New York Times Names ‘Mafia’ Best Gritty Crime Show of 2025

URGENT UPDATE: The New York Times has just announced its Top 10 TV shows of 2025, and the gripping crime drama Mafia has emerged as the standout pick! Released on December 4, this Swedish series is already generating buzz as a must-watch for fans craving intense storytelling and complex characters.

In Mafia, viewers are transported to 1990s Sweden, where the shadow of organized crime looms large. The show centers on police detective Gunn Thörngren and the enigmatic criminal Radovan “Jakov” Jakovic. Their paths collide when Gunn discovers a truck full of contraband cigarettes valued at an astounding 1.3 million kronor. This pivotal moment sets off a chain reaction, leading her into a dark world of crime that could reveal a vast smuggling operation.

As the narrative unfolds over nine years, Mafia intricately weaves the personal struggles of its characters with the backdrop of the ongoing Yugoslav Wars. The series captures the tension of an emerging cigarette smuggling network, setting the stage for Sweden’s first gang war, where Gunn and Jakov find themselves entangled in a dangerous game of cat and mouse.

Critics are praising the show for its layered storytelling and avoidance of common clichés. The New York Times highlights how the characters’ complex dynamics drive the plot, offering an engaging viewing experience. Winter and Rad deliver powerhouse performances, with Gunn portraying a determined detective willing to defy police protocol, while Jakov’s cold and calculating demeanor adds a chilling intensity to the series.

With its placement on the prestigious Top 10 list, Mafia is finally receiving the recognition it deserves. The show not only captivates with its thrilling narrative but also sheds light on a lesser-known part of European history, much like Peaky Blinders and Narcos did for their respective locales.

Fans of gritty crime dramas will find Mafia an unmissable experience. The combination of compelling writing, expert direction by Tomas Jonsgården and Mani Maserrat-Agah, and stellar performances make it a standout entry in the crowded TV landscape of 2025.

As audiences rush to binge-watch this remarkable show, the spotlight on Mafia is expected to grow. This is a developing story, and with its thrilling content and historical significance, it promises to keep viewers engaged and talking for weeks to come. Don’t miss out on the latest sensation in crime drama—watch Mafia and join the conversation today!