If you're a fan of the thrilling mystery and teen drama of 'Pretty Little Liars,' you're in for a treat! This article explores 10 movies and TV shows that capture the same suspense, secrets, and intricate storytelling that made 'Pretty Little Liars' a hit. Whether you're craving more whodunit twists, high school drama, or dark secrets lurking beneath the surface, these recommendations will keep you hooked.

Gossip Girl (2007)
Description: Like 'Pretty Little Liars', 'Gossip Girl' revolves around a group of wealthy, attractive teenagers whose lives are upended by secrets and scandals. Both shows feature a mysterious, omniscient narrator (Gossip Girl and 'A') who exposes the characters' darkest secrets, creating tension and drama. The shows also share a focus on fashion, romance, and the dark side of privilege.
Fact: 'Gossip Girl' was based on the book series by Cecily von Ziegesar. The show's iconic voiceover was provided by Kristen Bell, who was uncredited for the first season. The series was known for its lavish fashion, with costume designer Eric Daman creating over 7,000 outfits throughout the show's run.


The Vampire Diaries (2009)
Description: While 'The Vampire Diaries' incorporates supernatural elements, it shares with 'Pretty Little Liars' a focus on a tight-knit group of friends navigating love triangles, betrayals, and life-threatening situations. Both shows feature a mysterious, often dangerous outsider (Damon Salvatore and 'A') who disrupts the protagonists' lives. The shows also balance romance, drama, and suspense.
Fact: The series was based on the book series by L.J. Smith. Nina Dobrev, who played Elena, also played her doppelgänger Katherine. The show's success led to two spin-offs: 'The Originals' and 'Legacies'.


13 Reasons Why (2017)
Description: Both '13 Reasons Why' and 'Pretty Little Liars' deal with the aftermath of a traumatic event (Hannah's suicide and Alison's disappearance) and the secrets that surround it. The shows explore how lies and rumors can have devastating consequences, and both feature a narrative structure that reveals information gradually, keeping viewers engaged.
Fact: The series was based on the novel by Jay Asher. The show sparked controversy for its graphic depiction of suicide, leading Netflix to add trigger warnings and later edit the scene. Selena Gomez was an executive producer on the series.


Dare Me (2019)
Description: Like 'Pretty Little Liars', 'Dare Me' is set in a high school and revolves around a toxic friendship, secrets, and a mysterious death. The show's dark, atmospheric tone and focus on the complexities of female relationships mirror the original series. Both shows also feature a strong, manipulative leader (Addy and Alison) who exerts control over her peers.
Fact: The series was based on the novel by Megan Abbott. It was canceled after one season due to low ratings. The show's soundtrack features original music by singer-songwriter Chelsea Wolfe.


Riverdale (2017)
Description: 'Riverdale' shares with 'Pretty Little Liars' a small-town setting where dark secrets lurk beneath a seemingly perfect surface. Both shows feature a group of teenagers solving mysteries, dealing with romantic entanglements, and facing off against a series of antagonists. The shows also blend elements of teen drama with thriller and mystery genres.
Fact: The show is based on the Archie Comics but takes a much darker tone. Cole Sprouse, who plays Jughead, was a child star on 'The Suite Life of Zack & Cody'. The series has spawned several spin-offs, including 'Chilling Adventures of Sabrina'.


You (2018)
Description: 'You' shares with 'Pretty Little Liars' a focus on obsession, stalking, and the dark side of love. Both shows feature a mysterious, manipulative antagonist (Joe Goldberg and 'A') who invades the lives of the main characters. The shows also explore themes of identity, secrecy, and the lengths people will go to for love.
Fact: The series was originally developed for Lifetime before moving to Netflix. It is based on the novels by Caroline Kepnes. Penn Badgley, who plays Joe, also starred in 'Gossip Girl'.


Pretty Little Liars: The Perfectionists (2019)
Description: As a spin-off of 'Pretty Little Liars', this show naturally shares many similarities, including a mysterious stalker ('The Professor') who torments the main characters. The setting of a prestigious university and the theme of perfectionism under pressure echo the original's focus on secrets and lies in an elite environment. The show also maintains the same blend of drama, suspense, and romance.
Fact: The series was canceled after one season due to low ratings. It was based on the book 'The Perfectionists' by Sara Shepard, who also wrote the 'Pretty Little Liars' novels. Sasha Pieterse and Janel Parrish reprised their roles from the original series.


One of Us Is Lying (2021)
Description: This show, like 'Pretty Little Liars', centers on a group of high school students who become suspects in a mysterious death. The narrative unfolds with secrets, lies, and twists, keeping viewers guessing about who is responsible. Both shows explore themes of friendship, betrayal, and the consequences of keeping secrets.
Fact: The series is based on the bestselling novel by Karen M. McManus. The show was initially developed as a potential series for Peacock before moving to Netflix. The book has a sequel, 'One of Us Is Next', which could potentially be adapted in the future.


The Wilds (2020)
Description: While 'The Wilds' has a different premise (stranded on a deserted island), it shares with 'Pretty Little Liars' a focus on a group of young women dealing with trauma, secrets, and societal pressures. Both shows use flashbacks to reveal character backstories and explore themes of identity, friendship, and survival.
Fact: The series was created by Sarah Streicher, a former lawyer. The show was canceled after two seasons despite a passionate fan base. The cast underwent a survival boot camp to prepare for their roles.


Cruel Summer (2021)
Description: 'Cruel Summer' and 'Pretty Little Liars' both feature a small-town setting, a missing girl, and a narrative that unfolds over multiple timelines. The shows explore how secrets and lies can destroy lives and relationships, and both keep viewers guessing with twists and turns. The focus on female friendships and rivalries is also a common thread.
Fact: The series was created by Bert V. Royal, who also wrote 'Easy A'. The show's timeline jumps between 1993, 1994, and 1995, with meticulous attention to period details. It was one of Freeform's most-watched series premieres.
