Texas has long been a state synonymous with bold culture, rich history, and a wide range of lifestyles, making it a prime location for films and television series. With its vast landscapes, from arid deserts to lush forests, and bustling cities, Texas offers an intriguing backdrop that draws viewers in. In recent years, several Netflix shows set in or based on Texas have taken the spotlight, allowing audiences to experience the heart of the Lone Star State from their couches. In this article, we delve into some of the most popular and trending Texas-based Netflix shows, providing insights into what makes these series so captivating, and why they have captured the attention of global audiences. From gripping crime dramas to heartfelt family sagas, these shows are an excellent representation of what Texas is all about.
Why Texas?
Before diving into the shows themselves, it’s important to understand why Texas makes such an ideal setting for storytelling. As one of the largest and most culturally diverse states in the U.S., Texas offers a unique blend of influences, from Mexican to Western, Southern, and contemporary American. This rich tapestry of cultures and traditions is often woven into the narratives of TV shows, providing depth and authenticity to the stories. Additionally, Texas’ mix of urban and rural landscapes provides diverse settings for a wide range of genres. Whether it’s the bustling streets of Austin, the oilfields of West Texas, or the suburban life of Dallas, the state offers an array of environments that can suit any storyline.
If you’re curious about the history and culture of Texas that often fuels these shows, check out Texas State History for detailed insights into the state’s heritage.
1. The Texas Chainsaw Massacre – A Horror Classic Revisited
One of the most iconic horror films of all time, The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, has inspired numerous sequels, reboots, and even a Netflix continuation. In its latest iteration, released in 2022, the story centers on a group of young people visiting the rural Texas town of Harlow, where they encounter the infamous Leatherface. The chilling atmosphere, combined with Texas’ rural setting, provides the perfect backdrop for this gruesome and terrifying tale.
The show’s portrayal of the rural Texas town, with its hauntingly empty streets and decaying buildings, is as much a character as the terrifying villain. The Texas landscape contributes significantly to the atmosphere, heightening the tension and horror for the audience. For those who want to dive deeper into the horror and legacy of The Texas Chainsaw Massacre, you can check out Horror History for more details.
2. The Last Thing He Told Me – A Thrilling Mystery
For those who love a good mystery, The Last Thing He Told Me is a show set in Austin, Texas, that delivers a gripping narrative. Based on the best-selling novel by Laura Dave, the series follows a woman, played by Jennifer Garner, as she tries to unravel the mystery behind her husband’s disappearance. The show beautifully showcases the city of Austin, with its trendy downtown areas and scenic landscapes. The tech-driven vibe of Austin, mixed with the suspenseful storyline, creates a perfect environment for this psychological thriller.
Austin, often referred to as the tech hub of Texas, is known for its creative atmosphere, and this series captures that energy while keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. You can explore more about Austin’s thriving tech scene on Austin Chamber of Commerce.
3. Queen of the South – The Story of a Queenpin
Queen of the South, which debuted in 2016, tells the story of Teresa Mendoza, a woman who rises from humble beginnings in Mexico to become the head of a powerful drug cartel. Set in various locations in Texas, including Dallas and South Texas, this show explores themes of power, survival, and ambition. With the Texan borderlands as the backdrop, the series is deeply rooted in the cultural and political realities of the region.
The show highlights the impact of drug trafficking on Texas communities, offering a raw and unflinching look at the consequences of this underground world. Its depiction of Texas as both a place of opportunity and danger resonates with viewers. For an in-depth look at the themes and the show’s impact, you can visit The Texas Tribune, a leading source for news and analysis about the state.
4. Narcos: Mexico – A Glimpse into Texas’ Drug War
While Narcos: Mexico isn’t solely set in Texas, the show features several key Texas locations and highlights the state’s role in the global drug trade. The series, which focuses on the rise of the Guadalajara Cartel in the 1980s, frequently touches on the Texas-Mexico border, showcasing the state’s pivotal position in the drug war. Texas cities like Laredo, El Paso, and Houston are key settings for the series, serving as the gateways for drugs flowing from Mexico into the United States.
The series is a tense, action-packed ride that brings the viewer face-to-face with the dangerous realities of the drug trade and its effects on Texas communities. For a broader understanding of the impact of the drug trade in Texas, you can check out The Drug Policy Alliance for more information.
5. Ozark – Money Laundering in the Heart of the Midwest (and Texas)
Though Ozark is primarily set in Missouri, its influence stretches into Texas, particularly in the latter seasons. The series follows the Byrde family, who are forced to launder money for a Mexican cartel. Texas’ role in the show becomes more pronounced as the Byrdes navigate the state’s complicated financial and criminal landscapes. The show features scenes set in Dallas, Austin, and other locations that add depth to the series’ exploration of money laundering and cartel operations in the United States.
The connection between Texas and the show’s theme of organized crime underscores the state’s involvement in national and international crime syndicates. For a deeper dive into the real-world implications of money laundering, you can visit The Financial Crimes Enforcement Network (FinCEN).
6. The Ranch – A Comedy with a Texas Heart
For a lighter take on Texas life, The Ranch is a hilarious comedy that also provides a window into rural Texas life. The show centers around the Bennett family, who run a cattle ranch in the fictional town of Garrison, Texas. While the series blends humor with family drama, it doesn’t shy away from showcasing the challenges of ranching life, family dynamics, and the changing economic landscape of rural America.
The Texas ranching culture, with its close-knit families and hardworking individuals, is beautifully depicted in the series. For more about Texas ranching and the agricultural economy, check out Texas A&M AgriLife Extension.
7. Unbelievable – A Texas-Set Investigation
Unbelievable, a Netflix original based on a real-life investigation, features a significant portion of its action in Texas. The story revolves around a woman who is accused of fabricating a rape story, only for two detectives to uncover a pattern of similar crimes across the country. Texas plays a central role in the investigative process, providing a realistic and gritty backdrop for this true-crime drama.
The show highlights the importance of believing survivors and the complex process of solving sexual assault cases. Texas’ role in the investigation showcases the challenges law enforcement faces in rural and urban settings. For more information on the real-life case, visit The Washington Post.
Conclusion
Texas has become a central character in the world of television, with its unique blend of culture, history, and landscapes making it the perfect backdrop for storytelling. From the thrilling crime dramas to heartwarming comedies, Texas-based Netflix shows offer viewers a taste of life in the Lone Star State, all while keeping them on the edge of their seats. As the popularity of these series continues to grow, it’s clear that Texas’ influence on television is only set to increase. Whether you’re a fan of suspense, drama, or humor, there’s something for everyone in these Texas-based shows.
For more on the cultural and historical significance of Texas in media, check out Texas Monthly, which delves deep into the state’s diverse influence on American pop culture.
