It's every parent's greatest fear and every adult's biggest nightmare: kidnapping. TV shows about kidnapping tear at our hearts and make us want to see what happens next. Will the kidnapped ever get free and will their captors get what's coming to them? Whether or not a kidnapping is central to the plot of a TV series or it becomes a major issue within a season, TV shows about kidnapping make for some compelling television. While some of the best shows about kidnapping are typically popular crime dramas, abduction shows span other genres. Of the many shows about kidnapping, most of the truly harrowing ones are about adult kidnappings instead of kids. Shows like NBC's Kidnapped tracks a new kidnapping each season with the people behind law enforcement working tirelessly to solve the crime. Then you have top crime shows like Sherlock that aren't always about kidnapping, but do often center them heavily in the plot. Whatever your interest in the genre, there's definitely a recommendation or two on this list you will enjoy watching. For more recommendations on good kidnapping TV shows, browse this list - then vote up the kidnapping shows you think are the best of the decade and see where your favorite shows about abduction rank.
Tap upor downto vote. Your vote is added to Ranker's counts.
Voting identifies your browser with an anonymous fingerprint, stored only as a salted hash, to count one per visitor. Privacy
Source: Ranker, ranked by its voters.
A chilling tale about a young woman, abducted as a teenager and held captive for 13 years, finally escaping her captor. Her return home shatters the newfound peace of her family, as they begin to question her story and dark secrets begin to unravel. Watch as this gripping series takes you on a thrilling ride into the disturbing reality faced by kidnapping victims and their families.
Join an elite FBI task force as they dedicate their lives to solving missing person cases. With expert teamwork and determination, they strive to find the victims and uncover the truth behind their abductions. Gripping and emotional, this series will have you on the edge of your seat, rooting for the safe return of the missing individuals.
Witness the genius detective we all know and love unravel some of the most convoluted abduction cases. Each episode challenges viewers' minds with intricate puzzles and clever clues, as Holmes and Watson race to find hapless victims before time runs out. The show's superb acting and fresh take on a literary classic make it a must-watch for fans of both mysteries and Sherlock Holmes lore.
Set in a small Texas town during the 1990s, this captivating series chronicles the struggles of two teenage girls – one kidnapped while the other takes her place as the town's darling. Told from alternating perspectives, this psychological thriller interweaves deception, dark secrets, and shifting alliances in a clever “he said, she said” narrative that batters the tension into a frenzy.
When one man's daughter goes missing in a quiet suburban neighborhood, sinister truths about the residents' lives come to surface. This compelling thriller captivates audiences while illustrating the lengths people are willing to go to protect their secrets. Filled with unexpected plot twists and a brooding atmosphere, it's a must-watch for anyone seeking tension and intrigue.
Delving into the heartache experienced by families of abducted children, this anthology series explores the emotional aftermath and tireless search for answers. Each season introduces viewers to a new, harrowing tale of loss, secrets, and the unrelenting quest for closure. It's a profound series that stays with you long after you've finished viewing.
This mind-bending sci-fi thriller explores the abduction of two children in a small German town and its connection to the disappearance of several others across different timelines. A unique blend of abduction mystery and time-travel puzzle, this wildly engrossing series delves deep into the intricacies of human nature and the complexities of time. Prepare to be fully immersed and confused in equal measure.
Caught up in a sinister game of cat and mouse, the family of a man kidnapped live on social media scrambles desperately to save his life. This addictive thriller will have you examining the darker side of technology and the consequences of viral fame, as it seamlessly blends fast-paced storytelling with intense character development.
Embark on a high-stakes race against time as wealthy parents fight to rescue their teenage son from ruthless kidnappers. This nail-biting series expertly weaves multiple perspectives and characters while illustrating the emotional, psychological, and physical toll of abduction. A show that keeps tension at an all-time high, it's sure to satisfy even the most discerning thriller fan.
Follow two private investigators as they uncover a vast conspiracy surrounding the disappearance of young women in a remote Montana town. Set against the backdrop of the sweeping American West, this tense crime thriller connects the dots between abduction, highway prostitution, and drug trafficking, leaving audiences eagerly awaiting the show's duplicitous twists and turns.
Although primarily renowned for its portrayal of survivors stranded on a mysterious island, the show delves deep into the psychological and emotional complexities of abduction. Through an ensemble of characters with entwined backgrounds, the series explores themes such as loss, redemption, and sacrifice. Lost’s engaging storytelling will hold your interest throughout its unforgettable journey.
Enter the world of an elite police unit specialized in locating missing individuals in real-time. Follow their heart-stopping missions as they race against the clock to locate each person before it's too late. Discover the different methods investigators employ to solve these cases in a captivating series that keeps you at the edge of your seat, episode after episode.
Meet a seemingly ordinary family whose life takes an eerie turn after a presumed-dead son returns home suddenly. As he struggles to fit back into the family, they slowly uncover that everything may not be as it seems – especially with their prodigal son. This gripping series weaves together shocking secrets, suspenseful writing, and outstanding performances that'll keep you guessing.
Based on a true story, this chilling miniseries follows the prolonged abduction of a young woman by a seemingly trustworthy family friend. Painting a disturbing portrait of manipulation and Stockholm Syndrome, the show exposes the long-lasting effects such a harrowing ordeal can have on both the victim and her family. Bold storytelling and stellar performances make this unnerving series a must-watch.
This compelling family drama revolves around a teenager discovering her entire life was a lie – she was abducted as a child. The story portrays her struggle to adapt to her biological family while trying to untangle the truth behind her upbringing. Toeing the line between family values and dark secrets, this addictive series will keep you hooked until the very end.
Follow a driven detective as she hunts for the truth behind the kidnapping of a young girl. Uncovering a complex web of deceit, corruption, and dark secrets, she's committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice. This intense thriller combines high-stakes drama with compelling character arcs, making for a truly gripping viewing experience.
Based on the beloved fantasy trilogy, this series transports viewers to a parallel world where children are being mysteriously abducted by a sinister organization. Our courageous heroine embarks on a danger-filled journey to rescue her best friend and uncover the dark secrets behind these kidnappings. Visually stunning and emotionally engaging, this adaptation will captivate fans of the books and newcomers alike.
Delve into the raw and chilling world of human trafficking in this miniseries offering an unflinching look at the lives of victims and those who fight to save them. Spanning across multiple continents and weaving together different storylines, the show exposes the merciless underbelly of the global trafficking network. Heartbreaking yet gripping, the series demands your empathy while chilling you to the bone.
Discover a true-crime podcast unraveling the chilling case of a notorious serial kidnapper who confesses to his crimes in the face of overwhelming evidence. Through interviews, archival recordings, and investigative journalism, each episode sheds new light on the man behind the abductions and his motivations. Deftly balancing suspense and empathy, The Clearing exposes the multifaceted aspects of humanity, including the darkest parts that reside within every individual.
Delve into the life of a dedicated police sergeant investigating kidnappings in a once idyllic Yorkshire town. Balancing personal heartache and professional responsibility, we follow this tenacious heroine as she confronts dangerous criminals and dark family secrets. Combining morbid themes with moments of genuine warmth, Happy Valley is perfect for those seeking a chilling and heartfelt thriller.
Dive into the high-stakes world of crisis negotiation, where the clock is always ticking for kidnap victims. Explore both sides of the bargaining table and witness the psychological battle of wits between negotiators and kidnappers. Suspenseful and engrossing, this series is bound to capture your attention and admiration for these real-life heroes.
Venture into the world of cold cases and unsolved abductions in this gripping and poignant docuseries. By shedding new light on old investigations, they aim to spark renewed public interest, tips, and ultimately further the quest for justice. Coupling fresh perspectives with raw emotion, Still a Mystery proves that even the coldest cases still burn with fervent hope.
Based on the infamous kidnapping of oil heir John Paul Getty III, the series delves into the dark and twisted world inhabited by the wealthy. Explore the greed, manipulation, and betrayals in this riveting drama that depicts a family torn apart by unthinkable actions. Beautifully shot and brilliantly acted, it's a captivating portrayal of the chilling true story.
This riveting drama focuses on a desperate TV producer whose daughter suddenly vanishes from their home in the middle of the night. In the following ten days, her frantic search for the truth leads her down a treacherous path littered with deception, betrayal, and hidden agendas. Prepare for an emotional rollercoaster, as twists and turns abound in this enthralling tale of abduction.
Witness an unlikely hero emerge from the dreary landscape of Soviet Estonia, fighting against all odds to save kidnapped children from their captors. With its unique setting and strong female lead, this gripping thriller will spark intrigue and empathy within the hearts of its viewers. The Snow Girl manages to weave a compelling tale of abduction and redemption against an unforgettable historical backdrop.
Delve into a supernatural thriller where a sinister figure abducts children, whisking them away to a terrifying place called "Christmasland." However, our protagonist possesses a unique ability to track him and sets out on a dangerous mission to rescue the missing kids. This eerie yet captivating adaptation of Joe Hill's novel will keep viewers glued to their screens, eagerly awaiting each chilling twist and turn.
Explosive and adrenaline-pumping, this series delves into the terrifying world of a high school bus hijacking gone wrong. As the best and brightest students are abducted by an elite tactical team, the audience is left to grapple with deep moral dilemmas and breathless suspense. Crisis offers a thrilling glimpse into a nightmarish scenario that often stays locked behind closed doors.
Welcome to a seemingly idyllic community where the chilling revelation of a child's kidnapping quickly unravels the dark secrets lurking beneath its perfect facade. As neighbors turn on each other and trust is shattered, the story hurtles toward a stunning climax that will leave you questioning your own reality. Brace yourself for this seductive psychological thriller that reveals the depths to which human depravity can sink.
Enter the gritty world of hostage-taking incidents, where victims struggle to survive and negotiators try to end conflicts peacefully. This docuseries offers a unique window into real-life abduction crises, showcasing both sides of the story and shedding light on the psychology of captors and captives. Prepare to be riveted by heart-wrenching narratives and dramatic reenactments in this eye-opening series.
Watch as a young woman suffering from amnesia finds herself at the center of a mysterious disappearance case. Delving deep into the labyrinth of her fractured memories, she struggles to piece together the truth before time runs out. This mind-bending series masterfully intertwines psychological thrills with a compelling abduction mystery, ensuring you won't want to miss a minute.
Witness a harrowing double abduction investigation as a hardened detective is determined to find two missing teenagers at any cost. Set against the backdrop of a fading coastal town, this engrossing crime drama deftly unravels expertly crafted subplots and intricate character development, drawing you into its murky depths with each passing scene.
Experience the never-before-told tale of American heiress Patty Hearst's 1974 abduction by the domestic terrorist group "Symbionese Liberation Army." Blending historical footage with haunting reenactments, this riveting docuseries delves deep into the psychological depths of a young woman forced to choose between loyalty and survival. A fascinating insight into a dark and complex saga.
This slow-burning psychological thriller follows two sisters who find themselves entangled in a web of deceit after a neighborhood child vanishes. As their lives spiral into chaos, they must confront painful traumas and disturbing lies that have long festered beneath the surface. Powerful performances and chilling suspense make this series a gripping depiction of the darker side of suburban life.
Set against the atmospheric backdrop of a small town, this dark comedy-drama follows a group of eccentric locals whose lives become intertwined after a young woman disappears without a trace. As they race to unravel the truth behind her kidnapping, they uncover a series of twisted secrets and tangled allegiances. With its heady mix of suspense, humor, and unforgettable characters, Leopard Skin promises hours of entertainment.
Follow the heart-wrenching stories of long-lost children reunited with their families years, even decades after their abductions. This emotional docuseries explores the profound impact these reunions can have on the lives of both victims and their loved ones. With a powerful mix of real-life testimonies and expert analysis, The Missing promises to move you to tears and remind you of the enduring power of hope.
Explore a twisted web of deceit and betrayal in this gripping series that follows a group of friends caught up in a high-stakes kidnapping. With each new episode peeling back layers of dark secrets and hidden loyalties, Suspicion will have you perpetually guessing who can be trusted and who is hiding a sinister agenda. Dive in for an adrenaline-fueled rollercoaster ride that will keep you on your toes until the very end.
Dive into the terrifying world of a young hacker who uses her skills to hunt down a ruthless cyberstalker abducting women via an dating app. As the stakes become increasingly personal, our protagonist becomes more desperate to catch the elusive kidnapper behind it all. Combining cutting-edge technology with heart-pounding suspense, this show offers a captivating insight into modern-day fears of online threats and predators.
Venture into the perplexing world of unsolved cases with this Norwegian true-crime documentary exploring the baffling 2018 disappearance of wealthy investor Anne-Elisabeth Hagen. With unique access to key individuals and intricate details, this chilling account delves into the possible motives, theories, and suspects, leaving viewers utterly captivated by a perplexing whodunit full of twists and turns.
Venture deep into the wilds of Australia as an ex-cop investigates his former partner's disappearance and becomes embroiled in a dangerous conspiracy. Stunning landscapes, complex characters, and a thrilling abduction mystery combine to create a riveting viewing experience that will have you gripped from beginning to end. Escape into the adventure of Troppo and let its compelling story sweep you away.
Venture to a seemingly idyllic town hiding a secret so sinister that it got the show yanked off the air. As children continue to vanish, a brooding darkness descends, threatening to unravel the townspeople's perfect lives. With its multifaceted characters and eerie atmosphere, Happy Town is a creepy, enigmatic series perfect for anyone craving chills up their spine.
Catch a gripping courtroom drama revolving around the trial of a terrifying abductor, as lawyers battle to prove his guilt and seek justice for his victims. Meticulously crafted arguments, intense interrogations, and nail-biting tension keep viewers hooked in this dramatic testament to the relentlessness of truth-seeking. A show that'll have you on the edge of your seat, eagerly awaiting the next revelation.
Set in a volatile warzone, this gripping series follows a skilled US scientist who goes missing under mysterious circumstances. As an elite team sets out on a daring mission to rescue him, covert operations and hidden agendas collide, creating a tense and thrilling viewing experience. Combing action-packed scenes with chilling suspense, this show promises to keep you on the edge of your seat.
Step into the perilous world of kidnap-for-ransom negotiations, as a master negotiator employs his skills to rescue victims held captive in dangerous locations around the world. Balancing intense peril with human drama, this series offers a gripping insight into the high-risk maneuvers undertaken in these life-or-death situations. Expect your heart to race as you follow each nail-biting episode.
Investigate the intriguing case of a missing girl alongside an amateur sleuth using augmented reality technology to uncover hidden clues. This innovative and immersive series combines elements of detective work, cutting-edge technology, and an engrossing abduction mystery to create a thrillingly unique viewer experience. Ludik is a refreshing and exhilarating ride you won't want to miss.
Following the hapless protagonist as she awakens in a cramped cell with no recollection of her past, viewers embark on a tense journey of survival and discovery. Combining psychological terror with an inventive, nonlinear narrative, this chilling series delves deftly into themes of identity, memory, and the worst consequences of human nature. Anna offers a harrowing and gripping tale that promises to challenge your perceptions and stay with you long after the final credits roll.
Set against the stunning South African landscape, this enthralling crime drama follows the tenacious eponymous profiler as she tracks down a serial kidnapper with personal ties to her past. With its rich atmosphere, gripping plotlines, and dynamic protagonist, Reyka takes you on a thrilling ride that is equal parts haunting and compelling.
Pairing a mismatched duo of detectives, this delightful crime series sees them solve puzzling cases, including baffling kidnappings, in the picturesque British city of Bath. With its blend of brains and wit, engaging characters, and thrilling mysteries, McDonald & Dodds offers a refreshing escape into a wittily captivating realm of intrigue and deduction.
Step into the gritty and morally complex world of an Irish police officer who becomes embroiled in a high-profile kidnapping case. As personal and professional boundaries blur, viewers are thrown headlong into a captivating narrative filled with agonizing moral dilemmas and heart-pounding suspense. Delving deep into themes of loyalty, betrayal, and sacrifice, Crime promises to leave a lasting impression on its audience.
Dive into this engrossing true-crime docuseries exploring the unsolved abduction and murder of a young woman, and the shadowy figure her family believes is responsible. With exhaustive research, haunting reenactments, and emotional interviews, each episode painfully chronicles the steps taken to uncover the truth and bring a sinister killer to justice. Monster In The Shadows will tug at your heartstrings and fuel your desire for justice and closure.
