“5 Shows Every Walking Dead Fan Needs to Watch (No. 3 Will Surprise You!)”
There’s no denying it: The Walking Dead set an incredibly high bar for post-apocalyptic television. It wasn’t just a show; it was a cultural phenomenon that kept millions of fans glued to their screens for more than a decade. With its mix of raw survival, emotional storytelling, and terrifyingly unpredictable twists, it redefined what audiences expected from zombie dramas.
But here’s the thing: just because TWD is the original giant of the genre doesn’t mean it’s the only option worth your time. Over the years, several other series have emerged that may not carry the same legendary reputation but still deliver heart-pounding suspense, unforgettable characters, and stories that leave you on edge. They might not have the same massive fandom, yet they come surprisingly close to recreating that addictive experience.
And let’s be honest, after rewatching all 11 seasons of TWD more times than you can count, it’s natural to crave something fresh. Something new, but still with that same gritty post-apocalyptic flavor. That’s exactly where this list comes in. Below are five incredible shows that aren’t quite as iconic as The Walking Dead, but definitely deserve a spot on your watchlist.
1. The Last of Us
Where to watch: HBO Max
Few shows have managed to capture the emotional depth and sheer intensity of The Walking Dead quite like The Last of Us. Adapted from the critically acclaimed video game, the series throws us into a society torn apart by a deadly fungal outbreak. Humanity is on the brink of collapse, and survival is a daily battle filled with constant threats—not just from the infected, but also from the fractured remains of human civilization.
At the heart of it all are Joel and Ellie. Their bond, filled with pain, resilience, and reluctant trust, serves as the emotional core of the show. Pedro Pascal’s portrayal of Joel and Bella Ramsey’s performance as Ellie bring these beloved characters to life in a way that’s both heartbreaking and inspiring. Season 1 adapts the first game, while the upcoming seasons are set to dive into the powerful storylines of The Last of Us Part II. If you loved TWD for its mix of horror and humanity, this series will hit you right in the heart.
2. Z Nation
Where to watch: Tubi, Peacock, AMC+
If TWD is a brooding and emotionally heavy survival drama, Z Nation is its chaotic, wild cousin. The show follows a mismatched group of survivors on a mission to transport the only known immune human across the country. While it leans heavily into dark humor and outrageous scenarios, don’t be fooled—it still packs a serious punch of suspense, gore, and fast-paced action.
The series stars Kellita Smith, DJ Qualls, Keith Allan, and more, and although it was canceled after five seasons in 2018, it still remains a hidden gem in the zombie genre. It’s fun, unpredictable, and perfect for fans who want a lighter, more over-the-top spin on the apocalypse.
3. Kingdom
Where to watch: Netflix
This is the show that deserves way more hype than it gets. Kingdom is unlike anything else in the zombie genre—it blends South Korea’s Joseon-era history with an outbreak narrative that’s both visually stunning and emotionally gripping. Imagine political intrigue, royal power struggles, and terrifying waves of the undead all colliding in a single story.
The series follows Crown Prince Lee Chang, played by Ju Ji-hoon, who uncovers the mystery of a strange illness plaguing the king and soon realizes it’s part of a much larger epidemic threatening the kingdom. With breathtaking cinematography, masterful storytelling, and cliffhangers that will leave you gasping, Kingdom is a must-watch for anyone tired of the same old zombie formula. Both seasons, plus a special episode, are currently streaming on Netflix.
4. Black Summer
Where to watch: Netflix
Black Summer never had the chance to fully reach its potential, but its two seasons still offer some of the most raw, chaotic, and nerve-wracking zombie storytelling you’ll find. Unlike TWD, which slowly builds its world and characters, Black Summer throws you straight into the madness. There’s no long introduction or detailed backstory—just pure survival in its most brutal and unfiltered form.
The show follows Rose, a mother played by Jaime King, who is desperately trying to reunite with her daughter in the middle of a collapsing world. Along the way, she encounters other survivors, each forced to make impossible choices in a setting where trust is scarce and danger is everywhere. If you’re looking for fast-paced tension and nonstop fear, Black Summer will definitely deliver.
5. All of Us Are Dead
Where to watch: Netflix
If you ever wondered what a zombie apocalypse would look like inside a high school, this South Korean hit gives you the answer—and it’s both terrifying and addictive. All of Us Are Dead blends teenage drama with relentless horror, creating a show that feels fresh and emotional while still packed with bloody intensity.
The story begins when a science experiment goes horribly wrong, unleashing a virus that quickly spreads through the school. Students are forced to band together, facing life-or-death decisions as they fight for survival against classmates turned monsters. With its mix of youthful perspective and high-stakes suspense, this series stands out as one of Netflix’s best international zombie offerings. Season 1 is already available, and a second season is currently in development.
These five shows prove that while The Walking Dead may always reign as the king of post-apocalyptic TV, it’s not alone in delivering gripping tales of survival, loss, and humanity’s struggle against the undead. Whether you want emotional depth, political intrigue, or sheer chaos, there’s something here for every TWD fan itching for their next obsession.
