10 Best Shows To Watch After You Season 5

With the final season of “You” on Netflix wrapping up the gripping thriller, there’s a noticeable void where Joe Goldberg used to be on TV shows. The fifth season of “You” neatly concluded his storyline, maintaining the psychological and dramatic intrigue that has marked the series since its inception. This was accomplished by reintroducing familiar faces from the show and providing a satisfying resolution to all the loose ends.

Consequently, the finale of “You” signals an end to Joe’s ongoing adventures in future stories. Fortunately, there are numerous high-quality TV shows akin to Netflix’s psychological drama that can alleviate the void left by the series finale. Some of these shows share similar cast members, themes, and narrative structures, effectively preserving key aspects of the beloved streaming program.

10. Gossip Girl (2007-2012)

Penn Badgley Appears In A Main Role

Penn Badgley, who plays the lead in your production, impressively portrays Joe with his smooth appeal and knack for controlling others. However, it’s important to note that Penn first gained recognition as Dan Humphrey, a writer, on the TV series “Gossip Girl.” This show focuses on the lives of wealthy teenagers attending an elite Manhattan high school, whose secrets are exposed online by an anonymous narrator known as “Gossip Girl.” The story unfolds as these characters try to uncover the identity of the blogger who exposes their hidden lives.

Dan from Gossip Girl, portrayed by Badgely, is initially presented as an aspiring poet and outsider, yet he possesses a charisma stemming from his good looks. In contrast to Joe, who shares these traits but conceals a misogynistic personality beneath, Dan comes across as more authentic in his portrayal. Despite the series not always aligning with the psychological themes of You, Badgely’s character makes Gossip Girl an engaging watch, primarily due to his captivating presence.

9. Hannibal (2013-2015)

A Fresh Take On A Famous Horror Icon

The series primarily offers a thrilling experience, but it occasionally delves into the realm of psychological terror due to Joe’s stalking and homicidal behaviors. These aspects are reminiscent of ‘Hannibal’, another series that revolved around the infamous character Hannibal Lecter. This show chronicled FBI investigator Will Graham under the guidance of Dr. Hannibal Lecter, but unbeknownst to many, Dr. Hannibal Lecter was actually a cunning cannibalistic serial killer, subtly attempting to corrupt Will’s psyche and transform him into a murderer as well.

After wrapping up after its third season, the series “Hannibal” offers a chilling perspective on the psyches of killers. Mads Mikkelsen’s captivating portrayal of the title role carries echoes reminiscent of Badgley’s Joe, yet with a more menacing subtext. The show’s examination of manipulation shares similarities with “You”, albeit with a bleaker atmosphere that sets it apart, even though it didn’t receive a satisfying conclusion.

8. Bates Motel (2013-2017)

A Terrifying Prequel To Psycho

Alfred Hitchcock’s classic horror film, “Psycho,” is renowned for being one of the greatest horror movies ever made, with Norman Bates serving as a memorable villain. However, in 2013, the TV show “Bates Motel” offered a fresh perspective by making Norman the main character instead. This series delves into Norman’s younger years and the events that led him to transform into the killer portrayed in “Psycho.” The narrative unfolds gradually, revealing more about his transformation as each new season unfurls.

This series delves into mental illness using psychological horror as a backdrop, much like how ‘You’ explores harmful relationships. The complex and deteriorating relationship between Norma and Norman, portrayed brilliantly by Vera Farmiga and Freddie Highmore, is reminiscent of this dynamic. Similarly to ‘Hannibal’, the show leverages recognized horror actors to offer a fresh, thrilling fear factor through an innovative narrative plot.

7. The Watcher (2022-present)

A Chilling Mystery Loosely Based On Real Events

The distinctive feature that sets your character apart is its unique perspective as the stalker. In contrast, the series “The Watcher” adopts a more conventional approach to the formula. Drawing inspiration from real-life incidents, it portrays a family being haunted by a mysterious figure who sends enigmatic letters to their new residence in Westfield, New Jersey.

In a new twist, the eerie elements of “The Watcher” present a unique viewpoint compared to “You,” yet they continue to underscore the relentless nature of dangerous individuals. The series additionally introduces a family drama element that sets it apart from other shows with similar themes. With season 2 of “The Watcher” already announced, it appears the captivating mystery-thriller is only just beginning.

6. Dead To Me (2019-2022)

Black Comedy About An Unhealthy Relationship

One significant aspect of your storyline revolves around the troubled connections Joe has with women. However, “Dead to Me” takes a unique approach by delving into the complex and blossoming dynamics of a friendship between two women that also harbor unhealthy undertones. At a support group for those grieving a loss, realtor Jen crosses paths with Judy who allegedly lost her fiancé, but in truth, she was involved in an accident that took Jen’s husband’s life. Yet, despite this dark secret, Judy seeks to maintain their friendship.

The show, while primarily comedy, also offers a thoughtful exploration of harmful relationships and their repercussions, whether they’re friendships or romances. As the story unfolds, it provides various viewpoints to examine its themes. It is through these narratives that Dead to Me effectively portrays these concepts in a humorous light.

5. The Following (2013-2015)

Kevin Bacon Hunts A Serial Killer Cult

In the final season of “You,” there’s an ongoing theme that Joe, despite his questionable actions, can still be seen in a positive light – a concept mirrored in “The Following,” another crime thriller featuring Kevin Bacon as FBI agent Ryan Hardy. His objective is to apprehend serial killer Joe Carroll who has formed a cult of murderers under his control.

The show gained popularity due to its origins within the “Scream” movie series, but was ultimately transformed into an independent production. Its focus on cult mentality and the glorification of criminals aligns well with the themes that emerged in subsequent seasons of “You.” This makes it an ideal sequel given how the previous series concluded. Moreover, it delves deeper by examining different yet related concepts across its three seasons.

4. The Sinner (2017-2021)

Procedural Anthology Tackles Difficult Crimes

One intriguing aspect of the presentation is that it draws inspiration from anthology series, where each season features a new primary cast (with Joe being the mainstay in most instances). Similarly, The Sinner constructs its narrative by centering on Bill Pullman’s character, Harry Ambrose, as he uncovers gruesome crimes committed by individuals without criminal backgrounds. The series delves deeply into the darker aspects of human nature, stripping away layers to expose the shocking depths of actions people can commit.

This type of crime shares a striking resemblance with you due to its potential for immense destruction. Yet, its semi-anthology format, where Pullman is usually the recurring character, holds a similarity as well. Just like how Joe’s narrative continues across each season, so does the broader themes in The Sinner. This structure, coupled with the criminal element, creates a familiar and captivating viewing experience.

3. Sweetpea (2024-present)

Ella Purnell Becomes A Serial Killer In This Dark Comedy

Without a doubt, one of Joe’s standout characteristics in You is his serial killer tendencies. In a similar vein, the character Ella Purnell portrays, Rhiannon in Sweetpea, transforms into a murderer following a chain of events that leave her bitter towards society. The series chronicles her killing spree and efforts to conceal her crimes, all while grappling with job-related difficulties after her father’s demise.

Ever since it was announced that “Sweetpea” season 2 is coming, the show continues to be an engaging ongoing series mirroring the sinister aspects of “You”. Just like Joe selects his victims who are familiar to him for his murders, Rhiannon exhibits a chilling disregard for those around her. This shared focus on dark themes makes “Sweetpea” an ideal match for “You”, providing a captivating narrative about sinister intentions.

2. Barry (2018-2023)

This Twisted Comedy Stars Bill Hader As A Regretful Hitman

Joe’s unique trait lies in his tendency to perceive himself as superior to his own nature, justifying even his most questionable actions. This characteristic is reminiscent of the main character, Barry, portrayed by Bill Hader, in the series titled Barry. In this show, Barry, a weary hitman, finds himself drawn to an acting class in LA during one of his assignments. Yet, as his skills in killing subtly seep into his personal life, complications start to mount.

As I delve deeper into “Barry,” I find myself captivated as the series initially presents itself as a humorous tale. However, as the narrative unfolds, it takes an unexpected turn, and the events become increasingly complex and twisted. The darkness that ensues is profound, with some instances of violence and death surpassing the intensity of the murders Joe committed in “You.”

Despite its darker themes, “Barry” manages to maintain a sense of humor, even during its most harrowing moments. This unique blend of comedy and tragedy reminds me of “You,” but with an added layer of complexity that keeps me on the edge of my seat. It’s not always an easy or comfortable watch, but I find myself drawn in by the raw emotion and gripping storytelling.

1. Dexter (2006-2013)

A Serial Killer With A Code

In a different phrasing, the title character of Dexter, similar to Joe, operates under a personal code instead of love for his actions, which justify him as a serial killer who eliminates other killers. During the day, he works as a forensic analyst for the Miami-Metro Police Department, but at night, he carries out his lethal mission. Like Joe, Dexter employs an inner monologue to rationalize his targets and believes they deserve their fate. Each season explores various storylines for other characters as well.

As a passionate film enthusiast, I can’t help but share my excitement about the Dexter franchise! The original series spanned eight incredible seasons, but its legacy lives on through various follow-ups. We’ve seen sequels like “Dexter: New Blood,” prequels such as “Dexter: Original Sin,” and an upcoming sequel titled “Dexter: Resurrection.” If you’re looking for a new series to sink your teeth into, this ongoing franchise is the perfect replacement for any void in your viewing schedule. With the next installment set to premiere on July 11, 2025, now is the ideal time to start catching up!

2025-05-18 02:18