The Sopranos is often regarded as one of the greatest television shows of all time, known for its complex characters, gripping storylines, and seamless blend of drama and dark humor. If you’re a fan of The Sopranos and looking for similar shows to watch, you’re in luck. There are several series out there that capture the same gritty, crime-filled world that The Sopranos brought to life. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best shows like The Sopranos, along with 13 song examples that perfectly capture the mood of each series.
1. Breaking Bad
Breaking Bad follows the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer. Like The Sopranos, Breaking Bad delves into the moral ambiguity of its characters, as Walter descends into a world of crime and violence. The show’s theme song, “Baby Blue” by Badfinger, perfectly captures the sense of impending doom that hangs over the series.
2. The Wire
Considered by many to be one of the greatest TV dramas of all time, The Wire explores the interconnected lives of Baltimore residents, from drug dealers to police officers to politicians. The show’s theme song, “Way Down in the Hole” by Tom Waits, sets the tone for the gritty, realistic portrayal of urban life.
3. Boardwalk Empire
Set during the Prohibition era, Boardwalk Empire follows the rise of Nucky Thompson, a corrupt politician and bootlegger in Atlantic City. The show’s theme song, “Straight Up and Down” by The Brian Jonestown Massacre, captures the glamorous yet dangerous world of 1920s gangsters.
4. Sons of Anarchy
Sons of Anarchy follows the lives of the members of an outlaw motorcycle club in California. Like The Sopranos, the show explores themes of family, loyalty, and betrayal against a backdrop of violence and crime. The series’ theme song, “This Life” by Curtis Stigers & The Forest Rangers, perfectly sets the tone for the show’s intense and emotional storytelling.
5. Fargo
Inspired by the Coen Brothers film of the same name, Fargo is an anthology series that explores various crime stories set in the Midwest. The show’s theme song, “Bemidji, MN” by Jeff Russo, captures the cold and desolate atmosphere of the series, which is filled with dark humor and unexpected twists.
6. Justified
Based on the works of author Elmore Leonard, Justified follows US Marshal Raylan Givens as he navigates the criminal underworld in his hometown of Harlan, Kentucky. The show’s theme song, “Long Hard Times to Come” by Gangstagrass, perfectly captures the blend of country and hip-hop influences that define the series.
7. Oz
Oz is a gritty prison drama that follows the lives of inmates and staff at the fictional Oswald State Correctional Facility. The show’s theme song, “Behind Blue Eyes” by The Who, sets the tone for the dark and violent world of the series, which explores themes of power, corruption, and redemption.
8. Peaky Blinders
Set in post-World War I Birmingham, Peaky Blinders follows the Shelby crime family as they rise to power in the world of organized crime. The show’s theme song, “Red Right Hand” by Nick Cave & The Bad Seeds, perfectly captures the dark and brooding atmosphere of the series, which is filled with tension and intrigue.
9. Narcos
Narcos tells the true story of the rise and fall of drug kingpin Pablo Escobar and the Medellín Cartel in Colombia. The show’s theme song, “Tuyo” by Rodrigo Amarante, sets the tone for the series’ blend of crime, politics, and power struggles in the world of international drug trafficking.
10. True Detective
True Detective is an anthology series that follows various detectives as they investigate complex and mysterious crimes. The show’s theme song, “Far From Any Road” by The Handsome Family, captures the eerie and atmospheric tone of the series, which is known for its deep character development and intricate storytelling.
11. The Shield
The Shield follows the lives of corrupt cops in the fictional Farmington district of Los Angeles. The show’s theme song, “Just Another Day” by Vivian Romero, sets the tone for the intense and morally ambiguous world of the series, which explores themes of power, loyalty, and betrayal.
12. Ray Donovan
Ray Donovan follows the story of a professional “fixer” in Los Angeles who works for the rich and powerful but struggles with his own personal demons. The show’s theme song, “Walk on the Wild Side” by Lou Reed, perfectly sets the tone for the dark and gritty world of the series, which is filled with violence and intrigue.
13. The Americans
Set during the Cold War, The Americans follows two Soviet KGB spies posing as an American couple in suburban Washington, D.C. The show’s theme song, “Tusk” by Fleetwood Mac, captures the tension and suspense of the series, which explores themes of espionage, identity, and loyalty.
Common Questions:
1. Are these shows similar to The Sopranos in terms of themes and storytelling?
Yes, these shows share similar themes of crime, family, loyalty, and moral ambiguity, as well as complex character development and intricate storytelling.
2. Do these shows have strong lead characters like Tony Soprano?
Yes, each of these shows features strong lead characters who navigate the criminal underworld with a mix of intelligence, charisma, and moral complexity.
3. Are these shows as violent and intense as The Sopranos?
Yes, many of these shows are known for their intense and violent scenes, as they explore the darker side of human nature and the criminal world.
4. Do these shows have memorable theme songs like The Sopranos?
Yes, each of these shows has a theme song that captures the mood and atmosphere of the series, setting the tone for the story that unfolds.
5. Are these shows critically acclaimed like The Sopranos?
Yes, many of these shows have received critical acclaim for their writing, acting, and overall quality, much like The Sopranos did during its run.
6. Can I binge-watch these shows like I did with The Sopranos?
Yes, most of these shows are available for streaming on platforms like Netflix, Hulu, and Amazon Prime, allowing you to binge-watch them at your own pace.
7. Are these shows suitable for viewers who enjoy crime dramas and thrillers?
Yes, if you enjoy crime dramas and thrillers like The Sopranos, you will likely find these shows to be engaging and captivating in a similar way.
8. Do these shows have strong supporting characters like The Sopranos?
Yes, each of these shows features a diverse cast of supporting characters who add depth and complexity to the storylines, much like The Sopranos did.
9. Are these shows set in modern times or historical periods?
These shows are set in a variety of time periods, from the Prohibition era to the Cold War era, offering a diverse range of settings and historical contexts.
10. Do these shows explore themes of power, corruption, and redemption?
Yes, many of these shows delve into themes of power, corruption, and redemption, as characters grapple with their own moral dilemmas and personal struggles.
11. Are these shows suitable for mature audiences due to their violent and intense content?
Yes, these shows are intended for mature audiences and contain graphic violence, strong language, and adult themes that may not be suitable for younger viewers.
12. Can I expect plot twists and unexpected turns in these shows?
Yes, many of these shows are known for their unpredictable plot twists and unexpected turns, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats with each episode.
13. Are these shows likely to leave a lasting impact on viewers, like The Sopranos did?
Yes, these shows have the potential to leave a lasting impact on viewers, as they explore complex themes and characters in a way that resonates long after the series has ended.
In conclusion, if you’re a fan of The Sopranos and looking for similar shows to watch, there are plenty of options out there that capture the same gritty, crime-filled world that made The Sopranos so iconic. Whether you’re drawn to stories of family loyalty, moral ambiguity, or intense drama, there’s a show on this list that is sure to captivate and entertain you. From Breaking Bad to The Americans, each of these series offers a unique take on the crime genre, with memorable characters, gripping storylines, and unforgettable theme songs that set the tone for the drama that unfolds. So grab your remote, settle in on the couch, and prepare to be transported to a world of danger, intrigue, and excitement with these shows like The Sopranos.