15 Compelling TV Shows Inspired by Taylor Sheridan’s Special Ops: Lioness
In the realm of modern television, few creators have made a mark quite like Taylor Sheridan. Known for his groundbreaking work on the Yellowstone franchise, Taylor Sheridan has expanded his repertoire with the military espionage thriller, Special Ops: Lioness. This gripping series has quickly gained traction on Paramount+, captivating audiences with its global intrigue and an impressive cast featuring Zoë Saldana and Nicole Kidman. For those who have devoured every episode of Lioness, fear not! A variety of similar thriller shows await to satisfy your craving for action and thrills.
The military action and international intrigue genres have surged in popularity in the 21st century. From ensemble casts fighting counter-terrorism threats to military dramas delving into complex political landscapes, fans of Lioness will encounter a treasure trove of shows. Beyond American productions, British spy thrillers have also gained international acclaim. Each of these series is crafted with precision, often showcasing shadowy conspiracies that challenge the established order. Here’s a rundown of the finest shows to keep the momentum going after Special Ops: Lioness.
24
Considered the quintessential post-9/11 series, 24 became a cultural phenomenon embodying the anxieties of modern America. Kiefer Sutherland shines as Jack Bauer, a counter-terrorism agent tirelessly working to thwart terrorist plots within a compact 24-hour time frame, with each episode reflecting a single hour of his arduous day. Despite the years, 24 remains a benchmark for action thrillers, exploring themes of political corruption and moral ambiguity in warfare. Sutherland’s portrayal rejuvenated his career and cemented Bauer as one of television’s most iconic protagonists.
Ultimate Force
Emerging from the mind of former SAS soldier Chris Ryan, Ultimate Force brings the exploits of the British Special Air Service to life. This gripping 2002 series centers on Red Troop, whose missions range from tackling domestic threats to engaging in high-stakes operations abroad. The character-driven narrative follows Staff Sergeant Henno Garvie and his team as they navigate the implications of their mission-driven lifestyle. With its no-frills approach, Ultimate Force delivers a raw military drama while emphasizing the emotional bonds within the unit.
The Unit
Starring Dennis Haysbert as Sergeant Major Jonas Blane, The Unit provides an inside look into a covert American special forces unit inspired by Delta Force. While the series offers high-octane missions aimed at thwarting terrorist activities, it also delves into the personal toll these operations inflict on the lives of the soldiers and their families. The interplay between action-packed sequences and character development distinguishes The Unit, making it an engaging military thriller.
Strike Back
This long-running British military thriller, which aired from 2010 to 2020, follows Section 20, a covert group of the British Secret Intelligence Service. Each season presents a self-contained narrative involving high-octane missions across global hotspots. With evolving character relationships and intense action, the dynamic between protagonists Michael Stonebridge and Damian Scott propelled Strike Back to new heights, earning it a loyal following that continues to resonate with fans.
Homeland
Homeland redefined the political thriller genre when it debuted in 2011. Claire Danes stars as CIA operative Carrie Mathison, who suspects war hero Nicholas Brody, played by Damian Lewis, of treasonous ties following his return from captivity. Blending political drama with psychological tension, Homeland takes viewers through a rollercoaster of loyalty, deception, and intrigue. The series remains a gripping exploration of the intelligence community, heavily bolstered by its standout performances.
SEAL Team
Showcasing the Navy SEALs, SEAL Team ran for several successful seasons, focusing on the Bravo Team’s high-stakes operations. Led by Master Chief Jason Hayes, portrayed by David Boreanaz, the series illustrates the challenges faced by the elite soldiers and their families. While it may follow a familiar military action formula, SEAL Team captivates audiences with its strong character development and relatable storytelling.
S.W.A.T.
Emerging from its ’70s roots, the S.W.A.T. reboot emphasizes the struggles of the LAPD’s Special Weapons and Tactics unit. Under the guidance of Sergeant Hondo Harrelson, played by Shemar Moore, the series navigates contemporary law enforcement challenges and community engagement. Moore’s powerful performance elevates the show, making it a standout within the procedural genre.
Jack Ryan
Based on Tom Clancy’s iconic character, Jack Ryan transitioned to television with a well-received series on Prime Video. John Krasinski portrays the eponymous CIA analyst, facing various global crises throughout its four-season run. By delivering a grounded portrayal of the character, Krasinski and the series together successfully balance action with intelligent storytelling.
Reacher
Bringing Jack Reacher to life was no small feat, yet Amazon Prime’s adaptation is a triumphant success. Alan Ritchson shines as the drifter and ex-soldier, navigating dangerous conspiracies while exhibiting sharp problem-solving skills. Each season adapts Lee Child’s novels, showcasing a blend of relentless action and rich character development.
Slow Horses
Slow Horses transforms Mick Herron’s Slough House novels into an intricate Apple TV+ series. Spotlighting disgraced spies working mundane tasks, the operatives find themselves embroiled in significant crises. With Gary Oldman delivering a compelling performance as Jackson Lamb, the series fuses dark humor with thrilling espionage, setting a new standard for spy dramas.
Echo 3
Mark Boal, known for acclaimed films like The Hurt Locker, crafted Echo 3, which follows two Delta Force operators entangled in a personal mission to rescue a kidnapped woman in Colombia. This unpredictable series skillfully weaves suspense and character-driven storytelling, making it a standout in contemporary military thrillers.
Blue Lights
Set against the backdrop of modern-day Belfast, Blue Lights captures the experiences of rookie police officers tackling crime amidst sectarian tensions. The show offers an engaging blend of personal and professional challenges, revitalizing the police procedural genre with its authenticity and depth.
The Day of the Jackal
A modern adaptation of Forsyth’s classic tale, The Day of the Jackal offers a fresh spin with a contemporary setting. Centered on MI6 agent Bianca Pullman’s pursuit of a cunning assassin, the series keeps viewers on edge with its thrilling cat-and-mouse narrative, highlighted by compelling performances.
The Agency
In The Agency, Michael Fassbender plays a tortured CIA operative reuniting with a former lover amid an escalating international crisis. This Paramount+ series dives deep into the psychological toll of espionage, offering a sophisticated portrayal of the CIA’s operations.
Black Doves
Keira Knightley stars in Black Doves, a gripping spy thriller about a compromised agent seeking to uncover her betrayer while grappling with personal turmoil. The series masterfully blends action with emotional depth, showcasing Knightley’s remarkable versatility in the espionage genre.
These shows collectively represent the thrilling scope of contemporary action and espionage television, offering ample entertainment for fans of Special Ops: Lioness and beyond.
