Dark secrets, dead ends, and investigators pushed to the brink of sanity

Nothing hits quite like a good mystery. Whether it's a seemingly impossible murder, a missing person, or a conspiracy set against the backdrop of a small town, the best TV mysteries keep you guessing right up until the credits roll. They're the kinds of shows that make you scrutinize every passing detail and second-guess each new character. Still, despite the overriding conviction that you cracked the case long before the detectives, it’s almost always someone you least expect.

That’s the power of an insightful mystery series. Some of the greatest examples use their central investigations to explore complicated emotions, ranging from grief and loneliness to rage and guilt, while others hang their hats on more refined themes, focusing instead on institutional corruption and generational trauma. The most effective mysteries peer into the darkest recesses of human nature, showcasing some of the ugliest kinds of villains the world could ever imagine.

These days, there's no shortage of excellent mystery shows to get lost in. Action-packed thrillers like Reacher and The Terminal List offer that extra level of spectacle for those who can’t quite sit for a more methodical investigation, while the unforgettable Law & Order: SVU just aired its 28th season earlier this month. However, the following shows offer a bit more to their mysteries, featuring drawn-out investigations that keep you hooked to the very last word. From slow-burning Nordic noir to anime mind benders, these are the best mystery series ever put on TV.

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