Last Updated on Thursday, April 10, 2025 by TrialForFree

Best Western TV Shows on Paramount+

If you’re a fan of dusty trails, high-stakes showdowns, and the rugged charm of cowboy life, you’re in for a treat. Paramount+ is home to some of the most compelling Western TV shows ever created. From gritty historical dramas to modern-day tales of justice and survival, these shows offer something for every Western enthusiast. Whether you’re discovering the Dutton family’s roots or watching sheriffs clean up lawless towns, these series keep the spirit of the Old West alive.

1. 1923

IMDb Score: 8.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 90%

“1923” continues the Dutton family’s legacy in a time of great hardship and transformation. Featuring powerful performances and stunning cinematography, the show captures the chaos of the early twentieth century with themes like the end of Prohibition and the Great Depression. It’s compelling and emotional, painting a vivid picture of a family doing everything they can to hold onto their home in the American West. A must-watch if you love historical drama with grit and soul.

2. Hell on Wheels

IMDb Score: 8.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88%

“Hell on Wheels” gets down and dirty with the birth of the American railroad and the chaos that came with it. Cullen Bohannon’s tale of vengeance morphs into a journey of redemption, set in a gritty, lawless town that moves with the rail line. The show dives deep into post-Civil War tension and social upheaval, offering a raw, character-driven story that rarely loses steam. It’s dark, it’s ambitious, and it’s totally binge-worthy.

3. 1883

IMDb Score: 8.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 89%

If you’re curious about where the Dutton saga began, “1883” is your gateway. It’s a rugged, often brutal look at a family journeying through the American frontier to seek a better life in Montana. With sweeping landscapes, heart-wrenching drama, and a top-notch cast, this prequel doesn’t hold back. It’s raw, emotional, and honestly, kind of addictive in the best way. Just be ready for some emotional punches—you’ve been warned.

4. Jericho

IMDb Score: 7.9/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 82%

“Jericho” puts a unique spin on the Western genre by combining it with post-apocalyptic drama. After nuclear attacks cripple America, the small town of Jericho, Kansas becomes a microcosm for human survival and political tension. It’s less cowboy hats and more survival smarts, but that same Western spirit of resilience and community is alive and well here. Plus, it has just the right amount of mystery to keep you guessing.

5. Hey Dude

IMDb Score: 7.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 70%

“Hey Dude” is a lighthearted take on the Western setting, perfect if you’re looking for something a little more fun and nostalgic. Set on the fictional “Bar None” dude ranch, this teen comedy from Nickelodeon is full of cowboy boots, awkward romances, and quirky misadventures. It’s not your traditional Western, but it’s got charm for days. Plus, if you grew up in the ‘90s, it’s like wrapping yourself in a warm, flannel blanket of teen TV memories.

6. Gunsmoke

IMDb Score: 8.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 85%

You can’t talk about Westerns without tipping your hat to “Gunsmoke.” This classic series set in Dodge City introduced audiences to Marshal Matt Dillon, one of the most iconic lawmen in TV history. With its moral complexity and straight-shooting drama, “Gunsmoke” set the standard for TV Westerns. It’s got that old-school charm and teaches you a thing or two about justice, honor, and how to stare down trouble without blinking.

7. Longmire

IMDb Score: 8.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88%

“Longmire” brings the Western genre into the modern age with a crime-solving sheriff who battles not just criminals, but personal demons. Set in the stark, beautiful landscapes of Wyoming, the series blends mystery, drama, and Western themes seamlessly. Walt Longmire is the kind of hero you root for—flawed, resilient, and dedicated to justice. It’s a slow burn that delivers, especially for fans who appreciate character-driven storytelling.

8. Joe Pickett

IMDb Score: 7.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 76%

“Joe Pickett” gives a fresh perspective on the Western narrative through the lens of a Wyoming game warden. As Joe and his family navigate political tensions and long-buried secrets, the show weaves together suspense, family drama, and environmental issues with strong storytelling. It’s a slower-paced series, but it rewards patient viewers with rich character development and complex themes. Plus, the wilderness setting is just breathtaking.

9. The Last Cowboy

IMDb Score: 7.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 73%

“The Last Cowboy” is a bit of a wild card—it’s a documentary-style competition show that takes you deep into the world of professional horse reining. Trust us, it’s way more thrilling than it sounds. The series celebrates the cowboy spirit as riders train and compete for a $1 million prize. It’s real, it’s raw, and it’s surprisingly emotional. If you love horses, competition, and Western tradition, this one’s got your name written all over it.

10. Yellowstone

IMDb Score: 8.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 84%

Just kidding! “Yellowstone” might be the most iconic Western on Paramount+, but since it didn’t make this list (somehow), we’re sticking to our top ten. Still, go watch it—you’ll thank me later.