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- 95 TV Shows on Netflix That Bring the Romance, Heat, and Drama
95 TV Shows on Netflix That Bring the Romance, Heat, and Drama
Everyone loves a wholesome romantic comedy or a purely thrilling slasher show, but sometimes, you just need eight to 10 episodes of sexiness when you sit down to watch a new show. There’s just something about a sexy TV series that reels you in and leaves you wanting more every episode. Thanks to Netflix, the streaming options are endless for shows that bring the heat, drama, and much-needed romance to the screen.
Whether you’re looking for a slow-burn romance series like “On My Block,” a show where characters leave little to the imagination like “Sex/Life” and “Emily in Paris,” a historical romance like “Bridgerton” or “Queen Charlotte,” or something as thrilling as it is hot, like “Bodyguard,” these steamy picks will give you all that and more.
The best part for those who steam their way right through all the sexiest shows Netflix has to offer is that the streamer always has more options coming. From Netflix originals like “Obsession” and “Ginny & Georgia” to primetime staples like “Riverdale,” here are the sexiest TV shows that you can binge on Netflix right now.
– Additional reporting by Lauren Harano, Haley Lyndes, Stacey Nguyen, Corinne Sullivan, Kalyn Womack, Charlotte Kho, and Naomi Parris
Related: From “Austin Powers” to “American Gangster,” 58 New Movies Hitting Netflix in May
"Queen Charlotte"
The “Bridgerton” prequel series, “Queen Charlotte” – created by Shonda Rhimes and inspired by Julia Quinn’s book of the same name – follows its title character and her husband, King George III, as their arranged marriage eventually leads to a whirlwind love story. Though the show doesn’t feature the same juicy gossip from “Bridgerton“‘s anonymous columnist Lady Whistledown, it does have the same steamy love scenes viewers crave, courtesy of Charlotte and George’s honeymoon phase.
"Obsession"
In Netflix’s latest steamy offering, Richard Armitage plays a respected London surgeon who begins an illicit affair with his son’s girlfriend that turns into – as the title would suggest – an obsession.
"Sense8"
“Sense8” is a sci-fi adventure at its core, but the plot, which sees eight strangers from all around the world become linked mentally and forced to fight for their lives when their connection is seen as a threat to world order, also lends itself to some pretty high-intensity, sexy scenes!
"Hate to Love You"
A gutsy attorney who has a deep distrust of men clashes with her new client – one of Korea’s top actors who secretly can’t stand to be around women. When the pair are forced to fake date to maintain his heartthrob image, serious sparks fly. As they get to know one another, they discover there’s more to the other than they first thought, and they may even restore each other’s faith in the opposite gender.
"Ginny & Georgia"
In the show about a mother-daughter duo attempting to outrun their past and start a new life in the affluent town of Wellsbury, MA, Georgia is juggling the hearts of three men: the town’s mayor, Chris; her teenage daughter Ginny’s dad, Zion; and the owner of a local cafe, Joe. While each man brings something different into Georgia’s life, they all bring equal amounts of sexy.
"Valeria"
Based on the novels by Elísabet Benavent, this Spanish drama tells the story of the titular Valeria, a writer who – experiencing both writer’s block and tension with her husband – must turn to her three besties, Lola, Carmen, and Nerea, for support. Valeria’s friends, on the other hand, are caught up in a world of love, drama, relationships, unfaithfulness, and more that will keep your eyes glued to the screen.
"Tiny Pretty Things"
Based on the YA book series of the same name by Sona Charaipotra and Dhonielle Clayton, this drama is set in the world of Chicago’s only elite ballet academy, the Archer School, and the dancers of all different backgrounds who attend.
"Hollywood"
Created by Ryan Murphy and starring “Glee”‘s Darren Criss, this series follows several narratives from 1940s Hollywood, which was known as the “Golden Age of Tinseltown,” and tells the story of young and optimistic aspiring performers.
"Dark Desire"
This thrilling series from Mexico tells the story of Alma, a married woman who – after a passionate weekend away ends in tragedy – begins to wonder what secrets her loved ones may be hiding.
"Bridgerton"
Inspired by Julia Quinn’s bestselling novels, Shonda Rhimes’s first original series for Netflix takes place during England’s early-1800s Regency period, following the love affairs of a diverse group of high-society members. Though you won’t actually see her in the series, Julie Andrews plays a major part as the voice of Lady Whistledown, an anonymous gossip columnist.
"Unstoppable"
Set in Mexico City, this drama series follows three restless 20-somethings as they embark on a road trip, never expecting to pick up Marcela – a girl with a dark past and a huge debt to pay – along the way. With all its drugs, partying, and mayhem, this one is likely to give you “Spring Breakers” vibes, but at its core, “Unstoppable” is really about friendship and female empowerment.
"Bitter Daisies"
This steamy Galician-language drama centers around an investigation into the disappearance of a teen girl in a small town. After digging into the case, a Civil Guard officer finds out that there are similiarities into a loss of her own.
"Ingobernable"
If you love political thrillers like “House of Cards,” “Ingobernable” is for you! This Mexican political drama is full of intrigue and suspense, all set against the backdrop of beautiful Mexico City.
"Someone Has to Die"
Created by Manolo Caro (who’s the mind behind Netflix’s “The House of Flowers”), this thriller is set in 1950s Spain during the Franco regime, telling the story of a man who shocks his conservative family by bringing home his new beau: a male ballet performer from Mexico.
"Virgin River"
Based on the “Virgin River” novels by Robyn Carr, this romantic drama series tells the story of a nurse practitioner who decides to relocate to the remote town of Virgin River, CA, hoping for a fresh start, though she soon realizes small-town life isn’t as easy as she thought it might be.
"The Naked Director"
This series is based on Nobuhiro Motohashi’s book of reportage about the real-life Toru Muranishi, an innovative and provocative director of Japanese adult videos who revolutionized the adult entertainment industry during the economic boom of 1980s Japan.
"Twice Upon a Time"
This French romantic drama tells the story of Vincent, who – while still recovering from a breakup – receives a mysterious package that may just allow him to have a second shot with his ex, Louise.
"What/If"
A pair of San Francisco newlyweds are strapped on cash until an investor approaches them. Her proposal? One night with the husband in exchange for funding. The drama only goes up from there.
"Love Alarm"
Based on the digital comic of the same name by Chon Kye-young, this South Korean drama series revolves around a mysterious developer who creates an app, which tells users if someone near them has romantic feelings for them – what could possibly go wrong?
"Summertime"
Inspired by Federico Moccia’s novel “Tre Metri Sopra il Cielo” and set on Italy’s Adriatic coast, this romantic Italian series follows the love story that blossoms between a street-racing motorcyclist and a woman determined to leave her small town behind and see the world.
"Elite"
When an exclusive prep school in Spain accepts three working-class students into its elite program, the strife between rich and poor begins. Early on, someone gets murdered, and no one knows who is dead or who did it, but they do know that there’s a lot of tension, and most of it is sexual.
"Gypsy"
This Netflix original stars Naomi Watts, who plays a New York City therapist whose life seems close to perfect. Her world gets turned upside down when she starts having relationships with people who are close to her patients.
"Troy: Fall of a City"
This romantic (and very dramatic) series tells the epic story of everything that led up to the historic Trojan War. Hint: it involves love, secrets, temptation, sex, intrigue, and the ultimate betrayal.
"Sex Education"
When the son of a sex therapist, Otis (played by Asa Butterfield), decides to start an underground sex therapy clinic with one of the most well-versed girls in school, he uses his own personal knowledge to help people with their relationships and ultimately helps himself overcome his own sexual frustrations.
"Wanderlust"
This series looks into the lives of a married couple who must figure out whether lifelong monogamy is possible or even desirable for them anymore. It explores what makes a good relationship and how to maintain that through the ups and downs of life.
"Riverdale"
Imagine “Twin Peaks” meets “The O.C.,” and you’ll understand what this dark teen soap encompasses. When they’re not cracking the mysteries and secrets that plague their town, Archie and his friends try to figure out their own romantic drama. “Riverdale” definitely puts a sexy spin on the wholesome, folksy Archie comics from your childhood.
"Bonding"
In this short-form dark comedy series, two former high school BFFs, Pete and Tiff, reconnect years later in New York City only to discover that Pete is gay and that Tiff (who attends grad school by day) is secretly one of the city’s top dominatrices, introducing Pete to a whole new underground world of sexual secrecy and BDSM. Yes, the premise is totally crazy, but it’s crazy in a great way, and we’re keeping our fingers crossed that it returns for a second season.
"Easy"
With a stacked cast that includes Zazie Beetz, Dave Franco, Orlando Bloom, Jake Johnson, and Emily Ratajkowski, among many others, this series revolves around beautiful people living in Chicago and navigating the complicated trappings of modern romance.
"Dear White People"
When they’re not standing up for what they believe in, the students of color at this Ivy League university navigate the trials and tribulations of college life. While a satirical comedy-drama at heart, “Dear White People” also depicts collegiate relationships and hookups with a generous dash of sexiness.
"Lovesick"
When Dylan finds out he has a sexually transmitted infection, he’s forced to contact every woman he has ever been with to inform them of his diagnosis. The show follows Dylan and his friends down memory lane to relationships and flings he wishes he could forget.
"Shameless"
Starring the beautiful Emmy Rossum and strangely sexy William H. Macy, this incredibly raunchy and hilarious series follows a woman attempting to keep her life, her relationships, and her five younger siblings together in the South Side of Chicago, while her bumbling alcoholic father continuously wreaks havoc on them all.
"Grey's Anatomy"
Full of hookups and romantic webs, Shonda Rhimes’s hit medical drama revolves around the dark and twisty Meredith Grey. “Grey’s Anatomy” is equal parts sentimental and sexy – the show, after all, begins with a hilariously awkward one night stand that would grow into one of the most beloved TV couples of all time.
"How to Get Away With Murder"
Lawyers aren’t strictly business, especially not on “How to Get Away With Murder.” When they’re not involved in a twisted murder cover-up, law professor Annalise Keating and her students juggle torrid affairs and messy relationships. Seriously, do these students even study?
"She's Gotta Have It"
Spike Lee reimagines his critically acclaimed ’80s indie comedy in this modern, serialized remake. The show circles around the life of Nola Darling (DeWanda Wise), a fiercely independent artist with three strikingly different paramours.
"House of Cards"
The scandalous political series “House of Cards” stars Kevin Spacey, Robin Wright, and Kate Mara. Set in Washington DC, lies, deceit, and betrayal happen in the White House and the bedroom.
"Well-Intended Love"
When an actress is diagnosed with leukemia, she enters into a secret marriage with a CEO so she can receive a bone marrow transplant and continue her career. But she soon finds out that love and secrets get in the way.
"Orange Is the New Black"
“Orange Is the New Black” doesn’t shy away from acknowledging the existence of sex within a women’s prison. Let’s just say that the steam coming from the showers isn’t only water vapor.
"The Hookup Plan"
Elsa, who can’t seem to get over her ex or figure out why she’s so unlucky in love, finds herself falling for a new guy who her friends set her up with. Little does she know that he’s a male escort.
"Jane the Virgin"
This sweet telenovela follows Jane Villanueva, the daughter of a teen mother, who wants to remain chaste until marriage. When she finds out she got pregnant after a hospital slip-up, she has to decide what to do with her life next.
"Velvet"
This compelling Spanish story follows the heir to a fashion house who falls for a seamstress who works for the company. The house is home to money, drama, love, and trouble.
"Love"
“Love”, a series cocreated by Judd Apatow, explores the ups and downs of present-day relationships and just how hard love can really be.
"End of the F***ing World"
This dark comedy-drama tells the story of 17-year-old James, who thinks he is becoming a psychopath, and Alyssa, a rebel who sees James as a chance to escape from her unfortunate home life.
"Greenleaf"
The Oprah Winfrey Network series “Greenleaf” is about a family that runs a Memphis megachurch as it hides its own sinful secrets, like greed and adultery. Oprah herself plays a recurring character named Mavis McCready.
"You"
This oddly addicting and fully horrifying series tells the story of Joe Goldberg, a New York bookstore manager, who falls in love with an aspiring writing named Guinevere Beck. He realizes he will do anything for her love. His infatuation quickly becomes an obsession, and he strategically removes every obstacle – and person – in his way to get to her.
"If I Hadn't Met You"
In this Spanish thriller, a man who loses his wife and children in a tragic accident discovers that he can travel to alternate universes, compelling him to find a world in which his family can be saved.
"Crazy Ex-Girlfriend"
When one woman can’t seem to get over a boyfriend from a long time ago, she moves from New York City to California to get him back. If you love musicals, “Crazy Ex-Girlfriend” is a great series for you.
"Friends From College"
Twenty years after they graduated from college, this tight-knit group of friends heads into the a new era together: their 40s. They must navigate this new time in their lives, as well as figure out what relationships are worth having.
"Romance Is a Bonus Book"
A gifted writer who is the youngest editor in chief ever at his publishing company gets entangled in the life of a former copywriter who is desperate for a job. They learn about work, love, and how to balance both.
"The Protector"
Netflix’s first Turkish original series is about the adventures of Hakan, a young shopkeeper whose world changes forever when he learns he’s connected to a secret ancient order, the Loyal Ones, and tasked with protecting Istanbul against the resurgent Immortals.
"Home For Christmas"
In this Norwegian original comedy series, a young woman who’s sick of being single (or, at least, of her relatives commenting on her single status) decides to embark on a 24-day hunt to find a boyfriend to bring home for the holidays.
"Tidelands"
In this Australian series, an ex-con returns to her fishing village of Orphelin Bay to discover a decades-long conspiracy involving half-siren, half-human residents.
"Outlander"
This dramatic and romantic series follows two time-crossed lovers who must figure out what love really is along the way.
"Sex/Life"
A woman must confront her past when her ex-lover barges back into her life. However, her marriage and family may be in jeopardy as she tries to resist his lustful temptation.
Watch “Sex/Life” on Netflix now.
"Gilmore Girls"
This multigenerational drama revolves around the family and friendship of Lorelai Gilmore and her daughter, Rory. They experience first loves, heartbreak, and the journey along the way.
"Cable Girls"
Set in Madrid in the 1920s, this series follows the lives of four women who get jobs at a telephone company and must learn how to balance work and life in the modernizing world.
"45 rpm"
Set in politically conservative 1960s Madrid, this romantic drama follows the love triangle that forms between music producer Guillermo and aspiring singer Robert, who launch their own rock ‘n’ roll label together and compete for the affection of a beautiful producer named Maribel.
"Little Things"
Kavya and Dhruv are a young couple living in the fast-paced city of Mumbai and navigating the crazy new-age world of relationships, careers, and family.
"Lucifer"
Though it was originally cancelled after its third season, this Fox comedy series moved to Netflix for its fourth season, continuing the story of the infamous fallen angel. Though Fox had no problem pushing the envelope on its PG-13 rating, finding a new home on Netflix means that bad boy Lucifer (played by Tom Ellis) can get even sexier without censors.
"Crashing"
Follow the lives, relationships, and ups and downs of six 20-somethings who live together in a former hospital as property guardians.
"Luna Nera"
Based in 17th-century Italy, a teenage girl discovers that she’s destined to be a witch. However, her boyfriend’s father does not approve.
"My First First Love"
When a group of Yun Tae-o’s friends move into his house together, they all experience everything that comes with love, friendship, and getting older.
"The Originals"
In addition to other-worldly werewolves and witches, there’s also supernatural chemistry in this spinoff of “The Vampire Diaries.” “The Originals” also doles out a generous amount of addictive and scandalous romantic drama.
"The Road to Love"
What happens when a woman from a macho truck family is kicked out of her home after an argument with her dad? She strikes out to make it on her own as a trucker, of course, which is exactly what happens in this new romantic dramedy.
"Russian Doll"
“Orange Is the New Black“‘s Natasha Lyonne stars in this dark comedy series about a woman caught in a “Groundhog Day”-type loop, repeatedly attending the same party, dying, and waking up the next day unharmed. Follow along as she tries to get her life back on track.
"Spinning Out"
A figure skater with a dream of going to the Olympics struggles to balance love, family, and her own mental health.
"The House of Flowers"
This dark comedy follows the lives of a wealthy and dysfunctional Mexican family who owns a flower shop, and the matriarch’s attempts to save face after her husband’s affair (as well as all of the family’s secrets) comes to light. This series has served as a major turning point for modern-day Mexican television, as it features not only atypical families but characters with a diverse range of sexual preferences and gender identities as well.
"The Innocents"
Runaway teen lovers June and Harry find their love getting even more confusing when they learn that June has the ability to shapeshift. As the star-crossed lovers try to control her new power, they learn that June is not alone and there are more shifters just like her.
"One Day at a Time"
This clever sitcom reboot of the classic Norman Lear series revolves around a Cuban American family as they navigate life’s challenges together following the matriarch’s divorce. The show explores a relationship between the family’s lesbian teenage daughter and her nonbinary love interest, and rather than feeling like a gimmick, the relationship feels authentic and extremely sweet.
"iZombie"
You’d be surprised at how a lascivious a dramedy series about a zombie medical resident can become. “iZombie” has an entire episode called “Fifty Shades of Grey Matter” in which the protagonist consumes the brains of an erotica writer.
"Tales of the City"
Based on the book series by Armistead Maupin, this miniseries stars Laura Linney as Mary Ann Singleton, a woman who returns home to reunite with her family and the sex-loving residents of 28 Barbary Lane in San Francisco, 20 years after leaving her daughter (played by Elliot Page) and ex-husband behind to pursue her career. Expect to see a lot of colorful characters and a lot of ship-worthy same-sex relationships.
"On My Block"
This series takes a look into the lives of a group of street-savvy friends who are in the middle of navigating their way through high school, including all of the ups, downs, and new experiences they go through along the way.
"The Magicians"
Based on the Lev Grossman novel series, Quentin Coldwater and his friends discover the magic world they used to think was make-believe is not only real, but also dangerous. The group embark on a journey together to handle an atrocity that occurs at their secret magical institution.
"Chilling Adventures of Sabrina"
The same showrunner who brought you “Riverdale” has remixed “Sabrina the Teenage Witch” with a dark twist. As Sabrina approaches her 16th birthday, she struggles to balance her destiny to be a witch with her normal human life.
"Sex, Love, and Goop"
This provocative docuseries doesn’t necessarily offer a clinical perspective on sex, but it is, as we’d expect, grounded in reality. A team of experts and Goop founder Gwyneth Paltrow help couples foster deeper intimacy and engage in more pleasurable sex in this show.
"Firefly Lane"
If you’re a fan of soapy, sentimental shows with a dash of sexiness, “Firefly Lane” is for you. Featuring some de-aging magic on Sarah Chalke and Katherine Heigl, the series goes back and forth in time to tell the story of how Kate (Chalke) and Tully (Heigl) become best friends in their younger school days and navigate troubled romances and steamy affairs together over the course of decades.
"Halston"
Ewan McGregor suavely embodies the titular designer in Netflix’s “Halston.” While changing up the fashion industry, the fashion legend also lived a colorful life where sex-fueled parties were just as common as the orchids in his workspace.
"Brand New Cherry Flavor"
In this limited series, a young filmmaker goes to Hollywood to shoot a project, but she finds herself in a nightmarish scenario that’s marked by magic, sex, kittens, hitmen, and other odd happenings.
"The Queen's Gambit"
Think that chess can’t be sexy? Think again. “The Queen’s Gambit” sees chess prodigy Beth Harmon (Anya Taylor-Joy) in fleeting romances as she conquers the chessboard, but the real allure lies in how Beth navigates the world and approaches the cerebral game.
"Feel Good"
Mae (Mae Martin) and George (Charlotte Ritchie) hit it off in the British rom-com “Feel Good.” However, pure chemistry isn’t enough to help their relationship push forward; Mae’s struggles with addiction and George’s challenges coming out to her loved ones cause friction in their romance.
"The Politician"
Ryan Murphy’s “The Politician” features different phases of Payton Hobart’s (Ben Platt) life in politics, starting with his high school student council election. Payton’s dabblings as a civil servant aren’t just piles of paperwork, though – we see our fair share of throuples, love triangles, and more as he tries to charm voters.
"Shadow and Bone"
Alina Starkov (Jessie Mei Li) learns that she’s the Sun Summoner capable of closing the ominous Fold and defeating the vicious Volcra monsters. Besides her newfound fate, Alina also finds sexual tension running high between her and the mysterious General Kirigan (Ben Barnes) while still having undefined feelings for her friend Malyen (Archie Renaux).
"The Haunting of Hill House"
Loosely based on Shirley Jackson’s novel of the same name, Mike Flanagan’s “The Haunting of Hill House” weaves back and forth between the past and present to unravel the Crain children’s tragic history. Despite the dreary emotional (and spooky) baggage that looms over the Crains, the story isn’t without complicated romances and scandalous moments – Theo’s love life definitely makes this one of the more risqué horrors you’ll watch!
"Never Have I Ever"
Mindy Kaling’s “Never Have I Ever” subverts the stereotype that nerds don’t have game. In addition to managing her home and school lives, Devi Vishwakumar (Maitreyi Ramakrishnan) has two handsome suitors vying for her lustful affection: her frenemy Ben (Jaren Lewison) and the heartthrob jock Paxton Hall-Yoshida (Darren Barnet).
"Bodyguard"
In this British political thriller, Richard Madden stars as a police sergeant who’s responsible for protecting the home secretary (Keeley Hawes). Despite their political differences, the two strike an unlikely relationship.
"GLOW"
Based on the “Gorgeous Ladies of Wrestling” program in the ’80s, Netflix’s “GLOW” follows a ragtag team of women who join a wrestling group for money, fame, and everything in between. Starring Alison Brie, Betty Gilpin, and others, the Netflix original is a drama at its core, featuring unlikely romances, scandalous affairs, and more as the women work hard to put on a show.
"Cursed"
Based on the tales of King Arthur, Netflix’s short-lived “Cursed” follows a magically gifted young woman named Nimue (Katherine Langford) who’s out to protect her fellow Fey people from the vicious Red Paladins. This fantasy series isn’t all adventure, though – we indeed witness some steamy romance unfold.
"Emily in Paris"
Developed by “Sex and the City” writer Darren Star, the light and frothy “Emily in Paris” features not only Emily Cooper’s workplace woes, but also her romantic flames. In addition to wild fashion moments, the series has some pretty sexy moments as Emily (Lily Collins) navigates the city of romance.
"Too Hot to Handle"
It’s all in the title. In this scandalous reality TV hit, a group of singletons head into a luxurious house and are challenged to remain celibate if they want to win a $100,000 prize.
"Dead to Me"
The short-tempered Jen (Christina Applegate) unexpectedly becomes a widow and strikes up an unlikely friendship with the free-spirited Judy (Linda Cardellini), who may or may not have something to do with her husband’s death. As they navigate grief together, the two women find themselves in romantic situations that may expose their darkest secrets.
"Gentefied"
“Gentefied” revolves around Pops, or Abuelo, who runs a taco shop in Boyle Heights, but it’s also about his grandchildren who iron out their love lives as they help their family business stay afloat. Chris, Ana, and Erik all struggle with the trials and tribulations of sex and romance while figuring out their paths in life.
"Bonding"
In this dark comedy, Tiff, a psychology student by day and dominatrix by night, enlists the help of her best friend to be her assistant on her escapades.
"Girlfriends"
This comedy-drama starring Tracee Ellis Ross follows the lives of four close friends in LA as they navigate everything from finding true love to motherhood and careers.
"On My Block"
“On My Block” follows the lives of four friends who navigate their way through high school while experiencing love, loss, and triumph in a rough LA neighborhood.
"Nevertheless"
Art student Yoo Na-Bi doesn’t believe in love after her ex broke her heart, but she still wants to date. Meanwhile, her classmate Park Jae-Eon is a hopeless flirt who is uninterested in serious romance deep down. When the pair meet and start a friends-with-benefits relationship, they begin to challenge each other’s outlook on love.