As the crisp autumn air settles in and the leaves begin to fall, it’s time to prepare for one of the most exciting times of the year: Halloween! Whether you’re hosting a haunted event, snuggling up for a horror night, or simply enjoying the eerie season in solitude, nothing beats a cozy binge-watching session to get you in the mood. We’ve compiled a list of ten TV shows that promise to thrill, chill, and delight this Halloween, ranging from terrifying horror to lighthearted scares.
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The Haunting of Hill House
The Haunting of Hill House, a contemporary adaptation of Shirley Jackson’s classic novel, is a gem in horror narrative for this Halloween. The series follows the Crain family, alternating between past and present, weaving together their childhood experiences in a haunted mansion and their adult lives, which are tormented by memories and trauma. With a dark ambiance and intensely emotional storytelling, this show transports viewers into a world where the tragedies of the past are never truly forgotten.
American Horror Story
With its anthology framework, American Horror Story reinvents itself each season, delving into new themes and events. From witches in Coven to a Freak show, each season is jam-packed with horror, suspense, and dark humor for this Halloween watch. Its distinct storytelling and star-studded cast make it an must-watch for lovers of the genre. Grab some popcorn and sit in for a series that combines fear with intriguing stories.
The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina
For those who like their scares with a dash of wit, The Chilling Adventures of Sabrina is a fresh take on the beloved teen witch. This series is darker than its predecessor, following Sabrina Spellman as she struggles with her dual nature—half mortal, half witch. With its enthralling blend of supernatural aspects, social satire, and 90s nostalgia, this show strikes the ideal balance of thrills and charm this Halloween. Don’t forget the cauldron popcorn!
Castle Rock
Castle Rock is a psychological horror anthology series that incorporates aspects from Stephen King’s fictional realm. Each season focuses on different narratives set in the fictional town of Castle Rock, exploring themes such as psychosis, trauma, and redemption. With its creepy atmosphere and captivating writing, this series will appeal to both long-time King fans and newbies eager for an exciting journey this Halloween.
Penny Dreadful
Enter the dark and twisted world of Penny Dreadful, where famous literary figures come to life in a gothic story of love, death, and the supernatural. This series tells the stories of Dracula, Frankenstein, and Dorian Gray, weaving them into a complex tapestry of horror and beauty. Penny Dreadful, with its breathtaking cinematography and enticing acting, is a feast for those who enjoy the darker side of narrative.
Hysteria
Bruce Campbell, the “Evil Dead” icon, stars in this thriller series set during the 1980s Satanic Panic. When the star high school quarterback goes missing, teenagers in a small-town metal band decide to profit on the interest in the occult, which leads to them being blamed for a string of murders, kidnappings, and other bizarre happenings.
Stranger Things
This sci-fi horror series, taking us back to the 1980s, follows a group of youngsters in a small town as they face supernatural forces and government conspiracies. Stranger Things is an excellent pick for family-friendly fright evenings this Halloween, as it combines friendship, mystery, and terrifying creatures from the Upside Down.
Hellbound
While you wait for the return of “Squid Game,” immerse yourself in fantasy this Halloween with this gloomy Korean tale in which supernatural entities condemn individuals to hell. In the second season, Jeong Jin-soo (Kim Sung-cheol), the founder of a religious cult, is one of many who have returned to Earth after a hellish journey and are struggling with the consequences of resurrection.
What We Do in the Shadows
For those who enjoy humor with their horror, What We Do in the Shadows is an absolute treat for Halloween season. This mockumentary-style series, which is based on the 2014 movie of the same name, follows a group of vampire roommates as they navigate modern Staten Island life. The show proves that not every horror needs to be scary with its witty writing and ridiculous scenarios. Instead, get ready to laugh a lot as these vampires discuss everything from the dangers of technology to love.
The Bad Guys: Haunted Heist
The seasonal spinoff from the 2022 animated comedy follows Wolf and his animal team as they attempt a high-stakes Halloween burglary to steal a rare amulet from the scary mansion of elderly villain Reginald B. Scary. Things don’t go as planned, as the gang comes across ghosts as well as a knight in shining armor.
