filled with suspense, betrayal, and the same morally ambiguous decisions that made The Sopranos so captivating.
10. Peaky Blinders: Power Struggles and Family Loyalty
Where to Watch: Netflix
Set in post-World War I Birmingham, Peaky Blinders follows Tommy Shelby, a charismatic and ruthless leader of a crime family. Like Tony Soprano, Tommy is caught between family loyalty and his personal ambitions. The show mixes historical events with gripping drama, offering a fascinating look at the power struggles and dark dealings within a criminal empire.
Fans of The Sopranos will love the sharp writing, high tension, and complex character development in Peaky Blinders.
11. Better Call Saul: The Transformation of a Lawyer
Where to Watch: Netflix
A prequel to Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul chronicles the journey of Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer who eventually becomes the morally corrupt Saul Goodman. Like Tony Soprano, Jimmy is an antihero navigating the complicated world of crime, family, and personal identity. The show focuses on the transformation of a man who starts with good intentions but is slowly consumed by his darker impulses.
12. Fargo: Dark Comedy and Crime
Where to Watch: Hulu, FX
Inspired by the Coen Brothers’ film, Fargo is an anthology crime series that mixes dark humor with suspenseful crime. Each season tells a new story involving crime, corruption, and unexpected twists. Fans of The Sopranos will appreciate the moral ambiguity of the characters, the brutal violence, and the dark comedy that punctuates the drama.
