10 Best Murder Mystery Shows Like The Survivors

In contrast to most Australian dramas that fail to garner international acclaim, the 2025 series “The Survivors” is an exception. It’s a gripping, enigmatic mystery set in the idyllic coastal town of Evelyn Bay, where everyone seems to know each other, and it appears that there are no hidden secrets. However, this peaceful facade is shattered when a catastrophic storm strikes, claiming three lives from a group of four on a boat at sea. The only survivor is teenager Kieran Elliott (played by Ned Morgan), while his brother meets a tragic end.

About 15 years after departing Evelyn Bay, Elliott (portrayed by Charlie Victers as an adult) comes back home with his spouse and child for a memorial service marking the storm’s anniversary. However, his arrival is met with mixed reactions since some of his loved ones harbor complex emotions about him being the lone survivor. They question whether he might have played a part in the others’ deaths, which stirs doubt about the events that transpired during the storm. This uncertainty could potentially reveal that the village was not as idyllic as it appeared to be.

The storyline of ‘The Survivors,’ titled ‘Overcoming Our Past and the Secrets We Hide from Ourselves,’ revolves around themes of remorse, sorrow, and psychological distress. A popular Netflix series, it might leave you yearning for more following its last episode. If you’re struggling with wanting more after the show’s finale, don’t fret – we have 10 top-notch murder mystery TV shows that resemble ‘The Survivors.’

Broadchurch

If you’re seeking a narrative revolving around a baffling murder set in a coastal town, the most fitting comparison could be the British crime drama “Broadchurch.” This series initiates with the mysterious death of a young boy, prompting the arrival of troubled detective Alec Hardy (portrayed by David Tennant). He teams up with local constable Ellie Miller (Olivia Colman) to unravel the gruesome crime. Meanwhile, Hardy grapples with an unsolved case that has haunted him for a long time.

However, Hardy’s latest murder investigation in Broadchurch is far from straightforward. It appears that the seemingly virtuous townsfolk harbor hidden transgressions, casting suspicion on each of them as potential culprits. To make matters worse, the media swarms the town and distorts the truth, creating more obstacles for the authorities as they struggle to unravel the mystery, which seems to be growing further apart with each passing day.

2013 saw the debut of the critically acclaimed show “Broadchurch”. This series immediately gained popularity and garnered numerous BAFTA awards. For two subsequent seasons, it delved into the consequences of the criminal act, welcoming Phoebe Waller-Bridge from “Fleabag” to its cast in Season 2. Known for its slow tempo, somber atmosphere, and at times, dark themes, “Broadchurch” is a notable contemporary crime drama, particularly appealing to fans of “The Survivors” seeking another engaging series. However, be cautious when considering the American adaptation, “Gracepoint”, which despite sharing the same lead actor David Tennant as its British counterpart and many similarities, fails to recreate the charm of the original, often considered one of the best British crime dramas ever produced.

Happy Valley

If you’re a fan of “The Survivors” and seeking another hard-hitting small town murder mystery, then “Happy Valley” should be on your radar. This series tackles heavy topics such as drug abuse, sexual assault, and emotional turmoil, making for a challenging viewing experience. However, its gripping narrative that delves into both fresh crimes and the long-term effects of past ones, makes it one of the most captivating crime dramas to emerge from Britain in recent times.

In the series “Happy Valley”, we witness how one horrific crime can cast long shadows: The story unfolds in West Yorkshire, England, where police officer Catherine Cawood (Sarah Lancashire) carries a burden from her past. Many years ago, her daughter was brutally assaulted by Tommy Lee Royce (James Norton), an incident that led to her tragic suicide shortly after giving birth to their child. To this day, Cawood holds Royce accountable for her daughter’s death. As fate would have it, Royce is released from prison at around the same time a local woman goes missing, prompting Cawood to suspect a chilling connection between the two incidents.

Mare of Easttown

Hailing from the British Isles and now gracing American television screens is the 2021 HBO production, “Mare of Easttown.” Starring Kate Winslet as a jaded detective, Mare Sheehan, residing in Pennsylvania, this series boasts an impressive ensemble with Julianne Nicholson, Guy Pearce, Cailee Spaeny, and Evan Peters. Winslet masterfully adopts a distinctive Delco accent, which is a highly specific area just west of Philadelphia, making her portrayal of the hardened Mare so convincing that one might believe she was born and raised there.

Mare of Easttown,” written by Brad Ingelsby (a native of Philadelphia), delves into the complex life of its main detective character. Despite being a celebrated high school sports champion in her community, she’s not as well-known for her work as a detective, having been unable to resolve a highly publicized missing persons case. Now, after the death of a young mother, she’s seeking redemption, even if it comes at the cost of her personal life. As she grapples with solving a gruesome murder, she’s also dealing with the suicide of her son, a contentious custody battle over her grandchild, and a tumultuous divorce.

Despite only having one season, this enthralling show left both critics and viewers spellbound, garnering an impressive 16 Emmy nominations. Notably, Winslet, Nicholson, and Peters all won awards for their exceptional performances. Regrettably, there’s been no announcement yet about a second season.

Paranoid

In a nutshell, “Paranoid” is less about solving a murder mystery and more about uncovering a conspiracy within a small town setting, much like how fans of “The Survivors” might appreciate. The series delves deeper than just following investigators on their case, instead exposing the impact of powerful business interests and corrupt governments on even the most secluded communities. Indira Varma, recognized from shows such as “Obi-Wan Kenobi” and “Game of Thrones,” takes center stage as Detective Sergeant Nina Suresh of the Woodmere police force.

In a small town, Suresh, accompanied by other detectives, is called upon following the enigmatic murder of a local doctor. The body was discovered at a playground, a victim of a deadly stabbing. However, unlike typical murder cases involving serial killers or scorned lovers, this crime seems to have a different origin. As Suresh delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers hints suggesting that a foreign pharmaceutical company might have ties with the deceased doctor and could potentially be implicated in the crime. This revelation raises intriguing questions about the true intent behind the murder. As more facts surface, it becomes evident that someone is attempting to obstruct the probe. But how deep does this conspiracy run?

Defying instructions and potentially jeopardizing her profession, Shuresh is resolute in uncovering the truth, yet she grapples with personal issues that add layers of complexity to her situation. A captivating character-driven drama with a gripping thriller aspect, “Paranoid” failed to garner the attention it merited when it debuted in 2016. However, don’t let its underappreciated status dissuade you – it’s worth watching and will keep you on the edge of your seat right up until its concluding scenes.

Deadwater Fell

After completing “The Survivors,” if you’re captivated by the mystery unfolding between David Tennant and Olivia Colman in “Broadchurch,” then consider watching “Deadwater Fell” next. This is because, similar to his role in Broadchurch, Tennant takes center stage once more, but this time he isn’t portraying a tormented investigator. Instead, the beloved “Doctor Who” actor assumes the character of Tom Kendrick, a respected doctor and pillar of the small Scottish town called Kirkdarroch.

In the small town of Kirkdarroch, Scotland, Kendrick and his loved ones are admired by their neighbors. However, when a tragic house fire claims the lives of Kendrick’s wife and children, the entire area is thrown into mourning. As the sole survivor, Kendrick is at once pitied and scrutinized. The story takes a darker turn as the investigation into the fire unearths unsettling details about Kendrick, his family, and the community itself, much like the series “The Survivors” or “Broadchurch.

In addition to David Tennant, the series “Deadwater Fell” also introduces actor Cush Jumbo as Jess Milner, a neighbor of Kendrick who grows increasingly suspicious as the real cause behind the fire is revealed. Recognizing that there’s more to this incident than meets the eye, Milner becomes relentless in her pursuit of the truth and uncovering the actual events — a quest which may have significant consequences for everyone living in their small village. This intricate mystery cleverly leverages Tennant’s reputation as a hero, elevating what would otherwise be an ordinary whodunit into something much more captivating.

The Madness

Colman Domingo, a currently underestimated actor, has gained prominence through roles like “Fear the Walking Dead,” but almost gave up acting after trying out for “Boardwalk Empire.” Notably, he’s also starred in critically successful productions such as “Euphoria,” “Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom,” and “If Beale Street Could Talk.” However, his most undervalued performance might be that of Muncie Daniels in the 2024 Netflix thriller, “The Madness.

In a secluded Pennsylvania mountain town nestled within the Poconos, we encounter Daniel, a well-known news anchor, attempting to escape the chaos of city life and his complicated personal affairs by finding solace. However, his tranquility is shattered when he stumbles upon a horrific discovery at a neighbor’s house – a dismembered body. This grim event places him squarely in the midst of a murder investigation. The situation worsens as he comes to suspect that he may be the chief suspect in this heinous crime. The deceased was associated with a White Supremacist organization, and law enforcement speculates that Daniel may have taken matters into his own hands to eliminate the racist once and for all. As more incriminating evidence surfaces, he becomes increasingly convinced that he is being falsely accused of the murder.

In this captivating blend of “The Survivors” and “The Fugitive,” titled “The Madness,” our protagonist Daniels is portrayed brilliantly by Domingo, leaving audiences spellbound. This isn’t your typical cat-and-mouse thriller; it steers clear of somber dramas or routine crime stories. Instead, it offers a gripping narrative that builds suspense right until the final moments.

Murder in a Small Town

The central idea of “The Survivors” is mirrored in the title of our following selection, the 2021 crime drama “A Murder in a Tranquil Town.” In this adaptation, the story shifts from the Australian coastal town of Evelyn Bay to the picturesque Canadian coastal town of Gibsons, formerly belonging to the Commonwealth. Rossif Sutherland takes on the role of Detective Karl Alberg, who has recently been appointed police chief, having come from Minneapolis. By the close of the initial episode, he is embroiled in a complex romantic predicament with local librarian Cassandra Lee, portrayed by Kristin Kreuk, who worries that his police career will jeopardize their love affair.

Nestled in a charming town where the perfection sometimes feels too good to be true, the peaceful locale of Gibsons finds itself plagued by an unexpectedly high number of murders. It falls upon Alberg to untangle these mysteries. Unlike “The Survivors,” “Murder in a Small Town” doesn’t follow the traditional format of a season-long mystery. Instead, it offers a weekly procedural approach, with each episode presenting a fresh crime that slowly begins to fray the seemingly flawless image of Gibsons.

While “Murder in a Small Town” may not have received awards or critical praise, it serves as an excellent match for “The Survivors,” offering a narrative similar to that of “Law and Order.

The Sinner

Many crime dramas strive to create something fresh by offering a unique spin on a familiar narrative style. This is reasonable given the abundance of content in this genre. However, there are instances when traditional storytelling methods work best. When done skillfully, the fact that a story follows a well-known pattern doesn’t diminish its appeal. A compelling mystery, even if it employs well-used tropes, can still provide a fulfilling narrative experience, and “The Sinner” is an excellent illustration of this.

On USA Network, “The Sinner” series showcases Bill Pullman, known for his roles in “Independence Day” and “Spaceballs,” as Harry Ambrose, a detective who excels in solving atypical cases. These cases may involve an unconventional suspect, a peculiar method of operation, or some other quirk that makes it a puzzling mystery that others find too challenging — or refuse — to handle.

Similar to ‘Murder in a Small Town’, ‘The Sinner’ is a crime drama, but instead of solving a new case every week, it unfolds over four seasons with ongoing mysteries. Unlike other shows of its kind, we usually learn who the murderer is early on. However, the real intrigue lies in uncovering the ‘why’ – what could have driven them to such horrific actions? Exploring the mindset of the offender and delving into their psyche is where the story truly unfolds, making this series compelling. As each investigation unfolds, the mystery becomes even more complex, leading Ambrose on a quest for truth.

Top of the Lake

In a nutshell, Elizabeth Moss is well-known for her roles in “Mad Men” as Peggy Olson and “The Handmaid’s Tale” as June Osborne. However, between these two hit shows, she also shone in another critically acclaimed series, the 2013 production “Top of the Lake.” Despite not achieving the same level of popularity, it was a remarkable performance. Notably, this series boasted the involvement of another female powerhouse, Jane Campion, who co-created and co-directed it. She is renowned for winning Academy Awards for her work on “The Piano” in 1993 and “The Power of the Dog” in 2022.

In “Top of the Lake,” Moss plays the role of Robin Griffin, a newly-arrived detective from Sydney, Australia in the quaint New Zealand town of Laketop. Her mission is to find Tui Mitcham, a 12-year-old girl who’s pregnant and has vanished. The mystery surrounds whether Tui has been a victim of sexual assault, and if so, who the perpetrator might be, and whether they could be connected to her disappearance. As Griffin delves deeper into the investigation, she uncovers layers of complexity that challenge her initial perception of Laketop as an innocent town. Additionally, her return rekindles a past romance, adding another layer of intrigue to her investigations.

Apart from Moss, “Top of the Lake” boasts an outstanding ensemble featuring Nicole Kidman, Gwendoline Christie, Holly Hunter, and David Wenham. With two seasons under its belt, it’s one of the overlooked mysteries of the past decade. Fans of “The Survivor” will find its Australian production’s tone appealing.

Stay Close

The TV series “The Survivors” delves into the cracks that form within a small town when a murder takes place among its residents. Similar themes are present in “Stay Close,” a British mystery drama starring Cush Jumbo, who previously appeared in “The Good Fight.” In this show, Jumbo portrays Megan Pierce, a resident of Livingstone – a suburban town with its own secrets. Dave, played by Daniel Francis, is Megan’s partner and fiancé, while Richard Armitage takes on the role of Ray, a photographer who has found himself in the unglamorous position of being a paparazzo.

The narrative unfolds exactly a year after the vanishing of Stewart Green, a resident, spouse, and parent in Livingstone. Few clues have been found, yet Detective Sergeant Michael Broome (James Nesbitt) feels compelled to delve into this case, sparking discontent among the community who view his investigation as an unwelcome intrusion into their affairs. As Broome delves deeper and probes further, long-buried secrets start to surface, potentially revealing not just Green’s abductor but also skeletons hidden within the community.

A tale exploring how the past can continue to affect us in various ways, “Stay Close” might not be particularly original, but it offers a satisfying interpretation of the mystery novel by Harlan Coben with the same name. As a renowned author of crime fiction, Coben has seen several of his works brought to life on Netflix, so if you’re craving more after finishing this series, take a look at “The Stranger” from 2020 and “Fool Me Once” and “Run Away,” which are scheduled for release in 2024.

2025-07-13 13:31