Thirteen Terrifying 21st Century TV Shows

I have to admit, I'm using the term "terrifying" loosely, here. A bunch of these could be considered "horror-dramas," some are "quirky-horror-dramas," a few "horror comedies," and only a wee handful properly "terrifying." (I'll let you know which are which.) I loves 'em and they're all worth a watch. You're getting them in chronological order; click the title for their IMDB pages, which will tell you more about them and also where you can stream them.

PS: My selection criteria was 1. What have I loved, 2. What can be found on one of the big three streaming services (Amazon Prime Video, Hulu, & Netflix) OR free (with commercials) on sites like Plex, Pluto, and Tubi, etc., and 3. What have I not blogged about already?

Being Human (Original UK Version, 2008–2013)

Quirky-Horror-Drama

This series answers the question of what happens when a werewolf, a ghost, and a vampire stop being polite and start getting real...

American Horror Story (2011– )

Terrifying

This is the poster I saw on my commuter train way back in late summer 2011. Holy cats, did it capture my attention! I couldn't wait for the series to start and it blew me away. Not all of the following seasons in this anthology series did, tho--I'd recommend the first (which became known as Murder House), the second (Asylum), and the fifth (Hotel).

Being Human (North American Version, 2011–2014)

Quirky-Horror-Drama

Same premise (and often, stories) as in the UK series, only with American and Canadian accents. For some unknown reason, its IMDB page does not list that it's available for free on the CW channel and Plex.

Hannibal (2013–2015)

Terrifying & A Feast for the Eyes

I'm still pretty pissed at NBC for cancelling this remarkable series but have to praise them for supporting it for three glorious years. This one is beautifully gruesome and definitely not for the faint of heart. (Though if you're anything like me, you look at this promo image and wonder if being eaten by this man would be so bad...) (Ahem.)

Penny Dreadful (2014–2016)

Gothic Horror

Eye candy abounds in this series about supernatural weirdness in the Victorian era. You're welcome. PS: This one also irks me, when it comes to the ultimate fate of my fave character, though I expect most will say things had to go the way they did--to which I say:

@paulstoudt2288 #funnyvideos #funnytoddler #funnytiktok #bullshit ♬ original sound - Paul Stoudt

Wayward Pines (2015–2016)

Sci-Fi Mystery Horror

Some more eye candy here (Matt Dillon in season one, Jason Patric in season two), to help alleviate the doom and gloom of finding yourself in some weird-ass town with no recollection of how you got there, and no apparent way of getting tf out.

Stranger Things (2016–2025)

Quirky-Horror-Drama

Look, you don't need me to tell you about this hit Netflix exclusive. Just watch it if you want to re-visit the '80s and enjoy being creeped out now and again.

The Exorcist (2016–2018)

Horror Drama

Starring the excellent Geena Davis (in the first season), it's disappointing af that we didn't get more than two seasons of this wonderfully eerie drama.

Santa Clarita Diet (2017–2019)

Horror Comedy

This series about a realtor who just happens to transform into a zombie one day is a LOT of fun. And, actually, for all it's goofery and gore, it's not a bad little primer on what it takes to sustain a loving marriage. #TheCoupleThatSlaysTogether

The Strain (2014–2017)

Terrifying

These vamps are pretty freaking scary and the series is dark and heavy. Not always an easy watch but engrossing nonetheless.

The Terror (2018–2025)

Horror Drama

Another anthology series that totally bowled me over! Both seasons are period pieces and based on real events but take distinctly supernatural turns. I have a slight preference for season one (so good but so bleak!), although I feel like the second season's a wee bit creepier. (Oh, Mr. Goodsir, you cinnamon roll, you!)

What We Do in the Shadows (2019–2024)

Horror Comedy

Another roommate sitch, though now we've got three old-school vamps, one psychic vamp, and their familiar (who happens to be a descendent of vamp-hunter, Abraham van Helsing, which is, admittedly, a little awkward). Oh, and they all live on Staten Island. (Of course.)

SurrealEstate (2021– ) 

Quirky-Horror-Drama

Realtors (again!) seem to be living their best paranormal lives in this series about un-haunting and selling metaphysically engaged properties. This lighthearted show is a great way to kick back with your fave comfort food and drink, and let the stressors of the day melt away. Which isn't to say that there aren't some freaky moments, but it's more fun than anything else, IMO.