Being taken against your will is a nightmare that sends shivers down the spine of every parent and grown-up. Shows that revolve around this bone-chilling theme have an uncanny ability to grab hold of our emotions and keep us spellbound. We can’t help but wonder if the captured individuals will find a way to break free and if their captors will face their comeuppance. The world of kidnapping on TV is an exhilarating one, whether it takes center stage in a series or simply plays a significant part in a season. These gripping shows can be found in various genres, defying the boundaries of just crime dramas.
Although there are numerous shows exploring the dark realm of kidnapping, the ones that truly leave us on the edge of our seats often involve grown-up abductions rather than children. Take NBC’s “Kidnapped,” for instance, a series that delves into a fresh kidnapping case each season, with law enforcement sparing no effort to crack the case wide open. Other beloved crime shows like “Sherlock” also weave kidnapping tales into their intricate plots, sometimes taking center stage. Regardless of your tastes, this list offers a treasure trove of thrilling shows that are guaranteed to keep you thoroughly engaged.
If you’re yearning for more captivating TV shows featuring the art of abduction, this list is a goldmine waiting to be explored. So dive right in, and prepare to be swept away by these gripping tales. Discover your favorites from this decade and witness how they stack up against their peers.
1. Thirteen
Get ready for a bone-chilling story. It’s about this young woman who was kidnapped when she was just a teenager. Can you imagine? She was held captive for a mind-boggling 13 years! But here’s the kicker: she managed to escape from her abductor.
Now, you’d think her return home would be cause for celebration, right? Wrong. It turns out her arrival actually shattered the newfound peace that her family had been enjoying. They’re all questioning her story now, and it’s causing some serious turmoil. And guess what? Dark secrets are starting to come out of the woodwork.
If you’re up for an intense series, this one’s for you. It’ll take you on a thrilling ride into the unsettling reality faced by kidnapping victims and their families. Get ready to be hooked!
Actors: Jodie Comer, Aneurin Barnard, Valene Kane
Premiered: February 28, 2016
2. NOS4A2
Step into a supernatural thriller where a creepy figure snatches innocent children and takes them to a spine-chilling place known as “Christmasland.” But hold up, our main character has a special power that allows them to hunt this villain down. They embark on a perilous journey to save the kidnapped kids. This eerie and gripping adaptation of Joe Hill’s novel will have you hooked, anxiously awaiting every bone-chilling surprise.
Actors: Zachary Quinto, Ashleigh Cummings, Ólafur Darri Ólafsson, Jahkara J. Smith, Ebon Moss-Bachrach
Premiered: June 2, 2019
3. Kidnapped
In this thrilling series, wealthy parents find themselves in a high-stakes race against time to save their teenage son from ruthless kidnappers. With its expertly woven multiple perspectives and characters, the show effectively portrays the emotional, psychological, and physical toll of abduction. Prepare to be on the edge of your seat as this nail-biting series keeps the tension at an all-time high. Whether you’re a die-hard thriller fan or just looking for an intense and satisfying watch, this show is sure to deliver.
Actors: Jeremy Sisto, Delroy Lindo, Dana Delany, Timothy Hutton, Mykelti Williamson
Premiered: September 20, 2006
4. Alert: Missing Persons Unit
Step into the realm of a top-notch police unit that excels in tracking down missing individuals in real-time. Get ready to witness their adrenaline-pumping missions as they race against time to find each person before it’s too late. Prepare to delve into the intriguing world of investigative techniques employed by these experts in a gripping series that will keep you on the edge of your seat, episode after episode.
Actors: Scott Caan, Dania Ramirez, Adeola Role, Ryan Broussard, Graham Verchere
Premiered: January 8, 2023
5. Sherlock
Come and see the brilliant detective we all adore as he solves the most complex kidnapping cases. In each episode, you’ll be faced with mind-boggling puzzles and clever hints, while Holmes and Watson scramble to rescue innocent victims before it’s too late. The show’s outstanding performances and unique twist on a beloved literary masterpiece make it a must-see for fans of mystery and Sherlock Holmes.
Actors: Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Andrew Scott, Vinette Robinson, Tanya Moodie
Premiered: July 25, 2010
6. Finding Carter
This captivating family drama centers around a teenager who uncovers a shocking truth: her entire life has been a lie. As a child, she was abducted, and now she must navigate the challenges of adjusting to her biological family while unraveling the mysteries of her past. With a delicate balance between family values and hidden secrets, this addictive series will captivate you from start to finish.
Actors: Kathryn Prescott, Cynthia Watros, Alexis Denisof, Anna Jacoby-Heron, Milena Govich
Premiered: July 8, 2014
7. Ransom
Step into the intense and high-stakes realm of crisis negotiation, where the pressure is constantly on to rescue kidnap victims. Get ready to delve into the minds of both negotiators and kidnappers as they engage in a psychological battle of wits. This gripping series will keep you on the edge of your seat, captivated by the suspense and in awe of these real-life heroes.
Actors: Luke Roberts, Brandon Jay McLaren, Nazneen Contractor, Karen LeBlanc, Sarah Greene
Premiered: January 1, 2017
8. The Missing
This anthology series delves deep into the heartache endured by families of abducted children. It takes us on an emotional journey, exploring the aftermath they face and their tireless search for answers. With each new season, we are introduced to a different, yet equally harrowing, tale of loss, secrets, and the relentless pursuit of closure. It’s a profoundly impactful series that leaves a lasting impression, lingering in your thoughts long after you’ve finished watching.
Actors: Tchéky Karyo, David Morrissey, Keeley Hawes, Roger Allam, Laura Fraser
Premiered: October 28, 2014
9. Safe
In a quiet suburban neighborhood, a man’s daughter mysteriously disappears. As the search for her unfolds, dark secrets about the residents’ lives begin to emerge. This gripping thriller hooks audiences, revealing the extreme measures individuals are willing to take to safeguard their hidden truths. With its unexpected plot twists and an ominous atmosphere, this film is a must-watch for those craving suspense and mystery.
Actors: Michael C. Hall, Amanda Abbington, Emmett Scanlan, Audrey Fleurot, Marc Warren
Premiered: May 10, 2018
10. The Family
Meet this seemingly ordinary family whose life takes an eerie turn when their presumed-dead son unexpectedly returns home. As he tries to readjust to family life, they begin to unravel a startling realization that things may not be what they appear, especially with their prodigal son. Brace yourself for this gripping series that artfully combines mind-bending secrets, suspenseful storytelling, and stellar performances that will keep you on the edge, constantly second-guessing what you think you know.
Actors: Joan Allen, Alison Pill, Margot Bingham, Zach Gilford, Liam James
Premiered: March 3, 2016
11. Lost
Lost, the popular TV show, is famous for its depiction of survivors stuck on a puzzling island. But it goes beyond that, delving into the intricate psychology and emotional turmoil of abduction. With a diverse cast of characters whose lives are intertwined, the series touches on powerful themes like loss, redemption, and sacrifice. You’ll be captivated by Lost’s compelling storytelling, which will keep you hooked on its unforgettable journey.
Actors: Naveen Andrews, Nestor Carbonell, Emilie de Ravin, Michael Emerson, Jeff Fahey
Premiered: September 22, 2004