Fantasy is a favorite genre for many, but dark fantasy is hitting new heights of popularity on TV these days. Several shows in this realm manage to blend the supernatural and magical with a heavy atmosphere, full of unexpected twists, well-developed and morally gray characters, and dangerous worlds where threats are constant and choices carry real (often cruel) consequences.
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If you still think fantasy is just about swords and perfect heroes, it’s time to rethink: here, there aren’t exactly heroes and villains, and what really matters is who comes out on top. But what are the best ones ever made? Here are 10 of the best dark fantasy TV shows ranked. This list is simply your starting point to understand what makes the genre so fascinating nowadays.
10) Shadow & Bone
Shadow & Bone has a universe that, in theory, is quite interesting: Alina Starkov (Jessie Mei Li) is an orphan who discovers she has a rare ability that could save her country, divided by a dark threat called the Shadow Fold. The problem is that, in practice, the series loses its way in character development and a story that doesn’t quite maintain a strong pace. The impression is that the show relies too much on aesthetics and too little on real development, leaving that “okay, so what?” feeling.
It’s not a bad show – quite the opposite. Shadow & Bone entertains, especially considering it’s a book adaptation (which also influenced the launch of the series Six of Crows). However, compared to other dark fantasies, it doesn’t leave as strong a mark. Its audience is pretty niche but also quite loyal. If you expect complexity, emotional layers, and a story that truly challenges you, you might find the show shallow and a bit formulaic. It’s a matter of taste.
9) The Witcher
When The Witcher first hit streaming, it came in with the intention to make a big impact – and it definitely did. Geralt of Rivia (Henry Cavill) is a character who carries the show on his shoulders, set in a world full of monsters, politics, and magic that’s incredibly compelling. The series follows this lone monster hunter as he navigates a continent riddled with intrigue and dangerous creatures. It’s an excellent dark fantasy, but it only ranks here because of two things: the non-linear structure can sometimes be confusing (though that’s not an issue for everyone), and while the action scenes are top-notch, the writing stumbles at times.
Still, there’s no denying that The Witcher built a huge fanbase and brought a darker, more mature tone to the fantasy genre (something that was missing before). In short, the show shines in key moments but struggles with inconsistencies along the way that could definitely be improved.
8) Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
This is a show that really makes an impact when we talk about dark fantasy. Chilling Adventures of Sabrina knows exactly what it wants: gothic horror with a teenage vibe, plenty of witchcraft, and modern themes. The story follows Sabrina Spellman (Kiernan Shipka), a young half-witch, half-mortal who has to juggle her normal life, the challenges of the occult, and the pressures of a traditional witch family. The gothic visual style is one of its strongest points, and the series isn’t afraid to dive into controversial topics.
On the other hand, it’s hard to ignore that sometimes the writing feels a bit caught between genuine horror and teen drama, which can undercut its impact (though not all the time). Still, it’s a show worth watching for those who enjoy a mix of supernatural elements, social commentary, and a touch of stylish excess. Chilling Adventures of Sabrina stands out when you’re looking for something truly dark.
7) True Blood
The vampire craze comes and goes in the world of movies and TV, and when The Vampire Diaries hit the screen, it made a big splash. However, True Blood is a different story – when it premiered, it was a breath of fresh air: vampires living openly among humans, blending suspense, politics, and social critique in a bold, adult mix. The story centers on Sookie Stackhouse (Anna Paquin), a telepathic waitress who gets involved with vampires (and other creatures) in the small, secret-filled town of Bon Temps.
Sookie brings an interesting energy that makes us care about the supernatural conflicts. Its main flaw was trying to push the envelope too far after a while, with storylines that became somewhat confusing. But honestly, True Blood remains historic and almost cult status. You can’t deny the cultural weight and impact the series had on the genre – it was a pioneer in many ways.
6) Supernatural
After 15 seasons, Supernatural is basically a monument for dark fantasy fans. Who hasn’t heard of the Winchester brothers? The series follows Sam (Jared Padalecki) and Dean (Jensen Ackles) as they hunt various supernatural creatures and face bigger threats. What really stands out here (and is rare in many shows) is the genuine chemistry between the two leads. Along with that, the mix of horror, action, and even some well-timed humor are its biggest strengths.
If you stop to think about it, Supernatural doesn’t have glaring negatives. However, it ranks here because it’s a show that didn’t know when to quit. Many seasons recycle the same formulas, with storylines that drag and a natural fatigue that impacts the overall experience. Still, for fans of the genre, it’s that classic you can’t help but respect – even with the repetition.
5) Penny Dreadful
If you’re into dark fantasy with an artistic edge, Penny Dreadful is a real treat – and it’s a shame it’s so underrated and often forgotten. The show brings together classic horror figures like Dracula, Frankenstein, and Dorian Gray in a rainy, mysterious Victorian London. It follows tortured characters whose paths cross in a story filled with suffering and a more melancholic suspense. Eva Green deserves a special shoutout here, stealing every scene, while the production doesn’t hold back on the heavy, layered atmosphere.
The pacing can be slow, but only if you’re expecting more action and less dialogue. Penny Dreadful is a show for those who want to dive deep into complex characters and psychological subjects, so it’s probably not really a binge-watch series. But within the dark fantasy genre, it’s spot on.
4) Interview with the Vampire
Interview with the Vampire scores points for striking a masterful balance between the original material and appealing to today’s audience. With a mature tone true to Anne Rice’s classics, the show focuses on the emotional complexity of some of pop culture’s most famous vampires. The plot follows Louis (Jacob Anderson) as he narrates his immortal life, marked by desire, guilt, and a search for meaning. That heavy, melancholic mood is always present, paired with elegant visuals and characters who truly feel the weight of immortality.
What stands out most is the depth the series delivers: far from the usual vampire clichés, it leans into existential drama and moral conflicts. For anyone who wants a dark fantasy that goes beyond the obvious, Interview with the Vampire is one of the best choices out there.
3) Buffy the Vampire Slayer
The ultimate classic, Buffy the Vampire Slayer might seem like just another vampire (and monster) show, but it’s actually a masterclass in using fantasy to explore growing up, identity, and empowerment. The protagonist, Buffy Summers (Sarah Michelle Gellar), is a teenager who discovers she’s the “Chosen One,” destined to fight evil forces while trying to live a normal life. The series’ sharp writing, packed with razor-sharp dialogue and deeply layered characters, makes all the difference.
On top of that, there’s no denying the cultural impact and influence Buffy has had on countless shows that followed in the genre. This is a production that’s aged remarkably well and shaped the way fantasy is done on TV. Its relevance is still strong today, and it’s no coincidence a reboot is in the works.
2) The Sandman
The Sandman is strong proof that comic book adaptations can be complex and smart. The show follows Morpheus (Tom Sturridge), the Dream Lord, who, after being imprisoned for decades, tries to restore order to the dream world. Need something darker than that? The story is dense, blending mythology, philosophy, and horror to create a universe that goes far beyond surface-level entertainment. There’s real meaning and symbolism here.
Along with its jaw-dropping visuals, the series also stays impressively faithful to Neil Gaiman’s original work. The Sandman has received widespread praise and can easily be considered one of the most respected and successful adaptations today for anyone looking for fantasy with depth and originality.
1) Game of Thrones
In the fantasy genre as a whole, Game of Thrones shines (and everyone knows it). And yes, in dark fantasy, the series stands out too. Based on George R.R. Martin’s books, the show presents a brutal medieval world full of intrigue, magic, and battles. It earns its place on this list because it isn’t afraid to reveal the darkest side of a universe where morality is gray, anyone can die, and monsters can be both real and human.
Despite its controversial ending, the series left a huge impact on pop culture, not to mention the overall quality of its episodes. Game of Thrones revolutionized the genre, raised production standards, and paved the way for much bolder fantasy shows. It is, without a doubt, the pinnacle of the genre – for better or worse.
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