Television has an incredible power to bring real-life stories to audiences in a gripping and emotionally engaging way. Some of the best TV series are based on true events, blending history, drama, and personal struggles into unforgettable narratives. Here are ten exceptional true story TV series that dive into real-world events, offering powerful performances and deep storytelling.
10. This Is Going to Hurt (2022)
“This Is Going to Hurt” is a British medical drama based on the memoir of Adam Kay, a former doctor in the UK’s National Health Service (NHS). The series, starring Ben Whishaw, offers a brutally honest yet darkly humorous look into the struggles of junior doctors working in overstretched hospitals.
Directed by Lucy Forbes and Tom Kingsley, and produced by Holly Pullinger, the show takes viewers inside the chaotic and emotionally draining world of healthcare professionals. It highlights the stress, exhaustion, and moral dilemmas that doctors face while trying to save lives. The series, available on BBC One and AMC+, resonates with medical professionals and audiences alike for its raw storytelling and exceptional performances.
9. John Adams (2008)
“John Adams” is a historical miniseries that takes viewers deep into the life of America’s second president, John Adams. Paul Giamatti delivers a powerful performance as Adams, portraying his journey from a passionate revolutionary to the leader of a young nation.
The series, directed by Tom Hooper and produced by David Coatsworth, is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning biography by David McCullough. It offers an intimate and historically accurate portrayal of Adams’ role in American independence, his presidency, and his personal struggles. The show, available on HBO, is praised for its outstanding performances and detailed historical storytelling.
8. Dopesick (2021)
“Dopesick” is a hard-hitting drama that explores the devastating opioid crisis in the United States. Starring Michael Keaton, Rosario Dawson, and Kaitlyn Dever, the series exposes the role of pharmaceutical companies in fueling addiction across the country.
Directed by Barry Levinson and produced by Danny Strong, “Dopesick” follows the journey of doctors, patients, and investigators as they uncover the shocking truth about OxyContin. The show, available on Hulu, provides an emotional and eye-opening look at one of the biggest health crises in modern history. Michael Keaton’s performance as a doctor caught in the middle of the crisis is especially compelling.
7. Mindhunter (2017-2019)
“Mindhunter” is a psychological crime drama that delves into the early days of criminal profiling at the FBI. Based on the real-life experiences of John E. Douglas and Robert K. Ressler, the series follows two FBI agents who interview serial killers to understand their minds. Starring Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, and Anna Torv, the show is directed by David Fincher and produced by Charlize Theron. Available on Netflix, “Mindhunter” brings a chilling and deeply engaging look at the evolution of criminal psychology. Its dark, atmospheric storytelling and intense character development make it one of the most gripping crime dramas ever made.
6. The Offer (2022)
“The Offer” tells the behind-the-scenes story of the making of The Godfather (1972), one of the greatest films in history. Based on the experiences of producer Albert S. Ruddy, the series explores the challenges of getting the film made, from dealing with Hollywood politics to facing threats from the mafia.
Starring Miles Teller, Matthew Goode, and Juno Temple, the show is directed by Dexter Fletcher and produced by Leslie Greif and Michael Tolkin. Streaming on Paramount+, “The Offer” provides a fascinating look at the filmmaking process and the obstacles that shaped an iconic masterpiece.
5. The Crown (2016-2023)
“The Crown” is an award-winning historical drama that chronicles the reign of Queen Elizabeth II, covering key events from the 1940s to the modern era. Featuring an exceptional cast that includes Claire Foy, Olivia Colman, and Imelda Staunton, the series captures the political and personal challenges faced by the British royal family. Created by Peter Morgan and produced by Suzanne Mackie, “The Crown” is known for its stunning production design, historically accurate storytelling, and deeply emotional performances. Streaming on Netflix, the show provides a rare and intimate look into the monarchy and its influence on global history.
4. I, Claudius (1976)
“I, Claudius” is a classic historical drama that brings the story of the Roman Empire to life. Based on the novels by Robert Graves, the series follows the rise of Emperor Claudius, a man who was underestimated due to his physical disabilities but ultimately became a powerful ruler. Starring Derek Jacobi, Siân Phillips, and Brian Blessed, the series is directed by Herbert Wise and produced by Martin Lisemore. Originally broadcast on BBC Two and later on PBS, “I, Claudius” is celebrated for its intense political drama, betrayals, and Shakespearean-style storytelling. It remains one of the best historical TV dramas ever made.
3. Narcos (2015-2017)
“Narcos” tells the true story of the rise and fall of Pablo Escobar, the infamous Colombian drug lord, and the global impact of the cocaine trade. Wagner Moura delivers a compelling performance as Escobar, capturing both his charisma and ruthlessness. The series also follows the efforts of law enforcement agents, played by Pedro Pascal and Boyd Holbrook, as they try to take down the powerful drug cartel. Produced by Chris Brancato and Carlo Bernard, “Narcos” blends real news footage with dramatized storytelling, creating an intense and thrilling crime drama. Streaming on Netflix, the show provides a gripping look at the dangerous world of drug trafficking.
2. When They See Us (2019)
“When They See Us” is a powerful miniseries that tells the heartbreaking true story of the Central Park Five, a group of Black and Latino teenagers who were wrongfully accused and convicted of a violent crime in 1989. Directed by Ava DuVernay and produced by Oprah Winfrey, the series exposes the racial injustice and flawed legal system that led to their wrongful imprisonment. Jharrel Jerome’s performance is especially moving, earning him an Emmy for his portrayal of Korey Wise. Available on Netflix, “When They See Us” is an emotional and necessary watch that highlights the systemic failures in the justice system.
1. Chernobyl (2019)
“Chernobyl” is a chilling dramatization of the 1986 nuclear disaster in the Soviet Union. The series meticulously reconstructs the events leading up to the explosion and its aftermath, focusing on the bravery of scientists and workers who tried to contain the disaster. Jared Harris, Stellan Skarsgård, and Emily Watson deliver powerful performances, making the show both gripping and deeply emotional. Directed by Johan Renck and produced by Craig Mazin, “Chernobyl” is a haunting exploration of the consequences of misinformation, political cover-ups, and human resilience. Available on HBO, the series remains one of the most impactful historical dramas ever created.
Most of these series are based on true events and real people, but some take creative liberties to enhance the storytelling. “John Adams,” “The Crown,” and “Chernobyl” are among the most historically accurate.
These series are available on major streaming platforms such as Netflix, HBO, Hulu, BBC One, and Paramount+. Availability may vary depending on your region.
“When They See Us” and “Chernobyl” are among the most emotionally powerful due to their real-life tragedies and intense storytelling.
Yes, other great options include “Band of Brothers,” “Unbelievable,” and “The People v. O.J. Simpson.”
“Mindhunter” and “Narcos” are highly recommended for those interested in crime, psychology, and law enforcement.
While it is based on real events, “The Crown” dramatizes certain aspects of the British royal family’s life for storytelling purposes.
