Looking for popular TV shows that deliver gripping stories, clever detectives, or quirky charm? Hoopla has a growing selection of the best shows to stream right now—no subscription needed! Cozy mysteries, crime-solving adventures, British television gems—there’s something for everyone with Hoopla. Read on to discover what to stream next with library-powered access to these must-watch titles.
A long-time fan favorite, Doc Martin stars Martin Clunes as a brilliant but socially awkward doctor in the fictional Cornish village of Portwenn. Season 10 brings the perfect mix of humor, humanity, and scenic British countryside—ideal for those seeking feel-good television shows with heart.
Doc Martin is a must if you’re browsing popular shows with staying power and substance. Add this to your shows to watch queue for a dose of British charm and dry wit.
Set in a seemingly quiet New Zealand town, Brokenwood Mysteries delivers murder with a side of charm. Detective Inspector Mike Shepherd and his by-the-book partner, Detective Kristin Sims, unravel bizarre crimes that hide beneath Brokenwood’s tranquil surface. A perfect pick if you’re into good shows to watch that combine strong characters with clever plots.
If you enjoy TV shows like Midsomer Murders or Death in Paradise, Brokenwood Mysteries deserves a spot on your what to watch list.
Lucy Lawless (Xena: Warrior Princess) shines as ex-homicide detective Alexa Crowe. With a sharp mind and fearless attitude, Alexa tackles baffling cases in both Melbourne and Auckland. This smart, funny series blends suspense with humor, making it one of the best TV shows for fans of contemporary mystery.
With strong female leads, stylish storytelling, and heart, this series is one of the best shows to watch right now—especially if you love character-driven crime dramas.
Bonus Picks: More Shows to Watch on Hoopla
If you’re still deciding what to stream right now, check out:
Benedict Cumberbatch stars as a modern-day Sherlock Holmes in this thrilling BBC reboot. With lightning-fast logic and a flair for drama, Sherlock teams up with Dr. John Watson to solve London’s most baffling crimes. Season 1 introduces three gripping cases filled with suspense, clever twists, and sharp dialogue. Smart, stylish, and full of tension, this series redefines the classic detective story for a new generation of viewers. A must-watch for mystery lovers.
This Finnish crime drama follows Detective Kari Sorjonen, a gifted investigator who moves to a small town near the Russian border seeking peace. Instead, he encounters a series of disturbing crimes that demand his elite profiling skills. Blending psychological depth with intricate cases, season 1 introduces a unique European noir style. The show explores family dynamics, dark secrets, and the thin line between genius and obsession. Perfect for fans of gritty, atmospheric thrillers.
In Season 2, of Harry Wild retired literature professor Harry Wild, played by Jane Seymour, returns with her signature wit and crime-solving charm. Teaming up again with her tech-savvy sidekick Fergus, Harry finds herself diving into even more puzzling cases across Dublin. With its mix of humor, heart, and clever plots, the show blends cozy mystery with sharp intellect. Harry’s unconventional methods and growing bond with Fergus make this season a delightful continuation of their unlikely detective partnership.
Based on Anne Rice’s Lives of the Mayfair Witches trilogy, season 2 deepens the dark and mystical saga of Dr. Rowan Fielding. Now more aware of her powers and legacy, Rowan is drawn further into the world of witchcraft, secrets, and the sinister spirit Lasher. As she battles inner turmoil and external threats, the season intensifies the supernatural drama with haunting visuals and suspenseful storytelling. Fans of gothic horror and magical realism will be hooked.
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- Download the Hoopla app
- Follow the prompts to sign in/connect your account
- Search for the title you want to borrow
- Click borrow
- Click yes to confirm you’d like to borrow the title
- Press play to begin streaming
From comedy to crime, Hoopla has some of the best shows to watch right now—all available for free with your library card. Happy streaming!
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