20 Shows Like 'Game of Thrones' to Watch If You're *Still* Thinking About That Finale
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Winter came and went faster than Littlefinger's stronghold over Sansa, and yet we’re still thinking about that shock Game of Thrones series finale. Fortunately, we’ve got the show’s prequel, House of the Dragon, to look forward to. But until then, we’ll need something to tide us over. Still looking for similar content with nuanced characters, wry humor or incredibly smart political commentary? Check out these 20 binge-worthy shows like Game of Thrones that are guaranteed to fill the Dragonstone-sized void in your life.
RELATED: HBO Releases Brand-New Photos as Game of Thrones Prequel Begins Production
1. ‘Narcos’
Former Game of Thrones actor Pedro Pascal stars as a Mexican DEA agent in the crime drama, which follows the true story of Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar. It may not have mythical creatures, but it’s loaded with conflict, corruption and violence.
While discussing Narcos and GoT, Pascal told EW that they’re “very comparable” to one another and explained, “Game of Thrones would take a lot of inspiration from the story of what went down in Colombia and the war that was fought.” He also added, “We don’t need dragons. We got cocaine!” Solid point.
2. ‘American Horror Story: Cult’
Taking its inspiration from the aftermath of America's presidential election in 2016, this season of AHS offers some intriguing commentary on the state of the nation and where it’s headed. If you thought the Wights in GoT were scary, they’re nothing compared to the creepy clowns in this series.
3. ‘Fear the Walking Dead’
As their official Twitter account so eloquently put it, Fear the Walking Dead’s got walkers that are “less allergic to Valyrian steel.” (Ohh, sick burn.) Prepare for even bloodier battles in this Walking Dead spin-off, where a family experiences the start of the zombie apocalypse.
4. ‘Outlander’
Forget winter—spring is coming. Based on Diana Gabaldon’s fantasy novels of the same name, the historical drama follows Claire Randall (Caitriona Balfe), a former World War II military nurse who time-travels back to the year 1743. Her world is turned upside down when she meets the charming Highland warrior, Jamie Fraser (Sam Heughan).
5. ‘Young Sheldon’
Just like his older Big Bang Theory self, young Sheldon Connors (Iain Armitage) has the precociousness and self confidence of GoT 's Lyanna Mormont (Bella Ramsey). But where Lyanna excelled in war games, Sheldon’s forte is advanced mathematics and science. Join the precocious Sheldon as he navigates high school and family life in East Texas.
6. ‘Dynasty’
Prepare for lavish costumes, sprawling castles mansions, sex and scandal. This epic reboot follows two extremely wealthy families, the Carringtons and the Colbys, as they feud for control over their fortune.
7. ‘Stranger Things’
GoT is packed with weird, cringe-worthy moments, but so is Stranger Things. Follow Eleven (Millie Bobby Brown) and the gang as they battle evil forces from the Upside Down.
8. ‘The Crown’
Tobias Menzies, Charles Dance and Stephen Dillane are just a few familiar faces from GoT that you’ll spot in this Netflix series. Get a more intimate look at the British royal family through this (very) dramatized—and super juicy—version of events.
9. ‘Taboo’
Much like Jon Snow (Kit Harrington), adventurer James Keziah Delaney (Tom Hardy) travels to a far-off land to claim his empire. The series tackles a variety of important issues, from political corruption and classism to economic equality.
10. ‘Vikings’
Inspired by the real life of legendary Viking hero, Ragnar Lothbrok, this series spanning several countries and generations will have you hooked from the very beginning. (Think of it as a tamer, more realistic version of Game of Thrones—minus the fantasy elements.)
11. ‘Spartacus’
If you especially enjoyed the drama and bloody violence in GoT, then allow us to introduce you to your newest obsession. Follow the fierce Thracian gladiator as he rallies freed slaves against the Roman Republic.
12. ‘ Black Sails’
Created as a prequel to Robert Louis Stevenson’s novel, Treasure Island, the historical series centers on unlikely partners Captain Flint (Toby Stephens) and “Long” John Silver (Luke Arnold) as they fight for the survival of New Providence island. From steamy love scenes to violence and gore, Black Sails has it all.
13. ‘The Last Kingdom’
The Last Kingdom, which is based on Bernard Cornwell’s The Saxon Stories, follows Uhtred, a Saxon raised by Vikings. His loyalty is tested when he's forced to choose between the place of his birth and those who raised him.
14. ‘The Tudors’
The Tudors will definitely remind you of the political warfare and power-hungry rulers in the land of Westeros. Set in 16th-century England, this gripping drama chronicles the life of King Henry VIII. You won’t find much historical accuracy here, but you will find TK TK.
15. ‘House of Cards’
Not only is this political thriller filled with compelling and complex characters, but it’ll also give you the kind of jaw-dropping twists and edge-of-your-seat drama that you loved so much about GoT. Follow the Underwood couple as they strive to attain power in this gripping series.
16. ‘Bridgerton’
OK, so Bridgerton probably isn’t the first title that comes to mind when you think of GoT, but there’s no shortage of manipulation and backstabbing in Regency era England. Plus, fans who particularly enjoyed GoT’s steamiest moments will appreciate the more intimate scenes in this period drama that centers around the Bridgerton family on their quest for love and happiness in London high society.
17. ‘Succession’
Meet the Roys, a dysfunctional family who owns the successful media conglomerate, Waystar RoyCo. When the family’s patriarch falls ill, all four of his children pounce at the opportunity to take over after his death. (A power-hungry and toxic family…sound familiar, no?) Among the stellar cast are Jeremy Strong, Kieran Culkin and Sarah Snook.
18. ‘American Gods’
If you loved the fantasy aspect of GoT, then American Gods is right up your alley. When Shadow Moon, a former convict, signs on to be a bodyguard for a strange man named Mr. Wednesday (Ian McShane), he discovers that magic is real and gets entangled in a dangerous battle between the Old Gods and the New Gods.
19. ‘Carnival Row’
Set in a magical Victorian world that's filled with immigrant mythical creatures, Carnival Row stars Orlando Bloom and Cara Delevingne as a human detective and a fairy who pursue a dangerous romance in spite of rising tensions between citizens and the immigrant population. Expect to see a whole lot of commentary about xenophobia in this one, plus some striking visual effects.
20. ‘The Witcher’
Inspired by Andrzej Sapkowski’s book series of the same name, this fantasy series chronicles the intertwining stories of monster-hunter Geralt of Rivia (Henry Cavill), Crown Princess Ciri (Freya Allan) and the sorceress Yennefer of Vengerberg (Anya Chalotra). Expect to see the same dark humor and sword fights you love from GoT, but much more than just dragons when it comes to fantastical beasts.
