After wrapping up Narcos: Mexico, we thought it would be great to compile a list of top television series similar to both the original Narcos and its spin-off, giving you fresh viewing options.
Netflix has truly excelled in producing both Narcos and its subsequent series, Narcos: Mexico. Fingers crossed they’ll continue this captivating storyline, perhaps set in a different country down the line. In the meantime, delve into other top-notch crime shows similar to these Netflix sensations.
Mexico. Some of these you might have already seen, while others may soon become your new TV marathon. Let’s take a look!
Peaky Blinders (2013– 2022)
Thomas Shelby, head of the Peaky Blinders gang in Birmingham, receives a shipment of firearms from a nearby armory. Knowing he could face legal issues if he holds onto them, Thomas plans to utilize these weapons to boost his gang’s strength. Despite his aunt Polly urging him to dispose of them, Thomas chooses to keep the weapons instead.
Simultaneously, Thomas angers his elder brother Arthur by organizing a horse race without seeking approval from Billy Kimber, a prominent figure who oversees equestrian events in central England. Meanwhile, Thomas’ younger sister Ada keeps her relationship with Thomas’ ex-best friend Freddie hidden.
As a cinephile, I must admit that the Shelbys are in for a rollercoaster of troubles in this upcoming chapter. A Belfast police chief, Inspector Campbell, finds himself entangled in a web of secrecy, tasked with recovering a stolen weapon to keep it from making headlines. Unbeknownst to the Shelbys, the enigmatic new waitress, Grace, is none other than an undercover agent working for Inspector Campbell. The stage is set for a tense and intriguing confrontation!
Gang wars in England during the beginning of the 20th century remind us a lot of Narcos.
Breaking Bad (2008–2013)
Walter, played by Bryan Cranston, is a 50-year-old man who is married to Skyler (Anna Gunn), a homemaker who loves buying and selling items on eBay. They also have a son named Walter Jr. (RJ Mitte), who’s 17 years old and deals with cerebral palsy. After receiving a devastating diagnosis, Walter finds out from his doctor that he has only two years left to live due to terminal cancer.
Instead of telling his wife and son about this development right away, Walter decides to take any necessary steps to create a safer and prosperous future for his family. The chance to act on this promise surfaces when his brother-in-law, Hank Weld (Dean Norris), who works in the narcotics department, reveals that there’s more to his resale business than meets the eye – something Walter could produce with ease if he wore a blindfold.
Excited by fresh insights, Walter sets up a personal mobile laboratory and enlists his ex-student Jesse Pinkman (Aaron Paul) as a partner. With Walter’s exceptional knowledge in chemistry, it won’t take long for people to realize that this pair is renowned for producing high-quality drugs.
Initially, they begin as two individuals setting up a homemade laboratory, but their endeavors evolve into something far greater, resembling the powerful figures portrayed in Narcos.
Southland (2009–2013)
An unvarnished portrayal of Los Angeles and the challenging lives of LAPD officers as they juggle multiple responsibilities. The narrative follows newcomer Ben Sherman and his mentor John Cooper, a closeted undercover officer in the ranks, whose fellow officers remain oblivious to his homosexuality.
As a dedicated moviegoer, I’d like to imagine myself as Detective Lydia Adams, juggling my demanding career with the challenges that life presents, especially when it comes to caring for my mother. On the other hand, Chickie Brown, a fellow officer, has her sights set on becoming the first female member of the Los Angeles Police Special Forces team. Lastly, there’s Detective Sammy Bryant, whose professional and personal lives seem to intertwine in a complex web.
Boardwalk Empire (2010–2014)
1920s America, the war has ended and the stock market’s booming, with even the baseball title up for grabs. It’s an era of transition, as women finally earn the right to vote, radio waves fill the airwaves, and youth culture reigns supreme. As a movie enthusiast immersed in this dynamic period, I can’t help but marvel at the vibrancy and change that’s sweeping across the nation.
Just off the shores of southern New Jersey rests Atlantic City, famously dubbed “the world’s playground” due to its reputation for having no rules. This vibrant resort town is home to grand hotels along its iconic Boardwalk, featuring nightclubs, arcades, and various entertainment venues that rival Broadway.
In just a few dollars, it’s a haven where a common laborer can momentarily abandon his daily life and indulge like royalty, both lawfully and unlawfully. Enoch Nucky Thompson (played by Steve Buscemi) is the undisputed ruler of Atlantic City, known for his connections in political circles, yet he also operates behind the scenes as a politician and a gangster.
Boardwalk Empire, filled with notorious gangsters dating back to the early 20th century, bears a striking resemblance to Narcos when it comes to the portrayal of organized crime.
Power (2014–2020)
The Tale of James “Ghost” Patrick, a prosperous owner of a New York nightclub catering to the city’s high society, aspires to build an empire by expanding his club beyond its current scope. However, there’s a catch: Ghost leads a secret life, as he isn’t just managing the club; during his off-hours, he runs the most profitable drug operation in town.
Not so big as cartels in Narcos, but still one of the biggest drug cartels in town.
Queen Of The South (2016–2021)
The play unfolds around the compelling tale of Teresa Mendoza, whose life takes an unexpected turn when her drug-dealing partner meets an untimely end in Mexico. Forced to escape, she finds sanctuary in the United States.
In the realm of cinema, I find myself embarking on a perilous alliance with someone from my past, aiming to unmask the head of a notorious drug trafficking syndicate whom I had once been forced to abandon. As this thrilling journey unfolds, I immerse myself in the intricacies of the underworld, learning its complex rules and maneuvering shrewdly to ascend the cartel ranks, with the ultimate goal of claiming leadership for myself.
The Shield (2002–2008)
Character named Vic (Michael Chiklis) is attempting to dodge an early retirement by signing up with the Immigration Office for a significant operation. As part of a deal granting immunity, Vic confesses to all the crimes his team had committed, effectively ensuring that Shane (Walton Goggins) and Ronnie (David Rees Snell) will spend their lives in prison.
Following the distressing incidents, Vic, Corinne, and their children are enrolled in a protective relocation program. Aceveda (Benito Martinez) is being considered for the mayoral position, while Vic finds employment with his old comrades and Olivia Murray (Laurie Holden). However, due to his past misdeeds being exposed, they prefer to avoid associating with a police officer.
Drug Lords (2018)
Drug Lords delves into authentic tales of drug trafficking organizations and influential figures like Pablo Escobar, the Cali Cartel, Frank Lucas, and the Pettingill Clan by featuring interviews from law enforcement officials, gang associates, and journalists, along with dramatic recreations of specific incidents.
It’s evident that Drug Lords have a direct association with key figures in the world of Narcos and Narcos: Mexico.
Top Boy (2011–2023)
Dushane (Ashley Walters) and his buddy Sully (Kano) operate a prosperous yet unlawful drug enterprise to amass wealth in their town. To lead luxurious lives, they join forces with influential mobster Bobby Raikes, played by Geoff Bell (I). Unfortunately, due to a conflict with Kamale’s gang, their loan from Raikes gets misappropriated, prompting them to seek retribution.
With Ra’Nell (Malcolm Kamulete) getting deeper into the drug world, his mom Lisa (Sharon Duncan-Brewster) experiences a mental collapse and ends up in the hospital – a situation that brings about disastrous results.
Weeds (2005–2012)
In the well-off Los Angeles suburb of Agrestic, the Botwin family enjoys a content life until the family patriarch, Judah, unexpectedly passes away while exercising. Left to navigate a challenging predicament, Nancy Botwin (Mary-Louise Parker) assumes the role as the family leader.
Nancy adopts a sensible approach – she begins selling marijuana. She procures the drug from Haylie James, a prominent dealer she knows through her nephew Conrad. It appears that Nancy’s stock is snapped up by nearly everyone in the county due to its rapid depletion.
Recognizing that I required a safe space for cultivating cannabis and a discreet setup for my enterprise, I teamed up with my accountant, customer, and advisor, Doug Wilson (Kevin Nealon), to establish a genuine bakery as a front. In this venue, I cater to discerning patrons by providing high-quality goods.
Simultaneously, her son Silas (Hunter Parrish) enters a relationship with deaf Megan (Shoshannah Stern), while the other son Shane (Alexander Gould), having witnessed his father’s demise, grows increasingly peculiar in his behavior. The story reaches its peak when another child takes a bite out of Shane during a martial arts competition.
In an attempt to mend matters, Nancy plans to encounter Peter Scottson, the father of the hurt child, who she will soon develop a romantic relationship with. However, contrary to her facade, he isn’t exactly as she portrays him to be.
Due to the unexpected upheavals in her previously tranquil and mundane existence, Nancy forms an acquaintance with Celia Hodes (Elizabeth Perkins), a flamboyant and controlling woman who prioritizes her looks, often clashes with her husband Dean (Andy Milder) and daughter Quinn, a former Silas, whom he sends to study in Mexico. Despite their contrasting personalities, Nancy and Celia will forge a powerful and enduring bond.
Essentially, both Weeds and Narcos/Narcos: Mexico share a common drug-related topic, but beyond that, they differ significantly. Weeds leans heavily towards humor and family dynamics, contrasting sharply with the seriousness of Narcos that focuses on large cartels and expansive drug empires.
Romanzo Criminale (2008–2010)
A notorious figure called the “Lebanese” aims to dominate the criminal underworld of Rome, which means exerting power and influence in that city outside the bounds of the law. To achieve this goal, he needs a highly motivated, well-structured, and ruthless team who can navigate the tough streets for over two decades, from the 1970s to the 1990s.
In the style of Narcos, this series delves into authentic tales of European criminal organizations from the 1970s to the 1990s. The narrative shares a familiar theme, albeit with a unique twist, as it focuses on influential figures in the drug trade, a subject that has been less frequently explored on television.
The Wire (2002–2008)
Characters in the initial series can be categorized as either upholders of the law or individuals involved in crime and misdeeds. The investigative unit is headed by Detective Jimmy McNulty, who often faces challenges due to insubordination towards authority figures and personal struggles that can hinder his detective work.
Additionally, Lieutenant Cedric Daniels navigates between his ambition to advance and ensuring a just resolution for the case. Detective Kima Greggs demonstrates her competence, dealing with envy from her peers. She relies on an informant, Bubbles who struggles with addiction, in her investigations. Similarly, Thomas Herc Hauk and Ellis Carver, both detectives from the Narcotics Division, join forces with Greggs for this investigation.
In the end, it was Detectives Lester Freamon and Roland “Prez” Pryzbylewski who formed part of the short-lived team. Initially, they didn’t seem crucial, but in time, they demonstrated their worth as diligent and trustworthy investigators.
The team is supervised by two leaders, Major William Rawls and Deputy Chief Ervin Burrell, who prioritize their careers over the wellbeing of their subordinates. Rhonda Pearlman, a deputy prosecutor, served as a go-between for the investigative squad and the court, but she also had a romantic relationship with McNutty.
On the wrong side of justice lies the drug empire run by Avon Barksdale. This ruthless and brutal figure is aided by the astute business mind of Stringer Bell. Avon’s nephew, D’Angelo Barksdale, oversees part of his uncle’s territory, while Wee-Bay Brice, a loyal enforcer, is responsible for numerous murders on Avon’s behalf.
As a devoted fan, I can’t help but highlight some intriguing characters from this captivating world. Among them are street vendors like Poot, Bodie, and Wallace. The enigmatic Omar Little, a figure who often operates outside the law, robs dealers to make ends meet. His actions not only earn him a living but also make him a persistent nuisance for the Barksdale gang, causing them constant trouble.
Each season of the show centers around a distinct theme. The inaugural season explores the illicit drug trade, immersing viewers in the world of addicts and dealers, complete with intriguing characters from both legal and illegal realms. This setting is enriched by the colorful slang and jargon specific to that realm.
El Chapo (2017–2018)
He maintained a chamber for brutal executions, alive burials were part of his gruesome tactics. He ordered a man’s death due to a minor social slight, and viewed women as mere ‘vitamins’. He was known for bribing politicians with vast sums of money in the hundreds of millions, beheaded individuals at will, and manipulated or eliminated judges when they posed a threat.
This piece presents a selection of astonishing details about Joaquin ‘El Chapo’ Guzman. The first season chronicles his relentless efforts to rise, endure, and ultimately control the drug trade on the turbulent streets of Mexico. By weaving together elements of drama, brutality, and love, El Chapo ruthlessly carves out a path toward absolute dominance in the illicit drug market.
The narrative of El Chapo portrays the tumultuous and violent journey of Joaquín ‘El Chapo’ Guzmán, tracing his story from his humble beginnings as a minor cartel member in Guadalajara in 1985, through his meteoric rise to become leader of the Sinaloa Cartel in the 90s, and ultimately his fall. This is the same El Chapo featured in Narcos: Mexico.
Sons of Anarchy (2008–2014)
Charlie Hunnam portrays Jackson ‘Jax’ Teller, a man whose devotion to his brotherhood is strained as he drifts further from legality. Katey Sagal plays Gemma Teller Morrow, Jax’s strong-willed mother who cohabits with Jax’s stepfather and motorcycle club president Clarence ‘Clay’ Morrow, portrayed by Ron Pearlman. The complex relationship among mother, son, and stepfather will uncover the family’s hidden past and demonstrate just how far each is prepared to go to hide their transgressions.
Maggie Stiff portrays Tara Knowles, a former high school sweetheart of Jax who reappears in Charming. She works as a pediatrician there. However, it is later revealed that Tara has ulterior and sinister intentions for winning Jax’s affection and confidence. Leveraging the health of Jax’s son, she creates a conflict with Gemma.
In contrast to Narcos, Sons of Anarchy is primarily a fictional television series. The portrayed gang doesn’t resemble the powerful drug lords of the real-life Cartel. However, they share strong bonds, loyalty, and are willing to go to great lengths, not just for themselves, but for those they cherish. It’s an engaging crime drama that you should definitely watch if you haven’t yet, and let’s not forget about its fantastic soundtrack!
Collateral (TV Mini Series 2018)
The storyline revolves around tenacious British detective DI Kip Glaspie, portrayed by Carey Mulligan, as she delves into the mystery surrounding the killing of a local pizza delivery man. This homicide in the south London region, it turns out, was merely the first thread in a complex web of intrigue that originated from the heart of institutional authority.
While it doesn’t share the exact setting of “Narcos,” it does revolve around a criminal theme – specifically, the drug trade – but this time set in the city of London. If crime dramas are your thing, or even if they aren’t and you’re looking for something new to try, this series is worth checking out. It’s not overly long, so it won’t take up too much of your time, making it a convenient choice for those with busy schedules.
Gangs of London (2020– )
The storyline of Gangs of London unfolds post the assassination of crime kingpin Finn Wallace (played by Colm Meaney). Prior to this event, he maintained a tight grip on London’s criminal underworld, which consisted of various factions such as the Irish, Russians, Albanians, Iranians, among others. With many having motives to take him out, his son Sean Wallace (Joe Cole) now faces the challenge of navigating these dangerous waters and unveiling the truth behind his father’s death.
As a passionate film critic, I’ve recently had the chance to delve into an intriguing crime drama series that transports us to the heart of London – but don’t be fooled by its geographical similarities with Narcos, this show offers a unique spin on the familiar theme of power struggles. In this case, it’s not the drug trade in Colombia we’re dealing with, but rather an intense competition among various criminal gangs in the bustling city of London. While it shares some resemblances with its renowned counterpart, the scale is significantly smaller, making for a captivating and intensely focused narrative.
Ozark (2017–2022)
Marty Byrde, a brilliant financial consultant, takes an unconventional route to provide a more comfortable lifestyle for his loved ones by venturing into the shady realm of criminal activity. His choice involves offering his expertise to the leader of a formidable drug empire.
Regrettably, an imprudent action by his companion and closest ally threatens to undo every meticulously arranged scheme Marty had built, leaving him with no choice but to act in haste.
ZeroZeroZero (2019–2020)
From dense rainforests to towering cityscapes, a journey spanning Mexico to Paris, with stops in equatorial Africa, the Maghreb, Calabria – a world populated by lawbreakers and tycoons, the destitute and the affluent – all intertwined by an unseen and enchanting bond of cocaine.
In this unyielding struggle for power, whether you’re a humble shopkeeper on your corner or the head honcho of the mightiest crime syndicate, each player finds themselves in a high-stakes game where survival requires courage and resilience.
Among the shows listed, ZeroZeroZero could be most similar in theme to Narcos and Narcos: Mexico. However, while these series delve into drug wars, ZeroZeroZero primarily explores the global journey of a cocaine shipment, setting it apart. Additionally, much like Narcos, this show is grounded in real-life events.
Gomorrah (2014–2021)
When powerful and formidable mob boss Pietro Savastano gets incarcerated, his trusted lieutenant Ciro Di Marzio, aged 30, spots a chance to ascend as the new head honcho. However, it wasn’t his time yet. During Pietro’s imprisonment, authority is seized by his wife Imma, while Pietro’s successor, son Genny, gains business experience in Honduras.
Similar to Narcos, the TV show Gomorrah is inspired by real-life events. This gripping series was developed by investigative journalist Roberto Saviano, who authored the book ‘Gomorrah: A Different Kind of Mafia in Italy’, serving as the foundation for this series.
Surviving Escobar: Alias JJ (2017)
Following the lone survivor of the “Extraditables”, alias “JJ” shares his life story in Surviving Escobar. The narrative starts with the alias “JJ”‘s decision to submit to justice as Pablo Escobar’s power waned. Once incarcerated, he found himself confronting adversaries and employing every trick up his sleeve, not only to endure but also to regain his status as a formidable criminal within the prison walls. Moreover, he aimed to infiltrate the outside world once more, resuming his role as an infamous drug trafficker.
It’s quite obvious how the early seasons (1-2) of Narcos link up, as they chronicle the meteoric rise and tragic downfall of Pablo Escobar.
The first two parts of Narcos clearly show a storyline about Pablo Escobar’s journey from success to failure.
Cocaine Cowboys: The Kings of Miami (TV Mini-Series 2021)
Titled “Cocaine Cowboys,” this six-part documentary series delves into the story of drug lords Sal Magluta and Willy Falcon, detailing their journey from rise to fall in Miami’s criminal underworld. They were eventually charged in one of the biggest drug cases ever seen in the U.S., allegedly transporting around 75 tons of cocaine illicitly into the country.
Cocaine Cowboys appears akin to a potential spin-off of Narcos, Narcos: Miami (if only it were so!). Remarkably similar to the Narcos crew, these characters were nothing short of extraordinary. If you’re captivated by Narcos, another gripping tale that you shouldn’t miss is this one.
Read More
- Apothecary Diaries Ch.81: Maomao vs Shenmei!
- Gold Rate Forecast
- Batman and Deadpool Unite: Epic DC/Marvel Crossover One-Shots Coming Soon!
- Who was Peter Kwong? Learn as Big Trouble in Little China and The Golden Child Actor Dies at 73
- Mobile MOBA Games Ranked 2025 – Options After the MLBB Ban
- Hunter Schafer Rumored to Play Princess Zelda in Live-Action Zelda Movie
- 30 Best Couple/Wife Swap Movies You Need to See
- Netflix’s ‘You’ Season 5 Release Update Has Fans Worried
- Gachiakuta Chapter 139: Rudo And Enjin Team Up Against Mymo—Recap, Release Date, Where To Read And More
- Summer Game Fest 2025 schedule and streams: all event start times
2025-06-04 18:22