5 Shows Like Tell Me Lies You Need to Watch

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Are you still reeling from the emotional roller coaster of the recently released Tell Me Lies season 2 and eagerly awaiting the third one? Thousands of viewers — just like you — are drawn to the show’s raw portrayal of complicated relationships, psychological tension and unfiltered vulnerability. The producers promise a third season soon. However, there’s no official premiere date yet. Considering the two-year gap between the first and second seasons, fans can only speculate. In the meantime, here are five shows like Tell Me Lies that fill the hole in your viewing schedule.

Must-Watch Shows That Capture the “Tell Me Lies” Essence

The rise of authentic, character-driven stories reveals a significant shift in TV productions and audience preferences. More than 50% of Americans prefer dramas that skillfully intertwine psychological depth with high-stakes romance and everyday issues.

This explains why Tell Me Lies recorded a viewership demand of 14 times the average show in the U.S., making it to the 98.2nd percentile in the drama genre — a feat achieved by only 2.7% of all shows in the market. With that in mind, these five must-watch shows similar to Tell Me Lies — while we wait for the third sequel.

1. Big Little Lies — Twisted Drama

While tonally different, HBO’s critically acclaimed American black comedy drama offers a similar blend of interpersonal complexity and emotional depth. With powerhouse performances from Reese Witherspoon and Nicole Kidman, it provides a mature yet equally compelling narrative about relationships and consequences.

“Big Little Lies” takes a more ensemble approach, exploring how personal secrets, community dynamics and hidden traumas intersect. Centered around a group of women entangled in secrets, betrayals and unexpected alliances, this show challenges traditional narratives while celebrating female empowerment. It’s a masterful examination of female friendship, domestic violence and the masks people wear in public versus in private realities.

The Emmy-winning show stands out as a masterpiece of drama and mystery. It goes beyond traditional drama by addressing serious themes like sexual assault, emotional abuse and community complicity. While this complex narrative refuses simplistic resolutions, it tears through these “unspeakable topics” with poised humor.

If you’re the kind who loves to still go through the print either before or after the screen version, get Liane Moriarty’s paperback Big Little Lies on Amazon.

After a five-year plus hiatus, fans thought they’d seen the last of the star-studded squad, but word really close to the grapevine predicts a third season soon. Nicole Kidman, amongst other cast members, has hinted at something in the works.

2. Sex/Life — Passion and Personal Discovery

Not all crashes cause amnesia. Some revive steamy memories. That said, this is one you should definitely not watch with your parents.

Netflix’s provocative series explores themes of desire, commitment and self-identity in ways that will resonate with “Tell Me Lies” fans. Sex/Life doesn’t shy away from showing the toxic, complicated nature of modern relationships.

“Sex/Life” stands out for its frank exploration of female desire and sexual fantasy — challenging traditional notions about motherhood, marriage, social relationships and personal fulfillment. The protagonist’s journey reflects many women’s experiences of feeling caught between societal expectations and personal yearnings. Its unapologetic examination of modern sexuality and the conflicts between fantasy and reality make it a bold and adventurous pick.

Why You’ll Love It:

• Provocative themes: The show doesn’t shy away from unveiling uncharted territories of desire, marriage and the complexities of intimate relationships.
• Complex cast: With multi-dimensional characters caught between past passions and present realities, the provocative storytelling and intricate character arcs are both daring and relatable.
• Relevance in the current day: In an era where dialogue about female desire and autonomy are more relevant than ever, Sex/Life is a contemporary take that is both refreshing and challenging. Unlike widespread misconceptions, it is not always the man who’s sexually unfulfilled in marriage — a fact that’s more typical in modern marriages than most people realize.

For viewers seeking shows that break the mold, Sex/Life is an electrifying option.

3. Normal People — The Chef-d’oeuvre of Intimate Tales

Hulu’s 2020 adaptation of Sally Rooney’s novel mirrors “Tell Me Lies” in its raw, unfiltered complexities of love and self-discovery. The series takes a nose dive deep into the microscopic interactions that define human connections.

Following Marianne and Connell’s tumultuous relationship, this series explores the beauty and the challenges two people experience trying to navigate the unpredictable landscape of intimacy and ambition, as well as the personal transformation that comes along.

The show also brilliantly explores themes of class, identity and emotional communication. It’s a profound reflection on how backgrounds, traumas, personal histories and even health shape people’s ability to bond with others.

While there’s no second season, Normal People has been hailed as one of the best limited series. Performances by Daisy Edgar-Jones (Marianne) and Paul Mescal (Connell) have been praised for their incredible ability to portray the subtle power dynamics, insecurities and tender moments that define young love. Who knows, there could be a follow-up season sometime in the near future, according to Lenny Abrahamson, one of Normal People’s producers.

4. Conversations with Friends — Another Sally Rooney Gem

Here’s another one that shares DNA with “Tell Me Lies,” Conversations with Friends probes into complicated romantic dynamics with the exact unflinching honesty. Centralled around a ménage à quatre, the characters navigate complex emotional territories, making it a perfect companion for fans of fine romance storytelling.

Take a peek into polyamorous relationships, personal growth and the blurry lines between friendship and non-traditional romantic love in this remarkably sophisticated depiction of the Irish writer’s 2017 novel. It conveys the messy, often contradictory nature of human emotions and actions — a series that simply refuses to provide easy answers.

While there are 12 episodes worth of incredible viewership, there is no sequel to this Rooney adaptation as well. However, it is understandable, given that the book it’s based on is only 336 pages long, which was covered in the first season.

5. Little Fires Everywhere

Little Fires Everywhere presents a beautifully complex portrait of family dynamics, societal expectations and the ripple effects of secrets. This series elicits emotional authenticity in a rich story that examines how personal choices intersect with broader cultural issues.

Based on Celeste Ng’s critically acclaimed novel, this psychological drama challenges conventional roles, encouraging viewers to question societal norms. Women audiences will particularly appreciate the layered storytelling, the multifaceted nature of its characters and the series’ focus on empowerment intertwined with the struggle for individuality. 

Little Fires Everywhere is an ideal match for those after the intensity of a show like Tell Me Lies. The next time the girls are hanging out at yours, go beyond the usual spa treats or neighborhood gossip. Host a movie night. Here’s a title you can’t go wrong with, plus it’s binge-ready as there’s only one eight-episode season.

You can also find “Little Fires Everywhere: A Novel” by Celeste Ng on Amazon.

Pick Your Next Binge While You Await the Third Season of Tell Me Lies

While we wait for the third installment of Lucy and Stephen’s story, these TV series should do a good job of keeping you company. Every story you explore adds a new layer to your understanding of love, identity and the power of narrative. Bold, intricate and unapologetically real, these shows remind us that sometimes the most compelling stories are the ones that mirror our own multifaceted lives.

Whether you’re seeking passionate drama, emotional depth, a series that feels true to modern relationship experiences or simply entertainment, you’re guaranteed to find something that speaks to you. Prepare to be completely absorbed!