As the shadows of 2023 lengthen, let’s reflect on some of the year’s best horror and genre offerings that may have slipped under your radar.
Our “Best of 2023: 10 Stellar Horror Shows to Binge” list is a treasure trove of terrifying tales, most in their nascent stages with only one or two seasons under their belt.
While some of these shows might have already caught your eye, we’re betting there are a few hidden gems you’ve yet to unearth. From the buzz-worthy Yellowjackets with its Lord of the Flies-meets-Lost vibe to the superhero horror of The Boys: Gen V, these series have been making waves. But have you delved into the unsettling world of SWARM, where obsession takes a deadly turn, or explored the animated brilliance of shows like Invincible, Gremlins: Secret of the Mogwai, and Pluto?
Literary enthusiasts will find Fall of the House of Usher a deliciously dark adaptation of Poe’s works, and Creepshow continues to deliver anthology chills in its fourth season. But you should not overlook shows like Killing It, a pitch-black comedy that proves horror can have a sense of humor, or Interview with the Vampire, which breathes new life into Anne Rice’s iconic characters.
Each series brings something unique to the table, whether it’s innovative storytelling, groundbreaking representation, or simply masterful scares. While they may not all be explicitly horror, they all have enough dark content to appeal to horror fans. As we eagerly anticipate new seasons and fresh horrors in 2024 and beyond, now is the perfect time to catch up on these rising genre stars.
So dim the lights, grab your security blanket, and prepare for a marathon of macabre delights that will keep you up all night – both from binge-watching and from the fear of closing your eyes. Let’s dive into the darkness and discover the ten must-watch horror series of 2023 that deserve a spot at the top of your watchlist.
1. Yellowjackets

Recommended by Jamie Alvey with contributions from Stephanie Malone (EIC)
There’s a good reason Yellowjackets was such a buzzed-about show when season one landed. This well-acted, genre-blending, thought-provoking series intelligently explored themes like the wilderness, mythologizing, and closure. The way it dealt with trauma and how far some people will go to survive was especially captivating. This compelling mixture of thriller, coming-of-age, supernatural mystery, and survival story was hailed for its great writing, but its phenomenal cast is what really made it shine.
I was admittedly late to the Yellowjackets party, but better late than never when it comes to this cannibalistic and catty television show.
The second season of any show never seems to live up to the first season, but the talents behind Yellowjackets gave a valiant effort with a vicious and surprising season two. Melanie Lynskey is a force of nature and is finally getting the love and appreciation she deserves. This show allows her and other underrated talents to shine.
While the second season doesn’t have that shiny new first season luster, it develops some of the show’s secondary characters in fun and interesting ways, and it still has me hooked and anxiously awaiting season three.
Still not convinced? Read another take on this must-see show.
2. The Boys: Gen V

Recommended by Reinaldo Gotierrez
The new Gen V spin-off series from The Boys is an exciting addition to the franchise, delving deeper into the dark and intense superhero universe. Although it may reach a different level of excellence than the original, this spin-off enthralls audiences with its distinct storyline and compelling characters, making it a worthwhile watch.
Gen V excels in character development, introducing a diverse range of individuals with distinct superpowers. Each character’s background, motivations, and struggles are fleshed out, allowing viewers to form meaningful connections with them. It’s refreshing to see the complexities and flaws of these heroes, which adds a unique dimension to the narrative.
In terms of pacing, the show maintains a rapid tempo, ensuring there’s never a dull moment, with plenty of the obligatory plot twists and jaw-dropping ultraviolence we have grown to love in The Boys. The plot twists are cunningly executed, leaving viewers constantly surprised and eager for more. The writing is intelligent and compelling, successfully weaving together multiple storylines without ever feeling overwhelming or confusing.
Despite some minor shortcomings, Gen V makes its mark with stunning visuals and high-quality production values. The action sequences are meticulously choreographed, and the special effects are top-notch, immersing audiences in this dark, dystopian world.
With compelling characters, an engaging storyline, and superb production values, this series ensures a thrilling and satisfying viewing experience for horror fans.
3. SWARM

Recommended by Alli Hartley
Swarm, the brilliant series created by Janine Nabers and Donald Glover, had me at the pie. Moments after killing someone, hands covered in her victim’s blood, our lead Dre opens a kitchen fridge and shoves fistfuls of cherry pie into her mouth.
This series is about nothing, if not consumption.
The parallels between Dre’s world and our own are often too close for comfort. An upcoming documentary shows Donald Glover playing Donald Glover announcing a show he’s writing based on Dre, a move that admittedly had me googling to see if Swarm was based on a true story (It’s not, but it definitely could be).
Actress Dominique Fishback is extraordinary as Dre, a character who is cunning enough to survive but whose façade of sanity crumbles the moment anyone bothers to look. As the story swings from heartbreaking to fascinating to laugh-out-loud funny, Fishback makes Dre’s monomania empathetic and real.
Other notables include Bryan Bowers, Dre’s would-be date who deserved far better, and Billie Eilish, a cult leader who takes Dre under her wing.
And while there is enough gore to satisfy the most bloodthirsty horror-loving viewer, there is so much more going on here than your traditional splatterfest.
4. Invincible

Recommended by Mark Young with contributions from Stephanie Malone (EIC)
I came across Invincible Season 1 on Prime Video and was wowed by the balance of story, voice acting, characterization, and extreme violence.
Invincible is based on the graphic novel of the same name and is definitely intended for mature audiences. You don’t need to be a fan of the source material to enjoy the show. However, readers of the original comic will certainly appreciate the faithfulness of the adaptation.
It’s ultimately a character drama that follows a high school boy who discovers his powers and what it means to be a hero. The show is wonderfully dark and deals with complex concepts, such as imperfect heroes with hidden motives and the impact of trauma realistically. Despite a heavy dose of nastiness, we also get positive role models and a diverse cast.
Invincible is gorgeously animated, and the voice acting is a key element. It’s also full of intelligent writing, witty one-liners, and gnarly action.
For me, Season 2 was just as stellar as the first season. That keen balance of story and action is still there, and we are exploring the human side of the superpowered. I love how they raised the stakes without blowing it up too much. The show takes a slower approach to fleshing out secondary characters. Yet, we still get insane action and crazy plot twists.
Ample praise is warranted for Steven Yeun and JK Simmons, who each bring a ton of magic to their characters.
I watched it the old-fashioned way, one episode per week, to ensure I didn’t miss a beat. I know some viewers complained about waiting for episodes to drop rather than just binge-watching them from the start. For my money, however, spacing your viewing out is the best way to watch.
The violence is epic and an absolute treat for horror fans.
I applaud that the creators managed to maintain the high standards of the shocking first season into the equally compelling second season.
5. Gremlins: Secret of the Mogwai

Recommended by Jamie Alvey
Gremlins is a gateway horror staple, so seeing that the adorable Gizmo would be returning in an animated series was a delight. As an avowed Gremlins fanatic, I was tuning in regardless of the content. However, I was surprised to find that while the show has a lot of heart and is family-friendly, it does not skimp on the horror element. This show combines comedy and horror seamlessly in a way that will titillate your burgeoning horror babes and will keep you on your toes as well.
Serving as a prequel to the 1984 film Gremlins and its 1990 sequel Gremlins 2: The New Batch, the series is set in 1920s Shanghai, East China, and tells the story of how 10-year-old Sam Wing met Gizmo, a young Mogwai. Joe Dante (the director of the Gremlins films) served as a consulting producer. The series debuted with the launch of Max on May 23, 2023, consisting of 10 episodes. The second season, titled Gremlins: The Wild Batch, is set to be released in fall 2024.
Secrets of the Mogwai captures the spirit of its source material, proving that gateway horror is still alive and well.
It’s adorable, frightening, heartwarming, and, at times, downright mean-spirited.
6. Pluto

Recommended by Reinaldo Gotierrez
The outstanding anime Pluto is a beautiful adaption of Naoki Urasawa’s manga series.
This sci-fi thriller, set in a very believable future, challenges our beliefs by delving into themes of morality, identity, and humanity. This top-notch anime has breathtaking action sequences and detailed characters, drawing you into a suspense-filled, thought-provoking who-done-it. A must-watch for anime fans, the series reimagines the Astro Boy story arc “The Greatest Robot on Earth” as a murder mystery.
Pluto is a remarkable example of how anime can transcend the boundaries of its medium to explore profound questions about the human condition. It’s a story that not only entertains but also challenges our perceptions, making us contemplate the implications of advanced technology and the potential consequences of our actions as a society.
It invites introspection, challenges preconceptions, and leaves an indelible mark on its audience — a must-see for those seeking a narrative that combines intellectual stimulation with emotional depth.
Pluto is an anime tour de force. It offers a masterclass in storytelling, artistry, and thematic depth. It’s a thought-provoking and emotionally resonant journey that will leave a lasting impact on anyone who watches it, solidifying its place as a classic in the anime pantheon.
The nuanced exploration of morality and the consequences of technological advancements in Pluto elevates it beyond a mere animated series. It prompts viewers to reflect on the ethical implications of creating intelligent machines and the responsibilities that come with it.
If you’re searching for an anime that transcends genres and challenges your intellect, Pluto is a must-watch that will leave you in awe of its brilliance.
7. Fall of the House of Usher

Recommended by Victoria Jaye with contributions from Stephanie Malone (EIC)
For horror fans, The Fall of the House of Usher (2023) is an essential series that represents the best Netflix has to offer while once again showcasing Mike Flanagan’s talents as a brilliant showrunner (in addition to being one of the modern masters of horror).
There is much that makes this show shine, including its superb direction, exquisite writing, stellar performances, a sumptuous score, and thought-provoking social commentary. Flanagan is a master at keeping the story flowing smoothly despite time jumps and perspective shifts. The cast is uniformly excellent, including Bruce Greenwood as Roderick Usher and Mary McDonnell as Madeline Usher.
It’s a profound story that resonates deeply in today’s sociopolitical/economic environment, showcasing what the 1% is willing to sacrifice to stay in power.
The show brilliantly reimagines Edgar Allan Poe’s works for a modern audience. There are many easter eggs for Poe devotees sprinkled throughout. I admit I’m only a passive fan of Edgar Allen Poe. However, I even picked up on several interesting Poe references.
Everyone in this series is expertly cast. Whether as a compassionate character or a soulless one, each actor is flawless at becoming who they’re portraying.
The series excels in its storytelling, blending elements of horror, drama, and dark humor. By intertwining Poe’s stories with a narrative reminiscent of Succession and Dopesick, Flanagan creates a rich tapestry that explores themes of family dysfunction, corporate greed, and the consequences of unchecked power. This multi-layered approach keeps viewers engaged throughout the eight episodes, offering both episodic thrills and an overarching mystery.
The show’s production values are top-notch, featuring stunning visuals and a somber soundtrack that perfectly captures the eerie atmosphere of Poe’s works. Flanagan’s direction, along with the cinematography, creates memorable and often chilling scenes that linger in the viewer’s mind long after watching.
The Fall of the House of Usher is a must-watch series that combines literary homage, stellar performances, and thought-provoking themes to offer a unique and engrossing viewing experience.
8. Creepshow Season 4

Recommended by Laura Sloan
Creepshow Season 4 dares to branch outside the box within anthology horror. This season’s lineup flows with perfect pacing and order, from the outrageous to inevitable karmic endings.
I’d love to share a few highlights from this stellar season that made me giddy to tune in (click “Read More” below).
This season showcased an ensemble of new talent in front of and behind the camera. I get the feeling that Nicotero wants Creepshow to be an open forum so more talent can contribute to the legacy.
Season four connects each story to the needs of human belonging and repairing connections. Everyone has a monster. But do our monsters get in the way of bonding with others?
I invite you to explore Creepshow Season 4, available on Shudder. It’s entertaining and fun, and it contains plenty of creepy and scary elements.
Across four seasons so far, the show has continued to delight, and the variety of stories ensures any bumps in the road are temporary and will soon be smoothed out by the next compelling journey.
9. Killing It

Recommended by Stephanie Malone
Killing It is one of the nuttiest shows I’ve ever watched, and that’s absolutely meant as a compliment.
After breezing through the first season (2022), which consisted of 10 episodes of approximately 30 minutes each, in a couple of days, I jumped right into the second season (2023), which consists of only eight 30-minute episodes.
I was delighted to find season two managed to maintain all the humor, charm, compelling character chemistry, and wickedly smart social commentary that made the first season such a joy.
The idea that, in America, anyone from any socioeconomic background could go from rags to riches with nothing but hard work, grit, and determination was always a lie. The system is fundamentally built to keep the wealthy thriving. It’s nearly impossible to succeed without a significant head start — or a relentless willingness to lie, cheat, and steal to circumvent the cruel hand of circumstance.
It’s that insidious real-world horror that Killing It explores, following one man’s quest to make it in America without selling his soul.
(Click “more” below for a recap of season one and a detailed plot synopsis.)
Killing It is as hilarious as it is charmingly endearing. Still, it also has something brilliant to say — a scathing indictment of classism, capitalism, and the great lie that is the American dream.
The series, created by Brooklyn Nine-Nine alums Dan Goor and Luke Del Tredici, delivers a wonderfully diverse cast of offbeat and compelling characters, whip-smart writing, and heartbreaking relatability. It effortlessly makes a bleak reality endlessly funny without losing an ounce of its satirical bite.
The second season ups the ante considerably by putting our heroes in increasingly inventive and diabolical scenarios while introducing an array of outstanding guest stars that keep the show fresh and fun.
I loved the first season, but the sophomore follow-up is even stronger, making Killing It one of the biggest underrated comedy gems in recent years.
Note: You can easily watch both seasons during a weekend (for free on Peacock with ads) if you’re like me and have trouble stopping once you start.
10. Interview with the Vampire

Recommended by Stephanie Malone
Interview With the Vampire is a sumptuous feast for horror aficionados, offering a fresh and captivating take on Anne Rice’s beloved gothic masterpiece. This AMC series breathes new life into the vampire genre, delivering a potent blend of atmospheric horror, complex character dynamics, and lush period aesthetics that will enthrall fans of the macabre.
Its ability to balance horror, romance, and historical drama sets the show apart. Interview doesn’t shy away from visceral vampire violence, but it’s equally invested in exploring the psychological toll of immortality and the complex relationships between its characters.
The result is a series that offers genuine scares alongside moments of profound emotional resonance.
Despite its critical acclaim, the show remains an underappreciated gem in terms of viewership. This presents an opportunity for horror fans to discover a series that punches well above its weight in terms of production value, performances, and storytelling ambition.
For horror fans, Interview With the Vampire is a must-watch. It offers a sophisticated take on vampire lore, wrapped in gorgeous visuals and anchored by stellar performances.
Whether you’re a devotee of Rice’s novels or new to the world of Louis and Lestat, this horror series promises a thrilling, emotionally rich journey into the heart of darkness.













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