8 shows to watch if you liked Prison Break

8 Crime/Thriller shows like Prison Break (Image via Fox)
8 crime thriller shows like Prison Break (Image via Fox)

As one of the best shows the crime thriller genre has to offer, Prison Break held the attention of viewers with its exciting action, engaging plot twists, and a compelling mix of crime and drama for 5 seasons and 90 episodes on Fox from August 2005 to May 2017 and is available to stream on Hulu.

The storyline centers on Michael Scofield, an adept architect who intentionally gets imprisoned to save his wrongly incarcerated brother, Lincoln Burrows, from being executed. Michael's extremely convoluted escape strategies unravel amid a complex network of treachery and plots, supported by his intricate understanding of the prison's layout.

Fans of Prison Break are left wanting more of the heart-pounding excitement. This list of 8 crime thriller shows with the same level of thrill and even higher stakes will have the viewers at the edge of their seats wanting for more.


Banshee, The Blacklist, and 6 other shows that Prison Break fans should watch.


1) Breakout Kings

Breakout Kings takes a different approach to the crime thriller genre by bringing together U.S. marshals with a group of ex-fugitives for a mission to locate runaway convicts. The primary cast includes Jimmi Simpson as Lloyd Lowery, a psychiatrist with a talent for profiling, and Malcolm Goodwin as Shea Daniels, a U.S. marshal.

Breakout Kings offers thrilling manhunts with every episode showcasing energetic pursuits and smart strategies. The show intertwines the excitement of chases with the lively relationships between the marshals and prisoners, resulting in a captivating experience akin to the intricate escape schemes seen in Prison Break.

Breakout Kings is currently streaming on Prime Video.


2) Wentworth

Leah Purcell and Morgana O'Reilly in Wentworth (Image via Fox showcase)
Leah Purcell and Morgana O'Reilly in Wentworth (Image via Fox showcase)

Wentworth portrays the inner workings of a women's prison with a focus on Bea Smith's transformation. Danielle Cormack plays the lead role as Bea, with Katrina Milosevic and Nicole da Silva also featuring as important inmates. The show’s pacing is methodical, with each episode delving into power struggles, survival strategies, and personal betrayals.

The dark, gritty atmosphere and complex character arcs in this show will resonate with fans of Prison Break, and they probably will appreciate the similar exploration of loyalty and resilience within the prison setting.

Wentworth is currently streaming on Netflix.


3) Oz

The official cover art for Oz (Image via HBO)
The official cover art for Oz (Image via HBO)

Set in the notorious Oswald State Correctional Facility, Oz is well-known for its uncompromising portrayal of prison existence and the ethical dilemmas encountered by its characters. The lineup features Ernie Hudson portraying the strict warden and Luke Perry playing a troubled prisoner.

The show is fast-paced, frequently delving into various subplots and character backstories, which enhances its authentic depiction of corruption and survival. The show's examination of power struggles among prisoners and harsh truths will interest fans of Prison Break's sinister and gritty setting.

Oz is currently streaming on Max.


4) Banshee

Antony Starr plays the role of Lucas Hood, a reformed criminal who assumes the identity of a deceased sheriff in the television series Banshee. His unique blend of crime and law enforcement in the story results from his dual identity as a police officer and a criminal mastermind.

Antony Starr, popularly known for his portrayal of Homelander in the hit superhero series The Boys, also has played an exceptional role in this intense crime thriller. Hood's intricate background and perpetual risk make for an exciting journey similar to the suspense and intense drama found in Prison Break.

Banshee is currently streaming on Prime Video.


5) Person Of Interest

Michael Emerson and Jim Caviezel in Person of Interest (Image via CBS)
Michael Emerson and Jim Caviezel in Person of Interest (Image via CBS)

Person of Interest blends crime-solving with a hint of science fiction, showcasing Harold Finch, a secretive billionaire portrayed by Michael Emerson, and John Reese, an ex-CIA agent played by Jim Caviezel.

Fans of Prison Break who appreciate complex planning and thrilling storytelling will be drawn to the strategic problem-solving and surprising twists in this show.

Person of Interest is currently streaming on Prime Video.


6) Money Heist (La Casa de Papel)

The star cast of Money Heist (Image via Netflix)
The star cast of Money Heist (Image via Netflix)

This Emmy-winning Netflix original needs no introduction. Money Heist follows the criminal mastermind "The Professor" played by Álvaro Morte orchestrating the largest heist ever with a team of eight robbers. Tokyo and Berlin, portrayed by Úrsula Corberó and Pedro Alonso, are also featured in the series.

The careful strategizing and implementation of the heist, coupled with the interpersonal conflicts among the characters, reflects the intricate and tense atmosphere of Prison Break.

Money Heist is currently streaming on Netflix.


7) Escape at Dannemora

Adapted from real events, Escape at Dannemora dramatizes the breakout of two prisoners from a high-security prison with the help of a staff member. Benicio del Toro and Paul Dano depict the escapees, with Patricia Clarkson taking on the role of the co-conspirator.

The miniseries highlights the growth of characters and the detailed preparation for the escape. Prison Break fans who enjoy intricate and suspenseful storytelling will appreciate the authentic depiction of the prison escape and well-developed characters.

Escape at Dannemora is currently streaming on Apple TV+.


8) The Blacklist

James Spader as Reymond Reddington in The Blacklist (Image via Netflix)
James Spader as Reymond Reddington in The Blacklist (Image via Netflix)

The Blacklist is a crime thriller TV show from America that tracks the story of Raymond "Red" Reddington, a well-known criminal genius who turns himself in after years of evading capture. He proposes aiding authorities in apprehending dangerous criminals from his list of the world's most wanted individuals, but only if he collaborates solely with rookie profiler Elizabeth Keen.

While the FBI searches for these felons, hidden details from Red's history and his enigmatic bond with Keen come to light, merging thrilling action with intricate character relationships. The blend of illicit elements, intricate characters, and frequent turns reflects the riveting and unforeseeable essence of Prison Break.

The Blacklist is currently streaming on Netflix.


These series have a special mix of action, suspense, and character development, making them great options for those seeking a new, captivating show after watching Prison Break.

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Edited by Apoorva Jujjavarapu
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