If You Loved Yellowjackets, These Shows Will Keep You Hooked
Yellowjackets was one of those slow-burning shows that didn’t grab immediate attention when it first debuted on Showtime, but once it hit Netflix, it quickly became a must-watch for many. Its unique blend of mystery, survival horror, and complex character drama — all told through dual timelines — captivated audiences and left fans eagerly awaiting each new season. Season 3 just wrapped up, and while fans like myself are eagerly awaiting a possible Season 4, there’s no harm in diving into other shows that offer a similar vibe.
If you’re looking for shows that mix coming-of-age drama with dark themes, mystery, and maybe even a little dark humor, then you’re in for a treat. Whether you want to dive into some older classics or more modern hits, there are plenty of shows to quench your Yellowjackets thirst while you wait. Here are the best shows like Yellowjackets to keep the mystery going.
1. The Wilds (2020–2022)
If you loved the survival aspect of Yellowjackets, The Wilds is another gripping series about a group of teenage girls stranded on a mysterious island after a plane crash. Much like Yellowjackets, The Wilds unfolds in dual timelines, blending past events on the island with their complicated present lives. The show mixes psychological tension, coming-of-age themes, and a mystery that unravels in unexpected ways.
The show’s twisty plot, rich character development, and a blend of suspenseful and heartfelt moments are likely to keep you hooked. It also leans heavily into themes of trauma and the way survival shapes the girls’ future, making it a compelling pick for Yellowjackets fans.
2. Sharp Objects (2018)
For a darker, more psychological take, Sharp Objects is an excellent option. Based on the book by Gillian Flynn, this miniseries stars Amy Adams as a journalist who returns to her hometown to cover the murder of two young girls. As she investigates, she’s forced to confront her own past, her family, and the dark secrets of the town.
With its gothic atmosphere, complex female characters, and unsettling mystery, Sharp Objects evokes a similar feeling of dread and tension as Yellowjackets. Both shows explore the aftermath of trauma and how it shapes characters’ lives, making it a solid choice for fans of dark psychological dramas.
3. Lost (2004–2010)
If you haven’t already watched Lost, now is the time to catch up. This iconic show follows a group of survivors stranded on a mysterious island after a plane crash. While the show features a large ensemble cast, Lost dives deep into the characters’ pasts, much like Yellowjackets. The show also shares Yellowjackets’ commitment to uncovering the hidden secrets behind their circumstances.
With its intricate plots, twists, and intense survival elements, Lost is a classic that shaped modern mystery series. While it doesn’t have the same focus on coming-of-age themes, the blend of dark mystery and psychological drama will appeal to Yellowjackets fans.
4. Pretty Little Liars (2010–2017)
For a more teen-centric take on mystery and suspense, Pretty Little Liars is a fan-favorite that shares a similar mix of secrets, lies, and hidden trauma. Set in a seemingly perfect suburban town, the series follows four high school girls who are haunted by an anonymous figure named “A” after their friend Alison goes missing. The show delves into the characters’ pasts and relationships, uncovering dark secrets along the way.
With its mix of high school drama, twists, and psychological intrigue, Pretty Little Liars offers a more lighthearted yet equally addictive alternative for those craving a mix of mystery and suspense with strong female characters.
5. The Society (2019)
Imagine a modern twist on Lord of the Flies, and you’ll get The Society. This Netflix series explores the lives of a group of high school students who are mysteriously transported to a replica of their town — without any adults. As they struggle to survive and make sense of their new world, power struggles and dark secrets start to surface.
While The Society doesn’t have the same intense focus on trauma as Yellowjackets, it shares a similar sense of mystery, survival, and coming-of-age themes. The show also incorporates the psychological tension and societal dynamics that make Yellowjackets so compelling.
6. Euphoria (2019–present)
If you’re drawn to Yellowjackets for its exploration of trauma and complex, often dark, characters, then Euphoria will definitely resonate with you. This gritty series follows a group of high school students navigating relationships, addiction, and their personal struggles. While the show leans more into modern teenage life and isn’t about survival in the same way Yellowjackets is, it shares a lot of thematic similarities, such as exploring the lasting effects of past trauma.
With its visually striking style and raw exploration of young adulthood, Euphoria is an intense and emotional watch that provides a deeper look into the characters’ psychological states.
7. The Outsider (2020)
Based on the Stephen King novel, The Outsider is a chilling crime drama that combines elements of mystery and supernatural horror. The series centers on the investigation of a brutal murder in a small town, but as the investigation unfolds, detectives discover strange and eerie phenomena that challenge their understanding of reality.
With its dark and atmospheric tone, The Outsider offers the same sense of tension and mystery that Yellowjackets does. If you’re looking for something with a bit of a supernatural edge and a twisted plot, this is a great option.
8. Twin Peaks (1990–1991, 2017)
A classic in the world of weird, surreal mystery, Twin Peaks is the ultimate cult favorite for fans of psychological dramas. Set in the quirky town of Twin Peaks, the series follows the investigation into the murder of high school student Laura Palmer. As the investigation deepens, strange and bizarre events unravel, and secrets about the town and its inhabitants come to light.
Twin Peaks shares Yellowjackets’ love of mystery, secrets, and disturbing revelations, but with a more surreal, eerie twist. If you enjoy shows with dark humor and a lot of intrigue, this one’s a must-watch.
9. The Haunting of Hill House (2018)
If you’re craving something with a supernatural touch that still focuses on complex, emotional characters, The Haunting of Hill House is the perfect pick. While it’s primarily a ghost story, the series also delves deep into the trauma experienced by the characters, both as children and adults. The show moves between past and present timelines, much like Yellowjackets, and explores how the past continues to haunt the characters.
With its mix of horror, mystery, and emotional depth, The Haunting of Hill House is a great choice for those who love Yellowjackets’ dark tone and layered storytelling.
Final Thoughts
While we eagerly await Yellowjackets Season 4, these shows will help fill the void. Whether you’re drawn to mystery, psychological drama, or complex characters, there’s something for everyone here. Each show offers its own unique blend of suspense, coming-of-age elements, and twists — all bound to keep you hooked just like Yellowjackets did. Happy watching!
