10 Best Shows to Binge on Netflix in October 2025

While many people search for scary movies in October, Netflix doesn’t have a huge selection. Luckily, it’s also a great time for TV shows, and Netflix understands what its viewers enjoy. They’re releasing new episodes of popular series, and adding older shows to their library – many of which happen to be perfect for the Halloween season, though spooky themes aren’t a requirement.

I’ve been checking out what’s new on Netflix, and let me tell you, there are some real gems this month! Some are brand new to the platform, others were quietly waiting to be discovered, and a bunch of my favorites are returning with fresh episodes. It’s the perfect time to start watching – or catch up – and get completely hooked, because you won’t want to miss what happens next!

10) The Diplomat

Netflix has experimented with political thrillers since becoming a TV show producer, but *The Diplomat* is their most accomplished attempt so far. The show isn’t just based on current events; it connects the complex international storylines to the personal lives of the characters, making it both easy to follow and incredibly engaging.

Keri Russell’s captivating performance as a US ambassador in the UK is what truly elevates *The Diplomat*. She makes even the show’s more outlandish plot points feel significant and engaging. Luckily, both seasons are already available to stream on Netflix, and a third set of episodes will be released on October 16th, giving viewers plenty to enjoy.

9) Evil

If you enjoyed *The X-Files* and want something similar but updated and easier to fit into your schedule, check out *Evil*. It’s got intriguing supernatural mysteries, but what really makes it stand out is its funny take on demons and modern life. *Evil* introduces a new monster each week, all while building a larger story that’s perfect for watching all at once.

While the impressive makeup and creature effects in *Evil* are worth checking out, the show’s strongest point is its writing. It skillfully balances intelligent drama, a spooky ‘monster of the week’ format, and genuinely funny characters – a difficult combination it often nails. It’s a scary, funny, and delightfully creepy show, making it perfect for watching on a cool autumn evening.

However, there’s a catch: while there are four seasons of *Evil*, the last season is exclusively available on Paramount+.

8) Haunted Hotel

Created by Matt Roller and featuring collaborators from *Rick and Morty* like Dan Harmon & Chris McKenna, *Haunted Hotel* is a funny animated series about a family who runs a haunted hotel – and all the crazy problems that come with it. With Will Forte and Skyler Gisondo providing voices, the show quickly builds a unique and fast-paced comedic world with a joke coming every few seconds.

If you love the spooky look and feel of horror movies but prefer minimal frights, then Haunted Hotel is worth checking out. All 10 episodes are now available on Netflix, and the show has already been renewed for a second season – great news for viewers!

7) The Haunting of Hill House

Since its release, *The Haunting of Hill House* launched Mike Flanagan as Netflix’s go-to horror creator. Inspired by Shirley Jackson’s novel, the series uses two sets of actors – one for the characters’ younger years and one for the present – to tell a multi-generational story. It expertly blends frightening scenes, deeply emotional moments, and unique set designs that both feel new and pay homage to traditional gothic horror.

Let me tell you, watching *The Haunting of Hill House* is a genuinely creepy experience, and it’s made even better by the subtle ghosts hidden throughout. Once you spot your first one, you’ll be scanning every room, desperate to find the rest! But honestly? Don’t get *too* caught up in the ghost hunt. The real strength of this show lies in its incredibly well-developed characters. My advice? Relax and let the ghosts come to *you* – and pay attention to the people on screen, because their stories are what truly haunt you.

6) Interview With the Vampire

Don’t assume you already know what happens. AMC’s *Interview With the Vampire* series significantly updates the original story, and even when changes are made due to practical concerns, they’re handled thoughtfully and with respect for the source material. Whether you’re familiar with the book or the movie, you’re likely to be surprised by the show’s twists and turns.

The third season, now called *The Vampire Lestat*, is coming in 2026, so now’s a great time to get reacquainted with the story while you’re in the Halloween spirit!

5) Midnight Mass

Mike Flanagan has become well-known for his horror series on Netflix, but many consider Midnight Mass to be his masterpiece. The show openly draws inspiration from authors like Stephen King, yet still feels completely original. Featuring complex, often unlikeable characters and genuinely shocking deaths, Midnight Mass is Flanagan’s strongest work to date and could be considered one of Netflix’s best shows ever.

It’s tempting to watch all of *Midnight Mass* quickly, but I suggest a different approach. With just seven episodes, take your time and really let the story, mystery, and characters develop. Watch one episode at a time and fully absorb it before moving on. This is a show to be savored, not rushed through.

4) Chilling Adventures of Sabrina

The series *Chilling Adventures of Sabrina*, inspired by the Archie comic, quickly establishes itself as something very different from the lighthearted ’90s sitcom *Sabrina the Teenage Witch*. With four seasons and a holiday special, it explores darker themes of horror and the supernatural, while still maintaining a fun, campy style. While viewers enjoy the complex, season-long storylines, the show truly shines thanks to Kiernan Shipka’s captivating portrayal of Sabrina.

As a film buff, I’ve been following Kiernan Shipka for a while now – she’s only 25, but she’s already built up an impressive resume with parts in shows like *Mad Men* and *The Legend of Korra*. But honestly, for me, *Chilling Adventures of Sabrina* is where she really shines. It just perfectly showcases everything she can do as an actress – not only her dramatic skills, but also how easily she can adapt to any mood or style a scene throws at her.

If you’re excited for more of the Netflix show *Wednesday* and haven’t visited the town of Greendale yet, you’ll want to do so soon!

3) Santa Clarita Diet

Santa Clarita Diet is a really enjoyable show, but what makes it different from most streaming comedies is its unique content. It’s a horror comedy that doesn’t hold back on the gore. The series follows Sheila Hammond, played by Drew Barrymore, who becomes undead and struggles to maintain a normal life while dealing with a craving for human flesh.

Beyond being notable as one of Drew Barrymore’s final projects, the series is also a standout role in Timothy Olyphant’s career. While Olyphant often brings a comedic touch to his dramatic performances in shows like *Deadwood* and *Justified*, his character Joel Hammond is uniquely unpredictable and openly funny, delivering humor whenever the moment strikes.

Be aware that this installment ends on a cliffhanger, but the series as a whole offers much more than just an unresolved ending. It’s a worthwhile experience even without immediate closure.

2) Splinter Cell: Deathwatch

It’s been over ten years since fans last saw anything new from the *Splinter Cell* series. After more than a decade without a new game and a movie that’s over twenty years old, a new adaptation is finally on the way. The series is being reimagined as a TV show with Derek Kolstad, the creative force behind *John Wick*, leading the project, which is great news for fans. Importantly, the show seems to fit within the established storyline of the video games, giving players something to look forward to. The first season of eight episodes will be released on October 14th.

1) The Witcher

As a huge fantasy fan, I’ve been eagerly awaiting the return of *The Witcher* – it’s been two years since we last had new episodes! With Liam Hemsworth taking over as Geralt, now feels like the perfect time to revisit the world before the new season drops. What I really love about *The Witcher* compared to other fantasy shows, even the classics, is that it *knows* what it is. It’s definitely got a dark and gritty vibe with plenty of monsters, but honestly, it’s just a really fun watch. It doesn’t try to be overly whimsical, instead striking a great balance between intense action, brutal fights, and genuinely surprising moments of humor.

The fourth season of *The Witcher* will be available on Netflix starting October 30th. Unlike shows like *Wednesday* and *Stranger Things*, Netflix is releasing all the episodes at the same time. If you’re new to the series, there’s plenty more to enjoy, including a prequel series and two animated movies.

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2025-10-08 01:12