10 Shows & Movies Like True Blood (2008)

Description: Like True Blood, Buffy combines supernatural horror with witty dialogue and strong character development. Both shows feature a mix of vampires, werewolves, and other supernatural beings, with a focus on the struggles of living in a world where these creatures exist.

Fact: The show was created by Joss Whedon. Sarah Michelle Gellar was not the first choice for Buffy; it was offered to Katie Holmes first. The show has a strong cult following and is often cited as one of the greatest TV shows of all time.

Description: A spin-off of Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel shares True Blood's dark tone and exploration of vampire morality. Both shows delve into the complexities of being a vampire with a soul and the challenges of redemption.

Fact: David Boreanaz initially auditioned for the role of Riley Finn on Buffy. The show was originally pitched as a darker, more adult version of Buffy. Angel was the first spin-off of Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

Description: Supernatural, like True Blood, features a mix of horror, drama, and dark humor. Both shows explore mythical creatures and the supernatural, with a strong emphasis on family bonds and personal struggles.

Fact: The show was originally planned to last only five seasons. Jared Padalecki and Jensen Ackles were not the first choices for Sam and Dean Winchester. The show holds the record for the longest-running North American live-action fantasy TV series.

Description: Similar to True Blood, The Vampire Diaries explores the coexistence of vampires and humans in a small town, blending romance, horror, and supernatural elements. Both shows feature complex vampire mythologies and love triangles.

Fact: The show is based on the book series by L.J. Smith. Ian Somerhalder, who plays Damon Salvatore, was originally considered for the role of Stefan. The show's success led to two spin-offs: The Originals and Legacies.

Description: While The Walking Dead focuses on zombies rather than vampires, it shares True Blood's Southern Gothic atmosphere and exploration of survival in a world overrun by the supernatural. Both shows also delve into human morality under extreme circumstances.

Fact: The show is based on the comic book series by Robert Kirkman. Andrew Lincoln, who played Rick Grimes, is British and had to perfect an American accent for the role. The show has spawned multiple spin-offs, including Fear the Walking Dead.

Description: American Horror Story, like True Blood, blends horror with drama and features an ensemble cast. Both shows explore dark, supernatural themes and often push the boundaries of traditional horror storytelling.

Fact: Each season of the show is a self-contained miniseries with its own storyline and characters. Jessica Lange won two Emmy Awards for her performances in the show. The show's creators drew inspiration from real-life horror stories and urban legends.

Description: Hemlock Grove, like True Blood, is set in a small town with a dark secret and features a mix of supernatural creatures, including vampires and werewolves. Both shows explore themes of identity, prejudice, and the supernatural.

Fact: The show is based on the novel by Brian McGreevy. It was one of Netflix's first original series. The show's werewolf transformation scene in the first episode was praised for its unique and gruesome depiction.

Description: Penny Dreadful shares True Blood's gothic horror aesthetic and exploration of supernatural beings. Both shows feature a mix of horror, romance, and psychological drama, with a focus on characters grappling with their monstrous natures.

Fact: The show's title refers to the penny dreadfuls, cheap 19th-century British horror fiction. Eva Green's performance as Vanessa Ives was critically acclaimed. The show incorporates characters from classic literature, such as Dracula and Frankenstein.

Description: A spin-off of The Vampire Diaries, The Originals shares True Blood's focus on vampire politics and family dynamics. Both shows feature powerful, ancient vampires navigating modern societies.

Fact: The show was initially conceived as a backdoor pilot during The Vampire Diaries' fourth season. Joseph Morgan, who plays Klaus, also directed several episodes. The show explores the Mikaelson family, the original vampires.

Description: As a spin-off of The Originals, Legacies continues the supernatural themes seen in True Blood, with a younger cast dealing with their supernatural identities in a school setting, much like the human-vampire interactions in True Blood.

Fact: The show introduces new supernatural creatures not seen in The Vampire Diaries or The Originals. Danielle Rose Russell reprises her role as Hope Mikaelson from The Originals. The show blends elements of fantasy, horror, and teen drama.