Summary
Thebest action TV shows of 2024span a thrilling array of genres, from war dramas to superhero sagas to sci-fi thrillers. Building on the success of standout series from the previous year, likeThe Last of Us,Gen V, andMonarch: Legacy of Monsters, this year’s lineup demonstrates the rich diversity within the action genre. These shows deliver high-stakes drama and adrenaline-pumping sequences and layer other elements like romance, comedy, and social commentary. Many of these are on the list ofbest TV shows of 2024across all genres.
Compared to thebest action movies,these series leverage long-form storytelling to develop deeper character arcs and sustained tension. They prove that the small screen can pack just as much of a punch as the big screen. Due to the higher budget involved, manyaction TV shows get canceled too soon. However, some of these series involve such thoughtful world-building and compelling character development that they will continue for years to come. The best action TV shows of 2024 include both returning favorites and fresh narratives, ensuring fans of the genre are spoiled for choice.
15 Best Action Thriller TV Shows, Ranked
Action thriller TV shows are an exciting and popular television genre with several standouts that are truly worth the investment.
The Gentlemen
Cast
Based on the film of the same name, the Gentlemen is a crime drama series created for Netflix by Guy Ritchie. The series follows Eddie Horniman, who inherits his father’s estate, only to discover he has inherited a vast cannabis empire - and all of the rivals that come with it.
The Gentlemenis an exciting blend of stylish crime drama and compelling characters. Created by the acclaimed Guy Ritchie and Matthew Read for Netflix, the series follows Eddie Halstead (Theo James), who unexpectedly inherits his father’s sprawling estate and a massive, clandestine cannabis empire. The show effectively intertwines familial dynamics with the gritty underworld of the English countryside, offering a narrative rich with Ritchie’s signature stylistic elements, including slick action, exaggerated zooms, and rapid cuts.
The series is greatly elevated by Kaya Scodelario’s portrayal of Susie Glass, Eddie’s business partner who runs the cannabis enterprise. Her dynamic with Eddie forms the crux ofThe Gentlemen, with their evolving power struggle adding to the tension. James, too, portrays Eddie with the necessary charm and sophistication of the character. While the writing occasionally falls short, the series is largely entertaining and effectively combines action set pieces with comedic moments, cementing its place on this list of best action TV shows of 2024. IfThe Gentlemenseason 2 happens, it should be darker and even more action-packed.
I Really Need The Gentlemen Season 2 To Happen After Story Comparison To Movie With 97% On RT
While proposing a tonal shift, Theo James compared the potential story of The Gentlemen season 2 to a cult classic, making me more excited about it.
The Acolyte
The Acolyte is a television series set in the Star Wars universe at the end of the High Republic Era, where both the Jedi and the Galactic Empire were at the height of their influence. This sci-fi thriller sees a former Padawan reunite with her former Jedi Master as they investigate several crimes - all leading to darkness erupting from beneath the surface and preparing to bring about the end of the High Republic.
Star Wars: The Acolyteis a solid sci-fi thriller, with its deep dive into theStar Warsuniverse’s darker corners. Created by Leslye Headland, this Disney+ series explores the rise of the dark side in the final days of the High Republic era. The plot follows a former Padawan (Amandla Stenberg) who reunites with her Jedi Master (Lee Jung-jae) to investigate a series of mysterious crimes, uncovering sinister secrets and dark forces threatening the galaxy. This prequel series offers a fresh perspective on theStar Warssaga.
Its compelling combination of action-packed sequences, intricate character development, and stunning visual effects sets it apart. TheStar Wars: The Acolytecastdelivers powerful performances that bring depth and authenticity to their roles.The Acolytealso benefits from Headland’s visionary directionand the production team’s commitment to high-quality, immersive world-building. The series' ability to blend intense action with philosophical and moral dilemmas makes it one of the best action TV shows of 2024 and a must-watch for both long-time fans and newcomers to theStar Warsmoviefranchise.
Star Wars: The Acolyte Episode Guide - Cast Members, Biggest Takeaways & Easter Eggs
Here’s everything you need to follow along with Star Wars: The Acolyte, from references and trivia to main takeaways from each new episode.
The Brothers Sun
The Brothers Sun is a Netflix original action-comedy series starring Michelle Yeoh, Justin Chien, and Sam Song Li. The TV show follows a Taipei gangster named Charles Sun who travels to LA to protect his family after his father is killed by an assassin. The Brothers Sun was created by Brad Falchuk and Byron Wu.
The Brothers Sunblends thrilling fight sequences, fascinating characters, and dark humor. Created by Brad Falchuk and Byron Wu, this Netflix original series follows Charles Sun (Justin Chien), a Taipei gangster who returns to Los Angeles after his father, a Triad boss, falls into a coma. Charles must navigate the dangerous underworld while protecting his unsuspecting brother, Bruce (Sam Song Li), and their mother, Mama Sun (Michelle Yeoh). The action series expertly balances intense hand-to-hand combat scenes with a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics.
The Brothers Sunexcels with its breathtaking action choreography andstandout performances— particularly from Chien, whose martial arts prowess and screen presence drive the show. Yeoh, too, brings depth and gravitas to her role. Additionally, the contribution of renowned stunt coordinator Jon Xue Zhang elevates the action sequences to some of the best seen on TV in 2024.Netflix’s cancelation of this acclaimed action seriesis a real shame as it’s no doubt one of the best action TV shows of the year.
The Brothers Sun Review: Exciting Netflix Series Has Some Of The Best Action Sequences On TV
The Brothers Sun has some of the best hand-to-hand combat you will see on TV. Paired with a great cast & a fun story, the series is one to watch.
Sweet Tooth
Based on the comic series of the same name, Sweet Tooth is set in the not-too-distant future, post-apocalyptic United States in the wake of a devastating viral pandemic. After the disease decimated the world’s population, some children began to be born with human and animal hybrid characteristics. Many people are afraid of the hybrids, believing them to be the cause of the virus. When his father is killed, a young deer hybrid named Gus (Christian Convery) embarks on a quest to find his mother with the help of a traveler and loner named Tommy Jeppard (Nonso Anozie).
Sweet ToothSeason 3 is a gripping final chapter that adeptly balances intense action and emotional depth. Created by Jim Mickle and Beth Schwartz, this Netflix series is based on the DC (Vertigo) comic book and follows Gus (Christian Convery), a half-human, half-deer hybrid in a post-apocalyptic world ravaged by a pandemic known as the Sick. As Gus, Big Man (Nonso Anozie), Wendy (Naledi Murray), and Becky (Stefania LaVie Owen) embark on a perilous journey to Alaska to find Gus’s mother, Birdie (Amy Seimetz), they face numerous challenges, including the sinister plans of new antagonist Helen Zhang.
One of the highlights ofSweet ToothSeason 3 is the profound character development, particularly of Gus, who has matured significantly since the series began. Convery delivers his best performance yet, capturing Gus’s transformation from a naive, sheltered boy into a resilient and compassionate leader. With this final season, the series continues to impress with its stunning visuals, breathtaking action sequences, and heartfelt storytelling. It’s certainly one of the best action TV shows of 2024.
Sweet Tooth Season 3 Review: The Netflix Series Sticks The Landing With Death-Defying Final Season
Sweet Tooth season 3 continues Gus’s voyage to Alaska in hopes of finding his mom and the cure for the Sick, with a fitting ending to the series.
Crooks
Crooks is a crime drama series created by Jonathan Nolan and Lisa Joy. Set in the 1980s, it follows the lives of two skilled con artists, portrayed by Emma Stone and Matthew McConaughey, who navigate the dangerous underworld of high-stakes heists and scams. As their operations grow more complex, they must balance their criminal endeavors with personal relationships and trust issues within their tight-knit crew.
Crooksis a thrilling German crime series co-written and directed by Marvin Kren. It takes viewers on a wild ride across Europe, including Berlin, Vienna, and Marseille. The story starts with a daring heist where brothers Karim (Veysel Gelin) and Tarek (Nimo) steal a rare coin worth over two million euros from a museum. Meanwhile, expert locksmith Charly (Frederick Lau) gets reluctantly pulled back into the criminal underworld by his old associate Stepan (Sergej Trifunovic) to crack a seemingly impenetrable safe.
Charly and Joseph (Christoph Krutzler) — who works for an organized crime gang in Vienna — find themselves forced into a precarious alliance as they navigate threats from rival gangs and their own associates. The action sequences, from high-speed chases to tense shootouts, are executed with precision, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. The Netflix series also delves into the personal motivations of its characters, offering more than typical crime drama tropes. With its engaging plot and well-rounded characters,Crooksdelivers a thrilling mix of action and drama, earning its place among the best action TV shows of 2024.
10 Best Crime Shows on Netflix
Netflix has plenty of great crime shows to offer for any amateur sleuth. These are ten of the best available right now.
The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live
The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live follows Rick Grimes and Michonne as they navigate a transformed world that challenges their relationship. Separated by distance and facing an unstoppable force, they strive to reunite and rediscover their identities in this continuation of the Walking Dead universe.
The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Liveis an intense, gory, romantic thriller that brings back beloved characters Rick Grimes (Andrew Lincoln) and Michonne (Danai Gurira). Created by Scott M. Gimple and Danai Gurira, this sequel spin-off picks up years after the duo’s mysterious disappearances. Rick, a prisoner of the enigmatic Civic Republic Military (CRM), is desperate to escape and reunite with Michonne, who embarks on her own perilous journey to find him. Streaming on AMC and AMC+, the series delves deep into their relationship while unraveling long-awaited answers about the CRM, blending high-stakes action with emotional resonance.
The highlight ofThe Ones Who Liveis undoubtedly the reunion of Rick and Michonne, whose chemistry has always been at the franchise’s core. Lincoln and Gurira’s performances are stellar, breathing new life into their iconic roles. The series also introduces intriguing new characters like Thorne (Lesley-Ann Brandt) and Nat (Matthew August Jeffers), who add layers to the unfolding drama. The mix of romantic tension, gory zombie action, and deep character exploration makesThe Ones Who Livea valuable addition toThe Walking Deadfranchise and one of the best action TV shows of 2024.
The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live Review - Rick & Michonne’s Return Is A Romantic, Tense Thriller
The Walking Dead: The Ones Who Live brings Rick and Michonne back for a thrilling story that puts to the test just how strong of a bond they share.
Mr. & Mrs. Smith
Mr. & Mrs. Smith is a 2024 TV series about John and Jane, two lonely strangers who abandon their past lives and identities to become partners both in espionage and marriage, navigating their complex personal and professional lives together.
Mr. & Mrs. Smithbrings a fresh and exhilarating twist to the classic spy story. Created by Donald Glover and Francesca Sloane, this Prime Video series reimagines the iconic 2005 film by focusing on two spies, John (Donald Glover) and Jane (Maya Erskine), who are paired in an arranged marriage for an undercover mission. Unlike the original, where the spouses are unaware of each other’s espionage careers, this adaptation places their professional lives at the forefront, allowing romance to blossom as they navigate their high-stakes missions.
Each episode stands alone with unique and thrilling adventures, keeping the show lively and unpredictable.The exceptional chemistry between Glover and Erskine fuelsMr. & Mrs. Smith, as their characters' banter and clashing personalities create a dynamic that captivates viewers from start to finish. The series dives deep into John and Jane’s personal motivations and vulnerabilities, providing a nuanced portrayal of their evolving relationship. Glover’s portrayal of John reveals a sensitive side, juxtaposed with Erskine’s Jane, who keeps her emotions guarded, resulting in powerful moments of connection and conflict.
While the overarching mystery of the shadowy agency employing the spies remains frustratingly elusive, the show’s focus on the spies' personalities and dynamic keeps it engaging.
Mr. & Mrs. Smith’sepisodic structure allows for creative and diverse missions, from quirky couples therapy sessions to intense ski trip operations, ensuring that each episode brings something new to the table. While the overarching mystery of the shadowy agency employing the spies remains frustratingly elusive, the show’s focus on the spies' personalities and dynamic keeps it engaging.Mr. & Mrs. Smithultimately delivers a perfect blend of action, humor, and romance, making it one of the best action TV shows of 2024.
Jane & John’s Real Backstories & Identities In Mr. & Mrs. Smith Explained
The true identities of John and Jane are revealed by the end of Mr. & Mrs. Smith, showing the key elements of what made them so compatible all along.
The Boys
The Boys is a gritty and subversive take on the superhero genre, focusing on a group of vigilantes who confront powerful superheroes abusing their abilities, exploring themes of corruption and moral ambiguity in a world where heroes are not always what they seem.
The Boysseason 4 continues to push the boundaries of superhero storytelling under the expert guidance of showrunner Eric Kripke. The plot picks up with Homelander (Antony Starr) facing a midlife crisis and cracks forming within The Boys, as a new threat emerges in the form of Victoria Neuman (Claudia Doumit), the Vice President with a covert pro-Supe agenda. Alongside the return of familiar faces like Billy Butcher (Karl Urban), Hughie (Jack Quaid), and Kimiko (Karen Fukuhara), the introduction of Sister Sage (Susan Heyward) adds a fresh and sinister dynamic, challenging Homelander’s supremacy in unexpected ways.
The BoysSeason 4 blends razor-sharp satire with relentless intensity, explosive action, and complex character development. While the series remains a darkly humorous critique of modern society, it also delves deeper into the backstories of characters like Kimiko and Frenchie (Tomer Capon), providing a richer emotional landscape. Despite criticism of feeling repetitive, the show retains its edge with high-stakes drama and visceral action sequences. Season 4 continues to entertain and dials up the provocative social commentary, earning its place among the best action TV shows of 2024.
The Boys Season 4 Review: Superhero Satire’s Razor-Sharp Edge Gets A Bit Duller In New Episodes
The Boys has always been prescient, but it struggles to find a balance between social commentary & gross-out action that still feels fresh in season 4
Fallout
Set 200 years after an apocalypse, Fallout follows residents of luxury shelters as they re-enter a post-nuclear world. Confronted with a bizarre and violent landscape, the series explores the stark contrasts between their sheltered existence and the harsh realities of the outside universe.
Falloutis an excellent adaptation of the beloved video game series by Bethesda. Created by Geneva Robertson-Dworet and Graham Wagner, the Prime Video series plunges viewers into a post-apocalyptic Los Angeles where nuclear war has devastated the world. The plot weaves together the stories of three main characters: Cooper Howard (Walton Goggins), a ghoul with a haunting past; Lucy MacLean (Ella Purnell), a vault dweller exploring the surface for the first time; and Maximus (Aaron Moten), a Wastelander affiliated with the Brotherhood of Steel.
This engaging narrative is peppered with dark humor and brutal action, true to the original game’s spirit, makingFalloutaccessible to newcomers and a treat for long-time fans. TheFalloutcastis uniformly fantastic. The series manages a masterful balance of world-building, character development, and homage to its source material. It captures the retro-futuristic aesthetic and the darkly comedic tone of the games.
Each episode is packed with nods to the franchise, from Vault-Tec’s iconic blue-and-yellow jumpsuits to the use of the Pip-Boy. The series offers fresh, engaging, and unpredictable storytelling by not leaning on pre-existing narratives.Fallout’sability to blend high-stakes conflict with moments of hilarity and heartfelt character interactions makes it a compelling watch, securing its place as one of the best action TV shows of 2024.
The World Of Fallout Explained
In celebration of Fallout’s release on Prime Video, here’s Screen Rant’s complete guide to the franchise’s characters, locations, lore, and changes.
Masters of the Air
Masters of the Air is an Apple TV+ original war drama starring Austin Butler, Callum Turner, Anthony Boyle, and Barry Keoghan. The series follows a group of eleven World War II pilots who fight German fighters in a bomber called “The Flying Fortress.” The miniseries was based on the book Masters of the Air: America’s Bomber Boys Who Fought the Air War Against Nazi Germany by Donald L. Miller.
Masters of the Airis the latest collaboration between Steven Spielberg, Tom Hanks, and Gary Goetzman, who previously broughtBand of BrothersandThe Pacific. Based on the book by Donald L. Miller, the Apple TV+ war drama series follows the harrowing experiences of the 100th Bomb Group, known as the “Bloody Hundredth,” as they fly perilous missions over Nazi Germany in their iconic B-17 bombers.What setsMasters of the Airapart is its extraordinary technical prowess. The aerial scenes are a marvel, capturing the terror and intensity of dogfights and bombing runs with stunning realism.
However, the series also excels in depicting the physical and psychological toll of war, portraying both the heroism and the horrors these young men face. TheMasters of the Aircast, including Austin Butler, Callum Turner, and Barry Keoghan, anchor the story with a heartfelt exploration of courage and camaraderie.The best action TV show of 2024, this series is not just a jaw-dropping action-packed spectacle, but a poignant tribute to the bravery and resilience of World War II aviators.
Every Apple TV Original Show Ranked Worst To Best
Apple TV+ Originals had a big night at the Emmys this year. Here is every one of the streaming titan’s series ranked in descending order.
