There’s something about a great mystery series that keeps us glued to the screen. Whether it’s the psychological tension, the unpredictable twists, or the thrill of trying to solve the puzzle before the characters do, these shows have a way of keeping us coming back episode after episode. In 2025, streaming platforms like Netflix, Max, and Peacock are offering some of the best mystery content ever produced. From classic murder investigations to supernatural secrets, these shows deliver suspense, drama, and addictive storytelling that keeps fans talking long after the credits roll.

The appeal of mystery shows lies in their ability to combine character-driven narratives with plot twists that challenge our expectations. Unlike a comedy or drama where the outcome may feel predictable, a well-written mystery thrives on misdirection, subtle clues, and shocking revelations. They tap into our natural curiosity, feeding that need to know “what happens next?”

In this guide, we’ll explore the most addictive mystery shows available right now across three of the biggest streaming platforms: Max, Netflix, and Peacock. Each pick highlights not only the premise of the show but also what makes it uniquely compelling and worth your time. So, grab your popcorn, settle in, and prepare to dive into the shadowy worlds of deception, secrets, and truth waiting to be uncovered.

Mare of Easttown (Max)
 

Mare of Easttown isn’t just a crime drama; it’s an emotionally gripping small-town mystery that became a cultural phenomenon when it debuted. Starring Kate Winslet as Mare Sheehan, a weary detective navigating personal struggles while investigating a local murder, this show is one of the crown jewels of Max’s mystery catalog.

What makes it so addictive is the blend of raw human emotion and layered suspense. Every character feels lived-in, every storyline interwoven with secrets, grief, and resilience. The show doesn’t just focus on solving a crime—it digs into how a community reacts when tragedy strikes close to home. Winslet’s performance adds depth and grit, making Mare not only a flawed but fiercely relatable protagonist.

For fans of mystery shows, Mare of Easttown excels in pacing. Just as you think you’ve figured out the culprit, the story pivots with new evidence, suspects, or hidden truths. The red herrings are expertly crafted, and the ending delivers a satisfying yet heartbreaking reveal.

This series is perfect for viewers who want more than just a “whodunit.” It’s about how secrets destroy and connect people, and how one woman’s determination to uncover the truth changes everything. If you haven’t streamed it yet on Max, make it a priority—it’s the kind of show that stays with you long after the final credits roll.
 

Mindhunter (Netflix)
 

If you’re fascinated by the psychology of crime, Mindhunter is a must-watch. Set in the late 1970s, the series follows two FBI agents, Holden Ford and Bill Tench, who pioneer criminal profiling by interviewing some of the most notorious serial killers in history.

What sets Mindhunter apart from other mystery shows is its slow-burn intensity and intellectual depth. Instead of focusing solely on solving crimes, it explores how understanding the criminal mind revolutionized law enforcement. The interviews with killers are based on real cases, making the show chillingly authentic.

David Fincher’s involvement as producer and occasional director ensures a meticulous atmosphere of dread. Each scene feels loaded with tension, even when nothing overtly violent is happening. The true mystery here isn’t just about catching killers but about understanding what makes people commit such heinous acts.

For viewers, Mindhunter is addictive because it’s both cerebral and unsettling. It challenges us to think critically about the darkness within human nature while keeping us invested in the agents’ professional and personal journeys. Although Netflix has paused the series after two seasons, it remains one of the most binge-worthy mystery shows you can stream.
 

The Sinner (Netflix)
 

Unlike typical detective shows, The Sinner flips the mystery genre on its head. Instead of asking “who did it?” the series asks “why did they do it?” Each season begins with a shocking crime committed by someone who seems ordinary, and Detective Harry Ambrose, played by Bill Pullman, works tirelessly to uncover the hidden motives behind the act.

This narrative approach makes The Sinner uniquely addictive. Viewers are pulled into psychological labyrinths where trauma, secrets, and human fragility come to light. The storytelling is layered, emotional, and haunting, often delving into topics like family dynamics, suppressed memories, and mental health.

What keeps audiences coming back is the way each season feels like a standalone novel—different characters, different crimes, but always the same compelling detective guiding us through the darkness. The show constantly challenges assumptions, reminding us that the truth is rarely as simple as it first appears.

For fans of deep, emotionally complex mysteries, The Sinner is a standout on Netflix. It’s not about shocking gore or sensational crimes—it’s about unraveling the hidden truths buried inside people’s lives. And that’s what makes it unforgettable.
 

The Flight Attendant (Max)
 

Dark comedy meets mystery in The Flight Attendant, a stylish, fast-paced series starring Kaley Cuoco. The story follows Cassie Bowden, a flight attendant who wakes up next to a dead man in a Bangkok hotel room with no memory of what happened. From there, her life spirals into chaos as she tries to piece together the truth while dodging law enforcement and dangerous enemies.

What makes The Flight Attendant addictive is its unique blend of humor, suspense, and psychological drama. Cassie isn’t your typical detective—she’s flawed, impulsive, and unreliable, which makes watching her navigate this deadly mystery both frustrating and entertaining. The series also uses inventive visual storytelling, often showing Cassie’s inner dialogue through surreal sequences that reflect her fractured mental state.

The mystery unfolds like a puzzle, with each episode revealing new connections, shady characters, and unexpected betrayals. While the show is undeniably fun and stylish, it also touches on deeper themes like trauma, addiction, and self-destruction, adding substance to the spectacle.

If you enjoy fast-paced mysteries with unpredictable twists, The Flight Attendant is one of Max’s most binge-worthy series. It’s proof that mystery shows don’t always have to be dark and brooding—they can also be bold, witty, and visually inventive.
 

Poker Face (Peacock)
 

Peacock’s breakout hit Poker Face, created by Rian Johnson (Knives Out), is a fresh and engaging take on the classic mystery-of-the-week format. Natasha Lyonne stars as Charlie Cale, a woman with an extraordinary ability: she can always tell when someone is lying. Each episode follows her as she stumbles upon new crimes while on the run, using her gift to uncover the truth.

What makes Poker Face so addictive is its episodic storytelling combined with an overarching narrative. While each episode feels like a self-contained mystery, Charlie’s fugitive status ties everything together, keeping viewers invested in her journey. The writing is sharp, witty, and reminiscent of classic shows like Columbo, but with a modern twist.

Natasha Lyonne’s performance is a standout—her quirky, street-smart charm makes Charlie one of the most lovable amateur sleuths on TV. The series also features an impressive lineup of guest stars, which adds freshness to each mystery.

For viewers who miss the golden age of episodic mysteries but still want binge-worthy suspense, Poker Face is the perfect balance. It’s clever, funny, and endlessly entertaining, making it one of Peacock’s strongest original series to date.