Looking for the best Willem Dafoe TV shows to watch? This guide has his top small-screen roles. You’ll find everything from cult thrillers to documentaries, all with IMDb ratings and trailer links.
Quick picks
- Must-see oddball: Fishing with John — Maine with Dafoe (IMDb 8.1) — surreal, deadpan, unforgettable.
- Dark hospital horror: The Kingdom: Exodus (IMDb 7.0) — Dafoe as the mysterious Grand Duc.
- Animated curveball: Globehunters (IMDb 5.7) — a playful detour that still showcases Dafoe’s voice work.
- Guest-star menace: The Simpsons “Blazed and Confused” (IMDb 6.8) — pure Dafoe intimidation as Jack Lassen.
Each pick is explained here. We tell you why it’s important, what to expect, and where to find a trailer or clip.
The Kingdom: Exodus (2022) — IMDb 7.0/10
Dafoe’s cameo in Lars von Trier’s cult series adds a dark twist. As the Grand Duc, he takes the series into a dreamlike world. It’s a must-see for fans of Dafoe’s late-career work.
IMDb episode page • Clip / teaser
The Hitchhiker — “Ghostwriter” (1986) — IMDb 6.5/10
In HBO’s moody anthology, Dafoe plays a novelist in a love and existential crisis. It shows his intensity early on. It’s a key show for fans of Dafoe’s darker roles.
The Simpsons — “Blazed and Confused” (2014) — IMDb 6.8/10
Dafoe plays Mr. Jack Lassen in a fourth-grade classroom. His voice work is menacing. It’s a fun surprise among Dafoe’s TV roles.
The Simpsons — “The Secret War of Lisa Simpson” (1997) — IMDb 7.8/10
Dafoe’s guest spot is in a heartfelt episode from the late ’90s. It’s a great addition for fans of Dafoe’s TV work.
Fishing with John — “Maine with Willem Dafoe” (1991) — IMDb 8.1/10
Dafoe and John Lurie go ice-fishing in a tale that’s both absurd and cozy. The show’s dry narration and cold views are perfect. Dafoe’s presence makes it a must-watch.
IMDb episode list • Official trailer (Criterion / IMDb)
Inside the Actors Studio — “Willem Dafoe” (1996) — IMDb 8.3/10
Want to learn from the source? Dafoe talks about his early theater days and how they shaped his acting. It’s a key part of understanding his work.
Saturday Night Live — S47E12 (2022) — IMDb 6.8/10
Hosting SNL is a big deal, and Dafoe goes all in. He’s fearless and self-aware. It shows his comedy side.
IMDb episode page • SNL monologue (official)
American Experience — “Into the Deep: America, Whaling & the World” (2010) — IMDb 8.1/10
Dafoe narrates a deep dive into American whaling history. His voice makes the past come alive. It’s a unique part of his TV work.
IMDb page • Official PBS trailer
Finding Satoshi (TV documentary, 2022) — IMDb 7.5/10
This doc is a fun puzzle about an ARG mystery, narrated by Dafoe. It’s a fresh twist for fans of his TV work.
IMDb page • Trailer / project page
Globehunters: An Around the World in 80 Days Adventure (TV movie, 2002) — IMDb 5.7/10
Dafoe stars in a Nickelodeon animated special. It’s light and fun. A break from his usual serious roles.
IMDb page • Vintage TV preview
Oscar snapshot (why this TV work matters)
Dafoe’s TV roles show his range, earning him four Oscar nominations. Shows like Platoon, Shadow of the Vampire, The Florida Project, and At Eternity’s Gate highlight his versatility. These roles share a common thread: taking risks, exploring new ideas, and working closely with others.
Bonus: the John Wick connection
Looking for more of Dafoe’s intense work? Check out his role as Marcus in John Wick. It’s a great break between TV episodes.
Official trailer (Lionsgate) • IMDb film page
FAQ
Are there more Willem Dafoe TV shows beyond this list?
These picks are just a taste of Dafoe’s work. He also appears in interviews, festival talks, and specials. Keep checking streaming services for new shows.
Why include animated and documentary work?
They show Dafoe’s range. Voice-over and narration are great for newcomers. They offer a different side of his talent.
Start with a mix of prestige shows like Fishing with John and The Kingdom: Exodus. Add a lighter show like Globehunters and a guest appearance in The Hitchhiker or The Simpsons. It’s a fun way to explore Dafoe’s TV work