Top 10 mystery series like 'Lost' to get lost in
If you're still looking for that unique blend of mystery, intricate plots, and character-driven drama that made 'Lost' a phenomenon, you're in the right place. Dive into a selection of series that capture the same spirit of enigmatic storytelling and compelling narratives. Prepare to get hooked on these captivating shows.



Few shows have ever managed to capture the cultural zeitgeist quite like 'Lost.' Its groundbreaking narrative structure, non-linear storytelling, and a seemingly endless well of mysteries kept audiences glued to their screens, sparking countless theories and discussions. The show wasn't just about a plane crash; it was about human connection, destiny, and the search for meaning in the most extraordinary circumstances.
What made 'Lost' so compelling was its ability to blend multiple genres seamlessly: science fiction, drama, mystery, and even a touch of the supernatural. It pioneered a style of television that prioritized complex character arcs alongside a constantly evolving puzzle. This approach has influenced countless series since, many of which attempt to replicate that same sense of wonder and intrigue.
Shows like 'Twin Peaks' had already laid some groundwork for this kind of enigmatic storytelling, but 'Lost' truly brought it to the mainstream. When you look at series such as 'Dark,' with its mind-bending timelines and interconnected families, or 'The Leftovers,' which delves deep into the existential aftermath of a global event, you can clearly see the 'Lost' lineage. Even 'Stranger Things' with its small-town mysteries and supernatural elements, taps into that same desire for uncovering hidden truths. These shows don't just offer escapism; they challenge viewers to think, question, and piece together clues, creating a truly immersive experience that goes beyond mere entertainment. If you loved the journey of discovery and the unexpected twists of 'Lost,' these series are sure to satisfy your craving for complex narratives and unforgettable characters.
14. The Walking Dead (2010)
The Walking Dead centers on a group of survivors navigating a post-apocalyptic world overrun by zombies, or 'walkers.' While it might not have the same kind of supernatural mysteries as 'Lost,' it shares the intense focus on human survival, moral compromises, and the formation of new societies in a dangerous, unpredictable environment. The show excels at exploring character dynamics under extreme pressure, with constant threats from both the undead and other human factions. It's a compelling look at what it takes to endure when everything you know has crumbled.

13. The Society (2019)
The Society presents a compelling mystery reminiscent of 'Lost,' focusing on a group of teenagers who return from a field trip to find their wealthy New England town utterly deserted. All adults have vanished, and a dense forest now surrounds the town, cutting off all communication with the outside world. The teens are forced to create their own society, complete with rules, leaders, and consequences, as they try to figure out what happened and how to survive. It's a fascinating study of human nature under duress, exploring themes of power, morality, and the struggle for order in chaos.

12. The 100 (2014)
The 100 starts with a premise that echoes 'Lost's' survivalist themes: after a nuclear apocalypse, the last remnants of humanity live on a space station, but resources are dwindling. To test if Earth is habitable again, 100 juvenile delinquents are sent down to the surface, where they discover a dangerous and mysterious world. The series quickly evolves beyond its initial premise, delving into complex moral dilemmas, tribal warfare, and the fight for survival against unforeseen threats. It's a show that consistently raises the stakes and forces its characters to make impossible choices, much like the survivors on the island.

11. Black Mirror (2011)
Black Mirror isn't a continuous narrative like 'Lost,' but its anthology format often presents self-contained mysteries and thought-provoking dilemmas about technology and human nature that will keep you guessing. Each episode explores a different dystopian future or alternate reality, showcasing the dark side of technological advancements. While not directly comparable in plot, fans of 'Lost's' philosophical undertones and surprising twists will appreciate the unexpected turns and societal commentary found within 'Black Mirror.' It's a show that will make you question everything and often leaves you with a lingering sense of unease.

10. The Haunting of Hill House (2018)
The Haunting of Hill House is a masterclass in atmospheric horror and family drama that, much like 'Lost,' uses flashbacks and a non-linear narrative to slowly unravel its central mystery. Based on Shirley Jackson's novel, the series follows the Crain family, who are forced to confront the ghosts of their past and the terrifying experiences they had growing up in the infamous Hill House. It's less about jump scares and more about psychological dread and the lasting impact of trauma. The show is beautifully directed, with truly chilling moments and deeply affecting character arcs that will leave a lasting impression.

9. The Expanse (2015)
The Expanse offers a gritty and realistic take on space opera that, while different in setting from 'Lost,' shares its commitment to intricate world-building and character-driven drama amidst a sprawling mystery. Set hundreds of years in the future, when humanity has colonized the solar system, the disappearance of a young woman leads a hardened detective and a rogue ship's captain to uncover a vast conspiracy that threatens to ignite an interstellar war. The series is praised for its scientific accuracy, complex political intrigue, and compelling characters, drawing you into its richly detailed universe with every episode.

8. The X-Files (1993)
The X-Files is the quintessential paranormal procedural that paved the way for many mystery-driven shows, including 'Lost.' Special Agents Fox Mulder, a believer in the paranormal, and Dana Scully, a skeptical scientist, investigate unexplained cases that often involve aliens, monsters, and government conspiracies. The show masterfully balances its 'monster-of-the-week' episodes with a compelling overarching mythology about alien colonization and a shadowy syndicate. Its iconic duo, compelling cases, and enduring mysteries make it a classic that continues to resonate with audiences who love a good puzzle and a touch of the unknown.

7. The OA (2016)
The OA is a mind-bending mystery that shares 'Lost's' love for enigmatic plots and a central group of individuals connected by an extraordinary event. The series follows Prairie Johnson, a young woman who resurfaces after being missing for seven years. What's even stranger is that she was blind when she disappeared but can now see. She refuses to tell the FBI or her adoptive parents where she's been, instead confiding in a small group of strangers whom she asks for help with a secret mission. It's a show that constantly challenges expectations, weaving together elements of sci-fi, fantasy, and spiritualism into a truly singular narrative.

6. Twin Peaks (1990)
Twin Peaks is the groundbreaking series by David Lynch and Mark Frost that redefined television with its surreal atmosphere and deep-seated mysteries. While it predates 'Lost,' its influence on serialized, enigmatic storytelling is undeniable. The show begins with the investigation into the murder of homecoming queen Laura Palmer in the seemingly idyllic town of Twin Peaks, but quickly spirals into a bizarre exploration of its quirky inhabitants, dark secrets, and supernatural elements. It's a truly unique viewing experience, filled with iconic characters and a pervasive sense of unease. Prepare for a journey that's as perplexing as it is captivating.

5. Stranger Things (2016)
Stranger Things perfectly captures that sense of childhood adventure and supernatural mystery that made 'Lost' so captivating, albeit with a distinct 80s flair. When a young boy vanishes in the town of Hawkins, Indiana, his friends, family, and local police chief are drawn into an extraordinary mystery involving top-secret government experiments, terrifying supernatural forces, and one very strange little girl. The Duffer Brothers have created a show that not only pays homage to classic Spielberg and King but also crafts its own unique and engaging mythology. Its blend of horror, sci-fi, and coming-of-age drama is incredibly appealing, and the ensemble cast is simply wonderful.

4. Fringe (2008)
Fringe is a fantastic procedural sci-fi series that expertly blends standalone mysteries with a compelling overarching mythology, much like 'Lost.' It follows an FBI agent, Olivia Dunham, who is forced to work with an eccentric scientist, Dr. Walter Bishop, and his estranged son, Peter, to investigate a series of unexplained phenomena known as 'Fringe events.' These events often involve parallel universes, bizarre experiments, and a shadowy organization. The show consistently delivers intriguing scientific concepts and maintains a strong emotional core, making its characters truly resonate. It's a journey into the unknown that keeps you guessing with every twist and turn.

3. Westworld (2016)
Westworld offers a fascinating blend of sci-fi, philosophy, and Western aesthetics, making it a compelling watch for anyone who enjoyed 'Lost's' blend of mystery and character depth. Set in a futuristic theme park populated by highly realistic android hosts, guests can live out their wildest fantasies without consequence. However, when the hosts begin to deviate from their programming, a dark odyssey of artificial consciousness and human nature unfolds. The series is known for its intricate narratives, stunning visuals, and thought-provoking questions about reality, free will, and what it means to be alive. The performances are outstanding, particularly from its seasoned cast members who bring gravitas to every scene.

2. Dark (2017)
Dark is an intricate German sci-fi thriller that will twist your mind into knots in the best possible way. If you loved the complex timelines and interconnected mysteries of 'Lost,' then 'Dark' takes that concept and elevates it to a whole new level. Set in the fictional town of Winden, the disappearance of two children unearths the town's sinister past, involving four families whose lives are intertwined by a time-travel conspiracy that spans generations. The storytelling is incredibly dense and meticulously crafted, demanding your full attention. Each episode reveals new layers of its labyrinthine plot, making it a truly immersive and rewarding experience for those who appreciate a good puzzle.

1. The Leftovers (2014)
If you're looking for a series that truly captures the enigmatic and emotionally charged spirit of 'Lost,' then The Leftovers is an absolute must-watch. Created by Damon Lindelof (co-creator of 'Lost') and Tom Perrotta, this show delves deep into the aftermath of a global event where 2% of the world's population inexplicably vanishes. It's less about what happened and more about how people cope with the incomprehensible. The series is a masterclass in character study, grief, and faith, with a hauntingly beautiful score by Max Richter that will stay with you long after the credits roll. Prepare for a profound and often unsettling journey that challenges your perceptions and leaves you pondering its mysteries.
