Category: Culture, TV Show

10 Best TV Shows Rivals to The Diplomat This October

Best Rivals to The Diplomat: Must-Watch TV Shows in October

As the fall season kicks off, a wave of new TV shows is ready to rival Netflix’s political drama The Diplomat. From thrilling heist tales to sharp-witted satires, these 10 must-watch series this October promise to capture your attention with gripping storylines, top-notch performances, and unforgettable characters.

1. Joan (Premieres 2 October on The CW in the US)

Sophie Turner steps into the role of real-life 1980s jewel thief Joan Hannington in Joan. Adapted from Hannington’s memoir, the show dives into the daring escapades of a single mother-turned-criminal mastermind. Set against the backdrop of London’s vibrant 1980s fashion and crime scene, Joan’s audacious heists, including swallowing diamonds, make for an exciting and stylish drama.

2. The Franchise (Premieres 6 October on HBO in the US)

In this fresh satire by Armando Iannucci and Sam Mendes, The Franchise takes a comedic dive into the chaotic world behind superhero films. Daniel Brühl leads a crew of filmmakers struggling to produce a superhero movie. Himesh Patel shines as the frustrated assistant director who tries to keep the madness in check while Richard E Grant adds humor as a snobbish actor. It’s a witty, behind-the-scenes look that pokes fun at Hollywood’s obsession with superheroes.

3. La Máquina (Premieres 9 October on Hulu in the US)

Gael García Bernal and Diego Luna team up in La Máquina, a Spanish-language series following a boxer’s last shot at redemption. Bernal plays Esteban Osuna, a former champion hoping for one more fight. Luna plays his over-the-top manager who is determined to make it happen, even if it means dealing with the criminal underworld. This boxing drama, infused with friendship and betrayal, packs both emotional and physical punches.

4. Sweetpea (Premieres 10 October on Starz in the US)

Ella Purnell stars in this dark comedy about Rhiannon, a quiet woman who snaps and transforms into a serial killer. Sweetpea, based on a novel by CJ Skuse, blends humor and horror as the underestimated Rhiannon takes revenge on those who wronged her. Purnell’s portrayal of a wallflower-turned-murderer is both chilling and thrilling.

5. Disclaimer (Premieres 11 October on Apple TV+ internationally)

Alfonso Cuarón’s latest project Disclaimer stars Cate Blanchett as a journalist whose past threatens to come to light through a mysterious manuscript. This psychological thriller unravels as Blanchett’s character races against time to protect her reputation, while Kevin Kline and Sacha Baron Cohen add to the suspense. Beautifully shot, Disclaimer challenges the lines between truth and fiction.

6. Shrinking (Premieres 16 October on Apple TV+ internationally)

Shrinking returns with more of Harrison Ford’s perfectly dry humor in this comedy-drama about therapists navigating their own lives while helping patients. Jason Segel and Jessica Williams round out the ensemble cast as the show tackles themes of grief, personal growth, and messy human connections with wit and heart.

7. Rivals (Premieres 18 October on Hulu in the US)

Based on Jilly Cooper’s popular novel, Rivals brings sex, power, and high society drama to the small screen. David Tennant stars as a television tycoon at war with his neighbors, while Aidan Turner adds flair as a charming but troubled presenter. With plenty of intrigue, romance, and a hint of soap-opera fun, Rivals is set to be an entertaining guilty pleasure.

8. The Office (Premieres 18 October on Amazon Prime internationally)

The Australian take on The Office brings a new twist by placing a female boss, played by Felicity Ward, at the helm. This remake retains the beloved mockumentary style, with all the cringe-worthy awkwardness that made the original famous. With fresh, local humor, this version adds another chapter to the global success of The Office.

9. Hysteria! (Premieres 18 October on Peacock)

Perfectly timed for Halloween, Hysteria! is a satire set in the 1980s, when fears of Satanic influence spread across small-town America. Julie Bowen and Anna Camp lead the cast in a darkly comedic tale about a group of high school students who turn to heavy metal, only to become suspects in a string of crimes. Expect laughs and chills in this nostalgic horror-comedy.

10. Before (Premieres 25 October on Apple TV+ internationally)

Billy Crystal stars in Before, a psychological thriller with a supernatural twist. Playing a grief-stricken child psychologist, Crystal navigates mysterious events tied to one of his young patients. With a mix of eerie suspense and emotional depth, Before stands out as a gripping, thought-provoking drama.

From psychological thrillers to dark comedies, these 10 shows are the perfect rivals to The Diplomat this October. Whether you’re looking for a dose of drama, satire, or suspense, this month’s lineup delivers something for every viewer.