The X-Files has enthralled viewers since its 1990s debut, blending mystery, sci-fi, and the paranormal. For Mulder and Scully fans, it's frustrating when the series leaves Netflix. Fortunately, plenty of similar shows are ready to fill the void.
The truth is out there—in these 10 Netflix gems tailored for X-Files enthusiasts. As longtime fans and TV experts, we've curated recommendations based on shared themes like supernatural investigations, conspiracies, and gripping character dynamics.
This Netflix co-production with UK Channel 4 follows a dissatisfied bowling alley worker and her bold friend as they confront demons—both metaphorical and literal—while navigating life in their 20s.
The full first season of six episodes is on Netflix, with each around 45 minutes.
Why X-Files fans will love Crazyhead: Like Mulder and Scully's partnership uncovering the supernatural, this duo bonds amid otherworldly threats. It balances scares with humor, much like The X-Files. Check out our picks for 15 scary TV shows for Halloween streaming if you crave more chills.
One of the top British crime dramas, The Fall stars Gillian Anderson (X-Files' Scully) as a detective superintendent hunting a serial killer (Jamie Dornan), who hides behind a family-man facade. See our list of 10 British crime dramas on Netflix.
All three seasons (17 episodes) are on Netflix, about an hour each.
Why X-Files fans will love The Fall: Anderson shines as lead and executive producer. It echoes the 'Scully Effect' on science and law enforcement careers, though darker in tone.
Originally on Showtime, this drama features X-Files star David Duchovny as blocked novelist Hank Moody, grappling with relationships, sex, drugs, and alcohol. Duchovny earned a Golden Globe for the role.
All seven seasons (84 episodes) are on Netflix, roughly 30 minutes each. It won two Emmys for cinematography.
Why X-Files fans will love Californication: Duchovny's signature charm and wit shine, though in edgier, adult territory far from Fox Mulder.
Narrated by Star Trek: The Next Generation's Jonathan Frakes, this documentary examines top fan-captured UFO footage. Learn how to import UFO sighting data into Google Sheets.
Both episodes of this two-part special are on Netflix, about 45 minutes each.
Why X-Files fans will love it: Pure alien intrigue and conspiracy fodder, peaking during The X-Files' golden era.
This CW staple (originally WB) follows brothers Sam and Dean hunting paranormal threats nationwide. Explore 8 mystery podcasts that tingle your spine.
Seasons 1-11 are on Netflix (45 minutes/episode). It just ended season 12 and was renewed for 13.
Why X-Files fans will love Supernatural: Brotherly monster hunts mirror FBI cases, with endless episodes to binge.
A sci-fi anthology classic hosted by Rod Serling, delivering fresh horror, fantasy, or thriller tales weekly. Discover 10+ brilliant sci-fi shows beyond Star Trek.
Seasons 1-3 and 5 on Netflix (season 4 missing due to rights); episodes ~25 minutes.
Why X-Files fans will love The Twilight Zone: The original twist-filled sci-fi that inspired modern greats like The X-Files.
CBS procedural tracking FBI profilers inside psychopaths' minds. Spin-offs: Criminal Minds: Suspect Behavior (1 season), Beyond Borders (2 seasons).
Seasons 1-11 on Netflix (~45 minutes/episode); more coming.
Why X-Files fans will love Criminal Minds: FBI procedural vibes without the paranormal, a 2017 People's Choice winner.
Documentary unpacking declassified alien docs and cover-ups, like real X-Files cases. See 8 weirdest conspiracy theory sites.
Seasons 1-4 on Netflix (<20 minutes/episode).
Why X-Files fans will love it: FBI files from 2011 fuel Mulder-level theories.
Fox drama with FBI agent (David Boreanaz) and anthropologist (Emily Deschanel) solving bone-based murders. Ended after 12 seasons in 2017.
Seasons 5-11 on Netflix (~45 minutes/episode).
Why X-Files fans will love Bones: FBI cases plus lead-chemistry tension; Fox network familiarity.
USA Network series about 4,400 abducted people reappearing unchanged with powers, from the 1930s onward.
All four seasons on Netflix (~45 minutes/episode).
Why X-Files fans will love The 4400: Non-stop mysteries with answers, often called X-Files successor.
While The X-Files DVDs never age, fresh binge material keeps the excitement alive. Which show will you stream first? Share in the comments!
