20 Chilling Crime Shows Set in the Winter

While some viewers may be in search of cozy, feel-good shows to watch during the winter, others relish the chilling allure of crime shows that perfectly mirror the frosty scenes outside their window. The stark beauty of the season becomes a character in its own way, setting a stage where mysteries can play out. Crime shows like Fargo, Valhalla Murders, and Fortitude exemplify the charm found in shows set in winter. They offer more than just visual spectacle, blending the literal coldness of the atmosphere with the thematic complexity of crime solving in an isolated, and often unforgiving, environment.

The shows on this list resonate with viewers in colder weather conditions, especially Fargo, a brilliant crime anthology set in winter. Surely, the snowy setting adds visual appeal and symbolism to the whole series. Its fifth season premiered in November 2023 and concluded in January 2024, with a beautiful ending that marked a significant improvement from the last season. Below are more shows that capture the chilling combination of crime and wintry conditions.

20 Cardinal (2017-2020)

Set in the wintry setting of Algonquin, the exceptional Canadian crime series, Cardinal, follows Detectives John Cardinal and Lise Delorme as they investigate a series of gruesome murders in their town. Inspired by Giles Blunt’s award-winning mystery novels, this gritty crime drama is intriguing from start to finish.

What Makes It Great

Cardinal weaves a compelling narrative driven by the characters and their struggles with handling their different circumstances. The titular lone detective’s hunt for missing children in a wintry and desolate landscape, amplified by an ominous score, makes this crime show wholly captivating. It’s a perfectly bleak show that spotlights human resilience in the face of adversity. Stream on Hulu

19 Fargo (2014-2024)

With Fargo, Noah Hawley has crafted an exceptional anthology crime series inspired by the Coen Brothers’ award-winning 1996 film of the same name. Each season functions like a miniseries, featuring different stories and characters that occasionally share connections. This leads to varying appeal from season to season. Fargo is known for its intricate plot, quirky characters, and the exploration of crime and morality in the American Midwest.

What Makes It Great

Fargo has everything one desires in a crime show: murder, violence, drugs, eccentric characters, hostile FBI takeovers, and complex detectives. The entire production is excellent, with superb writing, crisp dialogues, top-notch performances, cinematography and plot, showcasing excellence in almost every aspect. The show’s blend of dark comedy and suspenseful elements heightens its appeal. While not every season emphasize wintry landscapes, winter plays an important role in some storylines. Stream on Hulu

18 Trapped (2015-Present)

This Icelandic crime show, with its atmospheric storytelling, unique setting, and interesting premise, makes for a perfect snowy crime drama. Set in a small town cut off from the rest of the world by a blizzard, the narrative becomes intense when a murder occurs. As the local police delve into the investigation, they discover deep-seated secrets and hidden connections among the townspeople.

What Makes It Great

While Trapped includes typical murder mystery tropes, it occasionally surprises viewers by taking unexpected paths. The small-town setting, with its bleak and claustrophobic vibe, gives off more of a horror feeling than a typical mystery show. The ice-cold location, coupled with the idea of being snowed in, makes this a captivating mix of adventure, drama, and mystery. Not Currently Available to Stream or Purchase

17 True Detective (2014-Present)

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One of HBO’s finest series, True Detective is known for its seamless blend of crime, mystery, and psychological drama within a thematically rich framework. Garnering many accolades for its writing, performances, and overall production quality, the first season is highly celebrated, and the current fourth season is poised to match, even surpass, it.

What Makes It Great

True Detective: Night Country, the latest installment in this crime anthology series, kicked off its six-episode run on January 14. With its nods to cosmic horror and the occult, it echoes the brilliance of Season 1. Set in an Alaskan setting without sunlight, it follows police officers and detectives investigating the disappearance of eight men from a research station, establishing a mysterious and intriguing premise. Jodie Foster fits right in as Detective Liz Danvers, reminiscent of her iconic performance in Silence of the Lambs. Stream on Max

16 Deadwind (2018-2021)

Often praised for its Nordic Noir aesthetic and its ability to deliver a gripping and emotionally resonant crime narrative, DeadWind follows the story of a recently widowed detective, Karppi, and her partner, as they investigate a series of complex and interconnected crimes in Helsinki. Despite dealing with her personal tragedy, Karppi remains dedicated to solving the case.

What Makes It Great

If you are in search for a bleak and well-crafted crime series to enjoy this winter, Deadwind is an excellent choice. The series has received positive reviews for its solid plot, strong performances, and for the seamless integration of a traditional crime procedural with a character-driven narrative. The atmospheric setting of Hesinki and its surrounding landscapes contribute to the show’s moody and suspenseful tone. Stream on Netflix

15 Wisting (2019-Present)

Based on the novels The Caveman and The Hunting Dogs by Jon Lier Horst, Wisting follows Detective William Wisting, played by Sven Nordin, as he investigates a series of gruesome crimes in Larvik, Norway. Like other great crime shows, it goes beyond just being a crime procedural by delving into the characters’ backgrounds and relationships, effectively enriching the storyline.

What Makes It Great

For those who appreciate well-crafted crime dramas, this series is a compelling choice. Renowned for its exceptional quality, it has garnered positive reviews for its writing, performances, and gripping plot that focuses on psychological aspects of crime amidst a clever family dynamic. Overall, Wisting offers a captivating blend of crime, suspense and atmospheric winter settings, making it worthwhile for those who enjoy crime shows set in cold and snowy environments. Stream on AMC+

14 Mare of Easttown (2021)

Mare of Easttown transports viewers to a small town shaken by a murder, which a veteran detective, Mare (played by Kate Winslet), must investigate. This investigation brings to light half-truths, family dynamics, and long-buried secrets. Mare not only grapples with the pressure of solving the case, but also with her personal demons and struggles.

What Makes It Great

The HBO miniseries truly stands out for its well-written characters, finely crafted dialogues, attention to detail, and a plot rich with dark twists and even darker emotions. Winslet, in fact, won an Emmy for her performance as Mare; her commitment to the role makes it easy for viewers to relate to her bruised and troubled character, even when she appears cold. The gloomy winter setting adds to the dour and somber mood of the show, which is its greatest hold on viewers. Stream on Max

13 Lilyhammer (2012-2014)

This Norwegian-American series follows a New York mobster, Frank, who relocates to Lilyhammer under witness protection after testifying against his boss. The series blends comedy, crime, and drama, depicting Frank’s attempt to adapt to Norwegian life while he also deals with other criminal elements that find their way in his life.

What Makes It Great

Lilyhammer starts off with a vibe akin to The Sopranos, but evolves into a comedic gem rather than a traditional mafia series. The crime show is truly amusing and entertaining as it features beautiful landscapes, exceptional musical scores, funny and quirky characters, and a generous dose of black comedy. Steven Vans Zardt shines as the lovable wise guy, complemented by a cast that fits their roles perfectly. Lilyhammer will be a delightful and unique choice for anyone who enjoys mafia-themed crime shows. Stream on Netflix

Related: 10 Realistic Crime Shows Worth Checking Out

12 Fortitude (2015-2018)

This British psychological thriller is set in the Arctic Circle in the fictional town of Fortitude, where a British scientist is brutally murdered. This shocking murder is only the beginning of a series of bizarre and disturbing events that test the limits of the town’s residents.

What Makes It Great

Fortitude is a slow-burn crime show that requires time and patience to understand its intricate storyline and numerous characters. The plot artfully combines elements of crime-solving, murder mystery plot twists, and science fiction, creating a truly compelling narrative. Fortitude is also known for its striking visual effects of the Arctic, which are sometimes in contrast with the characters’ brutal actions and the gory details that surface in many scenes. Buy on Apple TV

11 Detective Forst (2024-Present)

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Tarta Mountains, Detective Frost revolves around the charismatic yet unconventional police officer, Wiktor Forst, played by Borys Szyc. As a string of murders rocks this picturesque region, Frost teams up with a journalist to crack the case.

What Makes It Great

This crime series premiered on Netflix on January 11 and has left many captivated by its twists and turns. While some believe the show fails to maintain its brilliance throughout, others find it just as compelling as the Polish novels it is based on. A standout feature is the series’ amazing cinematography that captures the beauty of the snow-clad mountainous landscape. It may be filled with some plot holes, but the series is undeniably visually stimulating and eerily entertaining. Stream on Netflix

10 The Valhalla Murders (2019-2020)

Loosely based on real-life events, The Valhalla Murders follows the investigation of a series of gruesome murders, led by detective Kata and profiler Arnar, after a victim’s body is discovered. Delving into the murder investigation, they unearth its connection with a dark chapter in Iceland’s history.

What Makes It Compelling

The Valhalla Murders delivers multi-layered storytelling, introducing new twists and turns in each episode, to keep viewers hooked throughout its eight-episode run. The portrayal of the harsh Icelandic climate mirrors the cold-blooded nature of this thrilling show. By blending the central mystery with the personal struggles and vulnerabilities of the investigators, the narrative deepens. The carefully selected cast, well-developed characters, its slow-burn plot and the blend of Nordic esthetics truly distinguish this as a standout crime show in the international television landscape. Stream on Netflix

9 Seven Seconds (2018)

Created by Veena Sud, Seven Seconds is known for its gripping and thought-provoking storyline. Centered on the aftermath of a tragic incident, where a white police officer accidentally hits a Black teenager with his car, the series takes a gripping turn when he decides to cover it up. Clare-Hope Ashitey plays the Assistant Prosecutor K.J. Harper, determined to unravel the truth.

What Makes It Great

Seven Seconds earned critical acclaim for its powerful storytelling that tackles issues of race, justice, and morality. The performances of the actors, particularly Ashitey and Regina King, received praise for infusing emotional depth into the show. Often regarded as an exceptional crime drama, it shines for its gripping plot, exploration of complex characters and moral dilemmas, and its ability to address sensitive and relevant social issues within a compelling and suspenseful narrative. Stream on Netflix

Related: 10 Winter Action Movies to Watch Next

8 The Bridge (2011-2018)

The Bridge sets the stage for an intriguing murder mystery by opening with a body found on the bridge that connects Copenhagen, Denmark and Malmö, Sweden. As the investigation begins, it is discovered that this body, strategically positioned between two countries, is composed of two halves belonging to different individuals.

What Makes It Great

The strength of The Bridge not only lies in its compelling narrative, but also in its exploration of the dynamic between the lead characters, each dealing with their own personal issues. The show is so well-written that it is praised as one of the standout Scandinavian noir dramas. It also does an excellent job of intertwining the criminal elements with relevant social issues, such as immigration, human trafficking, and social inequality. Stream on Prime Video

7 Happy valley (2014-2023)

This British crime drama premiered in 2014 and went on to earn praise for its acting, writing, and portrayal of how crime can impact a small community. The series follows the strong-willed and dedicated police sergeant Catherine Cawood (Sarah Lancashire), who is after the man that assaulted her late daughter, unaware that he is part of a secret kidnapping plot.

What Makes It Great

With its dark and gritty themes, there’s certainly nothing happy about Happy Valley. The show’s title is in contrast to its content, just as the picturesque landscape is in contrast with the harsh realities faced by the characters. Its gripping storylines will definitely keep many hooked and eager for more. Renowned for its realistic portrayal of crime and its consequences, Happy Valley stands as a compelling and emotionally charged crime drama. Stream on DIRECTV

6 Pagan Peak (2018-2023)

Pagan Peak is a co-production between Germany and Australia, and is loosely based on the Scandinavian series The Bridge. Similar to its predecessor, it also opens with the discovery of a dead body on the border between Germany and Austria, placed in a ritualistic manner. German detective Ellie Stocker and Austrian detective Gedeon Winter join forces to unravel the motive behind the gruesome murder and apprehend the culprit.

What Makes It Great

Pagan Peak offers an intriguing twist on The Bridge by merging pagan ritual and myths with the modern world of the police, forensics, cybercime, and terrorism. While comparisons between the two are inevitable due to their shared roots, Pagan Peaks ultimately works as an intelligent and mysterious crime drama. Stream on Topic

5 Hannibal (2013-2015)

Based on the characters from the novels by Thomas Harris, Hannibal focuses on the professional relationship between FBI agent Will Graham and the brilliant but sinister psychiatrist Hannibal Lecter. This relationship becomes a convoluted and a dangerous cat-and-mouse game when Will discovers the true nature of Hannibal.

What Makes It Great

Fans of psychological thrillers, horror, and crime dramas often appreciate Hannibal for its unique blend of these genres, as well as its dark and unsettling atmosphere that captivates viewers. The chemistry between Mads Mikkelsen and Hugh Dancy further contributes to the show’s appeal. Notably, the winter setting of the first season and throughout the entire second season somehow intensifies the chilling nature of the unfolding events. Overall, the show is known for its striking and artistic visual style and use of imagery. Stream on Prime Video

4 Beartown (2020)

Set in the close-knit community of Beartown, this story unfolds after a violent incident rocks the small town, laying bare deep-rooted secrets. As the townspeople grapple with the aftermath of this event, the series digs into the themes like ambition, resilience, justice, and the consequences of prioritizing success over ethics.

What Makes It Great

Beartown not only tackles broader themes related to sports, community, and morality, it also adds a twist by throwing in some crime elements. Within this small-town obsessed with its junior hockey team, there are hidden secrets that gradually spill out after a traumatic incident. The mystery surrounding the events, including the moral and legal consequences, heightens the tension in the series. Not Currently Available to Stream or Purchase

3 The Killing (2007-2012)

Known for its gripping storyline and strong character development, this Danish series stands out as one of the best crime shows ever made. The story revolves around detective Sarah Lund, who plans to leave her position at the Homicide Department of Copenhagen Police Department. However, her plan is disrupted when a young girl is brutally murdered, prompting her to solve the case.

What Makes It Great

The Killing is a real nail-biting experience that mixes politics with crime and law enforcement drama. Packed with suspense and surprising twists, each episode concludes with a cliffhanger, leaving many breathless. The slow-burning and detailed storytelling, paired with the terrific cast and atmospheric cinematography sets the mood for maximum enjoyment. For those who may struggle with subtitles, the American version, which premiered in 2011 and ran for four seasons until 2014, is a great alternative. Stream on Hulu

2 Arctic Circle (2018-Present)

In the icy and remote landscapes of Finland, a riveting crime drama unfolds amid the mysterious outbreak of a deadly virus. It begins when a woman is found in the wilderness with a virus in her body. To crack this mysterious case, local police officer Nina and virologist Thomas join forces.

What Makes It Great

Article Circle is an enjoyable series marked by quality acting, directing, and writing. Initially presenting itself as a serial killer drama, it swiftly transforms into a conspiracy thriller, unraveling hidden connections and broader conspiracies that threaten the lives of those in this small town and beyond. It also explores the main character’s family dynamic without becoming melodramatic. The cinematography perfectly captures the beauty of the snow-covered arctic landscapes, highlighting the contrast between the serene environment and the harrowing mysteries at hand. Stream on Hoopla

1 The Chestnut Man (2021-Present)

The Chestnut Man is a gripping and atmospheric thriller that combines a chilling murder mystery with mind-bending psychological suspense and police procedural drama. Set in Denmark, it follows detectives Thulin and Hess as they investigate a series of gruesome murder that involve the presence of a small chestnut man at every crime scene.

What Makes It Great

Like other binge-worthy crime shows on this list, the allure of this series lies in its ability to keep viewers in suspense with each episode. The series skillfully conceals the identity of the killer from both detectives and the viewers, delivering a Scandinavian narrative that is unsettling, gruesome, and full of surprises — a treat for fans of these elements in crime dramas. Another superb aspect of the show is the emotional interplay between the characters Hess and Thulin. Stream on Netflix