5 Must-Watch Gangster-Themed Series for Crime Drama Enthusiasts

The world of gangsters and crime has always been a fascinating theme to explore in television series. With stories filled with intrigue, gang rivalries, family drama, and tales of power and betrayal, gangster-themed series have captured the attention of audiences for decades. If you're a fan of action-packed and suspenseful crime dramas, here are five of the best gangster-themed series that deserve a spot on your watchlist.

1. Sons of Anarchy (2008–2014)

Sons of Anarchy tells the story of SAMCRO, a motorcycle club based in Charming, California, that runs illegal operations while maintaining peace in their town. The club is led by Clay Morrow, but the central character is Jax Teller, the son of the club's founder. The series explores Jax's internal conflict as he grapples with following his father's vision to reform SAMCRO or continuing down a darker path in the criminal underworld.

Created by Kurt Sutter, Sons of Anarchy delves into themes of brotherhood, betrayal, and complex family relationships within a violent and unforgiving world. With gripping action and deep storytelling, the series provides a unique perspective on the lives of outlaw motorcycle clubs and the personal struggles faced by its members.

2. Gangs of London (2020–Present)

Gangs of London focuses on the criminal underworld in London, England. The series begins with the assassination of Finn Wallace, the most powerful gang leader in the city. His death creates a power vacuum, sparking a violent war between rival gangs vying for control of London. Amidst the chaos, Sean Wallace, Finn's son, seeks to uncover the truth behind his father's murder while defending the Wallace family's legacy.

Directed by Gareth Evans and Matt Flannery, Gangs of London is renowned for its brutal action sequences and stunning cinematography. The series offers a gripping exploration of gang rivalries and the intertwining of violence and betrayal in the lives of criminals in a metropolitan city like London.

3. The Wire (2002–2008)

Often hailed as one of the greatest crime dramas of all time, The Wire goes beyond a typical gangster story. Set in Baltimore, Maryland, the series examines the city's drug trade from multiple perspectives, including the police, drug dealers, and the community. Each season focuses on a different facet of urban life, such as law enforcement, education, journalism, and politics.

Created by David Simon, The Wire provides a realistic and in-depth look at social issues and urban crime. While it may not feature the intense violence of other gangster series, The Wire delivers compelling tension and drama, along with sharp social commentary on the failures of institutions in addressing poverty and criminality. It's a must-watch for viewers seeking intelligent and thought-provoking storytelling.

4. The Sopranos (1999–2007)

The Sopranos is one of the most iconic gangster series in television history and is often regarded as one of the greatest shows ever made. The series revolves around Tony Soprano, a mafia boss in New Jersey, as he struggles to balance his role as a family man with his responsibilities as a leader of a criminal organization. While managing his illegal operations, Tony also deals with personal issues such as anxiety, depression, and conflicts within his family.

Created by David Chase, The Sopranos masterfully blends family drama with gritty crime stories, creating complex and relatable characters. The series explores the human side of a mafia boss and his attempts to find balance in a life filled with pressure and danger. With James Gandolfini's exceptional performance as Tony Soprano, this series is a must-watch for fans of mafia stories.

5. Peaky Blinders (2013–2022)

Set in Birmingham, England, after World War I, Peaky Blinders follows the Shelby family, led by the ambitious and cunning Tommy Shelby. The family runs the notorious Peaky Blinders gang, known for their sharp suits and brutal tactics in the criminal underworld. As Tommy seeks to elevate his family's power and influence across Britain, he faces numerous enemies, including rival gangs, law enforcement, and corrupt politicians.

Created by Steven Knight, Peaky Blinders combines stylish visuals, strong performances, and a captivating soundtrack to create a unique gangster drama. The series weaves a tale of conspiracy, politics, and rivalry, offering an extraordinary story of ambition, loyalty, and honor. Its elegant yet gritty portrayal of the gangster world makes it a standout in the genre.

These five series offer different perspectives on the world of gangsters, from the motorcycle club drama of Sons of Anarchy and the gang wars in Gangs of London, to the personal struggles of a mafia boss in The Sopranos. Each series delivers not only thrilling action but also explores complex characters, personal conflicts, and the challenges of maintaining power in a violent and unforgiving world.

For fans of crime dramas and gangster stories, these series promise an exhilarating viewing experience while shedding light on the intricacies of life in the criminal underworld. Get ready to dive into a world of intrigue, betrayal, and captivating drama!