The television series The Boys has made waves for its bold, irreverent take on the superhero genre. With its gritty, dark humor and its exploration of the flaws in idolizing superheroes, it’s a show that blends satire with intense action. However, if you’ve binge-watched all the episodes and are looking for something with a similar vibe—perhaps equally gripping, filled with complex characters, and just as daring—there are plenty of other TV dramas worth your time. If you enjoyed The Boys, you’ll likely appreciate these shows, each offering a unique mix of dark comedy, anti-heroes, and thrilling narratives.
From twisted takes on familiar genres to shows that delve deep into human psychology, these 10 dramas provide a variety of compelling stories with the same edge as The Boys. Whether you’re seeking more anti-heroes, dark humor, or insightful critiques of society, these series will keep you on the edge of your seat.
1. The Umbrella Academy
If The Boys is your go-to for its unique take on superheroes, then The Umbrella Academy might be the perfect next show for you. Based on the comic series by Gerard Way, The Umbrella Academy follows a dysfunctional family of adopted super-powered siblings who reunite to solve the mystery of their father’s death. With quirky characters, plenty of action, and moments of dark humor, it has much in common with The Boys in its portrayal of flawed heroes and the consequences of unchecked power.
Much like The Boys, The Umbrella Academy explores the darker side of super-powered beings, focusing on their broken relationships and the moral ambiguity of their actions. The show’s tone blends absurdity with gravity, making it a great fit for fans of The Boys who want a balance of spectacle and emotional depth. With a focus on family dynamics, it dives into the complexities of sibling relationships, trauma, and the impact of growing up in the spotlight.
2. Watchmen
For those who love the darker, more mature themes of The Boys, Watchmen provides a fascinating, politically charged take on the superhero genre. Based on the legendary graphic novel by Alan Moore, Watchmen takes place in an alternate history where superheroes are real and have changed the course of history. The show brings a fresh perspective to the source material, focusing on the impact of vigilantism on society and the moral dilemmas it creates.
Much like The Boys, Watchmen delves into the consequences of superheroes acting outside the law. The show features complex characters, a deep exploration of systemic injustice, and a biting commentary on power structures in society. Watchmen takes place in a world where superheroes aren’t just fighting crime—they’re deeply entangled in political and social issues, making it a smart, provocative watch for fans who appreciate the more cerebral side of The Boys.
3. Invincible
If you enjoyed the unapologetically brutal and emotionally raw storytelling of The Boys, Invincible should be on your radar. Created by Robert Kirkman, the mind behind The Walking Dead, Invincible follows Mark Grayson, a young man who inherits his father’s superpowers and tries to navigate the complex world of being a hero. However, his father, Omni-Man, reveals his dark and terrifying true nature, leading to a series of shocking and heartbreaking events.
Like The Boys, Invincible explores the disillusionment with superhero culture and the consequences of absolute power. The series is filled with jaw-dropping twists, and its mature content and emotional storytelling make it a must-watch for fans of The Boys. It captures the feeling of growing up in a world filled with impossible expectations, while also diving into the moral complexities of heroism and villainy.
4. Preacher
Based on the comic series by Garth Ennis (the same writer behind The Boys), Preacher is another show that balances dark humor with high-stakes action. The series follows Jesse Custer, a small-town preacher who gains the power of “Genesis,” a being born of an angel and demon, which gives him the ability to command people to do anything. He sets off on a journey to find God, joined by his ex-girlfriend Tulip and a vampire named Cassidy.
Preacher shares a lot of thematic elements with The Boys, especially in its exploration of power, corruption, and the moral gray areas of its characters. The show is full of outrageous moments, wild action sequences, and clever satire, making it a perfect fit for fans of The Boys looking for something equally twisted and fun. The series delves into the absurdities of religion, faith, and the concept of good versus evil, all while delivering a healthy dose of violence and irreverence.
5. Daredevil
For those who prefer their anti-heroes with a bit more grit and realism, Daredevil offers a grounded and darker take on the superhero genre. The series, based on the Marvel Comics character, follows Matt Murdock, a blind lawyer by day and vigilante crimefighter by night in Hell’s Kitchen. The show’s blend of brutal fight choreography, complex moral dilemmas, and a strong supporting cast makes it an intriguing watch for fans of The Boys.
Like The Boys, Daredevil explores the idea of heroes operating outside the law, questioning whether their actions are justified. The show’s exploration of justice and revenge is filled with complex characters, each dealing with their own struggles and demons. The series also presents the cost of being a hero—how personal sacrifices, physical tolls, and moral compromises are integral to the life of a vigilante.
6. The Punisher
Another Marvel creation that fits perfectly alongside The Boys is The Punisher. Following Frank Castle, a man who becomes a vigilante after his family is killed in a mob hit, The Punisher is a dark, intense drama that explores themes of vengeance, trauma, and moral corruption. The series showcases Frank’s descent into brutality as he takes on criminals, using his military training to wreak havoc on those who wronged him.
Like The Boys, The Punisher doesn’t shy away from the ugly side of heroism. Frank Castle is far from a traditional hero—he’s a man consumed by rage and vengeance, willing to do whatever it takes to right the wrongs done to him. The show’s exploration of trauma, loss, and justice is both compelling and brutal, offering a dark reflection of the anti-hero narrative that The Boys has made popular.
7. The Witcher
Based on the book series by Andrzej Sapkowski, The Witcher takes place in a dark fantasy world where monsters, magic, and political intrigue intertwine. The series follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter who navigates a world that is morally complex and full of both monsters and humans who blur the lines between good and evil. Geralt is a reluctant hero, much like many of the characters in The Boys, forced to make difficult choices in an unforgiving world.
While The Witcher is set in a fantasy world rather than the gritty realism of The Boys, it shares the same exploration of anti-heroes and complex morality. Geralt, like the protagonists in The Boys, is often caught between personal desires and a world that seems to demand impossible choices. The show’s mix of political intrigue, magical creatures, and dark humor makes it an excellent choice for those who enjoy The Boys’s blend of fantasy, action, and moral ambiguity.
8. Black Mirror
If you’re a fan of the dark, satirical, and sometimes disturbing nature of The Boys, Black Mirror is another must-watch. This anthology series created by Charlie Brooker delves into the darker side of technology and society, exploring how advancements in science and technology might lead to unforeseen consequences. Each episode is a standalone story, often set in dystopian or near-future worlds where technology and human nature collide in dangerous and thought-provoking ways.
Much like The Boys, Black Mirror challenges societal norms and explores the consequences of unchecked power—whether that power comes from a government, a corporation, or even the very tools we create. The show often features morally gray characters and unsettling twists, making it a perfect fit for anyone who enjoys the unsettling and thought-provoking narratives found in The Boys.
9. The Mandalorian
For fans of action, adventure, and complex anti-heroes, The Mandalorian offers a gripping narrative within the Star Wars universe. While it is technically a space Western, the series shares many thematic elements with The Boys, including a lone hero navigating morally ambiguous situations. The Mandalorian, known as Din Djarin, is a bounty hunter who forms an unexpected bond with Baby Yoda, or “The Child,” leading him to confront dangerous enemies and make difficult choices.
The series blends epic world-building, action, and emotional depth, capturing the same kind of compelling, character-driven storytelling that The Boys excels at. Much like The Boys, The Mandalorian explores themes of honor, redemption, and the gray areas between right and wrong, all while delivering thrilling action sequences and heartwarming moments.
10. The Boys Presents: Diabolical
Finally, for those who can’t get enough of The Boys, the animated spin-off series The Boys Presents: Diabolical offers a unique, often hilariously twisted take on the same universe. This animated anthology features various episodes that delve deeper into the backstory of the The Boys universe, showcasing the dark humor, outrageous violence, and morally questionable characters that made the original series so popular.
While the animation style varies from episode to episode, the series maintains the sharp wit and irreverence that fans of The Boys love. For anyone who’s enjoyed The Boys and wants to dive deeper into its world, Diabolical is an entertaining and fun way to explore even more chaotic adventures in the same twisted universe.
Conclusion
If you loved The Boys and are looking for more shows that offer a similar blend of dark humor, moral complexity, and anti-heroes, these 10 dramas are sure to satisfy your craving for gripping storytelling. From superhero satires to gritty thrillers, these shows explore the consequences of power, revenge, and the human condition in ways that are both thought-provoking and exciting. Whether you want to explore more twisted takes on superheroes or dive into dark societal critiques, these TV dramas will keep you engaged with their riveting narratives and unforgettable characters.
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