The 10 Best TV Shows Based on True Stories, Ranked by IMDb
Television has the unique capability to bring the most compelling true stories into our living rooms, turning real-life events into binge-worthy narratives. With countless shows to choose from, some stand out for their gripping storytelling and critical acclaim. Here are the top 10 TV shows based on true stories, according to their IMDb ratings.
1.”Chernobyl” (2019) – IMDb rating: 9.4
This haunting miniseries retells the tragic story of the 1986 nuclear disaster at the Chernobyl power plant. It’s a gripping portrayal of the people involved and the catastrophic impact it had on Europe.
2.”Band of Brothers” (2001) – IMDb rating: 9.4
Produced by Steven Spielberg and Tom Hanks, this series dives deep into the history of Easy Company, an airborne infantry regiment during World War II, painting a detailed picture of their heroic endeavors.
3.”Breaking Bad” (2008-2013) – IMDb rating: 9.5
Although not entirely based on one true story, “Breaking Bad” draws from real-life events and portrays the methamphetamine drug trade in America with chilling precision and dramatic flair.
4.”The Crown” (2016-) – IMDb rating: 8.6
This series chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II and brings to life the intimate dynamics within the British royal family alongside pivotal historic events.
5.”When They See Us” (2019) – IMDb rating: 8.9
Ava DuVernay’s powerful miniseries recounts the harrowing story of the Central Park Five, a group of teenagers wrongfully convicted of a brutal attack in New York City.
6.”Narcos” (2015-2017) – IMDb rating: 8.8
“Narcos” tells the story of Colombia’s infamous drug kingpin Pablo Escobar and the law enforcement’s attempt to bring down his criminal empire.
7.”Mindhunter” (2017-2019) – IMDb rating: 8.6
“Mindhunter” explores the early days of criminal psychology and criminal profiling within the FBI as agents investigate serial killers by studying their damaged psyches.
8.”American Crime Story” (2016-) – IMDb rating varies per season
Each season is a self-contained narrative centered around historical crimes in America, including The People v. O.J. Simpson and The Assassination of Gianni Versace.
9.”The People v. O.J. Simpson: American Crime Story” (2016) – IMDb rating: 8.4
As part of “American Crime Story,” this gripping series dramatizes one of the most notorious legal cases in American history, that of O.J. Simpson’s murder trial.
10.”Fargo” (2014-) – IMDb rating: 8.9
Inspired by true crimes within America’s snowy farmlands, “Fargo” combines quirky characters with startlingly violent events in an anthology series format where each season introduces a new narrative and cast.
These shows have not only enraptured viewers with their detailed depictions but also illuminated aspects of reality that are often stranger than fiction, securing their high ranks on IMDb thanks to impeccable storytelling and dedication to authenticity.