When it comes to captivating television, stories about drug dealers have never failed to enthrall audiences. From the intense drama to the intricate character development, these shows offer a thrilling look into the underworld of narcotics. Here’s our list of the top 10 TV series about drug dealers, with “Breaking Bad” taking the coveted number one spot.
10. Queen of the South (2016-2021)
Based on the novel “La Reina del Sur” by Arturo Pérez-Reverte, “Queen of the South” follows Teresa Mendoza, a woman who becomes a powerful drug trafficker after her boyfriend is murdered. This series provides a unique perspective on the drug trade, focusing on a strong female protagonist navigating a dangerous world.
9. Weeds (2005-2012)
A dark comedy-drama, “Weeds” follows a suburban widow who turns to selling marijuana to support her family. The series offers a satirical take on the drug trade, blending humor with more serious themes of addiction and criminality. With its witty dialogue and sharp social commentary, “Weeds” provides a unique and entertaining perspective on the world of drug dealing.
8. El Chapo (2017-2018)
Based on the life of notorious Mexican drug lord JoaquÃn “El Chapo” Guzmán, this series offers a dramatic retelling of his rise to power and eventual downfall. “El Chapo” provides a thrilling and often harrowing look at the Mexican drug trade, featuring intense action scenes and complex character dynamics. With its gripping storytelling and strong performances, “El Chapo” is a compelling addition to the genre.
7. Ozark (2017-2022)
While not strictly a series about drug dealers, “Ozark” revolves around a financial planner who is forced to launder money for a Mexican drug cartel. The show blends elements of crime drama and family thriller, offering a tense and suspenseful narrative. With its complex characters and intricate plot twists, “Ozark” has earned its place on this list.
6. Power (2014-2020)
While primarily focused on the New York City nightclub scene, “Power” also delves into the world of drug dealing and organized crime. The series follows James “Ghost” St. Patrick, a nightclub owner who is also a major drug distributor. With its suspenseful plot twists and high-stakes drama, “Power” has become a fan favorite among viewers interested in the underworld of narcotics.
5. Sons of Anarchy (2008-2014)
Centered on a motorcycle club involved in both legal and illegal activities, “Sons of Anarchy” offers a gritty and intense look at the drug trade. The series explores themes of loyalty, family, and morality, as the members of the club navigate the dangerous world of drug dealing and law enforcement. With its compelling characters and intense action sequences, “Sons of Anarchy” is a standout in the genre.
4. Snowfall (2017- 2023)
Set in 1980s Los Angeles, “Snowfall” explores the early days of the crack cocaine epidemic. The series follows several characters, including a young street entrepreneur, a CIA operative, and a Mexican wrestler, as their lives intersect in the burgeoning drug trade. With its gritty realism and complex storytelling, “Snowfall” offers a compelling portrayal of the origins of the crack epidemic.
3. Narcos: Mexico (2018-2021)
A spin-off of the popular series “Narcos,” “Narcos: Mexico” delves into the rise of the Guadalajara Cartel in the 1980s. The show offers a gripping look at the Mexican drug trade, featuring larger-than-life characters and intense action sequences. With its high production values and engaging narrative, “Narcos: Mexico” stands out as a must-watch for fans of the genre.
2. The Wire (2002-2008)
Often hailed as one of the greatest television series of all time, “The Wire” offers a nuanced and realistic portrayal of the drug trade in Baltimore. The show explores the lives of both law enforcement officers and drug dealers, highlighting the systemic issues that contribute to the cycle of crime and poverty. With its sharp writing and memorable characters, “The Wire” remains a seminal work in the genre.
1. Breaking Bad (2008-2013)
Taking the top spot on our list is “Breaking Bad,” a critically acclaimed series that has become a cultural phenomenon. Created by Vince Gilligan, the show follows high school chemistry teacher Walter White, who turns to manufacturing and selling methamphetamine after being diagnosed with cancer. “Breaking Bad” is praised for its masterful storytelling, complex characters, and high production values. Bryan Cranston’s performance as Walter White is often cited as one of the greatest in television history. With its blend of intense drama, dark humor, and moral ambiguity, “Breaking Bad” sets the gold standard for TV series about drug dealers.
Conclusion
From the mean streets of Baltimore to the deserts of Mexico, these TV series offer a diverse and compelling look at the world of drug dealing. Whether you’re a fan of intense drama, dark comedy, or thrilling action, there’s something on this list for everyone. And while each show brings its own unique perspective to the genre, “Breaking Bad” stands head and shoulders above the rest, earning its place as the number one TV series about drug dealers.
