Vampires have captivated us for generations with their eternal, seductive, sometimes even terrifying appeal. But what is it exactly that makes great vampire media? These creatures have shape-shifted with each era and left bite marks all over pop culture. Yet, with so much bloodsucking content out there, finding the true standouts can be a daunting task.
Today, we’re cutting through the graveyard to bring you the most essential vampire TV series. These shows charm viewers in their unique ways, not merely cashing in on the myth but fully reinventing it, challenging it, or sinking audiences so deep that they begin rooting for the monsters. So grab your popcorn—or your garlic—and sink your teeth into some of the most unmissable vampire series that deserve a spot on your watchlist.
10’The Strain' (2014–2017)
Based on their trilogy of novels, FX’s grisly take on the vampire mythos wascreated by Guillermo del ToroandChuck Hogan. The story follows Dr. Ephraim Goodweather (Corey Stoll), head of the CDC’s Canary Team in NYC, who investigates a cryptic viral outbreak that bears all the signs of vampirism. As the infection spreads, Eph teams up with Holocaust survivor Abraham Setrakian (David Bradley) and others to combat a growing threat.
The Strainreinvents vampires as parasitic and worm-infected monsters, providing fresh lore to the genre and capturing the attention of many viewers. However, that’s not all that makes this a memorable watch:The Strainis notable for its practical effects and terrifying depiction of vampirism, drawing, of course, from del Toro’s work. It’s only natural, then, that it attracts fans of horror, thriller, and dark fantasy—particularly anyone who appreciates grotesque reimaginings of these iconic creatures.
9’Midnight Mass' (2021)
Although it arguably isn’tMike Flanagan’s finest workso far,Midnight Massis nonetheless one of the filmmaker’s most memorable, earning acclaim for its thought-provoking approach to vampire lore and the way it explores faith, fanaticism, and redemption. The story is set on the isolated Crockett island, following Riley Flynn (Zach Gilford), a man recently released from prison, who returns home just as a mysterious priest (Hamish Linklater) arrives. After his arrival, though, miraculous events and terrifying omens begin to unfold.
Anchored by a palpable atmosphere that creates a sense of dread throughout as well as astounding performances,Midnight Massexpertly fuses supernatural horror with meditations on faith, guilt, addiction, and community. By reimagining vampirism as a kind of religious miracle, it brings a fresh spin to the genre, perfect for anyone who loves stories that dive into big questions about faith and existence, as well as anyone drawn to character-driven, slow-burning thrillers.
8’The Originals' (2013)
WhileThe Vampire Diariesis the most iconic of the two,The Originalshas carved out its own legacy with a darker tone, richer lore, and arguably more compelling characters. Transporting audiences to the dangerous world of New Orleans, the story centers on the Mikaelson siblings—Klaus (Joseph Morgan), Elijah (Daniel Gillies), and Rebekah (Claire Holt)—the world’s first vampires.
For those who enjoy supernatural dramas with emotional narratives andintensefamily dynamics,The Originalsmight be a worthy pick, especially for older teens and adults who enjoy their stories packed with action, romance, dark fantasy, and a bit of a moral gray area. At the end of the day,it is essential for any ranking of vampire TV, with all its dark glamour, high emotion, epic showdowns, and a never-ending battlefor power and redemption.
7’Castlevania' (2017–2021)
For adult animation enthusiasts and horror lovers,Castlevaniais definitely worth a watch. Set in medieval Wallachia, it follows Trevor Belmont (Richard Armitage), the last remnant of a disgraced family of monster hunters. After Dracula (Graham McTavish) unleashes vengeance on humanity for the wrongful execution of his wife Lisa (Emily Swallow), an army of supernatural horrors besieges the land.
Castlevaniaquickly became one ofNetflix’s highest-rated animated series, being widely regarded as a breakthrough for video game adaptations. It’s easy to see why: with great writing, atmospheric visuals, and sophisticated character arcs, this lavish TV production has it all—exciting action, including swordfights and magical showdowns, rich worldbuilding, and memorably complex antagonists.
6’Angel' (1999–2004)
Created byJoss WhedonandDavid Greenwalt, this spin-off ofBuffy the Vampire Slayercarved out a unique niche with its blend of noir and horror storytelling. At its center isDavid Boreanaz’s titular character, a vampire cursed with a soul as penance for centuries of atrocities. Haunted by the guilt of his past as “Angelus,” he relocates to Los Angeles after severing his star-crossed relationship with Buffy. He then forms a private detective agency devoted to “helping the helpless.”
With a finale that’s hailed as one of the best in sci-fi TV, a mature tone that appeals to audiences of all ages, and memorable characters,Angelentertains those who appreciate darker, character-driven supernatural dramas. At its heart, though, is Angel’s struggle for redemption and growth. It doesn’t shy away from tackling addiction, trauma, systemic corruption, and the messy gray areas between good and evil, and in many ways, it handles them with even more substance and complexity thanBuffydid.
5’The Vampire Diaries' (2009–2017)
One of the undeniable fan-favorites when it comes to supernatural dramas and romances,The Vampire Diariesblends a high-stakes storyline with emotional twists, love triangles, and a rich lore of vampires, witches, and everything in between. Set in the seemingly sleepy town of Mystic Falls, it follows Elena Gilbert (Nina Dobrev), a teenager grieving the loss of her parents. Her life takes a wild turn when she falls for Stefan Salvatore (Paul Wesley), a new student who is revealed to be a centuries-old vampire. But with the arrival of his dangerous older brother Damon (Ian Somerhalder), a dark love triangle begins.
While its early episodes received mixed reviews,The Vampire Diarieshas become an essential in the genre, with most of the audience members being teens and young adults, and it’s not hard to see why: with themes of love, friendship, loss, and self-discovery at its center—addictive storytelling known for plot twists and cliffhangers—the series has become a powerhouse for CW, spawning two successful spin-offs and maintaining a huge fandom worldwide to this day.
4’True Blood' (2008–2014)
Created byAlan Ballfor HBO and based onCharlaine Harris’Southern Vampire Mysteries, this pulpy, provocative vampire show does not shy away from bringing a steamy and irreverent energy to the genre, throwing the supernatural, the camp, and Southern Gothic into the mix with memorable results. Set in the small town of Bon Temps, Louisiana, the story unfolds two years after vampires reveal themselves to humanity following the invention of Tru Blood—a synthetic blood that means they no longer have to hunt humans for survival.
TheHBO breakout hithas understandably captured the attention of many, whether through its romance, gore, or biting social commentary that didn’t shy away from exploring sexuality, notably steamy romance, often with a strong dose of LGBTQ+ subtext. With its bold storytelling, fun genre mash-ups, and a cast of memorable characters, it’s no wonderTrue Bloodhas earned its place as one of pop culture’s most unforgettable takes on the vampire myth.
3’Interview with the Vampire' (2022–)
When it comes to modern tales of stories dripping with bloodthirstiness,Interview with the Vampirecertainly deserves a nod. This bold reimagining of its classic source, adapted fromAnne Rice’s influential novel, injects new depth and perspective into its source material with fresh characterization and cultural setting. Set in two timelines, the series follows Louis de Pointe du Lac (Jacob Anderson) as he recounts his journey from brothel owner to immortal vampire under the thrall and romance of the charismatic Lestat de Lioncourt (Sam Reid).
For those drawn to sumptuous period drama, yearning, exploration of trauma, high-concept horror, and memorable LGBTQ+ representation,Interview with the Vampireis certainly a top choice. Sure, it’s favored by fans of Anne Rice’s work, but it also stands alone as a gripping and character-driven saga for newer audiences.Featuring beautiful Gothic visuals and unflinching drama, this reinvigorating vampire TV has established its place as a must-see.
2’What We Do in the Shadows' (2019–2024)
Let’s face it: few shows blend horror and hilarious fun as effortlessly asWhat We Do in the Shadows. Spun off from the cult-favorite film, the FX series puts a wickedly funny spin on vampire lore as it follows the messy un-lives of a mismatched group of bloodsuckers, ranging from Nandor (Kayvan Novak) to Nadja (Natasia Demetriou).
What We do in the Shadowsfascinates us with itsentertaining mockumentary formatand bone-dry humor, managing to poke fun at the awkwardness of immortality while celebrating the absurdity of life. No doubt, for anyone seeking a vampire story that’s equally camp and clever, and chaotic,Jemaine Clement’s 2019 series is essential viewing. In addition to reinventing genre tropes, it stands out as one of TV’s freshest comedies with an entertaining supernatural twist.
1’Buffy the Vampire Slayer' (1997–2003)
Those who have never experienced an episode of this TV game-changer are missing out on a show that seamlessly blends horror, humor, and a poignant coming-of-age tale. At the center of it all isSarah Michelle Gellar’s titular character, a seemingly ordinary high schooler who also happens to be the latest in a long line of “Slayers,” chosen to battle vampires, demons, and other forces of darkness. She then faces monstrous threats that double as metaphors for the trials of adolescence—but not without the help of her friends and mentor, of course.
Critically,Buffy the Vampire Slayerbecame a pop-culture juggernaut, and understandably so. The series developed into a cult phenomenon thanks to its witty dialogue, innovative storytelling, and an empowering female lead. To this day, it remains a blueprint for not just the vampire genre but TV in general, influencing what television can do and impacting everything from narrative to structure.
