If you’re a fan of the action-packed, espionage-filled genre of TV shows like Mission: Impossible, you’re in for a treat. These series are filled with thrilling missions, cunning spies, and plenty of twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat.
1. Alias
Alias follows Sydney Bristow, a double agent for the CIA and a criminal organization known as SD-6. Played by Jennifer Garner, Sydney’s life is a whirlwind of covert operations and personal betrayals.
2. 24
24 stars Kiefer Sutherland as Jack Bauer, a counter-terrorism agent who races against the clock to thwart plots against the United States. Each season takes place over 24 hours, adding a unique real-time element to the suspense.
3. Burn Notice
Burn Notice centers on Michael Westen, a spy who has been “burned” and left without resources. Played by Jeffrey Donovan, Michael uses his skills to help those in need while trying to uncover who burned him.
4. The Americans
The Americans is a gripping drama about two Soviet KGB officers posing as an American married couple during the Cold War. Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys deliver stellar performances as they navigate their dangerous double lives.
5. Homeland
Homeland features Claire Danes as Carrie Mathison, a CIA officer with bipolar disorder. The series dives deep into the complexities of intelligence work and personal struggles, offering an intense viewing experience.
6. Covert Affairs
Covert Affairs stars Piper Perabo as Annie Walker, a young CIA trainee suddenly thrust into fieldwork. The show combines action with personal drama as Annie navigates the dangerous world of espionage.
7. The Blacklist
The Blacklist follows Raymond “Red” Reddington, a former criminal mastermind who turns himself in to help the FBI catch high-profile criminals. James Spader delivers a captivating performance as the enigmatic Red.
8. Chuck
Chuck stars Zachary Levi as Chuck Bartowski, a computer geek who inadvertently downloads government secrets into his brain. The show blends comedy, romance, and action in a unique and entertaining way.
9. Nikita
Nikita follows Maggie Q as Nikita, a rogue assassin determined to bring down the secret government agency that trained her. The series is filled with intense action sequences and complex character dynamics.
10. Spooks (MI-5)
Spooks (MI-5) is a British series that delves into the lives of MI-5 officers. Starring Matthew Macfadyen and Keeley Hawes, the show provides a realistic and gripping look at counter-terrorism operations.
11. Strike Back
Strike Back follows the missions of Section 20, a covert unit of the British Defence Intelligence service. The series stars Sullivan Stapleton and Philip Winchester and is known for its high-octane action scenes.
12. Person of Interest
Person of Interest features Jim Caviezel as John Reese, a former CIA operative recruited by a reclusive billionaire to prevent violent crimes. The show combines elements of science fiction and crime drama.
13. MacGyver
MacGyver stars Lucas Till as Angus MacGyver, a resourceful agent who uses his scientific knowledge and unconventional problem-solving skills to save the day. The reboot retains the charm of the original series while adding modern twists.
14. Quantico
Quantico follows a group of young FBI recruits, one of whom becomes a prime suspect in a terrorist attack. Priyanka Chopra stars as Alex Parrish, who must clear her name while uncovering the real culprit.
15. Scorpion
Scorpion revolves around a team of geniuses who tackle high-stakes global threats. Elyes Gabel stars as Walter O’Brien, the team’s leader, whose intellect is matched only by his lack of social skills.
16. Leverage
Leverage follows a team of former criminals who use their skills to right corporate and governmental injustices. Timothy Hutton stars as Nathan Ford, the mastermind behind their operations.
17. White Collar
White Collar stars Matt Bomer as Neal Caffrey, a charming con artist who partners with an FBI agent to catch other white-collar criminals. The show balances clever heists with character-driven storytelling.
18. The Night Manager
The Night Manager stars Tom Hiddleston as a former British soldier who infiltrates the inner circle of an arms dealer. The miniseries, based on John le Carré’s novel, is a tense and stylish espionage thriller.
