“Queen of the South” has captivated audiences with its gripping storyline, complex characters, and intense drama. If you’re a fan of Teresa Mendoza’s journey from a poor Mexican woman to a powerful drug cartel leader, you’re likely on the lookout for other shows that can deliver the same level of excitement and intrigue.
Here’s a list of TV shows and even a few novels that offer similar thrills and suspense.
#1. Ozark
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If you enjoyed the high-stakes world of “Queen of the South,” “Ozark” is a must-watch. This series follows financial planner Marty Byrde as he relocates his family to the Ozarks after a money-laundering scheme goes wrong. The show masterfully blends family drama with the criminal underworld, much like “Queen of the South.”
#2. Narcos
Dive into the true story of Colombia’s infamously violent drug cartels with “Narcos.” This series, which focuses on the rise and fall of Pablo Escobar, offers a raw and gritty look at the drug trade. With its intense storytelling and rich historical context, “Narcos” is a perfect companion to “Queen of the South.”
#3. Power
“Power” centers on James St. Patrick, a wealthy nightclub owner living a double life as a drug kingpin. This series explores the balance between James’ legitimate business and his illegal operations, much like Teresa’s dual life. The show’s exploration of loyalty, ambition, and betrayal will keep you hooked.
#4. La Reina del Sur
“La Reina del Sur” is the Spanish-language precursor to “Queen of the South.” Following the same character, Teresa Mendoza, this series provides an in-depth look at her rise in the drug world. Watching “La Reina del Sur” offers a richer understanding of Teresa’s character and story.
#5. Animal Kingdom
For a family-centric crime drama, “Animal Kingdom” is an excellent choice. It follows a teenage boy who moves in with his estranged relatives, a criminal family clan governed by the matriarch, Smurf. The show’s dynamic and often volatile family relationships provide a unique twist on the crime drama genre.
#6. Better Call Saul
A prequel to the acclaimed series “Breaking Bad,” “Better Call Saul” explores the transformation of Jimmy McGill into the sleazy lawyer Saul Goodman. The show combines dark humor with the tense atmosphere of the criminal world, providing a character-driven narrative that’s both engaging and emotionally complex.
#7. Snowfall
“Snowfall” chronicles the early days of the crack cocaine epidemic in Los Angeles during the 1980s. The series interweaves multiple storylines, including that of a young drug dealer, a CIA operative, and a Mexican wrestler turned enforcer. The show’s rich tapestry of characters and historical backdrop make it a compelling watch.
#8. Breaking Bad
No list of crime dramas would be complete without “Breaking Bad.” This iconic series follows Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer. The show’s brilliant writing, complex characters, and moral ambiguity make it a masterpiece of modern television.
#9. El Chapo
Similar to “Narcos,” “El Chapo” delves into the life of another infamous drug lord, Joaquín “El Chapo” Guzmán. The series traces his rise, capture, and eventual escape from prison, offering a detailed look at his operations and the Mexican drug trade.
#10. Peaky Blinders
Set in post-World War I Birmingham, “Peaky Blinders” follows the Shelby crime family as they navigate the underworld. With its stylish cinematography, rich historical context, and charismatic characters, this series is a standout in the crime drama genre.
#11. Squid Games
While not a traditional crime drama, “Squid Game” offers intense suspense and high-stakes scenarios similar to those in “Queen of the South.” The show centers on a deadly competition where participants play children’s games for a chance to win a life-changing sum of money, with deadly consequences for losers.
For those who enjoy a good book as much as a thrilling TV series, here are a few novels that offer similar themes of crime, suspense, and complex characters:
- The Club Dumas by Arturo Pérez-Reverte
- The Fencing Master by Arturo Pérez-Reverte
- The Flanders Panel by Arturo Pérez-Reverte
- The Nautical Chart by Arturo Pérez-Reverte
- The Seville Communion by Arturo Pérez-Reverte
- Miss Bala by Gerardo Naranjo and Mauricio Katz
Each of these novels provides a gripping narrative filled with intrigue and suspense, perfect for fans of “Queen of the South.”
Whether you’re looking to dive deeper into the world of drug cartels, explore complex family dynamics within criminal enterprises, or experience high-stakes drama, this list has something for every fan of “Queen of the South.” Happy watching (and reading)!
