Though it might seem like a restrictive setting, the best prison shows showcase the different ways stories can be told about life behind bars. Unsurprisingly, many prison-centric shows are dramas and not for audiences seeking lighter fare. They cater to the dark stories of criminals who are just as dangerous in captivity and the loss of hope and humanity some of these inmates feel. However, prison shows can also deal with redemption, friendship, and even finding humor in such a life.
Some of the best prison-centered series draw their inspiration from real stories or are even docuseries about life for incarcerated individuals. There are a variety of angles from which to approach the prison-set stories, but it takes a particularly worthwhile show to make the audience want to spend time in such an isolated and disheartening place. From the critical hits to the underrated gems worth seeking out, the best prison shows make the most of these unique stories.
20 Mayor of Kingstown (2021-present)
A Drama About A Prison’s Relationship With Its Town
Mayor of Kingstown is a Paramount+ crime drama series starring Jeremy Renner as Mike McLusky, the right-hand man for his brother Mitch in Kingstown, Michigan. His family basically runs the town, and when Mitch dies, Mike takes over as the new “Mayor of Kingstown.” This is tough since Mike always wanted to leave Kingstown, but ended up getting into trouble when he was younger and spending time in the Kingstown prison.
The series focuses on the street gangs, cops, prisoners, and guards at the Kingstown prison and Mike’s role as the new man in charge of the mediators.
This plays into his role as the new “Mayor,” as he has connections still in the prison, where he served as the “Shot-Caller” for the White inmates behind bars. The series focuses on the street gangs, cops, prisoners, and guards at the Kingstown prison and Mike’s role as the new man in charge of the mediators trying to keep the peace. There have been three seasons and 30 episodes, and each season has a higher Rotten Tomatoes score than the ones before.
19 The Night Of (2016)
A Wrongly Accused Man Is Sent To Prison
The Night Of is a miniseries that premiered on HBO. It consists of eight episodes and is based on the first season of the British crime drama Criminal Justice. The series followed a young Pakistani-American college student named Naz, who lived in Queens and was arrested and charged with the murder of a young woman. The series followed his stint in prison awaiting his trial and his attorney, John Stone, who set out to prove his innocence.
James Gandolfini was initially set to star in the series as the lead attorney, but after his death, John Turturro replaced him in the role. The Night Of was a massive success for HBO. The miniseries received 13 Emmy Award nominations and won five of them, including one for Outstanding Lead Actor in a Limited Series for Riz Ahmed. It also earned a Peabody nomination and three Golden Globe nominations. The Night Of also has a 94% Rotten Tomatoes score.
18 Hogan’s Heroes (1965-1971)
A Prisoner-Of-War Comedy Series
While most of the shows about prisons are dramas, there is one that is a comedy. It isn’t an American prison comedy but a comedy about American soldiers in a Nazi Germany prisoner-of-war camp. That might seem a bit strange, but Hogan’s Heroes was one of the most successful sitcoms during its run from 1965 to 1971 on CBS.
The series follows Bob Crane’s U.S. Army Colonel Robert Hogan and his team, who are purposefully sent behind enemy lines to be captured and placed into a prisoner-of-war camp. The location is the fictional Styalag 13 outside of Hammelburg, and the team has orders to help others escape. The commandant, Colonel Klink, and his Sergeant Schultz are shown as buffoons, and the entire Nazi regime is the brunt of the jokes in this prison series. Hogan’s Heroes lasted six seasons and 168 episodes.
17 Fire Country (2022-present)
A Prison Offers Early Release To Fire Volunteers
Fire Country became one of network television’s most successful new series when it premiered in 2022. It was so popular that it spawned a sequel in Sheriff Country, and the original show started its third season in 2024. Max Thieriot stars as Bode Donovan, a young man who wants to redeem himself and shorten his prison sentence by volunteering for a fire department that fights fires with the California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection.
The series moves from Bode’s life as a volunteer firefighter to his life with his friends and estranged family back home and to prison, where other prisoners also get a chance to redeem themselves with this dangerous yet unique form of work. By the fourth season, Bode finds himself out of prison, but it is expected that the show will still focus on people in the prison system, as that is what the show was built on.
16 Time (2021)
A Man Consumed By His Guilt Finds New Purpose In Prison
Time is a 2021 British prison series that works as an anthology series. The first two seasons are only three episodes each, and they focus on someone who was recently placed in prison and their attempts to deal with their crimes and possibly find redemption behind bars. The prison is His Majesty’s Prison Service, and the show focuses on the inmates and staff of the series, and both seasons have some big names involved.
Season 1 sees Sean Bean as Mark Cobden, a newly imprisoned man who just wants to pay for his crimes but soon finds that life in prison is deadlier than it was on the streets. Stephen Graham is Eric, a prison officer set to protect the other staff members. Season 2 features Doctor Who star Jodie Whitaker. The two seasons have earned eight BAFTA nominations, winning Best Mini-Series and Best Actor (Sean Bean) for the first season.
15 Bad Girls (1999-2006)
A Gritty Drama About Women’s Prison Life
Bad Girls is a British drama that focuses on the lives of inmates and staff at the fictional HMP Larkhall, a women’s prison. Spanning eight seasons, the show explores the complexities of prison life, power struggles, and personal stories of prisoners and guards. Known for its gritty realism and engaging storylines, Bad Girls became a standout series in the prison drama genre. The show delves into a wide range of social issues, including addiction, mental health, and the challenges faced by LGBTQ+ individuals in the prison system.
Bad Girls stands out for its ability to balance intense drama with moments of dark humor, providing a multifaceted look at the prison experience. The relationships between inmates, as well as between inmates and staff, are portrayed with depth and nuance, making the characters’ struggles and triumphs resonate with viewers. The show’s legacy continues, with its influence seen in subsequent prison dramas that seek to capture the same level of authenticity and emotional impact.
14 Buried (2003)
A British Prison Drama About Survival & Power
Buried is a British prison drama that follows the life of Lee Kingley, a newly convicted prisoner navigating the dangerous and often brutal environment of a maximum-security prison. The series, which aired for one season, delves deep into the harsh realities of prison life, focusing on survival, power struggles, and the personal transformations that occur behind bars. The show is known for its unflinching portrayal of the prison system, highlighting the complexities and moral ambiguities faced by inmates and staff alike.
Buried’s strength lies in its authentic depiction of prison dynamics, showcasing the constant battle for control and respect among inmates. The series doesn’t shy away from the darker aspects of prison life, offering a gritty and realistic portrayal that resonates with viewers. Despite its short run, Buried made a significant impact, earning critical acclaim for its bold approach and powerful performances. The show remains a standout in the genre, praised for its depth, intensity, and candid look at the complexities of life behind bars.
13 Inside The World’s Toughest Prisons (2016-present)
A Docuseries Exploring The Harshest Correctional Facilities Globally
Inside the World’s Toughest Prisons is a gripping docuseries that takes viewers inside some of the most notorious and harsh correctional facilities around the globe. Hosted by investigative journalists and former inmates, the series offers a rare and unfiltered look at the daily lives of prisoners and the unique challenges they face. The show has been running since 2016 and continues to captivate audiences with its in-depth and often shocking exploration of prison systems.
Each episode focuses on a different prison, providing detailed insights into the conditions, the inmate population, and the varying methods of incarceration used in other countries. The series goes beyond mere observation, with hosts immersing themselves in the prison environment, living among the inmates to experience firsthand the realities of life behind bars. This immersive approach provides a unique and powerful perspective on the prison experience.
12 60 Days In (2016)
Volunteers Pose As Convicts Inside A real Prison
In a new twist on the prison documentary formula, 60 Days In has volunteers spend two months in incarceration posing as real criminals to get an idea of what life is like behind bars. Although some interesting behind-the-scenes secrets of 60 Days In may detract from some of the show’s drama, there are things to enjoy about the series, which ran for six seasons. What really comes across in the show is the complex power structures that can exist in prison environments and just how important prison gang politics can be.
60 Days In offers a unique perspective on the prison system by placing ordinary people amid the inmate population, revealing both the challenges and nuances of life behind bars. The volunteers’ experiences highlight the everyday struggles of inmates, from dealing with prison hierarchies to navigating relationships with both inmates and correctional officers. Although its premise may be off-putting to some, it’s a show that sheds light on some of the realities of prison life.
11 Lockup (2005)
A Docuseries Follows Inmates’ Lives
A fascinating documentary series that ran for 12 years and 25 seasons, exposing some of the realities of life behind bars, Lockup is still one of the best prison shows that isn’t fictional. Airing on MSNBC, the series is at its best when honing in on some of the more notable inmates and showing their everyday interactions. It’s easy to get invested as some of the people followed by the show are seen receiving visits from loved ones and attending disciplinary hearings.
Lockup stands out for its unflinching look at the day-to-day lives of inmates, offering viewers a candid and often sobering glimpse into the prison system. The series doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities faced by prisoners, including violence, solitary confinement, and the struggle to maintain connections with the outside world. Its strength lies in its ability to humanize the inmates, providing a platform for their stories and challenges. Although the series concluded several years ago, there’s so much content, including the rest of the Lockup TV franchise, that means fans will be satisfied for a long time.
10 Prison Playbook (2017)
A Dark Comedy About A Clumsy Athlete Behind Bars
Officially classified as a drama in South Korea, where the series was produced and aired initially, Prison Playbook is more of a dark comedy. The series follows a star baseball player (Park Hae-soo) after he is sentenced to a year in prison when he fatally injures a man trying to assault his sister. While the show takes on serious subject matter, it also uses recurring gags, like Kim Je-hyuk’s clumsiness outside of baseball, to lighten the scenes. It’s one of the rare shows that increased its viewership as it aired, becoming one of the highest-rated series in Korean television.
Prison Playbook’s charm lies in its unique blend of humor and heartfelt moments, offering a refreshing take on the prison genre. The series delves into the lives of various inmates, each with their own backstory and quirks, creating a rich tapestry of characters that audiences quickly attach to. The show’s success is further bolstered by its strong ensemble cast and clever writing, which balances comedy with poignant social commentary. This ability to tackle serious issues with a light-hearted approach makes Prison Playbook a standout series that resonates with viewers beyond its initial comedic appeal.
9 Girls Incarcerated (2018)
A Docuseries About Young Female Inmates
Netflix has helped create a revival for the documentary genre, with tons of incredible documentaries to watch on the streaming service. Still, one great series it produced that’s sadly overlooked is Girls Incarcerated. Across two seasons, it looks at the lives of the teenage inmates of two juvenile facilities in Indiana. Of course, the show examines some heavy topics, whichght not make for excellent light viewing. However, it also has some memorable and touching moments that only real life can produce and stick with the viewer long after.
Girls Incarcerated stands out for its raw portrayal of the lives of young female inmates, shedding light on the challenges they face both inside and outside of the juvenile justice system. The series delves into issues such as mental health, family dynamics, and the cycle of incarceration, offering viewers a deep and empathetic understanding of these young women’s struggles. The docuseries also highlights the efforts of facility staff to provide rehabilitation and support, adding layers of hope and redemption to the narrative. Its candid storytelling and emotional depth make Girls Incarcerated a poignant and impactful addition to the genre.
8 For Life (2020)
A True Story Of A Man Fighting For Justice While In Prison
A legal drama based on the real-life story of Isaac Wright Jr., the man wrongfully sentenced to life in prison before orchestrating his own legal challenge and subsequently becoming an attorney, For Life is one of the best prison-based shows of the last few years. Although it wasn’t renewed for a third season, the two that exist do a great job showing a man on the wrong side of a broken legal system.
Also exploring Wallace’s relationships with the other inmates and some of his lowest moments, such as his repeated stints in solitary confinement, For Life covers a lot in its 23 episodes. Though low viewership may have contributed to its cancelation, many of those who stayed with it became loyal fans of the show. For Life’s impact extends beyond its gripping narrative, as it sheds light on systemic issues within the criminal justice system, including wrongful convictions and the challenges of seeking justice from within prison walls.
7 Escape At Dannemora (2018)
The True Story Of Inmates Planning An Escape
The show delves into the psychological and emotional complexities of its characters
Escape At Dannemora is based on the real-life Clinton Correctional Facility escape in 2015 and stars some impressive talent,, including Benicio del Toro and Patricia Arquette, and direction from Ben Stiller. Centered on two convicted murderers whose escape prompts a huge manhunt, it manages to sustain a lot of tension for its 7-episode run. However, some accounts contradict the series’ telling of events, that didn’t stop it from being a highly successful drama that was met with critical acclaim upon its release.
Escape At Dannemora’s success is bolstered by its meticulous attention to detail and the powerful performances of its lead actors. Patricia Arquette’s portrayal of Joyce Mitchell earned her a Golden Globe, highlighting the series’ strong character-driven storytelling. The show delves into the psychological and emotional complexities of its characters, providing a deep and nuanced perspective on the infamous prison break. Its combination of real-life drama, exceptional acting, and high production values make it a standout miniseries in the true crime genre.
6 Black Bird (2022)
The True Story Of An Inmate Turned Police Informant
The tension and suspense are palpable throughout the series, making it a compelling watch from start to finish
Inspired by real events, Black Bird follows the story of the incarceration of a once-promising football player (Taron Egerton) who decided not to take scholarships to attend college and stay close to home. After turning to a life of crime, however, he ends up in prison and is approached by law enforcement to use his charm to get another prisoner (Paul Walter Hauser) to talk about his suspected past as a serial killer of at least 14 women. Both actors earned award nominations for their performances from the Golden Globes, Screen Actors Guild, and Primetime Emmys.
Black Bird stands out for its gripping narrative and psychological depth, delving into the complex relationships between inmates and the intricacies of undercover operations within the prison system. The tension and suspense are palpable throughout the series, making it a compelling watch from start to finish. Additionally, the show’s commitment to portraying the true events with a sense of authenticity and respect for the real-life individuals involved adds a layer of gravity and significance to the storytelling.
5 Wentworth (2013)
A New Inmate Seeks A Position Of Power In Prison
The show’s nuanced exploration of themes such as power dynamics, loyalty, betrayal, and survival resonates with viewers
The modern-day reimagining of the cult Australian soap opera Prisoner: Cell Block H, Wentworth proves much more popular with contemporary audiences thanks to its compelling portrayal of a female prisoner going from a new inmate to the top of the prison hierarchy across its first four seasons. Its attempt to modernize the show was well-received by critics, but, more importantly, it proved popular with audiences who had gone a long time without a long-form prison soap opera. Throughout its run, the series consistently picked up award show nominations in Australia from the beloved Logie Awards.
Wentworth’s success is primarily attributed to its strong character development and unflinching depiction of the harsh realities of prison life. The show’s nuanced exploration of themes such as power dynamics, loyalty, betrayal, and survival resonates with viewers, making it a standout in the genre. Additionally, the performances of the cast, particularly those portraying the central characters, have been lauded for their depth and authenticity, cementing Wentworth’s status as a critically acclaimed and beloved series.
4 Prisoner: Cell Block H (1979)
The Long-Running Australian Series About A Women’s Prison
Without
Prisoner
, there would be no
Wentworth
Known simply as Prisoner in Australia, where the show originates, Prisoner: Cell Block H proved back in the late 1970s that the life of women in prison could make for some fascinating drama, long before the likes of Orange Is the New Black and the show’s 21st-century reimagining Wentworth. Without Prisoner, there would be no Wentworth – or most of the characters that are used in Wentworth, for that matter.
The show immediately gained a cult following and earned unprecedented success when it aired in the US. Focusing on the lives of the prisoners in a women’s detention center rather than the staff, the show went on to last some 690 episodes. Because of this, the show has a ton of rewatchability, allowing it to keep a fan base long after it originally ran. While it doesn’t maintain the strictest of continuity, it features believable characters in extreme storylines, which is what made it last for so long.
3 Prison Break (2005)
A Man Is Purposely Incarcerates To Break His Brother Out
Although not always a gritty, realistic portrayal of prison life, there isn’t a show more associated with incarceration than Fox’s sensational prison escape drama from the 2000s. Centered on Lincoln Burrows, a man wrongfully sentenced to death and incarcerated in state prison, the first season presents an ambitious plan to free him and several other inmates. Although the subsequent seasons pursue different storylines, the show takes place in different prison environments as the main characters find themselves on the wrong side of the law and other shadowy organizations.
There are dips in quality across Prison Break‘s five seasons but it is considered by many to be one of the best prison shows around. Its popularity persists with a new Prison Break reboot announced. What sets Prison Break apart is its intense and intricate plotting, with each episode leaving viewers on the edge of their seats. The show also delves into themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the lengths one will go to for family, making it a compelling and engaging watch from start to finish.
2 Orange Is The New Black (2013)
The Experiences Of Female Prisoners And Their Stories
An incredible comedy-drama set in a women’s prison, Orange Is the New Black was one of the first sensational shows that launched Netflix into a potential rival to mainstream television. Based on a memoir by Piper Kerman about her experiences of life inside prison, the show is full of distinctive characters that lend a tremendous amount of heart. Despite Piper being the main character, each episode focuses on why each Orange is the New Black character is in prison and tells their story.
The show’s impact extended beyond entertainment, as it sparked essential conversations
Unfortunately, there are no plans for the show to continue, but with seven memorable seasons, it gained a considerable amount of fans in the years since it was released. The show was also praised for its diverse cast and LGBT+ storylines. The show’s impact extended beyond entertainment, as it sparked essential conversations about the prison system, women’s rights, and social justice issues. Its raw portrayal of the harsh realities faced by incarcerated women brought attention to the flaws in the criminal justice system, making it not just a popular series but also a culturally significant one.
1 Oz (1997)
The Brutal Life In A Maximum Security Prison
Often brutal and graphic, even for those who didn’t love its style,
Oz
is a memorable series
One of the shows that established HBO as a name to be reckoned with in the world of long-form dramas, Oz was also a tense and engaging show in its own right. The show’s title is shorthand for Oswald State Correctional Facility, the fictional maximum-security prison that formed the show’s setting as well as the site of a sort of social experiment to control the often unstable inmates.
In contrast to some of the violent and unrepentant criminals in “Emerald City,” the wing of the prison where most of this takes place, the central character is incarcerated for a fatal drunk-driving incident, and he provides the perfect perspective to navigate the show’s twists and turns. Often brutal and graphic, even for those who didn’t love its style, Oz is a memorable series and received several nominations from the GLAAD Media Awards, the NAACP Image Awards, and the ALMA Awards for its diverse and talented cast.
