If you’re a fan of edge-of-your-seat entertainment, you’re in for a treat. Hulu features some of the best thriller series on Hulu, offering a wide array of gripping tales from case-of-the-week procedurals to intense serialized sagas. Whether you enjoy true crime dramas, psychological thrillers, or sci-fi mysteries, Hulu’s collection has something for everyone. Here’s a roundup of the most captivating thriller series you can binge-watch on Hulu as of May 2024.
Explore the best thriller series on Hulu
1. 24 (2001–2010; 2014)
Kickstarting our list is Fox’s iconic real-time thriller series, 24. Dive into the relentless life of CTU agent Jack Bauer, played by Kiefer Sutherland, as he battles formidable terrorist threats against the U.S. across nine adrenaline-fueled seasons. Each hour-long episode represents one hour in Bauer’s day, making for a uniquely intense viewing experience. As Entertainment Weekly noted, the show’s combination of personal and professional crises set against a ticking clock creates a gripping momentum that is hard to resist.
Where to Watch: Hulu
YoTainment Grade: B+
Cast: Kiefer Sutherland, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Carlos Bernard, Dennis Haysbert, Elisha Cuthbert
2. The Americans (2013–2018)
The Americans offers a thrilling look at the lives of KGB spies posing as an ordinary American couple during the Cold War. Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys deliver stellar performances as Elizabeth and Philip Jennings, whose espionage activities are further complicated by their family life and their FBI agent neighbor. This series masterfully combines intense spy action with deep, slow-burn drama.
Where to Watch: Hulu
YoTainment Grade: B+
Cast: Keri Russell, Matthew Rhys, Holly Taylor, Keidrich Sellati, Noah Emmerich
3. Big Sky (2020–2023)
From the mind behind Big Little Lies, David E. Kelley, comes Big Sky. Based on C.J. Box’s The Highway book series, this series explores the mysterious disappearances in the vast landscapes of Montana. Detectives Jenny Hoyt and Cassie Dewell’s investigations lead to shocking twists, including unexpected character deaths that keep viewers on their toes. The addition of stars like Jensen Ackles and Reba McEntire in the final season adds even more intrigue to the series.
Where to Watch: Hulu
Cast: Katheryn Winnick, Kylie Bunbury, Brian Geraghty, Valerie Mahaffey, Jensen Ackles, Reba McEntire
4. Cruel Summer (2021–2023)
Cruel Summer stands out for its unique storytelling, spanning three years to unravel the mystery of a popular teen’s disappearance and the subsequent rise of her seemingly unrelated peer. Creator Bert V. Royal uses a non-linear timeline to reveal the complex relationships and secrets of the characters, making for a highly engaging and suspenseful series.
Where to Watch: Hulu
YoTainment Grade: B+
Cast: Olivia Holt, Chiara Aurelia, Froy Gutierrez, Harley Quinn Smith, Brooklyn Sudano
5. Fargo (2014–present)
Inspired by the Coen brothers’ film, Fargo presents a new crime story each season with a consistent blend of dark humor and intense drama. With an ever-impressive cast, including Billy Bob Thornton, Kirsten Dunst, and Chris Rock, the series explores family feuds and crime syndicates across different eras and locations, from snowy North Dakota to 1950s Kansas City.
Where to Watch: Hulu
YoTainment Grade: B
Cast: Billy Bob Thornton, Allison Tolman, Colin Hanks, Kirsten Dunst, Chris Rock, Ewan McGregor
6. Lost (2004–2010)
Relive the iconic journey of the survivors of Oceanic Flight 815 in Lost. This series blends supernatural elements with deep character studies as the castaways confront mysterious forces on a deserted island. From the enigmatic Dharma Initiative to the infamous smoke monster, Lost remains a must-watch for fans of complex, multi-layered storytelling.
Where to Watch: Hulu
YoTainment Grade: N/A
Cast: Naveen Andrews, Emilie de Ravin, Matthew Fox, Jorge Garcia, Evangeline Lilly
7. The Old Man (2022–present)
Jeff Bridges shines in The Old Man, playing a retired CIA operative forced back into action when his quiet life is disrupted. This thriller delves into the past secrets and present dangers faced by Dan Chase, offering a compelling narrative filled with suspense and emotional depth.
Where to Watch: Hulu
Cast: Jeff Bridges, John Lithgow, E.J. Bonilla, Alia Shawkat
8. Only Murders in the Building (2021–present)
For a blend of comedy and mystery, Only Murders in the Building is a delightful choice. Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez star as three amateur sleuths who start a true crime podcast while investigating murders in their opulent New York apartment building. The series is as charming as it is thrilling, with an ever-rotating cast of guest stars adding to the fun.
Where to Watch: Hulu
YoTainment Grade: B
Cast: Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez, Tina Fey, Nathan Lane
9. The X-Files (1993–2002; 2016–2018)
A cornerstone of supernatural thrillers, The X-Files follows FBI agents Mulder and Scully as they investigate unexplained phenomena. The dynamic between skeptic Scully and believer Mulder drives the series, which offers a mix of standalone “monster-of-the-week” episodes and a larger conspiracy arc.
Where to Watch: Hulu
YoTainment Grade: B+
Cast: David Duchovny, Gillian Anderson, Robert Patrick
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Whether you’re revisiting old favorites or discovering new obsessions, these thrilling series on Hulu promise to keep you hooked from start to finish. So, grab your popcorn and get ready for some binge-worthy excitement!
