Best Mystery TV Shows to Watch in 2024

Mystery TV shows have been a popular genre for decades, captivating audiences with their intricate plotlines, unexpected twists, and thrilling suspense. Whether it’s a classic whodunit or a modern crime drama, mystery TV shows have a way of keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. In this article, we will be exploring the best mystery TV shows currently available for streaming.

When it comes to choosing the best mystery TV show, there are several factors to consider. The quality of the writing, the strength of the acting, and the overall production value are all important elements that contribute to a great viewing experience. Additionally, the complexity of the plot and the ability to keep the audience engaged are critical factors that set the best mystery TV shows apart from the rest.

One thing to keep in mind when selecting a mystery TV show is the level of violence or graphic content. Some shows may be too intense or disturbing for certain viewers, so it’s important to consider your personal preferences before diving in. With that said, let’s take a look at the top mystery TV shows that are sure to keep you guessing until the very end.

We spent hours researching and watching numerous mystery TV shows to identify the ones that stand out from the rest.

Best Mystery TV Shows

We know the feeling of getting hooked on a good mystery TV show – the thrill of trying to solve the case alongside the detectives, the twists and turns that keep you on the edge of your seat, and the satisfaction of finally uncovering the truth. That’s why we’ve put together a list of the best mystery TV shows out there. From classic whodunits to modern crime dramas, our roundup has something for every mystery lover. So sit back, grab some popcorn, and get ready to be captivated by our top picks.

The Best TV Shows That Never Were

If you’re a fan of TV shows and love reading about the ones that never made it to the screen, then “The Best TV Shows That Never Were” is the book for you.

Pros

• Provides insight into TV pilots that never made it to the screen
• Interesting and engaging read
• Affordable price

Cons

• Some of the pilots may not be of interest to certain readers
• Not a comprehensive reference work
• No X-Ray enabled

As TV lovers, we were excited to read “The Best TV Shows That Never Were” and it did not disappoint. The book provides a fascinating look into TV pilots that never made it to the screen, giving readers a glimpse into what could have been. The writing is engaging and keeps you interested from start to finish.

While the book lists over 300 pilots, some of them may not be of interest to certain readers. However, the book still provides a great overall view of the industry and the creative process behind TV shows. It’s also worth noting that the book is not a comprehensive reference work, but rather a fun read for fans of the medium.

One downside of the book is that it does not have X-Ray enabled, which would have been useful for looking up characters and information. However, the affordable price of the book more than makes up for this.

Overall, we highly recommend “The Best TV Shows That Never Were” for anyone who loves TV and wants to learn more about the creative process behind it.

Mrs. Bradley Mysteries: The Complete Series DVD

If you are looking for a classic whodunnit set in the 1920s, then Mrs. Bradley Mysteries: The Complete Series DVD is a must-have.

Pros

• Diana Rigg’s performance as the intuitive and irrepressible Adela Bradley is captivating.
• The resourceful chauffeur, George, adds a unique element to the show.
• The complex cases of blackmail, murder, sacrifice, and mistaken identity are solved with characteristic style and grace.

Cons

• The show only has five episodes, leaving viewers wanting more.
• The wall-breaking scenes may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
• Some viewers may find the actress’s weight distracting.

The Mrs. Bradley Mysteries: The Complete Series DVD is a treasure trove of excellent performances and screenwriting. Diana Rigg draws you in, and you cannot help but find her character very emancipated but also very respectful of others. The chauffeur plays along beautifully, adding to the charm of the show.

The picture and sound quality of the two DVDs are excellent, and the reproduction quality is top-notch. While there are no extras on the DVD set, the show itself is worth obtaining and watching. The bonus content is a pleasant addition, and the DVD set played without issue in my PS4.

Overall, if you are a fan of classic whodunnits, then the Mrs. Bradley Mysteries: The Complete Series DVD is a must-have for your collection.

Ellery Queen Mysteries – Complete Series

If you’re a fan of classic mystery TV shows, then the Ellery Queen Mysteries – Complete Series is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The series contains all 22 uncut and unedited episodes of this classic NBC series.
• The bonus content includes the series pilot “Too Many Suspects” and an Ellery Queen interview with co-creator William Link.
• The series features an impressive cast of guest stars, including Don Ameche, Dana Andrews, George Burns, and many more.

Cons

• The DVD set is in PAL format, which may not be compatible with all DVD players.
• The series is from the 70s, so the production quality may not be up to modern standards.
• The series is only available in Region 2, which may not be compatible with all DVD players.

We were impressed with the quality of the series, and the bonus content was a nice touch. The cast of guest stars is also quite impressive, and the series does a great job of keeping you guessing until the very end.

If you’re a fan of classic mystery TV shows, then we highly recommend giving the Ellery Queen Mysteries – Complete Series a try. With its engaging storylines, talented cast, and bonus content, it’s sure to provide hours of entertainment.

MSTiepedia – One Man’s Journey Through 30 Years Of The Best TV Show Ever (Volume I)

If you are a fan of Mystery Science Theater 3000, then MSTiepedia – One Man’s Journey Through 30 Years Of The Best TV Show Ever (Volume I) is a must-have.

Pros

• The book is a comprehensive guide to the series, covering all the episodes from the original run and beyond, providing a wealth of information for fans.
• The author’s personal anecdotes and insights make the book an engaging read, and help to bring the world of MST3K to life.
• The Kindle edition is well-formatted, with features like Page Flip and Word Wise making it easy to navigate and read.

Cons

• The book is primarily geared towards fans of the series, and may not be of much interest to those who are not already familiar with MST3K.
• Some readers may find the level of detail overwhelming, and may prefer a more concise overview of the series.
• The lack of X-Ray functionality is a missed opportunity, as it would have been a useful tool for identifying the various actors and performers featured in the series.

Overall, if you are a fan of MST3K, then MSTiepedia – One Man’s Journey Through 30 Years Of The Best TV Show Ever (Volume I) is an essential addition to your collection. The book is a comprehensive guide to the series, with plenty of personal insights and anecdotes from the author. The Kindle edition is well-formatted, making it easy to navigate and read. However, those who are not already familiar with the series may find the level of detail overwhelming, and the lack of X-Ray functionality is a missed opportunity.

Mike Tyson Mysteries: Season 1

If you’re looking for a unique and hilarious mystery TV show, Mike Tyson Mysteries: Season 1 is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The show is incredibly funny with clever writing and great voice acting.
• The animation is top-notch, with a cool retro style that adds to the overall charm of the show.
• The mysteries are genuinely intriguing and will keep you guessing until the end.

Cons

• The show may not be for everyone, as it has a very specific sense of humor that some viewers may not appreciate.
• The show is only one season long, which may be disappointing for fans who want more.
• Some of the jokes and humor can be a bit crude, so it may not be suitable for younger viewers.

If you’re a fan of Adult Swim-style humor and enjoy a good mystery, Mike Tyson Mysteries: Season 1 is definitely worth checking out. The show follows Mike Tyson, his adopted daughter, a ghost, and a talking pigeon as they solve mysteries and get into all sorts of hilarious hijinks. The writing is sharp and witty, and the voice acting is fantastic, with Mike Tyson himself delivering some great comedic performances.

One of the standout features of the show is its animation, which has a cool retro style reminiscent of classic Hanna-Barbera cartoons. The animation is colorful and vibrant, and the character designs are all unique and memorable.

The mysteries themselves are also a lot of fun, with each episode presenting a new case for the team to solve. The mysteries are genuinely intriguing and will keep you guessing until the end, and the show does a great job of balancing the humor with the more serious aspects of the mysteries.

Of course, the show may not be for everyone. It has a very specific sense of humor that some viewers may not appreciate, and some of the jokes and humor can be a bit crude. Additionally, the show is only one season long, which may be disappointing for fans who want more.

Overall, if you’re looking for a fun and unique mystery TV show, Mike Tyson Mysteries: Season 1 is definitely worth checking out. It’s a hilarious and entertaining show that will keep you laughing and guessing from start to finish.

Diagnosis Murder// Complete Collection/8 Seasons 178 Episodes

If you’re looking for a complete collection of a classic mystery TV show, then you should consider Diagnosis Murder. We’ve watched all 178 episodes and can confidently say that this show is worth the investment.

Pros

• The show has a great mix of drama and humor, making it enjoyable to watch.
• The characters are well-developed and likable, making it easy to get invested in their stories.
• The collection includes three original TV movies that predate the television series and two that conclude the series, providing a complete viewing experience.

Cons

• Some of the episodes can feel formulaic, with predictable plotlines.
• The show can be a bit cheesy at times, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
• The DVD set is quite large, taking up a significant amount of shelf space.

Overall, we highly recommend Diagnosis Murder to anyone who enjoys classic mystery TV shows. The mix of drama and humor, well-developed characters, and complete viewing experience make it a worthwhile investment.

The Hardy Boys Nancy Drew Mysteries: Season 1

If you’re looking for an old-school mystery TV show to watch with your family, The Hardy Boys Nancy Drew Mysteries: Season 1 is a great choice.

Pros

• The show is based on the popular book series, making it a great option for fans of the books.
• The episodes are loaded with action and suspense, keeping viewers engaged from start to finish.
• The guest stars, such as Jamie Lee Curtis and Mark Harmon, add an extra layer of excitement to the show.

Cons

• The show is from the 1970s, so the production quality may not be up to modern standards.
• Some viewers may find the show’s wholesome, family-friendly nature to be a bit cheesy.
• The show is only available in English, with Spanish and French subtitles.

The Hardy Boys Nancy Drew Mysteries: Season 1 is a fun and entertaining show that is perfect for fans of the book series or anyone looking for a classic mystery show to watch with their family. The episodes are filled with suspenseful moments and engaging storylines that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

One of the best things about the show is the guest stars, who add an extra layer of excitement to the episodes. Jamie Lee Curtis, Mark Harmon, and other familiar faces make appearances throughout the season, making it even more fun to watch.

However, the show is from the 1970s, so the production quality may not be up to modern standards. Some viewers may find the show’s wholesome, family-friendly nature to be a bit cheesy, but overall, it’s a great option for anyone looking for a fun and engaging mystery show to watch.

The Best of Fridays

If you’re a fan of sketch comedy, then The Best of Fridays is a must-have for your collection.

Pros

• The cast is talented and includes Larry David and Michael Richards, who later went on to create Seinfeld.
• The sketches are edgy and subversive, offering a unique view of the early ’80s.
• The musical guests are top-notch and include the Clash, DEVO, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, and KISS.

Cons

• Some of the sketches fall flat, leaving episodes feeling uneven.
• The reliance on recurring characters can become tedious.
• Not all musical performances are included on the set.

We were excited to watch The Best of Fridays and were not disappointed. The sketches are clever and often push the boundaries of what was acceptable on television at the time. The cast is talented and includes Larry David and Michael Richards, who later went on to create Seinfeld. It’s fascinating to see their early work and how it influenced their later success.

The musical guests are also a highlight of the set. The Clash’s first stateside TV appearance is included, as well as performances by DEVO, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, and KISS. The musical performances help to break up the sketches and keep the episodes feeling fresh.

However, not all of the sketches are winners. Some fall flat and can make episodes feel uneven. Additionally, the reliance on recurring characters can become tedious. While some, like Nat E. Dred, “The Rasta Gourmet,” are amusing, others, like Richards’s manic Battle Boy, can wear out their welcome.

Overall, The Best of Fridays is a great addition to any sketch comedy fan’s collection. The talented cast, edgy sketches, and top-notch musical guests make it a must-have.

Murdoch Mysteries Season 16

We highly recommend purchasing Murdoch Mysteries Season 16 if you enjoy a thrilling and engaging mystery TV show that is set in a unique time period.

Pros

• The show’s setting in Victorian Toronto adds a unique and interesting twist to the typical crime procedural drama.
• The use of cutting-edge practices such as fingerprinting and lie detection adds a modern and scientific approach to the show.
• The characters are well-developed and the chemistry between them adds depth to the show.

Cons

• The show’s pacing can be slow at times, which may not appeal to viewers who prefer a faster-paced show.
• Some of the storylines can be predictable, which may not appeal to viewers who enjoy more complex and unpredictable plots.
• The show’s focus on science and technology may not appeal to viewers who prefer a more traditional mystery show.

Murdoch Mysteries Season 16 is a gripping and engaging mystery TV show that is set in Victorian Toronto. The show’s unique setting adds an interesting twist to the typical crime procedural drama, and the use of cutting-edge practices such as fingerprinting and lie detection adds a modern and scientific approach to the show. The characters are well-developed and the chemistry between them adds depth to the show.

One potential downside of the show is that its pacing can be slow at times, which may not appeal to viewers who prefer a faster-paced show. Additionally, some of the storylines can be predictable, which may not appeal to viewers who enjoy more complex and unpredictable plots. Finally, the show’s focus on science and technology may not appeal to viewers who prefer a more traditional mystery show.

Overall, we highly recommend Murdoch Mysteries Season 16 if you are looking for a thrilling and engaging mystery TV show that is set in a unique time period.

The Donna Reed Show

If you’re a fan of classic mystery TV shows, then you might want to consider The Donna Reed Show.

Pros

• The show has a great cast with Donna Reed, Carl Betz, and Shelley Fabares delivering excellent performances.
• The storylines are intriguing and will keep you guessing until the end of each episode.
• The show is a great way to experience the nostalgia of the 1950s and 60s.

Cons

• Some of the episodes may feel outdated and may not appeal to modern audiences.
• The show lacks diversity in its cast and storylines.
• The video and audio quality may not be up to par with modern standards.

The Donna Reed Show is a classic mystery TV show that follows the lives of the Stone family. Donna Reed plays the role of Donna Stone, the perfect housewife who solves mysteries with her husband, Alex Stone, played by Carl Betz. Shelley Fabares plays their daughter, Mary, who often gets involved in their investigations.

One of the best things about The Donna Reed Show is the cast. They deliver excellent performances, and their chemistry is palpable. The show’s storylines are also intriguing and will keep you guessing until the end of each episode.

However, some of the episodes may feel outdated and may not appeal to modern audiences. The show also lacks diversity in its cast and storylines, which may be a turn off for some viewers. Additionally, the video and audio quality may not be up to par with modern standards.

Overall, if you’re a fan of classic mystery TV shows and don’t mind the occasional outdated episode, then The Donna Reed Show is worth checking out. It’s a great way to experience the nostalgia of the 1950s and 60s, and the excellent performances from the cast make it a joy to watch.

You can purchase The Donna Reed Show on Amazon here.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best mystery TV show, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some factors to keep in mind when making your selection:

Genre

First and foremost, you’ll want to think about the type of mystery show you’re interested in. Do you prefer crime procedurals, supernatural mysteries, or something else entirely? Take the time to explore different genres and sub-genres to find the type of show that best suits your interests.

Cast

The cast of a mystery show can make or break the viewing experience. Look for shows with talented actors who bring depth and nuance to their characters. A strong ensemble cast can also help keep the story engaging and unpredictable.

Plot

Of course, the plot is the most important aspect of any mystery show. Look for shows with well-crafted storylines that keep you guessing until the very end. A good mystery show should also have plenty of twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Production Value

While not as crucial as the other factors on this list, the production value of a mystery show can still make a big difference. Look for shows with high-quality cinematography, sound design, and special effects. These elements can help immerse you in the world of the show and make the viewing experience more enjoyable.

Ultimately, the best mystery TV show for you will depend on your personal preferences and tastes. By considering these key factors, however, you can make a more informed decision and find a show that you’ll love.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated mystery series to watch right now?

If you’re looking for a great mystery series to watch, some of the top-rated options right now include “Mindhunter,” “True Detective,” “Killing Eve,” “The Sinner,” and “Broadchurch.” All of these shows have received critical acclaim for their compelling storylines, strong performances, and expertly crafted mysteries.

Which mystery series on Netflix have the highest ratings?

Netflix has a wealth of great mystery series to choose from, but some of the highest-rated options include “Stranger Things,” “Dark,” “Ozark,” “The Crown,” and “Narcos.” These shows have all been praised for their gripping mysteries, complex characters, and top-notch production values.

What are some must-watch crime and mystery series from the past decade?

There have been many great crime and mystery series over the past decade, but some of the most highly recommended options include “Breaking Bad,” “The Wire,” “Fargo,” “Better Call Saul,” and “Sherlock.” These shows have all earned critical acclaim for their exceptional writing, direction, and performances.

Which mystery TV shows are Reddit users currently recommending?

Reddit users are always sharing their favorite mystery TV shows, and some of the most frequently recommended options right now include “Dark,” “Mindhunter,” “Broadchurch,” “Stranger Things,” and “The Killing.” These shows have all earned high praise from fans for their engaging mysteries and well-drawn characters.

What are the award-winning mystery series that I should not miss?

If you’re looking for award-winning mystery series, some of the top options include “True Detective,” “Breaking Bad,” “The Wire,” “Sherlock,” and “The Night Of.” These shows have all received critical acclaim and numerous awards for their exceptional storytelling and production values.

Can you suggest some critically acclaimed mystery TV series?

There are many critically acclaimed mystery TV series to choose from, but some of the most highly recommended options include “The Killing,” “Broadchurch,” “The Fall,” “Happy Valley,” and “Line of Duty.” These shows have all been praised for their gripping mysteries, well-drawn characters, and expertly crafted storytelling.