10 Shows Like Tell Me Lies That Are Just as Addictive

If romantic drama series are your thing, chances are you probably know (and love!) Tell Me Lies. Of course, we all enjoy the sexual intrigue, can’t-look-away toxicity, and characters we hate to love—looking at you, Stephen. But we also appreciate how raw, vulnerable, and, unfortunately, relatable Tell Me Lies is.

It feels like more than JUST a romantic drama—lead character Grace Van Patten says it herself in “TELL ME LIES: GRACE VAN PATTEN” from Not Skinny But Not Fat. Instead, it’s an unfiltered look into a high-risk, low-reward relationship. The kind that’s rooted in obsession and confuses manipulation for meaning. But between the dynamics, jaw-dropping twists, and constant deception, we’re begging for more.

If you’ve already binged the latest season and need something to keep you occupied, you came to the right place! Today, we’re exploring all the best TV shows like Tell Me Lies. Get ready to scream into your pillow and form one too many parasocial relationships—these recommendations are that good.

10 Shows Like Tell Me Lies That Are Just as Addictive

We’ve all been there, looking up “What’s the Difference Between a Boyfriend and a Husband?” at 3 A.M. Texting our group chat mid-breakdown like, “Is closure really a myth?” Blocking, and unblocking, and reblocking our ex. We see you—and so does Lucy Albright from Tell Me Lies. 

Relationships. Are. Messy. They’re hard to navigate and can become seriously disruptive if you fall in love with the wrong person. And if there’s ANY show that depicts that perfectly, it’s Tell Me Lies… as well as all the other shows we’re about to add to your “Must-Watch” list. 

But before you start swiping and scrolling onto Netflix, let’s chat about what Tell Me Lies is ACTUALLY about. This way, you can set your expectations where they belong, because we didn’t come to disappoint.

What Is the Show Tell Me Lies About?

Tell Me Lies is a romantic drama that follows the complicated, emotionally charged relationship between Lucy Albright (Grace Van Patten) and Stephen DeMarco (Jackson White) as their connection unfolds over 8 years. This isn’t your typical love story—their relationship is anchored in manipulation, betrayal, and narcissism. (Cue “Top 5 Mind Games Narcissists Play” from Almost Adulting!)

The series begins during Lucy’s first week at Baird College as she navigates grief, family tension, and a recent breakup. Needless to say, she’s carrying a lot of baggage—and heavy emotional detachment. When she meets Stephen at a campus party, their chemistry is immediate; he’s flirty, he’s forward, and she’s intrigued. But the warning signs? Definitely already there. NOT spoiling anything, but… It’s super reminiscent of The Bossticks episode where Briana LaPaglia talks about leaving toxic relationships and finding your voice.

Things really start to take a turn when Lucy’s new friend and roommate, Macy, tragically and unexpectedly passes. It seems like a simple car accident on the surface, but things aren’t always what they seem. This sets off a major chain reaction of secrets and consequences that ripple throughout the series—and through all the characters. 

What makes the series especially compelling is its non-linear storytelling. The narrative shifts between the characters’ college years and their lives after graduation, gradually revealing key details as we piece the story together.

Tell Me Lies is raw, realistic, and a totally accurate depiction of young adulthood. The toxicity, boyfriends you wish you never met, unresolved trauma, and girl group dynamics? All there. It’s also an uncomfortably realistic look into manipulation and emotional abuse—minus the romanticization that other shows typically lean on.

Seriously, it’s as compelling and intriguing as it is mysterious and dark. It’s a fan favorite for a reason.

Is the Show Tell Me Lies Based on a Book?

YES! The Hulu series Tell Me Lies is actually based on a super-popular novel. And, of course, we’ll tell you all about it in a sec. First, let’s talk about how they’re different. 

The book revolves around a first-person perspective of a toxic relationship. Still super interesting, of course, but the TV show takes it a step further. By adding extra, supporting characters (AKA the friends), we get to see how toxic relationships don’t just affect one person—they affect everyone who loves and cares about that person. 

It’s very “The Long Goodbye” from Don’t Think coded. You know you should leave, your friends know you should leave, hell, the UNIVERSE knows you should leave. And in Tell Me Lies, we actually get to SEE all those perspectives.

Plus, naturally, there’s a ton of additional drama that stems out of this. Storylines intertwine, plots become messy, and feelings become tangled. But that’s what makes for good television, baby!

What Book Is the Show Tell Me Lies Based On?

The Hulu series Tell Me Lies IS based on a book titled by the same name. Tell Me Lies by Carola Lovering is a best-selling psychological thriller and contemporary romance published in June 2018. Here’s a shocking twist: the novel is based on a true story. 

Lovering said that she wrote the book based on her own experience of a toxic relationship in her 20s. Yeah, it’s hard to believe that people like Stephen Demarco ACTUALLY do exist. 

The novel Tell Me Lies explores Lucy and Stephen’s toxic relationship, diving deeper into themes of obsession, emotional manipulation, and the lasting impact of it all. And, honestly, it explores the characters in a totally different light. We’re not spoiling anything, though! If you love shocking twists and breaking your own heart (in the best way), it’s a must-read. 

And, while you’re here, we have a few other recs, too! Check out “Spicy Books with Good Plots” and “Books About What Women Want and How to Get It.”

Books Like Tell Me Lies

If you read Tell Me Lies and feel like you still can’t get enough, there are PLENTY of books with the same vibe:

• Acts of Desperation by Megan Nolan. This book follows an unnamed 22-year-old living in Dublin who dropped out of college and is struggling with emotional instability and heavy drinking. She finds herself in a relationship (of sorts) with someone named Ciaran, an older writer. But after Ciaran abruptly ends things, the unnamed MC will do ANYTHING to get his validation again. (Sound familiar?)
• Can’t Look Away by Carola Lovering: Molly Diamond is a 23-year-old living in Brooklyn who meets Jake Danner, the lead singer of a band. A decade later, Molly moved to Connecticut, figured her life out, and hears Jake’s song come up on the radio. Now, she has to ask the age-old question: Did she make the right choice? Written by the same author of Tell Me Lies, this one is an easy must-read.
• Sharp Objects by Gillian Flynn. Camille Preaker, a struggling journalist, spent some time in a psychiatric hospital and was sent back to Missouri by her editor. The goal was for her to cover the murder of one teen and the disappearance of another. But the reality was much darker, much more shocking, and a lot more personal than she expected.
• Cleopatra and Frankenstein by Coco Mellors: On New Year’s Eve, 24-year-old painter Cleo meets middle-aged Frank, a hotshot executive. But Cleo is British, and her student visa is expiring soon. To stay in the states, she decides to impulsively marry Frank. But Frank drinks… heavily. And Cleo has badly unmanaged depression. Together, the two battle addiction, mental health, modern intimacy, and isolation.

Now that we’ve covered ALL the bases… Here are the best TV shows similar to Tell Me Lies:

What Shows Are Like Tell Me Lies?

Euphoria

Where to watch: Hulu, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video

Euphoria is a teen drama that follows the life of Rue Bennett (Zendaya) as she navigates addiction, loss, trauma, dysfunction, and identity. But even though Rue’s the narrator, the show isn’t just about her. Euphoria widens the lens to reveal how everyone around her is fighting their own battles. Some loud, some quiet, all deeply complicated. 

Like Tell Me Lies, the series dives deep into raw, gritty depictions of high-stakes romances and self-sabotaging behaviors. There’s no sugar-coating heavy topics or subliminal messages—everything’s laid out on the table for you to cry with, laugh at, and relate to—all in the same episode. 

Want more recs like this? Check out our post on shows like Euphoria.

Normal People

Where to watch: Hulu, Disney+, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video

Based on Sally Rooney’s novel, Normal People focuses on the relationship between Marianne and Connell—two Irish teens with different upbringings. Connell (Paul Mescal) is popular, athletic, and lower-middle-class. Marianne (Daisy Edgar-Jones) is smart, wealthy, and totally aloof. 

Like Tell Me Lies, a relationship is bound to get a little complex when it revolves around power, insecurity, and two people who can’t seem to truly let each other go. Except, in this case, things aren’t as toxic and manipulative. Instead, it’s deeply transformative and a little more tender.

Big Little Lies

Where to watch: Hulu, HBO MAX, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video

Another show based on a novel! Seeing a theme yet? Big Little Lies, derived from a Liane Moriarty novel, follows a group of women in a wealthy coastal California town whose “perfect lives” unravel after a shocking death. And, just like in Tell Me Lies, nothing shakes sh*t up like a murder mystery.  

Suddenly, those perfect lives transform into stories full of abuse, marital issues, and unresolved trauma. Aside from the initial intrigue (because of course we’re tuning in!), Big Little Lies is also deeply relatable. It shows how far people will go to protect their image and reputation. It gives off the same vibe as “Tish Cyrus: Prioritizing Peace” from The Squeeze—just a little less… wholesome.

Craving something similar? Head over to “TV Series About Family Drama.” Or, for all of our bookworms, find your fix in “Books Like Gone Girl!”

The Hunting Wives

Where to watch: Netflix

Wanna question your sanity and sexuality? Watch The Hunting Wives. This series, based on the novel by May Cobb, is an American drama focusing on obsession, seduction, and betrayal. Sophie O’Neill (Reese Witherspoon) moves from Boston, Massachusetts, to a small town in East Texas and experiences a total culture shock. 

Thinking she was completely out of her element, she meets Margo Banks (Malin Åkerman)—a wealthy, influential socialite. Known as the queen bee with a wild side, Margo helps Sophie realize that maybe Texas is where she belongs. That’s until a teen girl is found dead in the woods, and everyone becomes a suspect. UGH. So. Good. 

You can hear ALL about The Hunting Wives in “Malin Åkerman: The Gayest Show of the Summer.”

The Affair

Where to watch: Hulu, Paramount+, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video

The Affair is such a good series for so many reasons—and the plot is just one of them. Noah and Helen Solloway are happily married, have four kids, and live the perfect life. Until Noah has an affair with Alison, a local waitress. 

The series spirals into what it’s like to be cheated on, what it’s like to do the cheating, AND what it’s like to be the other woman. As the series explores all three characters’ POVs, you essentially get to form your own beliefs episode by episode. Like Tell Me Lies, it’s as emotional as it is infuriating. 

And it also begs the question… Do we blame the other person if a partner cheats? Listen to “Giving You Dating Nightmare, Fetishes, and Cheating Husbands” from Give It To Me Straight for a deeper convo about this exact topic.

Sex/Life

Where to watch: Netflix

This steamy drama follows Billie, a mother of two who lives a seemingly mundane life. And because her life is so monotonous, she has no other choice but to fantasize about her passionate past with her ex, Brad. What’s a girl to do, right? Oh, wait, we forgot to mention that she’s writing these fantasies down, and her husband Cooper FINDS THEM. Cringe-worthy x1000.

Now Billie has to ask herself: What feels like a better outcome? A wildly intimate relationship with Brad while she explores female pleasure? Or her safe, good-on-paper husband, Cooper? Just like Tell Me Lies, it’s intimate, it’s high-energy, and it’s definitely NSFW.

Dealing with a situation like this of your own? Listen to “We Need to Talk About Sex” from We Met At Acme. 

Cruel Summer

Where to watch: Hulu, Disney+, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video

Cruel Summer is a psychological thriller that follows two teen girls in the 1990s after a kidnapping scandal completely flips their lives upside down. Kate Wallis, once-popular queen bee, becomes the center of a missing-person mystery. 

Jeanette Turner, an awkward outsider, suddenly finds herself taking over Kate’s life. She dates her boyfriend, becomes uber-popular, adopts her friends—the whole nine. That’s until Kate reappears (surprise!) and is PISSED. Using a nonlinear format, Cruel Summer shifts between three years to reveal information, maintain suspense, and keep viewers guessing. You think you have it all figured out, but you never really do. It’s exactly what we want in a TV show.

You’re the Worst

Where to watch: Hulu, Disney+, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video

If you’re ready to see two people fall in love while actively being their own worst enemies, watch You’re the Worst. This anti-romantic comedy follows Jimmy Shive-Overly, a self-centered writer, and Gretchen Cutler, a PR executive with her own emotional baggage. They meet at a wedding, hook up, and accidentally start something real—which was NOT their goal. 

It’s not so much a sweet love story as a painfully honest look at what happens when trauma, ego, and commitment issues collide. Like Tell Me Lies, the connection is totally magnetic—annnddd manipulative. Not AS dark, but definitely as chaotic and complicated.

To be fair, they both need to listen to “How to Fix a Broken Heart (with Guy Winch)” from The World’s Best Podcast.

You

Where to watch: Netflix, Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video

You is a psychological thriller following Joe Goldberg (Penn Badgley)—perfect on paper, psychotic in real life. He starts as a seemingly charming bookstore manager—a little quirky, a little romantic, and always knows the right thing to say. Until you find out that he actually develops unhealthy obsessions with each girl he falls in love with. 

Or, should we say, girls that he thinks he’s in love with. He’s actually just a dangerous stalker and serial killer. Each season is set in a new town, follows a new love interest, and features new toxic tactics. Of course, it’s extremely suspenseful and endlessly entertaining. But it’s also the perfect depiction of how you never truly know someone—even when you think you do. 

It’s definitely right up your alley if you love Tell Me Lies. Or shows like Dexter. Or just Penn Badgley—because we get it. Speaking of! Listen to “Penn Badgley: Seriously Unserious.”

UnREAL

Where to watch: Apple TV, Amazon Prime Video

UnREAL is a dark drama that pulls back the curtain on the behind-the-scenes chaos of Bachelor-style dating shows. The producers aren’t just creating romance—they’re engineering emotional breakdowns for ratings. 

The series follows Rachel Goldberg, an impressively manipulative producer who’s damn good at getting contestants to spiral and fall apart on camera. And, of course, she’s not alone in this. Quinn, a ratings-driven ruthless boss also treats human emotions like chess pieces. Like Tell Me Lies, this series is all about power, control, and total toxicity.

Where to Watch Tell Me Lies

You can currently watch Tell Me Lies on Hulu and Disney+! And actually, Tell Me Lies is an ORIGINAL series specifically produced for Hulu. So, in other words, unlike other shows that pop on and off different streaming platforms? This series will be on Hulu for… well, forever! As far as new seasons go, Tell Me Lies’ LAST season premiered January 2026. We know, we could’ve watched 1000 more seasons, too. But at least now you can watch the entire series from start to finish at once!

Waiting for the next season of Tell Me Lies? Add these similar recommendations to your must-watch list!

Tell Me Lies is one of the rare TV shows that pulls you in and hooks you from the very first scene. It’s emotional, it’s suspenseful, and it’s nothing without its jaw-dropping twists. But instead of binge-watching it for the 400th time, watch one of these other similar series instead! Think: same level of chaos AND the same amount of intrigue. Start one ASAP and thank us later.

Looking for more posts like this? Head to the Dear Media, where we cover everything from pop culture updates to health and wellness advice! Also, don’t miss out on listening to all of our INCREDIBLE Dear Media podcast hosts. They offer celeb interviews, treasure troves of valuable advice, and life-changing tips you’ll wish you heard sooner.