Few genres captivate audiences like a well-crafted murder mystery. The suspense, the red herrings, the race against time to uncover the truth—it’s a formula that never gets old. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of classic whodunits or a newcomer eager to dive into the world of crime-solving, 2025 promises an incredible lineup of murder mystery shows that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
From dark psychological thrillers to cozy small-town mysteries, this list covers the 50 best murder mystery shows to watch in 2025. We’ve included fan favorites, critically acclaimed series, and exciting new releases across streaming platforms like Netflix, Hulu, HBO Max, and more. Grab your detective hat—it’s time to solve some crimes!
Table of Contents
- Classic Whodunits & Cozy Mysteries
- Dark & Psychological Crime Thrillers
- Procedural & Detective Dramas
- True Crime-Inspired Mysteries
- Supernatural & Paranormal Mysteries
- International Mystery Gems
- Most Anticipated Mystery Shows of 2025
- Where to Watch These Shows
- Final Thoughts: Which Mystery Should You Binge First?
1. Classic Whodunits & Cozy Mysteries
If you love a good old-fashioned mystery with clever twists, charming detectives, and a touch of humor, these shows are perfect for a binge-watch session.
1. Midsomer Murders (1997–Present)
Where to Watch: BritBox, Amazon Prime Video
This long-running British series follows Detective Chief Inspector John Barnaby (later replaced by his cousin) as he investigates murders in the seemingly idyllic (but surprisingly deadly) villages of Midsomer County. With over 100 episodes, it’s a cozy yet addictive watch.
2. Agatha Christie’s Poirot (1989–2013)
Where to Watch: BritBox, Acorn TV
David Suchet’s iconic portrayal of Hercule Poirot is the gold standard for classic whodunits. Each episode is a meticulously crafted puzzle, staying true to Christie’s brilliant storytelling.
3. Miss Marple (1984–2013, 2025 Reboot)
Where to Watch: BritBox, PBS Masterpiece
Joan Hickson and Geraldine McEwan brought Agatha Christie’s sharp-witted amateur detective to life. A 2025 reboot with a fresh cast is also in the works—stay tuned!
4. The ABC Murders (2018)
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
John Malkovich stars as Poirot in this dark, three-part miniseries based on Christie’s novel. A serial killer taunts Poirot with letters, making this one of the most suspenseful adaptations.
5. Father Brown (2013–Present)
Where to Watch: BritBox, Netflix (select regions)
A kind-hearted priest with a knack for solving crimes, Father Brown (Mark Williams) uses his intuition and moral compass to uncover murderers in his quaint English village.
6. Death in Paradise (2011–Present)
Where to Watch: BritBox, PBS
Set on the fictional Caribbean island of Saint Marie, this lighthearted procedural pairs a British detective with a local sergeant to solve murders in paradise. The stunning scenery is a bonus!
7. Queens of Mystery (2019–Present)
Where to Watch: Acorn TV
A young detective returns to her hometown and teams up with her three crime-writing aunts to solve murders. Think Murder, She Wrote meets Knives Out.
8. Shakespeare & Hathaway: Private Investigators (2018–2022)
Where to Watch: BritBox, Acorn TV
A quirky private investigator duo (one a former cop, the other a hairdresser) solves crimes in Stratford-upon-Avon. Lighthearted but clever, with a touch of British charm.
9. The Chelsea Detective (2022–Present)
Where to Watch: BritBox, Acorn TV
Detective Inspector Max Arnold (Adrian Scarborough) investigates murders in London’s affluent Chelsea neighborhood. The show balances wit, drama, and intriguing mysteries.
10. Rosemary & Thyme (2003–2007)
Where to Watch: BritBox, Acorn TV
Two gardening enthusiasts-turned-amateur sleuths solve crimes in picturesque European locations. A delightful blend of mystery and horticulture.
2. Dark & Psychological Crime Thrillers
For those who prefer their mysteries with a side of chills, these shows dive deep into the psyche of killers and the detectives obsessed with catching them.
11. True Detective (2014–Present)
Where to Watch: HBO Max
Each season of this anthology series features a new cast and a new haunting mystery. Season 1 (with Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson) remains a masterclass in slow-burn tension.
12. Mindhunter (2017–2019)
Where to Watch: Netflix
Based on real FBI profiling techniques, this gripping series follows agents as they interview serial killers to understand criminal psychology. Dark, intense, and brilliantly acted.
13. The Fall (2013–2016)
Where to Watch: Netflix, BritBox
Gillian Anderson stars as a detective hunting a chilling serial killer (Jamie Dornan) in Belfast. The cat-and-mouse game between the two is electrifying.
14. Broadchurch (2013–2017)
Where to Watch: BritBox, Netflix (select regions)
A small coastal town is rocked by the murder of a young boy. David Tennant and Olivia Colman deliver powerhouse performances in this emotionally raw mystery.
15. The Night Of (2016)
Where to Watch: HBO Max
A gripping miniseries about a young man (Riz Ahmed) accused of murder and the legal battle that follows. The mystery unfolds with painstaking realism.
16. Sharp Objects (2018)
Where to Watch: HBO Max
A troubled journalist (Amy Adams) returns to her hometown to investigate a series of murders. The atmosphere is thick with Southern Gothic dread.
17. The Sinner (2017–2021)
Where to Watch: Netflix, USA Network
Each season explores a different crime, uncovering the dark secrets behind seemingly ordinary people. Jessica Biel’s performance in Season 1 is unforgettable.
18. Hannibal (2013–2015)
Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
A psychological horror-mystery that reimagines the relationship between FBI profiler Will Graham (Hugh Dancy) and Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Mads Mikkelsen). Visually stunning and deeply disturbing.
19. The Killing (2011–2014)
Where to Watch: Netflix, AMC+
A Danish crime drama (with an American remake) that follows detectives Sarah Lund (Sofie Gråbøl) and Stephen Holder as they investigate a young girl’s murder. The slow reveal is masterful.
20. Bron/Broen (The Bridge) (2011–2018)
Where to Watch: MHz Choice, Topic
A body is found on the bridge between Denmark and Sweden, forcing detectives from both countries to collaborate. The original Scandinavian noir that inspired many imitators.
3. Procedural & Detective Dramas
For fans of methodical investigations, forensic science, and detectives who never give up, these procedural dramas deliver satisfying case-of-the-week storytelling.
21. Luther (2010–2019)
Where to Watch: HBO Max, BBC iPlayer
Idris Elba stars as the brilliant but troubled Detective Chief Inspector John Luther. The cases are dark, the villains are terrifying, and Luther’s moral compass is always in question.
22. NCIS (2003–Present)
Where to Watch: Paramount+, CBS
One of the longest-running procedurals, NCIS follows a team of naval criminal investigators solving high-stakes cases. Mark Harmon’s Leroy Jethro Gibbs is a fan favorite.
23. Bones (2005–2017)
Where to Watch: Hulu, Peacock
Forensic anthropologist Temperance Brennan (Emily Deschanel) and FBI agent Seeley Booth (David Boreanaz) solve crimes using science and intuition. A perfect blend of humor and mystery.
24. Castle (2009–2016)
Where to Watch: Hulu, Disney+
A bestselling mystery novelist (Nathan Fillion) teams up with an NYPD detective (Stana Katic) to solve real-life crimes. Witty, charming, and full of clever pop-culture references.
25. Elementary (2012–2019)
Where to Watch: HBO Max, Paramount+
A modern take on Sherlock Holmes (Jonny Lee Miller) and Dr. Joan Watson (Lucy Liu) solving crimes in New York City. Smart, addictive, and with a unique dynamic between the leads.
26. Bosch (2014–2021)
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Based on Michael Connelly’s novels, this gritty procedural follows LAPD detective Harry Bosch (Titus Welliver) as he navigates corruption and justice in Los Angeles.
27. The Mentalist (2008–2015)
Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
Patrick Jane (Simon Baker), a former psychic medium turned consultant, uses his keen observational skills to help the California Bureau of Investigation solve crimes.
28. Rizzoli & Isles (2010–2016)
Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
A Boston detective (Angie Harmon) and a medical examiner (Sasha Alexander) form an unstoppable crime-solving duo. A great mix of action, humor, and friendship.
29. Silent Witness (1996–Present)
Where to Watch: BritBox, BBC iPlayer
This long-running British series follows a team of forensic pathologists as they uncover the truth behind violent crimes. Dark, scientific, and endlessly bingeable.
30. Vera (2011–Present)
Where to Watch: BritBox, Acorn TV
Brenda Blethyn stars as the brilliant but prickly Detective Chief Inspector Vera Stanhope, solving murders in Northumberland. The rugged landscapes add to the mood.
4. True Crime-Inspired Mysteries
Based on real-life crimes or inspired by true events, these shows blur the line between fiction and reality, delivering chillingly authentic storytelling.
31. The Night Stalker: The Hunt for a Serial Killer (2021)
Where to Watch: Netflix
A docuseries-style drama about the hunt for Richard Ramirez, the infamous Night Stalker. Gripping and terrifying in equal measure.
32. Unbelievable (2019)
Where to Watch: Netflix
Based on a true story, this miniseries follows a young woman (Kaitlyn Dever) who reports a rape, only to be disbelieved—until two detectives (Toni Collette and Merritt Wever) take on her case.
33. When They See Us (2019)
Where to Watch: Netflix
Ava DuVernay’s heartbreaking miniseries tells the story of the Central Park Five, wrongfully convicted of a crime they didn’t commit. A must-watch for its social impact.
34. The Jinx: The Life and Deaths of Robert Durst (2015)
Where to Watch: HBO Max
This groundbreaking documentary series explores the bizarre and disturbing life of real estate heir Robert Durst, suspected of multiple murders. The finale is jaw-dropping.
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