12 Best Drama TV Shows on Showtime Right Now

Showtime has long been home to some of the most gripping and well-crafted dramas on television. From psychological thrillers to historical sagas, this list covers the must-watch dramas currently available on the platform. Whether you’re a fan of crime, espionage, or deeply emotional storytelling, these shows have something for everyone. Here are the 12 best drama TV shows on Showtime right now.

1. Dexter: Original Sin

IMDb Score: 8.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 85%

Set in 1991 Miami, Dexter: Original Sin explores the origins of Dexter Morgan’s dark urges and how he learns to control them under the guidance of his father, Harry. As he starts a forensics internship at Miami Metro Police, Dexter must walk a fine line between his growing bloodlust and staying under the radar. This gripping prequel gives fans a deeper look into Dexter’s transformation, making it a must-watch for both newcomers and longtime followers of the franchise.

2. Dexter

IMDb Score: 8.7/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 90%

The original Dexter series introduced us to one of television’s most complex antiheroes. By day, he’s a skilled blood spatter analyst for Miami Metro Police. By night, he satisfies his need to kill by hunting down criminals who have escaped justice. Dark, suspenseful, and at times surprisingly emotional, this show keeps you on the edge of your seat from start to finish. If you haven’t watched it yet, now’s the perfect time to dive in.

3. The Agency

IMDb Score: 7.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 82%

If you enjoy espionage thrillers packed with intrigue, The Agency delivers. Following CIA operative Martian as he’s forced to return to London Station, the series blends action, romance, and high-stakes political maneuvering. His past catches up with him when an old flame resurfaces, making his mission even more dangerous. With its riveting plot twists and compelling characters, this show is an excellent pick for fans of spy dramas.

4. Twin Peaks

IMDb Score: 8.8/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 94%

A true television classic, Twin Peaks is as eerie as it is brilliant. When high school student Laura Palmer’s body is found washed up on shore, FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper is called in to investigate. What starts as a straightforward murder case quickly spirals into a surreal mystery filled with strange characters, supernatural elements, and deeply buried secrets. Even decades after its original release, Twin Peaks remains a must-watch for fans of atmospheric storytelling.

5. Californication

IMDb Score: 8.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 77%

Few shows manage to mix humor, drama, and raw emotion quite like Californication. Following the self-destructive writer Hank Moody, the series showcases his struggles with addiction, fatherhood, and relationships. Hank’s irreverent charm and razor-sharp wit make him endlessly watchable, even as he repeatedly sabotages himself. Funny, heartbreaking, and wildly entertaining, this series is perfect for those who appreciate flawed yet lovable protagonists.

6. Dexter: New Blood

IMDb Score: 7.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 76%

Set a decade after the original series, Dexter: New Blood reintroduces us to Dexter Morgan, now living under a new identity in a small town. Though he tries to suppress his dark urges, unforeseen events force him back into his old ways. The revival brings fresh tension and new characters while staying true to its dark, psychological roots. If you loved Dexter, this continuation is well worth watching.

7. Billions

IMDb Score: 8.4/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 89%

Few shows capture power struggles as intensely as Billions. The battle between hedge fund billionaire Bobby Axelrod and U.S. Attorney Chuck Rhoades is packed with mind games, legal maneuvering, and high-stakes drama. Fueled by phenomenal performances and razor-sharp dialogue, this series delivers a thrilling look into the ruthless world of high finance. If you love smart, dialogue-heavy dramas, Billions is a must-watch.

8. Ray Donovan

IMDb Score: 8.3/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 86%

Hollywood fixer Ray Donovan makes problems disappear—for everyone but himself. Set against the backdrop of Los Angeles, the series follows Ray as he handles the scandals of the rich and famous while battling his own troubled past. When his estranged father is released from prison, old wounds resurface, pushing Ray to his limits. If you enjoy intense family drama mixed with crime and action, this series is well worth watching.

9. The Tudors

IMDb Score: 8.1/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 80%

History comes to life in The Tudors, a stylish and dramatic retelling of King Henry VIII’s rise to power. From political intrigue to passionate affairs, this series offers a fresh take on one of history’s most infamous rulers. Packed with betrayals, power struggles, and lavish period details, The Tudors is a must-watch for fans of historical drama.

10. The Chi

IMDb Score: 7.6/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 84%

A powerful drama set in Chicago’s South Side, The Chi explores the interconnected lives of various characters as they deal with love, loss, and survival. The series does an incredible job of portraying the struggles and triumphs of everyday people, making it both deeply personal and socially relevant. If you’re looking for a heartfelt drama with rich storytelling, The Chi is a standout choice.

11. Yellowjackets

IMDb Score: 8.5/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 92%

If you love psychological thrillers with a twist, Yellowjackets is a must-watch. A group of talented high school soccer players find themselves stranded in the wilderness after a plane crash, forcing them to tap into their primal instincts to survive. The show expertly blends survival horror with a coming-of-age drama, jumping between past and present to unravel the psychological scars left behind. It’s tense, unsettling, and completely addictive.

12. Queer As Folk

IMDb Score: 8.2/10
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 88%

A groundbreaking drama, Queer As Folk offers an unfiltered look into the lives of a tight-knit LGBTQ+ community. Covering love, friendships, and social issues, the series remains relevant decades after its debut. The mix of emotional depth and humor makes it a compelling and significant watch for both longtime fans and newcomers.