Top 10 TV Series Similar to 'You': Exploring Dark Human Behavior

In recent years, the television landscape has been dominated by psychological thrillers that delve into the minds of their characters. One such series that has gained immense popularity is 'You'.

The series, which premiered on Lifetime in 2018, is an adaptation of Caroline Kepnes' novel of the same name. The show, which is now streaming on Netflix, is known for its complex characters and twisted plotlines. In this article, we will explore TV series like 'You' and discuss what makes them so captivating.

Before we delve into the TV series that are similar to 'You', let's first take a closer look at the show itself. 'You' follows the story of Joe Goldberg, a bookstore manager who becomes obsessed with an aspiring writer, Guinevere Beck. 

Joe, who initially comes across as charming and likeable, slowly reveals his dark side as the series progresses. The show has been praised for its portrayal of mental illness and the dangers of social media. The show's creator, Sera Gamble, has also discussed how the series was influenced by the true-crime genre and the way it portrays women.

10 TV Series Like 'You': Exploring the Dark Side of Human Behavior

So, what are some TV series that are similar to 'You'? Here are some shows that fans of the series will likely enjoy:

1. 'Dexter' (2006-2013)

'Dexter' is a crime drama series that aired on Showtime from 2006 to 2013. The show follows the story of Dexter Morgan, a forensic blood spatter analyst who also happens to be a serial killer.

Like Joe Goldberg, Dexter is a complex character who is both charming and terrifying. The show has been praised for its portrayal of mental illness and the complexities of morality. It also explores themes of family, love, and the desire for human connection.

2. 'Mindhunter' (2017-2019)

'Mindhunter' is a crime drama series that premiered on Netflix in 2017. The show is based on the true crime book 'Mindhunter: Inside the FBI's Elite Serial Crime Unit' by John E. Douglas and Mark Olshaker. The series follows two FBI agents, Holden Ford and Bill Tench, as they interview serial killers in order to understand their thought processes.

Like 'You', the show explores the complexities of human behavior and the impact of trauma on the psyche.

3. 'Killing Eve' (2018-present)

'Killing Eve' is a spy thriller series that premiered on BBC America in 2018. The show follows the story of Eve Polastri, a bored MI5 security officer who becomes obsessed with tracking down an assassin named Villanelle.

Like 'You', the show explores the relationship between two complex and flawed characters. It also delves into themes of obsession, love, and identity.

4. 'Ozark' (2017-present)

'Ozark' is a crime drama series that premiered on Netflix in 2017. The show follows the story of Marty Byrde, a financial planner who moves his family to the Ozarks in order to launder money for a drug cartel.

Like 'You', the show explores the dark underbelly of human behavior and the consequences of our actions. It also delves into themes of family, loyalty, and the pursuit of the American Dream.

5. 'Breaking Bad' (2008-2013)

'Breaking Bad' is a crime drama series that aired on AMC from 2008 to 2013. The show follows the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who becomes a methamphetamine producer in order to provide for his family after he is diagnosed with cancer.

Like 'You', the show explores the consequences of our actions and the moral complexities of human behavior. It also delves into themes of family, loyalty, and the pursuit of power.

6. 'Black Mirror' (2011-present)

'Black Mirror' is an anthology series that premiered on Channel 4 in 2011 and later moved to Netflix. The show explores the dark side of technology and its impact on society.

Like 'You', the show delves into the complexities of human behavior and the dangers of social media. It also explores themes of identity, power, and the nature of reality.

7. 'The Sinner' (2017-present)

'The Sinner' is a crime anthology series that premiered on USA Network in 2017. The show follows the story of Detective Harry Ambrose as he investigates seemingly random acts of violence committed by ordinary people.

Like 'You', the show explores the dark underbelly of human behavior and the impact of trauma on the psyche. It also delves into themes of guilt, redemption, and the nature of evil.

8. 'Hannibal' (2013-2015)

'Hannibal' is a psychological horror series that aired on NBC from 2013 to 2015. The show is based on the characters from Thomas Harris' novels and explores the relationship between FBI special investigator Will Graham and psychiatrist and cannibalistic serial killer Dr. Hannibal Lecter.

Like 'You', the show explores the complexities of human behavior and the nature of evil. It also delves into themes of identity, love, and the desire for human connection.

9. 'The Fall' (2013-2016)

'The Fall' is a crime drama series that aired on BBC Two from 2013 to 2016. The show follows the story of Detective Superintendent Stella Gibson as she tracks down a serial killer named Paul Spector. 

Like 'You', the show explores the dark underbelly of human behavior and the complexities of morality. It also delves into themes of gender, power, and the impact of trauma on the psyche.

10. 'Big Little Lies' (2017-2019)

'Big Little Lies' is a drama series that aired on HBO from 2017 to 2019. The show follows the story of a group of wealthy women in Monterey, California, and the secrets and lies that they keep from each other.

Like 'You', the show explores the complexities of human behavior and the impact of trauma on the psyche. It also delves into themes of motherhood, friendship, and the pursuit of happiness.

In conclusion, there are numerous TV series that are similar to 'You' in terms of their exploration of the dark side of human behavior and the complexities of morality. These shows delve into themes of love, obsession, trauma, power, and identity, and are known for their complex characters and twisted plotlines.

Whether you're a fan of crime dramas, psychological thrillers, or horror series, there is a TV show out there that is sure to captivate you.