Since its debut, Severance has captivated audiences with its eerie atmosphere, thought-provoking themes, and a sharp critique of the modern workplace. While we eagerly await the release of season 2, there’s no need to feel lost in the meantime—there are plenty of shows out there that capture a similar sense of mystery, sci-fi intrigue, and identity exploration. If you’re a fan of Severance (whether you’ve been on board since season 1 or just discovered it in 2025), here’s a curated list of series that might just fill the void while you wait to return to the perplexing world of Lumon Industries.
Lost (2004 – 2010)
During the airing of Severance’s second season, comparisons to Lost were inevitable, and for good reason. This cult classic, which ran from 2004 to 2010, is the precursor to the “mystery box” storytelling that Severance now masters. The series follows the survivors of Oceanic Flight 815, stranded on an island filled with secrets. Each character-focused episode reveals flashbacks, and every answer raises more questions. If you love being totally perplexed and immersed in a world of puzzles, Lost is a must-watch.
Fringe (2008 – 2013)
It’s tricky to explain why Fringe has a certain Severance vibe without giving away spoilers, but let’s just say the exploration of dual identities in Fringe is just as unsettling. The show revolves around Olivia Dunham, an FBI agent, who investigates unexplained phenomena with the help of the eccentric scientist Walter Bishop and his son Peter. What begins as a procedural sci-fi series evolves into a thrilling narrative about parallel universes, all wrapped up in a rich mythology and emotional depth. If you enjoy a cerebral, mind-bending story, Fringe should definitely be on your radar.
Counterpart (2017 – 2019)
If you’re into espionage with a sci-fi twist, Counterpart is a hidden gem. J.K. Simmons plays a mild-mannered employee who uncovers a secret portal to a parallel universe where his doppelgänger is a much tougher, more ruthless version of himself. This two-season thriller is as intelligent as it is captivating, making it the perfect series for anyone who loved Severance’s layered storytelling and complex characters.
Black Mirror (2011 – Present)
Black Mirror, the anthology series created by Charlie Brooker, is a chilling exploration of the dark side of technology. Each episode delves into a dystopian scenario that reflects our modern society’s growing dependence on technology. From memory implants to artificial intelligence and alternative realities, Black Mirror shares Severance’s fascination with troubling futures and existential questions. If you find yourself intrigued by Severance‘s eerie and unsettling take on the modern world, Black Mirror will feel like a natural next watch.
Corporate (2018 – 2020)
If Severance represents the perfect series for our age of “bore-out,” then Corporate is the satirical counterpart. This dark comedy follows two disillusioned employees working at a soul-crushing multinational corporation. With absurd office politics, email scandals, and ruthless HR maneuvers, Corporate offers a hilarious yet bleak portrait of the corporate world. It’s perfect for fans of Severance who enjoy sharp critiques of the workplace—but with more humor and less of the sci-fi edge.
Devs (2020)
In Devs, director Alex Garland (known for Ex Machina) takes us on a contemplative journey into Silicon Valley. The story follows Lily, a computer engineer, as she investigates the mysterious death of her boyfriend, who was working on a secretive tech project. What she uncovers challenges the very fabric of reality. With its haunting atmosphere, philosophical musings, and grieving characters, Devs shares many thematic elements with Severance, making it an easy recommendation for fans of complex sci-fi narratives.
Maniac (2018)
Maniac is as strange as it is captivating. Emma Stone and Jonah Hill star as two emotionally broken individuals who participate in a pharmaceutical trial that promises to fix their minds. This trippy, unpredictable series blends dark humor, drama, and science fiction, with a narrative that constantly keeps you on your toes. Maniac‘s quirky storytelling and exploration of mental health make it a perfect fit for fans of Severance who enjoy shows that are offbeat, visually unique, and rich in character development.
Wrap-Up: Your Next Favorite Show Awaits
If you’ve been spellbound by the unsettling world of Severance, these shows offer a great mix of mind-bending concepts, dystopian visions, and deep dives into identity. Whether you’re in the mood for a psychological thriller, a dark comedy, or a classic sci-fi mystery, these series will keep you on the edge of your seat, just like Severance did. Happy binge-watching!
