5 Similar TV Shows to Netflix’s Adolescence

Netflix’s Adolescence has left audiences in awe of its uncompromising storytelling, intense psychological themes, and groundbreaking one-take cinematography. This British drama dives deep into toxic masculinity, crime, and the dark side of youth culture. If Adolescence captivated you and you’re looking for more thought-provoking series, here are five must-watch shows.

1. Broadchurch (2013-2017)

Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime

Why You’ll Love It:
Similar to Adolescence, Broadchurch is a gripping British crime drama that follows the investigation of a child’s murder in a small town. With stellar performances from David Tennant and Olivia Colman, the show unravels deep secrets, grief, and the impact of media scrutiny on justice. Its emotional intensity and character-driven storytelling make it a must-watch.

Key Similarities to Adolescence:
Psychological crime drama
Emotionally charged, character-driven narrative
Realistic and gripping performances

2. Baby Reindeer (2024)

Genre: Thriller, Psychological Drama
Where to Watch: Netflix

Why You’ll Love It:
This British miniseries follows Donny Dunn, a struggling comedian who becomes entangled in a disturbing obsession with a stalker. Much like Adolescence, Baby Reindeer delves into psychological trauma and the darkest aspects of human behavior. It’s an unsettling yet powerful series that explores mental illness and personal demons.

Key Similarities to Adolescence:
Deep psychological exploration
Intense and dark character study
Emotionally charged and unsettling storytelling

3. Mindhunter (2017-2019)

Genre: Crime, Thriller
Where to Watch: Netflix

Why You’ll Love It:
Mindhunter takes a deep dive into the origins of FBI criminal profiling in the 1970s, following agents who interview serial killers to understand their minds. Like Adolescence, it’s a slow-burning yet deeply engrossing psychological study of crime and mental manipulation.

Key Similarities to Adolescence:
In-depth psychological analysis of criminals
Intricate investigative crime narrative
Dark, unsettling atmosphere

4. Yellowjackets (2021-Present)

Genre: Thriller, Drama, Horror
Where to Watch: Showtime, Paramount+

Why You’ll Love It:
Yellowjackets follows a high school girls’ soccer team that becomes stranded in the wilderness after a plane crash. The story unfolds across different timelines, revealing hidden secrets and the psychological deterioration of its characters. Like Adolescence, it tackles trauma, survival instincts, and societal pressure in a gripping way.

Key Similarities to Adolescence:
Psychological thriller with complex characters
Themes of trauma, survival, and resilience
Non-linear storytelling that adds depth

5. Toxic Town (Upcoming – 2025)

Genre: Drama, True Crime
Where to Watch: Netflix

Why You’ll Love It:
Created by Adolescence writer Jack Thorne, Toxic Town is a dramatization of the Corby toxic waste scandal, in which families fought for justice after exposure to hazardous chemicals. This upcoming series promises to be an emotionally powerful, socially relevant drama with the same gripping storytelling as Adolescence.

Key Similarities to Adolescence:
Created by Jack Thorne
Strong focus on social injustices and real-life issues
Thought-provoking and emotionally intense storytelling

Conclusion: Which One Should You Watch First?

If Adolescence captivated you with its dark themes and complex storytelling, these shows will keep you hooked. Fans of crime dramas should start with Broadchurch and Mindhunter, while Baby Reindeer and Yellowjackets offer deep psychological tension. If you’re eager for more of Jack Thorne’s work, keep an eye out for Toxic Town in 2025.