Crime & Morality:
* The Wire: A gritty and realistic look at the drug trade and its impact on Baltimore, with complex characters and a focus on social commentary.
* Narcos: Explores the rise and fall of notorious drug lords, like Pablo Escobar, with a focus on historical events and international intrigue.
* Ozark: A family-driven drama about a financial advisor who must launder money for a cartel, delving into the dark side of human nature and the consequences of bad choices.
* Better Call Saul: A prequel to Breaking Bad, following the transformation of Saul Goodman from a struggling lawyer to a ruthless criminal defense attorney.
* Fargo: An anthology series inspired by the Coen brothers' film, each season with a different story featuring dark humor, crime, and bizarre characters.
Chemistry & Science Fiction:
* Battlestar Galactica: A sci-fi series where humanity is forced to flee a robotic threat, exploring themes of survival, faith, and political intrigue.
* The Expanse: A space opera that combines hard science with political thriller elements, focusing on the conflict between Earth, Mars, and the outer planets.
Anti-heroes & Character Studies:
* Mad Men: A period drama following the lives of advertising executives in the 1960s, exploring themes of ambition, morality, and societal change.
* The Sopranos: A groundbreaking drama about a New Jersey mob boss, exploring the complex inner life of a criminal and his family.
* House of Cards: A political thriller focusing on a ruthless politician who manipulates his way to power, with a focus on ambition and corruption.
Dark Humor & Tension:
* Fargo: As mentioned above, its dark humor and unpredictable plotlines are reminiscent of Breaking Bad.
* Mr. Robot: A cyber thriller about a brilliant hacker who tries to take down a corrupt corporation, exploring themes of social justice and the nature of reality.
* Black Mirror: A dystopian anthology series that examines the dark side of technology and its impact on human nature, with a focus on social commentary and unsettling scenarios.
Ultimately, the best show similar to Breaking Bad depends on your individual preferences. Consider what aspects of Breaking Bad you enjoyed the most and explore shows that share those elements.