Best drama series on Netflix in November 2024
When it comes to Netflix dramas, you really are spoilt for choice. Not only does the streamer have some great original series of its own, but it's also the new home to many that have aired elsewhere. From gritty, uncomfortable dramas like Baby Reindeer to more lighthearted affairs such as Bridgerton, here are 25 of the best dramas currently available on the streaming service.
Outer Banks
Action & Adventure | Drama | Mystery
Summary:Set in the Outer Banks community of North Carolina, this teen drama follows a boy who enlists the help of his three best friends to hunt for a legendary treasure. However, it's not just gold they're after - the treasure is somehow linked to the disappearance of his father. Glass Onion actress Madelyn Clyne stars, as does Uglies' Chase Stokes, Council Dads' Madison Bailey, and Revolution's Jonathan Daviss (who calls himself J.D.).
Why you should watch: It's a lot of fun, the cast are easy on the eye, and the locations are pretty beautiful, too. There's plenty of melodrama and twists, and the arguably more lax rules allow this show a bit of freedom that gives it an edge. The performances are great, and there's a mystery that'll keep you guessing until the end. There are currently three complete series (of 10 episodes each) on Netflix. The first part of series 4 dropped on Thursday, October 10, 2024, with the rest of the series dropping on Thursday, November 7, 2024.
New episodes available November 7
The Helicopter Heist
Crime | Drama
Summary:A new thriller based on the shocking real events of the Västberga helicopter robbery in 2009. In a crime that shocked the nation, the robbers used a stolen helicopter to land on top of security company C4S’s cash service depot in Stockholm, Sweden. While they successfully stole bags of cash, law enforcers stood by helplessly - the criminals had placed caltrops around the building and bombs at the police’s helicopter base in advance, preventing police from accessing the scene.
Why you should watch: This is a remarkable true story that - if done right - could make for excellent television. Journalist-author Jonas Bonnier’s book about the crime, on which the series is based, received rave views in Sweden and has since sold in 34 territories worldwide. The eight-episode series premieres at the Stockholm Film Festival a week before it drops on Netflix, so we’ll know more then.
Available November 22
Senna
Documentary
2010 | Asif Kapadia | 106 mins | 12
Summary:Biographical drama exploring the life of racing driver Ayrton Senna (Gabriel Leone), from his first kart race aged 13 to his devastating 1994 crash at the San Marino Grand Prix. As one of Formula One’s brightest stars, Senna won 41 Grands Prix and three Driver’s Championships in 1988, 1990 and 1991. Out of the car, he was as prolific in his charity work, donating millions to change the lives of lower income families in his native Brazil.
Why you should watch: This series is a must-watch for the new generation of Formula One fans raised by Netflix’s hit series Drive to Survive. Decades after his death aged just 36, Senna is still regularly referred to as the greatest driver in the sport. As recently as 2020, Amazon used an algorithm to declare Senna Formula One’s fastest ever qualifier. This new miniseries should remind all of the sport’s beautiful - but painful - history.
Available November 29
Baby Reindeer
Drama
Summary:Donny's life is turned upside down after he is kind to a woman who orders a drink in the pub he works at. The punter, Martha, soon becomes obsessed with Donny, her 'Baby Reindeer', and begins to stalk him, which has devastating effects on his life. Comedian Richard Gadd penned and starred in this black comedy drama, adapted from his autobiographical one-man theatre show. The Outlaws star Jessica Gunning plays his terrifying stalker, Martha.
Why you should watch: Baby Reindeer took the world by storm when it was released in 2024. The acting from both leads is fantastic, in particular a menacing Gunning, and the story is both gripping, terrifying, and utterly heartbreaking. It's a series that you can't help but binge as your hurtle towards its devastating conclusion. It's also recently won plenty of awards, nabbing six Emmy's last month. As The Guardian said, Baby Reindeer is "tense, creepily-filmed television that will stay with you for a long time to come". Probably worth mentioning that the series is an 18 due to scenes of sexual violence.
Available now
Supacell
Action & Adventure | Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Drama
Summary:Set in South London, this new superhero drama follows a group of 'normal' people who wake up one day to discover they have inexplicably developed superpowers. The only connection between them is that they are all black. Doctor Who star Tosin Cole and The Responder actress Adelayo Adedayo lead the cast in this thrilling drama.
Why you should watch: This series has proven to be quite the hit since its release back in June 2024. Yes, the superhero powers are fun to watch, but the character drama is what makes this compelling. Having super-speed and telekinesis and the power to travel in time are cool, yes. But how the characters come to terms with their newfound abilities, and how they affect their relationships, is what is special about this series. The Guardian was full of praise for Supacell earlier this year, branding it "ingenious", and writing that it is "strikingly performed, bracingly plotted and its characters are up there with prestige TV's finest". There's a series 2 on its way, too.
Available now
KAOS
Comedy | Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Drama
Summary:This comedy drama imagines what the Greek and Roman gods would be like living in the modern day. Zeus' rule is under threat thanks to Prometheus, who has a plan to use a prophecy - as well as three unwitting humans - to bring about an end to the lightning god's reign of terror. Jeff Goldblum plays the god of all gods, whilst David Thewlis, Better actress Leila Farzad, and Billie Piper also star.
Why you should watch: Imagine Percy Jackson, but for adults. That's what Kaos is, and it's brilliant for it. It's funny, it's exciting, and there are more than enough twists to keep you entertained. The performances are great, with Goldblum in particular bringing his trademark weirdness to the role with much success. As The Guardian wrote: "Hilarious, profound and moving: this fantasy series is an utter triumph." If that isn't enough to sell you, look at the fantastic cast - including Thewlis, Farzad, Piper, Game of Thrones' Stephen Dillane, and comic Eddie Izzard. Unfortunately, it's been cancelled after one season, but don't let that put you off!
Available now
Heartstopper
Drama
Summary:This sweet coming-of-age romcom follows slightly awkward gay teenager Nick as he falls in love with his classmate, Charlie - never believing he would stand a chance with the popular rugby player. The series - based on Oseman's webcomic and graphic novel of the same name - stars Rocketman's Kit Connor, Agatha All Along's Joe Locke, Doctor Who's Yasmin Finney, and Broadchurch's Olivia Colman.
Why you should watch: This will absolutely steal your heart. And you don't have to be gay, or a teenager, to relate. It's sensitive, funny, and Locke and Connor are fantastic together. The show has had some great reviews since being released. Time magazine was very complimentary of the first series, writing that "Heartstopper is an absolute treat" and is "full of delightful touches". If you want something that'll warm your cockles this autumn, look no further.
Available now
The Diplomat
Drama | War & Politics
Summary:This drama follows a US diplomat working as an ambassador in the UK - and things are far from easy for her. Amidst an international crisis, she must also deal with her failing public relationship with a fellow diplomat. The Americans star Keri Russell leads, alongside Scoop's Rufus Sewell, Ridley Road's Rory Kinnear, and The A Word's David Gyasi.
Why you should watch: The performances in The Diplomat - Keri Russell's in particular - are the draw here. Some reviewers have gone so far as to say that she's on par with Kevin Spacey's portrayal of Francis Underwood in House of Cards - high praise indeed. The Guardian has described it as a "hugely enjoyable ride", and we can't help but agree. A second series of the show will be dropping at the end of the month (Thursday, October 31, 2024), so you won't have long to get your fix.
Available now
Squid Game
Action & Adventure | Mystery | Drama
Summary:Korean drama about a cash-strapped single father who decides to take part in a high-stakes game in the hope of winning millions - against other equally desperate players. However, he soon discovers that there is a truly deadly twist to the seemingly childish games they have to take part in. Meanwhile, someone is watching over them at all times - but why, and who? The Acolyte star Lee Jung-jae and Disclaimer actress HoYeon Jung lead the cast.
Why you should watch: Back in 2021, Squid Game took the world by storm, and brought attention to other fantastic Korean dramas. The deadly twists bring a true sense of terror, while the killer games and magnetic performances made the series one an overnight hit. It was nominated for numerous awards at the time, winning both Emmys and Golden Globes. It also provided plenty of Halloween costume ideas that year! The second season will be dropping on Boxing Day 2024.
Available now
The Crown
Drama
Summary:The life and reign of Elizabeth II is depicted across six seasons in this now-iconic Netflix drama. The late Queen's life is dramatised in an unflinching fashion here - from her early days on the throne and her marriage issues with Prince Philip, to latter years when so much tragedy occurred... The cast is extensive and changes every two seasons, with Claire Foy, Olivia Colman, and Imelda Staunton all portraying Her Majesty. Elizabeth Debicki, Dominic West, Matt Smith, Emma Corrin, Josh O'Connor, and Gillian Anderson are just some of the other big names involved.
Why you should watch: Even if you're not a fan of the Royal Family, this is a truly gripping drama that doesn't hold back. It's far from flattering at times. It also shows the good, of course, and is a fascinating (mostly imagined) look at their private lives. The cast is beyond impressive, with some huge names bringing their A-game. Foy, Colman, and Staunton are all fantastic in the lead role, and supporting stars such as Corrin, Smith, and O'Connor will blow you away. Truly one of the jewels in Netflix's crown (pun intended!), The Crown has won more awards than you can count, including Emmy's, Golden Globes, and BAFTA's. Six series of time well spent.
Available now
The Queen's Gambit
Drama
Summary:In a 1950s orphanage, a young girl reveals an astonishing talent for chess and begins an unlikely journey to stardom while grappling with addiction. The brilliant Anya Taylor-Joy stars as Beth Harmon, alongside Bill Camp, Thomas Brodie-Sangster, and Harry Melling.
Why you should watch: This proved to be something of a surprise hit for Netflix when it was released in 2020. I mean, who would genuinely believe that a drama about chess could be so riveting? And yet - it is! By the end of the seven episode run, you are absolutely rooting for Beth to become the chess champion she deserves to be. With a 94% popcorn-meter rating on Rotten Tomatoes, as well as more awards than you can shake a stick at (11 Emmy Awards, and two Golden Globes for starters), this is worth checking out.
Available now
Breaking Bad
Drama | Crime
Summary:First airing on AMC before moving over to Netflix, Breaking Bad tells the story of Walter White, a chemistry teacher, who learns he has lung cancer. In a desperate bid to pay for his medical treatment, Walter turns to cooking and selling drugs alongside his old school pupil, Jesse. However, he soon gets a taste for the criminal life - with disastrous and devastating consequences. Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul lead this iconic piece of television.
Why you should watch: Because it's arguably the best TV show to air on television… ever. It's compelling, it's tense, it's funny, it's sad, it's got twists and turns, the characters are incredibly well-rounded, and you just won't be able to stop watching. It's perhaps the most thrilling five seasons of television around - and the performances are beyond incredible. Cranston and Paul dazzle throughout in what has often been described as being the best TV series of all time. if you haven't watched it yet, what have you been doing?! Stick it on now!
Available now
Better Call Saul
Crime | Drama
Summary:A spin-off of Breaking Bad, Better Call Saul tells the story of dodgy lawyer Saul Goodman before he became involved with Walter White and Jesse Pinkman. Not only do viewers get to see the events that led to Saul becoming the lawyer he is in the hit series, but they also see what happened to him after the events of Breaking Bad. Bob Odenkirk leads this one.
Why you should watch: If you thought Breaking Bad was good, then you'll be thrilled to learn that Better Call Saul is arguably even better! The storylines are just as compelling, the characters are just as well-rounded, and the scrapes that Saul gets himself in are just as thrilling and tense. Bob Odenkirk will keep you glued to your screen for hours as the resilient Saul. It's very rare that a spin-off is better than its parent show, but somehow they've managed it here. It is an absolute shocker that despite being nominated for 53 Emmy's, Better Call Saul never won a single one. Justice for Saul!
Available now
Bridgerton
Drama
Summary:Based on the books by Julia Quinn, Bridgerton follows members of the upper classes in England during the Regency period as they fall in love, cause scandal, and attend lots of balls. The series features a number of well-known faces, including Broadchurch's Jonathan Bailey, Sex Education's Simone Ashley, and Derry Girls' Nicola Coughlan.
Why you should watch: Bridgerton is perfect if you love a bit of romantic drama, because there's plenty of it. Described as "more-ish" by The Guardian, fans of the show will be glad to know that there's more to come. The fourth season (technically the fifth) is currently in development and will focus on the third book in the series (confusing, we know). There's also a prequel series about a young Queen Charlotte featuring India Amarteifo. It's one of those shows that will grab you and not let you go until you've finished it all.
Available now
The Sandman
Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Drama | Action & Adventure
Summary:Morpheus, the god of dreams, has been captured by a cult. Kept imprisoned for over a century, his realm, The Dreaming, falls to ruin. After finally escaping, Morpheus attempts to regain control of his kingdom, coming up against serial killers, evil manifestations of dreams, and the devil during his journeys. Tom Sturridge plays the mysterious deity in this dark fantasy, alongside Jenna Coleman, David Thewlis, and Gwendoline Christie. It's based on the comic book written by Neil Gaiman.
Why you should watch: If you're after something a bit more 'out there', then it's not going to get more 'out there' than The Sandman. Fans of the comics will know just how bizarre things can get in this dark fantasy. It's wacky and weird and wonderful, and will probably be the most unique thing you watch on Netflix. Sturridge is ominous and spooky as Morpheus, whilst Kirby Howell-Baptise's guest performance as Death will stay with you for a long time.
Available now
You
Drama
Summary:This drama series follows Joe, an intense young man who regularly becomes smitten with beautiful, intelligent women. However, his crushes turn into seriously unhealthy obsessions. Using social media and other tools, he does whatever he can to become close to the object of his affections, going as far as 'removing' obstacles - including people - that stand in the way. Gossip Girl star Penn Badgley plays Joe in this series which also features the likes of Jenna Ortega, Elizabeth Lial, and Victoria Pedretti. There are four series available, with a fifth (and final) chapter on the way.
Why you should watch: Who doesn't love a show that follows a morally grey (or just pitch black) character? Well, they don't get much murkier than Badgley's Joe, whose stalker-ish tendencies will both thrill you and make you feel deeply uncomfortable. You is both clever, and surprisingly addictive. As The Guardian wrote in 2019: "It is smart enough to let us know that to sympathise with Joe is to be complicit in his crimes. Every time you feel you're being drawn in, the show pulls the rug from under you and reminds you that he is not the romantic hero you are looking for."
Available now
One Day
Drama
Summary:Based on David Nicholls' novel of the same name, One Day follows the lives of Emma and Dexter, from their first meeting on the final night of university, throughout their sometimes troubled, often sweet relationship. The story takes place over the course of 19 years, and charts the duo's ups, downs, and near misses. This is Going to Hurt star Ambika Mod and White Lotus actor Leo Woodall lead. Eleanor Tomlinson, Toby Stephens, and Tim McInnerny also star.
Why you should watch: Dexter and Emma's story will grab your heart in a vice-like grip and leave you a blubbering mess by the end of it. Mod and Woodall have fantastic chemistry together and you'll really be rooting for them both throughout (mainly Mod though). It's unique in the fact that you only get a brief snapshot of their lives (one day every year), and really highlights just how much can change in 12 months. Rotten Tomatoes sums it up best: "One Day is by turns giddy and somber but always swooningly romantic." Get the tissues out if you're going to be watching this one.
Available now
Wednesday
Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Mystery | Comedy
Summary:A new, modern twist on The Addams Family, this time focusing on Wednesday Addams. This series follows the teen as she starts at a new school for monstrous outcasts. Wednesday struggles to adapt, but a local murder mystery soon takes her interest, and she embarks on a mission to solve it. Jenna Ortega is fabulously cool as Wednesday, alongside Gwendoline Christie, original Wednesday Addams actress Christina Ricci, and Catherine Zeta-Jones who plays Morticia. The impressive supporting cast also includes Hunter Doohan, with even bigger names (Steve Buscemi and Billie Piper for starters) coming in series two.
Why you should watch: This coming-of-age supernatural story took the world by storm when it first came out in 2022. If you were a fan of the likes of Chilling Adventures of Sabrina, Riverdale, or Fate: The Winx Saga, then this'll be right up your street. It's got that perfect amount of mystery, supernatural-ness, and loveable characters (yes, even the seemingly emotionless Wednesday) that'll hook you and keep you watching until the very end. A series two is currently being filmed.
Available now
Sex Education
Comedy | Drama
Summary:Coming-of-age comedy drama. Otis Milburn's mum is a sex therapist, and everyone at his school seems to be doing it - apart from him, that is. However, despite his lack of experience, Otis becomes his school's unofficial sex therapist. Over the course of four series, he must deal with his new 'career', whilst also navigating his own relationships. Doctor Who's Ncuti Gatwa stars, alongside Asa Butterfield, Gillian Anderson, Emma Mackey, Aimee Lou Wood, and Connor Swindells.
Why you should watch: It’ll have you laughing one minute and feeling strangely emotional the next. It also has one of the best will-they-won't-they situationships on television in recent years, which will absolutely keep you hooked. The performances are charming, the actors are all brilliant (and have gone on to forge some incredible careers), and the storylines are surprisingly honest and intimate. There are four seasons to enjoy (although the quality dips a little in season four), and plenty of crude, sexual laugh-out-loud moments that'll stay with you for a long time afterwards.
Available now
Stranger Things
Drama | Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Mystery | Action & Adventure
Summary:Set in a town called Hawkins in the 1980s, Stranger Things follows a group of kids who go looking for their friend after he mysteriously disappears. They soon discover that he wasn't kidnapped by your average weirdo, he's been taken to another dimension entirely - the nightmarish Upside Down. Over the course of four seasons, the group of friends, along with a mysterious little girl with telekinesis, battle the hordes of darkness that threaten their town, and their world. Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, Winona Ryder, and David Harbour all star.
Why you should watch: Perhaps the biggest thing Netflix has ever released (in terms of impact), Stranger Things is a show you just have to watch, even just to say you have... Every series sees the brave children face a new threat from the Upside Down, yet there's an overarching story about Eleven's mysterious origins. There's now an all-star cast (a lot of the younger actors were unknown when the series first aired), with some great acting, in particular from Ryder and Harbour. The fifth and final series is currently in development and is expected to land on Netflix in 2025.
Available now
3 Body Problem
Sci-Fi & Fantasy | Mystery | Drama
Summary:Based on Liu Cixin's book of the same name, 3 Body Problem follows a group of fiercely intelligent scientists who come into contact with an extraterrestrial civilisation. However, their communication with the aliens leads to various threats, as well as humanity-wide changes. Created by Game of Thrones show runners David Benioff and D.B. Weiss, this series stars Benedict Wong, Jovan Adepo, John Bradley, Eiza González, Jonathan Pryce, Ade Edmondson, and Liam Cunningham.
Why you should watch: 3 Body Problem is one of the best sci-fi dramas released by Netflix in a while. The series has been praised for the fact that writers David Benioff and D. B. Weiss managed to turn an "un-filmable" novel into a series. This deeply complex sci-fi series will keep you intrigued throughout. It's a must watch, even if you haven't read the original novel by Liu Cixin. In fact, you'll like this, even if you're not usually into sci-fi. Netflix has, quite rightly, renewed 3 Body Problem for season 2.
Available now
Bodyguard
Crime | Drama | War & Politics
Summary:Originally on BBC One and iPlayer, Bodyguard is now available on Netflix. It tells the story of David Budd, a former solider suffering from PSTD, who is hired as the Home Secretary's bodyguard. Despite despising her polices, Budd finds his bond deepening with MP Julia Montague. However, as she begins to get targeted and her position becomes more dangerous, Budd struggles to protect her. Game of Thrones star Richard Madden plays Budd, alongside Line of Duty's Keeley Hawes as Julia Montague.
Why you should watch: If you want a thrilling drama that'll keep you on the edge of your seat then, seriously, look no further than Bodyguard. The tension steadily ramps up across the six episodes, culminating in perhaps the tensest, most nervous hour of television in recent memory. Madden and Hawes are magnetic together, and the plot is filled with twists and turns that'll leave you stunned as the end credits roll (unsurprisingly it was created by Line of Duty's Jed Mercurio). As Variety said at the time: "It's a six-episode ride that demands, and rewards, a quick binge." We couldn't agree more.
Available now
Peaky Blinders
Drama | Crime
Summary:Set in Birmingham in the aftermath of the First World War, Peaky Blinders follows gangster family the Shelby's, as they expand their criminal organisation and attempt to remain the most powerful gangsters in the city. In later seasons, Tommy Shelby, head of the family, embarks on a political career as the Second World War approaches. Cillian Murphy leads, with the late Helen McCrory in a supporting role. Sophie Rundle, Sam Neill, Tom Hardy, Joe Cole, and Paul Anderson also star.
Why you should watch: Peaky Blinders has become something of a cultural phenomenon in the UK since its original release in 2013. Everyone seems to love the Shelby family, the way they talk, the way they act, and their antics - and for good reason - it's very, very entertaining (if sweary). The acting is great, the storylines are very compelling, and the fact that no-one is safe makes almost every episode an edge of your seat affair (in series four, a prominent Shelby is killed). It may have ended after six series, but there's currently a movie in development which will air on Netflix in 2025.
Available now
You Don't Know Me
Drama
Summary:A young man from South London is in court, accused of murder - although he is adamant he's innocent. In his own words, he tells the court his story - about the girl he loved getting herself into trouble and how he risked everything to save her. Secret Invasion star Samuel Adewumni and Talk To Me actress Sophie Wilde lead the cast.
Why you should watch: Sometimes a TV show comes around and blows everyone away - this is one of them. It might be a slow burner but, if you stick with it, it'll be well worth your time. Not only are the performances captivating, but the story and mystery will keep you enthralled throughout. Well worth checking out. It's better than your average court drama. The Times called it "impressively original", while author Lee Child described it as "a daring concept executed to perfection".
Available now
Orange Is the New Black
Comedy | Drama
Summary:Ten years after smuggling drug money to her ex-girlfriend Alex, Piper's crime catches up with her, and she ends up in jail. She must now adjust to prison life, leaving her friends, family, and fiancée behind. She must also re-examine her relationship with Alex, who is in prison with her. A comedy drama starring Taylor Schilling, Laura Prepon, Michael Harney, and Jason Biggs, to name but a few.
Why you should watch: One of Netflix’s early successes, Orange is the New Black was one of the jewels in its crown for a long time. Described as being a "sharp mix of black humour and dramatic heft" (Rotten Tomatoes) it still holds a 92% Popcornmeter rating on Rotten Tomatoes, which is pretty impressive for such a long-running show. It's also been nominated for several Emmy's over the years, winning one in 2015. With seven seasons and 91 episodes, this is a series that you will be able to immerse yourself in for quite some time. You'll fall in love with the characters and the world (even if it's a prison), and you'll be gutted to leave it when it ends.
Available now
Top Boy
Drama
Summary:This London-based crime drama follows two childhood friends turned drug dealers as they build their drug empire in Hackney. Dushane and Sully must navigate gang violence and drug rivals - as well as their own fracturing friendship. Ashley Walters plays Dushane, opposite Kane 'Kano' Robinson as Sully. There are five series in total, including the original Top Boy: Summerhouse (which aired on Channel 4, before Netflix took over).
Why you should watch: This is one of the top tier crime dramas currently available on Netflix. The series came to an end in 2023 in what The Guardian described as being "a potent ending that rivals the very best television". So no Game of Thrones divisive ending here, which is always a good thing. The performances are great, the storylines are dark and gritty, and you'll undoubtedly get emotionally involved throughout all five series, which keep getting better and better. One of the best British dramas of the last few years for sure.
Available now
Skins
Drama | Comedy
Summary:Set in Bristol, Skins follows a group of school kids as they navigate their teens. They cope with the usual growing pains by dabbling in drugs, partying, sex, and sometimes violence. A springboard for a whole generation of British talent, Skins stars actors such as Nicholas Hoult, Kaya Scodelario, Jack O'Connell, Dev Patel, Daniel Kaluuya, and Joe Dempsie.
Why you should watch: Skins will break you, in a good way (yes, it IS possible!). It's as utterly devastating as it is hilarious and, at times, cringeworthy. The stories are surprisingly very mature and dark at times, and deal with themes such as death, abuse, mental health issues, and PTSD. The performances are brilliant - it's no surprise that the vast majority of the series' three main sets of cast went on to have some brilliant careers (a whole new cast of characters was introduced every two seasons). If you're after something gritty, yet funny and heartfelt, then you can't do much better than Skins.
Available now