Have you ever wondered what makes some TV shows so exciting that they pull you in from the very first scene? If you are a fan of shows like Scandal, you know that its mix of political twists, powerful female leads, and jaw-dropping surprises creates a world you just can’t get enough of. In this post, we will explore 20 of the best series you need to watch now, all of which share many similarities with Scandal.
Each show offers its own unique storyline, yet they all echo the intrigue and drama of Scandal. Prepare to discover new favorites as you journey through an array of captivating narratives, unexpected plot twists, and heroes who face huge challenges while making bold decisions. Enjoy reading about these amazing TV dramas that embody the spirit of shows like Scandal and get ready to add them to your watch list!
Our Top 20 TV Series Similar to Scandal
The Good Wife
The Good Wife follows the journey of a strong woman who steps into a new life after personal and public crises shake her world. With a mix of courtroom drama and behind-the-scenes politics, the series shows how determination, loyalty, and intelligence can help reshape your destiny. Fans of Scandal will find that The Good Wife has many common points with its predecessor, such as a captivating narrative, smart dialogue, and characters who consistently navigate the murky waters of power and betrayal. These elements make The Good Wife one of the top picks for anyone looking for shows like Scandal.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Netflix | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
How to Get Away with Murder
How to Get Away with Murder tells the story of a brilliant law professor and her talented students whose lives become entangled in dangerous criminal cases. The series combines legal drama with jaw-dropping twists that keep viewers guessing at every turn. Much like Scandal, this show is filled with secrets, unexpected betrayals, and a charismatic leader whose every move affects those around her. The clash of wit and mystery in a fast-paced environment makes this series a must-watch for anyone who loves shows like Scandal.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Netflix | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
Suits
Suits centers around a talented college dropout who finds himself thrust into the high-powered world of corporate law. With sharp dialogue, high-stake cases, and characters who are both charming and cunning, this series draws viewers into a realm of legal battles and personal drama. The similarities between Suits and Scandal lie in their engaging storylines, strong character dynamics, and the constant interplay of loyalty and ambition. If you enjoy shows like Scandal with a dash of wit and courtroom flare, Suits is sure to captivate you.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Netflix | Available |
| Peacock | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
Jane The Virgin
Jane The Virgin is a heartfelt and quirky series about a young woman whose life takes an unexpected turn when she is faced with a life-changing revelation. With its blend of romance, family drama, and surprising twists, the show captures the audience with its charm and relatable characters. While its tone is lighter than Scandal, Jane The Virgin shares a commitment to strong storytelling and dramatic surprises that keep viewers engaged. Fans of shows like Scandal will appreciate its ability to mix personal challenges with moments of unexpected suspense.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Netflix | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
Jessica Jones
Jessica Jones is a gritty series that follows a determined heroine dealing with a troubled past while fighting against corrupt forces in her city. With a mix of supernatural elements and real-world issues, the show is filled with dark twists and hard-hitting moments. Much like Scandal, Jessica Jones features a strong, independent female lead who is not afraid to confront her inner demons and the challenges of the outside world. The intensity and raw emotion of the series make it a perfect match for fans seeking shows like Scandal that offer complex characters and unexpected plot turns.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Netflix | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
The Good Fight
The Good Fight plunges you into a legal world filled with ethical quandaries and unexpected political maneuvers. With its well-drawn characters and intricate case stories, the series explores how personal and societal challenges intertwine. Like Scandal, The Good Fight excels at creating a rich tapestry of personal dilemmas set against a backdrop of institutional power and complex relationships, ensuring that every episode feels fresh and engaging. The blend of sharp wit and emotional stakes makes it a standout pick among shows like Scandal.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| CBS All Access | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
Killing Eve
Killing Eve is an edge-of-your-seat thriller that follows the unexpected game of cat-and-mouse between an intelligent assassin and a determined agent. The show masterfully blends dark humor with high suspense, creating a narrative that is both unpredictable and compelling. Although its subject matter differs from the political intrigue of Scandal, Killing Eve shares a commitment to strong, complex female leads and plots filled with betrayal and unexpected twists. For anyone who adores shows like Scandal, this series offers a fresh take on danger and female empowerment.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
| BBC iPlayer | Available |
Pretty Little Liars
Pretty Little Liars revolves around a group of friends who find themselves drawn into a mystery filled with hidden secrets, shocking lies, and relentless suspense. The series expertly mixes elements of teen drama with mature themes of deception and intrigue. Much like Scandal, it offers twists and suspense that keep viewers constantly guessing and deeply invested in the characters’ lives. The overlapping themes of secrecy and suspense in Pretty Little Liars make it a brilliant choice for anyone who adores shows like Scandal.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Netflix | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
Younger
Younger is a witty and heartfelt drama that follows a 40-year-old woman who pretends to be in her 20s to restart her career. Balancing comedy with real-life challenges, the show offers a fresh perspective on age, identity, and following your dreams. While the tone is more playful compared to Scandal, Younger shares the underlying themes of resilience and reinvention. Its relatable characters and surprising plot twists make it a delightful option among the many shows like Scandal that captivate audiences with personal transformation and clever storytelling.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
| Starz | Available |
Designated Survivor
Designated Survivor tells the riveting story of an unexpected leader who is suddenly thrust into power following a national crisis. The series is filled with political intrigue, nail-biting suspense, and the responsibility of carrying a nation’s future in one person’s hands. Much like Scandal, Designated Survivor blends high-stakes political drama with personal sacrifice and tough decision-making. Its atmosphere of urgency and persistent twists makes it one of the most compelling shows like Scandal for anyone who loves dynamic, crisis-driven narratives.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Netflix | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
Madam Secretary
Madam Secretary takes you inside the intricate world of global politics through the eyes of a determined Secretary of State. The series skillfully presents the balancing act of maintaining strong family ties while making high-stakes international decisions. The narrative is filled with diplomatic challenges, personal growth, and the timeless appeal of a confident female lead. In many ways, Madam Secretary shares the same pulse-pounding political ambition and emotional depth that fans of shows like Scandal appreciate.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| CBS All Access | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
Homeland
Homeland is a tense thriller that follows an intelligence officer grappling with personal demons while uncovering dangerous plots that threaten national security. The series masterfully interweaves intricate political scenarios with character-driven narratives, resulting in moments that are both heartbreaking and exhilarating. Like Scandal, Homeland excels in its portrayal of hard choices and the struggles of powerful women in the midst of crisis. This balance of personal and political drama makes it one of the exciting shows like Scandal you cannot miss.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Showtime | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
House of Cards
House of Cards offers a dark and immersive look into the ruthless world of politics where ambition and power come at any cost. With its intricate plots and morally complex characters, the series paints a picture of a political landscape that is both fascinating and dangerous. The parallels between House of Cards and Scandal are clear: both series delve into the shadowy side of politics, full of deception, betrayal, and high stakes. Fans who love shows like Scandal will find themselves equally absorbed by the relentless pursuit of power in this series.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Netflix | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
Veep
Veep is a sharp, satirical comedy that pulls back the curtain on the absurdity of political life. With its rapid-fire dialogue and laugh-out-loud moments, this series offers a lighter, yet equally insightful, take on political drama. Although Veep leans on humor while tackling serious issues, it still mirrors Scandal’s fast-paced environment and the constant maneuvering for power. Its witty portrayal of government life makes it a refreshing entry in the category of shows like Scandal, proving that political intrigue can be both clever and comical.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| HBO Max | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
Empire
Empire centers on the dramatic and competitive world of a powerful music dynasty, where family loyalty is constantly challenged by ambition and betrayal. The series is rich in emotion and high-stakes business drama, with characters who are as driven as they are vulnerable. Much like Scandal, Empire weaves personal conflicts with larger-than-life situations, offering fans a thrilling mix of passion, power, and personality. Its focus on family, identity, and the price of success makes it a top recommendation among shows like Scandal.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
| Netflix | Available |
The West Wing
The West Wing is a classic look at the inner workings of a presidential administration, filled with intelligent dialogue and heartfelt moments. This series provides not only insight into political decision-making but also a warm exploration of personal dedication and sacrifice. Fans of Scandal will find that The West Wing shares a deep commitment to portraying the challenges of leadership and the complexities of public service, all while maintaining a dynamic narrative that is both inspiring and thoughtful.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| HBO Max | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
Quantico
Quantico follows a diverse group of FBI recruits as they train and work to uncover dangerous secrets, often revealing hidden layers beneath each character’s story. The series is packed with twists, mystery, and suspense as every episode unravels more secrets than the last. In many ways, Quantico offers the same thrilling pace and depth seen in Scandal by mixing personal conflicts with national security stakes, making it one of the exciting shows like Scandal that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Netflix | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
Big Little Lies
Big Little Lies tells a mesmerizing story of seemingly perfect lives that hide tangled webs of secrets, lies, and unexpected tragedy. The series blends personal drama with mystery in a way that reveals the hidden depths of its characters as their lives unravel. Although it moves away from pure political drama, Big Little Lies maintains the dramatic tension and intricate plot twists that fans of shows like Scandal love. Its focus on the personal costs of secrets makes it a gripping alternative for those who crave layered storytelling.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Hulu | Available |
| HBO Max | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
Billions
Billions dives deep into the high-stakes world of finance, where brilliant minds clash in a battle of strategy, power, and morality. The series is a rollercoaster of calculated risks, daring moves, and personal vendettas, highlighting how the pursuit of success can lead to complex conflicts. Similar to Scandal, Billions features intricate power plays and sharp storytelling, making it a top choice among shows like Scandal for those who enjoy watching characters navigate treacherous terrain in both their personal and professional lives.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| Showtime | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
The Newsroom
The Newsroom offers a behind-the-scenes look at a bustling newsroom where reporters work passionately to deliver the truth under intense pressure. With its focus on ethics, real-life events, and the personal sacrifices of those in the media, the series creates an environment of urgency and responsibility. Much like Scandal, The Newsroom blends personal challenges with larger societal issues, offering a mix of drama and intellectual challenge that resonates with fans of high-stakes storytelling in shows like Scandal.
| Streaming Platform | Availability |
|---|---|
| HBO Max | Available |
| Hulu | Available |
| Amazon Prime Video | Available |
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes shows like Scandal so popular? Shows like Scandal are popular because they mix fast-paced political drama with strong, memorable characters. The constant twists in the plot and the emotional depth make these shows engaging and easy to binge-watch. The storytelling keeps you guessing, and the powerful female leads make the dramas feel both brave and personal.
Where can I watch these shows like Scandal? Most of the shows mentioned above are available on popular streaming platforms such as Netflix, Hulu, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, and CBS All Access. Each series’ table lists the most common streaming options so you can easily find your next binge-watch.
Is there one best show among these recommendations? While each show brings its own unique qualities, the best one really depends on your mood. If you love legal drama, The Good Wife or How to Get Away with Murder might be perfect. If you crave political twists, try Designated Survivor or House of Cards. Each title offers a slightly different flavor of the intrigue found in shows like Scandal.
Are these shows family-friendly? Many of these shows involve mature themes, complex relationships, and political intrigue. They may not be suitable for very young audiences. However, they are crafted with clear storytelling and engaging characters that make them appealing to an adult audience who enjoys high-stakes drama.
Do these series have strong female leads like Scandal? Absolutely. One of the hallmarks of Scandal was its powerful female characters, and many of these series, including The Good Wife, Madam Secretary, and Jessica Jones, center around strong women who drive the story with resilience, intelligence, and passion.
Final Thoughts
Each of these 20 TV series offers a distinct experience that echoes the rich tapestry of intrigue, personal drama, and political maneuvering found in Scandal. Whether you are captivated by legal battles, political crises, or the intense personal journeys of resilient women, there is a captivating show in this list that will strike a chord with you. These shows like Scandal offer a thrilling escape into worlds where every decision matters and every secret can change the course of an entire narrative. So grab your remote, settle in for an epic binge-watch session, and explore these series that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
If you’re looking for more tips on binge-worthy shows or advice on what to watch next, dive into discussions on your favorite streaming platforms and join online communities to share your thoughts. Happy watching!
