7 crime thriller shows like The Blacklist that’ll pull you into a world of deception and danger

The Last Frontier - A crime thriller like The Blacklist released on October 10, 2025 | Image via Apple TV+
The Last Frontier - A crime thriller like The Blacklist released on October 10, 2025 | Image via Apple TV+

Looking for crime thrillers that match the suspense and twists of The Blacklist? You’re in the right place. This article explores seven thrilling shows that will keep you on the edge of your seat with deception, danger, and brilliant minds at work. The Last Frontier, another thriller from the creator of The Blacklist, John Bokenkamp, was released on Apple TV+ on October 10, 2025. This list is recommended to you in case you want to read crime thrillers with plenty of secrets, danger, and smart minds. These seven shows are great for fans of The Blacklist and its thrilling plot twists.

Disclaimer: This article is based on the author's opinions. Reader discretion is advised.


7 crime thriller shows like The Blacklist that’ll pull you into a world of deception and danger:

7. Criminal Minds (2005)

Criminal Minds | Image via Prime Video
Criminal Minds | Image via Prime Video

Criminal Minds is a crime series that premiered on CBS in 2005. The TV show follows FBI agents as they look into crimes. These agents work in a special unit called BAU. They use clues & patterns to catch dangerous people. The show has been rated 8.1 out of 10 on IMDb. People on IMDB are praising this show and said,

"Truly a great series worthy of praise. Many may say that this is a 'rip-off' of CSI but I've watched CSI ......seemed to closed."

Each episode brings a new case and a fresh challenge. For example, viewers saw Dr. Spencer's lover, Maeve Donovan, being abducted by her stalker, Diane Turner, in the Zugzwang episode. Dr. Spencer Reid is having a personal dilemma at that time. As they race against time and find themselves in a heated argument, the BAU team is searching desperately for Maeve. Reid's vulnerability and sincere concern for Maeve are highlighted in the episode, which sets up a disastrous scenario that affects him and the crew for a long time. Like The Blacklist, Criminal Minds shows how personal stakes and emotional struggles can drive the investigation, making the tension even more gripping.

Fact: More about the episodes of Criminal Minds!


6. High Potential (2024)

High Potential - A crime thriller like The Blacklist | Image via Prime Video
High Potential - A crime thriller like The Blacklist | Image via Prime Video

High Potential is a novel spin on the crime series in which Morgan, a bright cleaning lady, begins solving complex cases on behalf of the police. She feigns being in disarray and lost, yet she has a keen mind and observes things that other people overlook. In each episode, Morgan tackles a new mystery, using her unique perspective to solve cases that baffle the police. This style is similar to The Blacklist because both series feature an unexpected figure working with the police to solve murders. High Potential is available on Hulu. Stream it now! Have a glimpse of one of its scenes on Instagram,

The Blacklist depicts Raymond Reddington, a renowned criminal, who gives the FBI his special skills to apprehend dangerous foes. Morgan’s clever insights often outsmart seasoned detectives, much like Reddington’s brilliant schemes in The Blacklist. Both keep their colleagues and the audience guessing at every turn. Both series retain the audience as they combine personal struggles with challenges and twists. Fans of The Blacklist should watch High Potential if they enjoy enigmatic leads that defy the law and turn every crime into a mental game.


5. Mindhunter (2017)

Mindhunter - A crime thriller like The Blacklist | Image via Netflix
Mindhunter - A crime thriller like The Blacklist | Image via Netflix

Mindhunter is a crime show that looks deep into the minds of killers. It was created by Joe Penhall and is based on a true-crime book. The series started in 2017 and ran for two seasons. On IMDb, the series has an 8.6 out of 10 score. Viewers watched this show and gave a review on IMDb. They said,

"This fictionalized show about the development of 1970's police forensic psychology and profiling is brilliant."

In Season 2, Episode 4, the story takes a dark turn. Holden and Bill Tench go to Atlanta to investigate the murder of children. During the search, Bill opens up in a way viewers have not seen before. He shares a painful memory from his childhood. He says he wet the bed to get his parents' attention. He recounts a disturbing childhood event in which he tied a toddler to a cross, mistakenly believing it could bring the child back to life. This confession is shocking and sad. It shows how trauma can shape a person. The episodes are gripping, similar to those in The Blacklist, and will keep you glued to your seats until you finish the entire series.

Fact: Check out more about the Mindhunter episodes!


4. The Mentalist (2008)

The Mentalist | Image via Prime Video
The Mentalist | Image via Prime Video

The Mentalist is a TV show about a man named Patrick Jane. Patrick has extraordinary observation talents and assists the California Bureau of Investigation (CBI) in apprehending criminals. The peculiar ability to assess people and notice clues is what makes Patrick an asset to the team as an outsider. The Blacklist resembles this series in that both shows have brilliant and unorthodox professionals who work alongside investigators.

In The Blacklist, Reddington can assist in solving the cases because he possesses an insider knowledge of crime networks. In The Mentalist, Jane analyzes behavior and psychology to uncover secrets and intentions, and she generally stays one step ahead. Jane's use of mind games to solve problems is consistent with the Blacklist scenes in which Reddington controls the action and divulges secrets. The Mentalist is most enjoyed for its thrills, complex plots, and the journey of a humorous yet tormented detective. If you enjoy The Blacklist, you’ll appreciate The Mentalist for its suspenseful plots, clever revelations, and exploration of human struggles.


3. White Collar (2009)

White Collar - A crime thriller like The Blacklist | Image via Prime Video
White Collar - A crime thriller like The Blacklist | Image via Prime Video

This TV series is a US-based show created by Jeff Eastin. Matt Bomer stars as Neal Caffrey, while Tim DeKay plays Peter Burke (FBI Special Agent). White Collar premiered on the USA Network on October 23, 2009. Currently, it is available to the audience on Hotstar. In this TV series, we have witnessed Neal as a smooth-talking con artist who lands in prison. But instead of staying behind bars, he strikes a deal with the FBI agent who caught him. Peter needs help catching clever white collar criminals. Neal joins the team, trading tricks for trust. White Collar received an IMDb rating of 8.2 out of 10. One crime thriller fan on IMDb said,

"White Collar is an exceptional TV series. I just bought it on DVD and it does not disappoint."

Similar to The Blacklist, this show combines weekly cases with lengthier stories that develop over time. The show is smart & playful, with strong chemistry between the leads. Mozzie, Neal's quirky friend, adds charm & chaos to the web series. Across six seasons, the team pursues crooks, bends the rules, and blurs the line between justice and crime.


2. The Last Frontier (2025)

The Last Frontier | Image via Apple TV+
The Last Frontier | Image via Apple TV+

The Last Frontier brings a fresh crime story to Apple TV+. It is produced by Jon Bokenkamp, the creator of The Blacklist, and Richard D'Ovidio. This time, the focus is on an escaped asset who goes rogue. The show does not follow a clever criminal working the system. Instead, it throws viewers into a wild chase through Alaska. The series starts with a crash that leaves 18 federal prisoners stranded in the cold. The snow becomes more than just scenery. Viewers are praising this show because it will draw you into the story right from the pilot episode. One IMDb user watched and gave a review,

"A crime thriller in Alaska. The beginning scene on EP 1 draws you in. The pacing keeps you engaged."

The show blocks paths, hides danger, and adds tension. The action is sharp and the setting is brutal. The Last Frontier promises a thrilling ride through icy chaos. Both shows begin with chaos & danger. The Blacklist opens with a criminal surrendering to the FBI, while The Last Frontier starts with a crash in Alaska. The similarity in each of these scenes includes tension building & hidden secrets.


1. Black Rabbit (2025)

Black Rabbit - A crime thriller like The Blacklist | Image via Netflix
Black Rabbit - A crime thriller like The Blacklist | Image via Netflix

If crime thrillers are your favorite web series genre, then Black Rabbit is the perfect pick. This Netflix series follows two brothers in New York City who run a busy nightclub filled with secrets and danger. Created by Kate Susman and Zach Baylin, the show stars Jason Bateman and Jude Law. Bateman also directed the first two episodes and said,

“It’s really about these brothers who love each other but don’t match.........but they’re really exciting to be around.”

The story kicks off with a robbery that throws everything into chaos. From the first scene, the pace is fast and the tension is high. Twists come quickly, and nothing feels safe or certain. The brothers find themselves in grave trouble as their decisions lead to increased risk. Black Rabbit keeps viewers guessing and never slows down. Black Rabbit & The Blacklist both dive into dangerous partnerships, fast-paced crime, and hidden motives. Each show begins with chaos, builds on secrets, and keeps viewers hooked through twists & risky decisions.

Fact: Want to know more about Black Rabbit and why it should be at the top of your crime drama watchlist?


We concluded that every series in the list came with its mystery and suspense. Shows like The Black Rabbit and The Last Frontier are trending on OTT platforms. Fans of The Blacklist will find plenty to enjoy in these shows. Each series offers clever twists, emotional storylines, and compelling characters that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Edited by Tanisha Aggarwal