From the darkest corners of television history, these disquieting tales have emerged, captivating audiences with a mesmerizing blend of fear and fascination. From haunted houses to malevolent entities and gory mysteries, these shows have masterfully navigated the labyrinth of terror, beckoning viewers to confront their deepest fears.
In this article, we embark on a harrowing journey to explore the 20 best horror TV shows that have haunted our screens. Each show represents a spine-tingling culmination of the macabre, the supernatural, and the psychological, weaving captivating narratives that keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
From classics that laid the foundation for the genre to recent entries that pushed the boundaries of fear, we unearth the terrifying stories and characters that have haunted our collective consciousness. Whether it's an anthology of eerie tales or a heart-pounding descent into madness, these horror TV shows have transcended the ordinary and become touchstones in the annals of television history.
With innovative storytelling, exceptional performances, and the ability to evoke emotions that resonate long after the credits roll, these shows have set themselves apart in a saturated sea of frightful content.
So, brace yourselves for a journey into the abyss, as we shine our trembling flashlights on the 20 best horror TV shows ever made.
The Walking Dead (2010-2022)
AMC Film Holdings LLC
The gore and brutality here are top-notch. But much like the zombies who shuffle ever closer to the group of survivors led by Sheriff Rick Grimes, The Walking Dead drags a bit by season 4. The introduction of baseball bat-wielding Negan reanimates the series, however, and debating who would survive in between episodes was peak watercooler talk throughout the 2010s.
Channel Zero (2016-2018)
SYFY
Adapted from online creepypastas, the show embraces the essence of psychological horror to summon a potent dose of unease, captivating viewers with its surreal imagery and eerie ambiance. A must-watch for psychological horror aficionados.
Ash vs. Evil Dead (2016-2018)
Starz Entertainment, LLC
A gleefully gory and comedic homage to its cult-classic roots. Bruce Campbell's reprisal of the iconic Ash Williams infuses the show with charisma, wit, and chainsaw-wielding finesse. This blood-splattered horror-comedy extravaganza delivers a nostalgic thrill for fans of the original franchise, despite its occasional lapses in plot coherence.
The Haunting of Hill House (2018-Present)
Steve Dietl/Netflix
A masterclass in modern horror storytelling. Mike Flanagan's hauntingly atmospheric direction and impeccable ensemble cast deliver a chilling and emotionally resonant experience. By deftly weaving between past and present, the series crafts a profound examination of trauma and family dynamics.
Yellowjackets (2021-Present)
Paramount Home Entertainment
Juggling between a harrowing survival tale and an intricately woven mystery, Yellowjackets' time-jumping narrative captivates with unnerving tension and powerful performances. Boasting a stellar cast, led by Juliette Lewis and Christina Ricci, the series excels in exploring the psychological toll of trauma.
Preacher (2016-2019)
LACHLAN MOORE
A brazen blend of irreverence and supernatural intrigue, this darkly humorous and visually striking adaptation of the cult graphic novel series delights in pushing boundaries. Dominic Cooper's charismatic portrayal of Jesse Custer anchors the series, while Joseph Gilgun's magnetic portrayal of Cassidy adds an eccentric charm. Though at times convoluted, the show's audacious storytelling and exploration of moral dilemmas and cosmic forces make it an enthralling and unforgettable ride for fans of unconventional, genre-bending narratives.
Servant (2019-2023)
Apple TV+
M. Night Shyamalan's direction and the exceptional performances of Lauren Ambrose and Toby Kebbell elevate the series to chilling heights. A gripping exploration of grief, deception, and the enigmatic secrets that bind us chockful of Shyamalan-esque twists (typical of Shyamalan, his risks pay off most of the time).
Tales from the Crypt (1989-1996)
HBO
The Crypt Keeper's morbid charm sets the tone for this iconic pillar of horror anthology television, and each episode serves up a delightful blend of fright and dark humor. This '90s classic is a wicked delight.
True Blood (2008-2014)
HBO
True Blood seduces viewers with sultry vampires, sizzling romance, and supernatural intrigue. This provocative series based on Charlaine Harris's novels conjures a world where humans and mythical creatures coexist, leading to riveting societal commentary. With Anna Paquin's magnetic portrayal of Sookie Stackhouse at its core, the series writhes in blood, lust, and bloodlust.
Supernatural (2005-2019)
The CW
Jensen Ackles and Jared Padalecki's endearing chemistry as the Winchester brothers anchor this television juggernaut, which aired for 15 seasons — a mind-boggling figure and a testament to its impact on pop culture. This monumental exploration of brotherhood and destiny remains compelling through its 327-episode run with horror, humor, and heartfelt emotion.
American Horror Story (2011-Present)
FX
Ryan Murphy's penchant for the theatrical is on proud display here (the showrunner also launched the series Glee), and the visually arresting anthology series is a treasure trove of horror subgenres that has left a lasting legacy of fear, fascination, and, at times, disturbingly twisted delight.
The X-Files (1993-2002; 2016-2018)
Fox Broadcasting Company
A timeless classic that redefined paranormal television. A pervasive and iconic will-they-won't-they alchemy between leads David Duchovny and Gillian Anderson creates a sci-fi horror that resonates long after the truth is out there.
Midnight Mass (2021)
Netflix
A hauntingly poetic and thought-provoking triumph. Flanagan's expert direction intertwines theology and terror, crafting an atmospheric slow burn that delves into faith, redemption, and the human condition. Stellar performances, particularly by Zach Gilford and Kate Siegel, add depth to this uncanny exploration of belief and its consequences.
Black Mirror (2011-Present)
Netflix
A prescient anthology series that unveils the dark side of technology and human nature. Master satirist Charlie Brooker's dystopian visions hold up a mirror to modern society and the looming shadows of our digital future.
The Twilight Zone (1959-1964)
gettyimages.com
Rod Serling's eloquent narration guides viewers through enigmatic dimensions in this timeless and pioneering anthology series. By masterfully exploiting our deepest paranoias, The Twilight Zone stands as an immortal classic.
Alfred Hitchcock Presents (1955-1962)
Getty
The father of the thriller horror movie, Alfred Hitchcock had already been directing for 20 years by the time this series debuted, but he only directed 18 episodes in total, instead using the show as an incubator for rising horror talent. Time magazine named Alfred Hitchcock Presents one of "The 100 Best TV Shows of All Time."
Stranger Things (2016-Present)
Netflix
A nostalgic love letter to the 1980s with a captivating sci-fi mystery. The Duffer Brothers lead a brilliant young cast in this supernatural adventure that fuses horror and coming-of-age camaraderie.
Twin Peaks (1990-1991)
ABC
David Lynch's surreal direction and Mark Frost's layered storytelling shattered television conventions with this abnormal small-town mystery. Kyle MacLachlan's iconic turn as Agent Cooper pulls us into a fever dream of secrets and haunting beauty that continues to bewitch and beguile.
The Last of Us (2023-Present)
HBO
Based on the acclaimed video game, this series skillfully navigates a journey of survival and human connection in a world ravaged by infection. Pedro Pascal and Bella Ramsey imbue their characters with depth and vulnerability in this emotionally charged post-apocalyptic epic.
True Detective (2014-Present)
HBO
While the third season of True Detective features a powerhouse performance from Mahershala Ali, it's the first season that makes this show such a standout. Matthew McConaughey is at his absolute best. And he's a thrill to watch, crooning nihilistic ruminations as he crushes tallboys of Lone Star. Woody Harrelson's no-nonsense country attitude balks McConaughey's dreary cynicism as the dysfunctional detective duo spirals into the abyss of a horrid mystery with roots in dark Creole mysticism and branches rising all the way to the canopy of Louisiana government.
