Romance and the paranormal – a combination to die for if you like your love stories with a touch of the supernatural. I know I can never get enough of my Byronic Monsters. This has caused many a head scratch I can tell you. Thankfully, Netflix has my addiction covered.
From vampires, witches, aliens, to mermaids, there are plenty of paranormal romances to watch on Netflix for those of us who gravitate towards magic, imagination, and swoony romances in our stories. And all without it being R Rated as the horror genre tends to do. So, if you’re anything like me looking for a TV series or film to fill that Moonlight or Charmed void, Netflix has paranormal romances in abundance.
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It should be noted, however, that for this particular list I skipped time travel stories to save for another day. I also left out most of the series and films rated TV-MA or Rated R meaning there are even more titles to binge if you prefer more adult material.
For instance, there’s the masterful Penny Dreadful, the ‘adult’ Harry Potter-like series The Magicians, mature urban fantasies like Bitten and Lost Girl, and romantic but rather gruesome horror films such as Interview with the Vampire and Let Me In. But for now, I give you the paranormal romances to watch on Netflix for Summer 2018.
Note: These titles are available to watch on the US Netflix July 2018 and are a subject to change at any time.
Paranormal Romances to Watch on Netflix
(In Alphabetical Order)
#1: The 4400
Netflix Description: 4400 people who vanished over the course of five decades suddenly reappear. None have aged, and slowly it’s revealed that they have mysterious powers.
Why You Should Watch: While the romances aren’t the focus of the series, they add a nice touch to an already engaging series. It’s mysterious, fun, and the characters are all memorable. In fact, I’m still disappointed with the cancellation years later.
Content Note: TV-14
#2: Aftermath
Netflix Description: Quiet teenager Yong Ahn-dae becomes an unlikely hero after a near-fatal accident gives him the ability to detect murders before they happen.
Why You Should Watch: Originally a short Korean web series, Aftermath is for those paranormal romance seekers looking for something more bite-sized. Plus, the premise sounds pretty cool…
Content Note: TV-14
#3: Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D.
Netflix Description: Agent Phil Coulson, seen in action in Marvel’s The Avengers, assembles a team of top S.H.I.E.L.D. agents to investigate bizarre threats.
Why You Should Watch: So, S.H.I.E.L.D. definitely starts slow but stay with it. Halfway through season one and the show really finds its voice. Overall, this superhero spinoff show feels more paranormal than the Avengers films and adds in some awesome romances to boot.
Fitz and Simmons will definitely steal your heart because their love story is epic. Additionally, the slow burn between May and Coulson is great to see unfold. May’s paranormal romance with her husband also stands out.
Content Note: TV-PG
#4: Arrow
Netflix Description: Based on DC Comics’ Green Arrow, an affluent playboy becomes a vengeful superhero, saving the city from villains armed with just a bow and arrows.
Why You Should Watch: I debated whether or not to include Arrow, but since the show eventually lets in magic, I decided to go with it because let’s face it. Oliver and Felicity totally feel like an entertaining paranormal romance particularly in the best ever seasons 2 and 3. Love them and their awkward banter. Anyone with me?
Content Note: TV-14
#5: Beautiful Creatures
Netflix Description: Based on the best-selling novel, this supernatural drama focuses on the romance between Ethan and Lena, the enigmatic new girl in his Southern town.
Why You Should Watch: A YA Paranormal Romance with Emma Thompson as the villain? I’m so in. Yes, it’s campy and flawed, but this southern gothic is romantic and definitely watchable for those who like evil vs. good witch plots. Moreover, the cast is like crazy good.
Content Note: PG-13
TIE #6: Beauty and the Beast (the US and French Adaptations)
Description: Both films are takes on the fairy tale “Beauty and the Beast.”
Why You Should Watch: Both have their positives and negatives. The French adaptation has a better looking Beast while the Disney adaptation has all the songs we’ve come to love over the years. Overall, both are romantic and sure to sweep you off your feet.
Content Note: The Disney version is PG while the French BATB is PG-13.
#7: Beauty & the Beast (2012 TV Series)
Netflix Description: A homicide detective and a veteran who has been turned into a beast by a military experiment gone awry become allies after they meet by chance.
Why You Should Watch: It’s rare to find a romantic urban fantasy series these days so watch this one when you need something new to binge. While flawed, it makes for a perfect escapist watch with tons and tons of romance.
Content Note: TV-14.
#8: Being Human (US TV Series)
Netflix Description: Boston roommates Aidan, Josh, and Sally are your average twenty-somethings — except that they’re also a vampire, werewolf, and ghost, respectively.
Why You Should Watch: A remake of the AMAZING British version starring Aidan Turner, the US adaptation is almost as good. It’s funny, the characterization off the charts, and Sam Witwer makes for an awesome vampire. Extra points for Henry from Blood Ties (a cult hit vampire show) recurring as a vampire named Henry…And there’s some romance too.
Content Note: TV-14.
#9: Black
Netflix Description: A Grim Reaper, a detective and a woman who foresees death get ensnared in matters of life and death — and dark mysteries of twenty years past.
Why You Should Watch: A near perfect Korean drama that will have you hooked by episode two. Trust me, it’s that good. With tons of romance AND action, this is one show even the biggest K-Drama skeptic should give a chance.
Content Note: Black is rated TV-MA but I included it because it’s a Korean Drama TV-MA. For instance, there is a very violent serial killer running around and some moments of strong language.
#10: Black Lightning
Netflix Description: School principal and retired superhero Jefferson Pierce leaps back into action as the legendary Black Lightning after a gang threatens his family.
Why You Should Watch: So, I haven’t tuned into this one yet because I’m slightly superheroed out. However, it does star Cress Williams (Hart of Dixie) so there’s that. Please talk below if you think Black Lightning is worth checking out. I like that the premise sounds different from the other superhero shows.
Content Note: TV-14.
#11: Charmed
Netflix Description: After a trio of sisters discover an ancient text in their mansion attic, revealing they possess latent supernatural powers, mischief, and drama ensue.
Why You Should Watch: Watch the original series before the new CW series premieres! It’s campy, romantic, and one of the most enjoyable paranormal romances to ever hit the small screen. This is one to re-watch time and time again.
Content Note: TV-PG.
#12: Dream Knight
Netflix Description: A bullied, orphaned teen girl discovers the ability to summon a pack of beautiful, magical guys who provide her with joy and friendship.
Why You Should Watch: Some paranormal romances are aimed at a younger audience and such is the case for Dream Knight. Dream Knight is the perfect, fluffy, romance for teen fans of K-Pop. Basically, just imagine a boy band with supernatural abilities…
Content Note: TV-PG.
#13: Drop Dead Diva
Netflix Description: Shallow, stick-thin Deb Dobkins learns lessons about the joys of compassion and intelligence after she’s reincarnated as a smart, plus-size lawyer.
Why You Should Watch: Drop Dead Diva is more Heaven Can Wait than reincarnation but it is ever so adorable. And cute. And fun. Oh, and super romantic about soulmates finding each other no matter the size. Plus, there’s a side romance between a guardian angel and Deb’s best friend. Overall, a great paranormal romance if you like the supernatural AND Legally Blonde.
Content Note: TV-PG.
#14: The Flash
Netflix Description: A forensics expert who wakes from a coma with amazing new powers squares off against forces threatening the city in this live-action superhero romp.
Why You Should Watch: A super enjoyable superhero show with a likable best friend love story between Barry, our speedster, and Iris, a reporter.
Content Note: TV-14.
#15: Good Witch
Netflix Description: Raising her daughter in a small town, an enchanting widow with magical powers provokes the interest and exasperation of a skeptical big-city doctor.
Why You Should Watch: Sometimes, the Hallmark Channel can have paranormal romances too! If you’re looking for a light-hearted romantic show with just a touch of magic, look no further than Good Witch. It’s sweet, funny, and just makes you feel good inside while watching it. Plus, the hilarious mayor is played by Forever Knight’s Natalie!
Content Note: TV-PG.
#16: Guardians of the Galaxy Volume 2
Netflix Description: The ragtag, wisecracking band of miscreants known as the Guardians of the Galaxy return to unravel the mystery of Peter “Star-Lord” Quill’s origins.
Why You Should Watch: An alien/human paranormal romance for fans of Marvel! And if this one’s not your cup of tea, there are other Marvel paranormal romances to watch on Netflix. There’s Thor: Ragnarok (which I refuse to watch because Natalie Portman is no longer in it), Doctor Strange, or the TV-MA Marvel Netflix Original Shows.
Content Note: PG-13.
#17: H20: Just Add Water
Netflix Description: The gals in this fantasy series cope with the burden of growing a giant fin and transforming into mermaids whenever they come in contact with water.
Why You Should Watch: Watch a young Phoebe Tonkin and Claire Holt (both from The Originals) in this sweet mermaid romance imported from Australia. It’s a tween show but adults can like it too. Also look out for a young Luke Mitchell and Legend of the Seeker’s Craig Horner. Additionally, you can also check out the spinoff sequel series Mako Mermaids.
Content Note: TV-PG.
#18: Haven
Netflix Description: Residents of Haven, Maine, are plagued by supernatural afflictions. To reveal the truth, FBI agent Audrey Parker must delve into her own strange past.
Why You Should Watch: A thrilling supernatural urban fantasy that has a clear, beginning, middle, and end which is a rare thing in the genre world. Haven is pure entertainment with a great love story between Audrey, a mysterious FBI Agent, and Nathan, a man who can’t feel anything…except, of course when Audrey touches him.
Content Note: TV-14.
#19: Hellboy II: The Golden Army
Netflix Description: The identities of Hellboy, Liz Sherman, and Abe Sapien are exposed as they face a new threat: The Golden Army is preparing to attack.
Why You Should Watch: In this satisfying sequel, Liz and Hellboy reunite but this time they are already in a relationship! And as all Beauty and the Beast fans know, Ron Pearlman always plays a fantastic beast…
Content Note: PG-13.
#20: I Am Number Four
Netflix Description: After nine aliens flee their home planet to find peace on Earth, their plans are shattered by pursuers who must kill them in numerical order.
Why You Should Watch: There’s action, romance, and a great cast. Sure, the film could have been better, but it’s still fun to watch on a rainy day.
Content Note: PG-13.
#21: iZombie
Netflix Description: A medical student-turned-zombie tries to retain her humanity by eating brains at the morgue and finds she has an uncanny new gift for solving crimes.
Why You Should Watch: From the creator of Veronica Mars, iZombie brings wit, crazy plot twists, and a little romance too. As a whole, a great TV binge if you like urban fantasies.
Content Note: TV-14.
#22: Maximum Ride
Netflix Description: Six genetically enhanced orphans with the ability to fly escape from captivity and set out on a high-stakes mission to save one of their own.
Why You Should Watch: I haven’t seen this one yet but the description sounds entertaining!
Content Note: PG-13.
#23: Merlin
Netflix Description: This family-oriented retelling of the King Arthur legend finds Merlin arriving in Camelot, where he hones his magic skills with the help of his uncle.
Why You Should Watch: There’s so much to love about Merlin, a prequel to the King Arthur legend. Oh, and several romances to swoon over and bromances to cheer for. Extra points for Buffy the Vampire Slayer‘s Anthony Stewart Head as Arthur’s sometimes hilarious father. For example, the troll episode had me in tears…
Content Note: TV-PG.
#24: Oh My Ghost
Netflix Description: Possessed by the ghost of a lustful virgin, a timid assistant chef becomes confidently libidinous, drawing the attention of a haughty culinary star.
Why You Should Watch: This ghostly paranormal K-Drama will have you glued to the screen because it’s funny, romantic, and even a little thrilling thanks to the added murder mystery. While imperfect (i.e. not enough time spent on the main girl), it’s definitely enjoyable to watch overall.
Content Note: TV-14.
#25: Once Upon A Time
Netflix Description: In this fantasy series, a young woman is drawn to a small Maine town and discovers that it’s filled with elements of the fairy tale world.
Why You Should Watch: Once Upon A Time is a beautiful genre fairy tale show for those who believe in redemption and true love. Watch it again from the beginning to the perfect happily ever after ending! NOTE: Season 7 most likely premieres on Netflix in August.
Content Note: TV-PG.
#26: The Originals
Netflix Description: The Mikaelsons move to New Orleans and form an alliance with local witches in an effort to rule the city once again in this ‘Vampire Diaries’ spinoff.
Why You Should Watch: The Originals is an epic vampire show with a more mature set of characters than The Vampire Diaries. While I don’t like some of the creative choices (too many female character deaths) and season five’s weaker overall plot), this is definitely a super engrossing vampire drama with excellent writing and three-dimensional characterization.
One of my favorite romances is between the moody, Byronic vampire Klaus and human Cami. It’s a beautiful love story. The final season should premiere on Netflix in August two weeks after the final episode airs on the CW.
Content Note: TV-14.
#27: Phantom of the Theatre
Netflix Description: At an eerie movie palace in bustling 1930s Shanghai, a young filmmaker encounters the vengeful, nightmarish spirits of acrobats who burned alive.
Why You Should Watch: This gothic paranormal romance stands out because it’s both period drama and paranormal romance. There is an artistry to the costumes and set designs that are absolutely breathtaking. I also loved being immersed in the 1930s Chinese film industry. Yes, the ending falls flat but I still believe this unknown film is worth checking out.
Content Note: TV-14.
TIE #28: Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Man’s Chest
Netflix Description: Happy-go-lucky troublemaker Capt. Jack Sparrow works his way out of a blood debt with the ghostly Davy Jones, hoping to avoid eternal damnation.
Why You Should Watch: One of the best things about the Pirates franchise (besides Johnny Depp as Captain Jack Sparrow) is always the touch of the supernatural. It’s more than just a pirate swashbuckler! And while Netflix doesn’t have all the films, Dead Man’s Chest is one of the best! This is the film for us Jack/Elizabeth fans. I just love their banter.
Content Note: PG-13.
TIE #28: Pirates of the Caribbean: Dead Men Tell No Tales
Netflix Description: Captain Jack Sparrow finds himself in hot water when Salazar escapes the Devil’s Triangle and makes it his mission to obliterate every pirate at sea.
Why You Should Watch: The best Pirate film since “At World’s End.” Plus, Will and Elizabeth finally reunite! If you stopped watching the films because “On Stranger Tides” was mediocre, feel free to come back. The latest installment actually feels like the original trilogy.
Content Note: PG-13.
#29: Secret Healer
Netflix Description: A cursed princess meets a good-hearted scholar who gets entangled in her dangerous endeavor to lift the black magic that ensnares her.
Why You Should Watch: Who doesn’t love a good old-fashioned cursed princess romance story now and again? Korean dramas know how to do romance, magic, and period to perfection!
Content Note: TV-14.
#30: The Shannara Chronicles
Netflix Description: After the destruction of civilization, three young heroes become Earth’s last hope for salvation when a massive force of demons threatens the planet.
Why You Should Watch: Look, this is an imperfect adaptation. For instance, some of the dialogue is stilted and the main guy is completely miscast. Still, for fans of high fantasy with a touch of dystopian, you may like the show for an interesting plot, Manu Bennett (Slade in Arrow) as Allanon, and John Rhys-Davies (Gimli) as the King of the Elves. Then go read the books because they are better…
Content Note: TV-14.
#31: Star-Crossed
Netflix Description: The passionate love between an alien boy and a human girl grows more and more dangerous as they face the wrath of their families and communities.
Why You Should Watch: Roswell fans should appreciate this underrated alien/human love story Meanwhile, Timeless fans should tune in for a young Matt Lanter!
Content Note: TV-14.
#32: Stardust
Netflix Description: To win his true love’s heart, wide-eyed Tristan Thorn journeys to a forbidden realm to retrieve a fallen star that has taken human form.
Why You Should Watch: Stardust has the most unique paranormal romance twist on this list with a love story between a human and a star! Add in The Princess Bride like humor, Michelle Pheiffer as a villainous witch who hates aging, Robert De Niro as a cross-dressing pirate, and a plot from fantasy superstar writer Neil Gaiman, Stardust is one film you can watch on repeat!
Content Note: PG-13.
#33: Stranger Things
Netflix Description: When a young boy vanishes, a small town uncovers a mystery involving secret experiments, terrifying supernatural forces, and one strange little girl.
Why You Should Watch: Stranger Things is just as good as the hype! It’s scary, creative, and one of the most addictive shows ever created. Plus, the coming of age love story between Eleven (a girl with telekinetic powers) and Mike is completely sweet and adorable. Oh, and the 1980s setting is brilliant.
Content Note: TV-14.
#34: Strong Girl Bong-Soon
Netflix Description: Born with supernatural strength, Bong-soon fights evil and procures justice while getting tangled in a love triangle with her CEO boss and cop crush.
Why You Should Watch: A Korean Drama superhero show with intrigue, a cool mythology, and lots and lots of over the top cute romance.
Content Note: TV-14.
#35: Supergirl
Netflix Description: To avert a disaster, Kara Danvers reveals her powers and true identity: She is Superman’s cousin, now known as Supergirl, protector of National City.
Why You Should Watch: While season one is the best by far (thanks to Cat Grant), Supergirl is all sorts of fun! This one is all about the girl power with romance too!
Content Note: TV-14.
#36: Supernatural
Netflix Description: Siblings Dean and Sam crisscross the country, investigating paranormal activity and picking fights with demons, ghosts, and monsters.
Why You Should Watch: Okay, so Supernatural is not exactly a paranormal romance. But it’s paranormal with episodes of romance. So, I didn’t feel right not including it! Who doesn’t love Sam and Dean? I also have a special place in my heart for the short-lived romance between Dean and Jo. I love them and I don’t care what anyone says…
Content Note: TV-14.
#37: The Tomorrow People
Netflix Description: A group of young people with evolved powers battle evil using their special talents that include teleportation and telepathic communication.
Why You Should Watch: This one is so, so underrated! It’s just entertaining. Too bad it didn’t last more than one season. Plus, I still think Luke Mitchell should have been the main character! Oh, and did I mention Dan Stevens does a voice for the AI Tim?
Content Note: TV-14.
#38: The Vampire Diaries
Netflix Description: Trapped in adolescent bodies, feuding vampire brothers Stefan and Damon vie for the affection of captivating teenager Elena.
Why You Should Watch: The Netflix description makes me laugh. It’s so much better than that synopsis so basically just ignore. Overall, watch for Damon’s one-liners, several epic romances, and fun paranormal villains.
Content Note: TV-14.
#39: Van Helsing (The Movie)
Netflix Description: Vampire hunter Van Helsing travels to a mysterious region of Europe on a quest to vanquish Count Dracula, the Wolf Man and Frankenstein’s monster.
Why You Should Watch: Hugh Jackman, Kate Beckinsale, and vampires. Oh, and a film from the person who brought us Brendan Fraser’s The Mummy. Enough said.
Content Note: PG-13.
#40: Wynonna Earp
Netflix Description: The outcast descendant of lawman Wyatt Earp teams up with an immortal Doc Holliday to rid the world of demonic revenants from the Wild West.
Why You Should Watch: It’s more urban fantasy than paranormal romance but there IS romance in it. Furthermore, Megan Follows of Anne of Green Gables and Reign fame will be joining the show next season as a recurring character.
Content Note: TV-14.
With plenty of paranormal romances to watch on Netflix, what will you be adding to your queue?
Top Featured Image: Warner Brothers/ Alcon Entertainment
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