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Shows Like House of Cards

What to Watch After House of Cards

From Capitol Shadows to Crime‑Laced Corridors: Four Must‑Watch Picks for Power‑Hungry Viewers

If you’re still haunted by the cold, calculated climb of Frank Underwood, you’ll find a fresh set of power‑hungry narratives waiting to satisfy that appetite. From the freshly minted "Death by Lightning"—a tense retelling of a presidential assassination—to the razor‑sharp satire of "House of Lies," the ever‑popular political thriller "Scandal," and the dark, family‑driven crime drama "Ozark," each recommendation brings a distinct flavor while staying firmly in the realm of ruthless ambition.

Together they map a spectrum of intrigue: a recent, historically grounded drama that mirrors the cut‑throat politics of Washington; a witty, audience‑favorite series that turns corporate scheming into comedy; a beloved, fast‑paced thriller that captures the very essence of political manipulation; and a critically acclaimed, gritty saga that translates the pursuit of power into a high‑stakes criminal enterprise. Whether you crave fresh storytelling, sharp satire, familiar thrills, or timeless tension, this quartet offers a compelling roadmap for anyone who loved the dark corridors of "House of Cards."

TV Series Recommendations

New Releases Only

These are the best shows similar to House of Cards.

Death by Lightning

Death by Lightning

TV Series · 2025

drama · crime

This newly released miniseries dives into a historic presidential assassination, echoing House of Cards' ruthless political intrigue while offering a fresh, contemporary lens on power and its deadly consequences.

The story of James Garfield, who rose from obscurity to become America's 20th President — and Charles Guiteau, the man who assassinated him.


House of Lies

House of Lies

TV Series · 2012

comedy · drama

A sharp, satirical look at cut‑throat consulting, this fan‑favorite blends dark ambition with humor, appealing to viewers who love House of Cards' scheming characters but crave a lighter, witty tone.

Charming, fast talking Marty Kaan and his crack team of management consultants know how to play the corporate game better than anyone, by using every dirty trick in the book to woo powerful CEOs and close huge deals. In the board rooms, barrooms, and bedrooms of the power elite, corruption is business as usual and everyone's out for themselves first. Nothing is sacred in this scathing, irreverent satire of corporate America today.


Scandal

Scandal

TV Series · 2012

drama

Scandal delivers a tight, audience‑loved match with its political power plays, betrayals and media manipulation, making it the closest thematic cousin to the ruthless world of Frank Underwood.

Everyone has secrets and Olivia Pope has dedicated her life to protecting and defending the public images of the elite by keeping those secrets under wraps. Pope and her team are at the top of their game when it comes to getting the job done for their clients, but it becomes apparent that these "gladiators in suits," who specialize in fixing the lives of other people, have trouble fixing those closest at hand -- their own.


Ozark

Ozark

TV Series · 2017

crime · drama

Ozark’s gritty, morally ambiguous saga of money laundering and survival offers a timeless, critically praised experience that resonates with House of Cards’ dark tone and complex power dynamics.

A financial adviser drags his family from Chicago to the Missouri Ozarks, where he must launder $500 million in five years to appease a drug boss.

More from the cast of House of Cards

Looking for familiar faces? These picks include performers connected to House of Cards.

The Girlfriend

TV Series · 2025

This psychological thriller drama mirrors the political intrigue and manipulative power dynamics of House of Cards, offering a tense, character‑driven story that showcases Wright’s strong lead performance.

Empire Falls

TV Series · 2005

While more subdued, this drama miniseries explores complex family and community power struggles reminiscent of House of Cards, highlighting Wright’s ability to anchor emotionally layered narratives.
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