Prime Video’sTom Clancy’s Jack Ryanisn’t the first adaptation of Clancy’s book. Over the years,there have been various moviesand series based on this flawed hero.The Hunt for Red Octoberemerged as the first film based on Clancy’s book, and there have been others since then. Esteemed actors like Harrison Ford and Ben Affleck have taken on the role of this iconic CIA Analyst. However, it was John Krasinski’s portrayal in the titular role that marked the beginning of the Ryanverse in this streaming era, leaving many impressed.
Fans of the book were delighted to see their favorite character brought to life in a TV series when it debuted on Prime Video in 2018. But it wasn’t only fans of the books or previous movies who fell in love with the new series: a wide range of viewers was blown away by the intriguing espionage world, compelling and well-written characters and the high-octane action scenes.
Jack Ryanis one appealing and unforgettable show, and since its conclusion after four seasons, many have been on the lookout for similar shows. Look no further, as these series share the same appeal asJack Ryan.
15Bodyguard (2018)
WhileBodyguardandJack Ryanhave two distinct storylines, they feature protagonists operating in the security and intelligence field and both shows brim with suspense, elements of espionage, and political intrigue. Set in the U.K., with a focus on domestic security,Bodyguardfollows the story of David Budd, a troubled veteran who is assigned to protect Julie Montague, a high-profile and controversial member of the Parliament. As their relationship deepens, the plot becomes more intricate.
Bodyguardis known for its suspenseful and intense storytelling as it explores the themes of trauma, terrorism, and government surveillance. The show was praised for its well-crafted plot line, action-packed narrative, and fine acting. And of course, the King in the North,Game of Thrones’s Richard Madden, dazzled audiences once again as he played this heroic yet disturbed government agent.
14Reacher (2022-Present)
Adapted from the Jack Reacher books by Lee Child, this action crime series features Alan Ritchson as the eponymous character. He portrays a retired military police officer wrongfully accused of murder. After being freed, he teams up with government agents to unravel a far-reaching conspiracy involving shady cops, corrupt politicians, and scheming businessmen. With just his wits and physical strength at his disposal, Reacher must reach the bottom of this conspiracy.
Reacherwas so terrific and so loved that it became one of themost-watched series on Prime Videoin 2022, and many can’t wait for the forthcoming season to continue Reacher’s gripping narrative. Not only does the show offer a riveting crime drama with a formidable central character, but it also remains faithful to the source material it was adapted from.
13Homeland (2011-2020)
Much likeJack Ryan,Homelandis an intense and gripping series that will have viewers glued to their screens, craving more. The plot of this political thriller and espionage drama revolves around a brilliant CIA operative Carrie, who becomes suspicious of Marine Sergeant Nicholas Brody after his eight-year captivity by the Al-Quaeda in Iraq. Fearing he poses a threat to national security, Carrie initiates a surveillance operation on Brody, setting off a cat-and-mouse chase between the two.
Homelandis a great spy TV series with Claire Danes expertly playing Carrie Mathison. Each season follows her attempts to stop terrorism, providing viewers with suspense-filled entertainment. While the series enjoyed a successful run, not all of its seasons were equal in quality. Some were better than others. Nonetheless, those who relish CIA thrillers will have a blast with this.
12Six (2017-2018)
If you likeJack Ryan’s focus on thwarting terrorist threats, then you will findSix, which delves into the perilous missions and challenges faced by Navy SEALs in their fight against terrorism, compelling as well. The series is packed with high-stakes situations and gripping cliffhangers, ensuring the audience’s unwavering engagement with the storylines. It is just as tense and suspenseful asJack Ryan.
Sixkicks off with this Navy SEAL Team Six going on a convert mission to eliminate a high-value Taliban when things go awry and their leader, Rip Taggart, is captured by Boko Haram. Now, it is left for the other members of the team to unite and rescue him. As the series continues, it follows this ferocious group through a series of high-stakes missions while also delving into their personal lives.
11Condor (2018-2020)
Based on the 1975 thriller filmThree Days of the Condor, this gripping CIA thriller series follows a low-level employee, Joe Turner, who discovers there might be a major threat on national security after analyzing geopolitical data. However, before he can report to his superiors, his entire office is attacked by a group of trained assassins, leaving everyone for dead except for Joe Turner. As he tries to uncover the truth while staying ahead of those trying to silence him, the suspense and tensions escalate.
Apart from its intricate plot filled with twists and turns,Condorhas been praised for its fine acting, great character development, and other qualities. It does justice both to theoriginal film and the bookit is based on. However, for some, the series wasn’t all that brilliant after its first season.
Related:Best Spy Thriller Movies Adapted from Books
10The Recruit (2022-Present)
The Recruitoffers a refreshing twist to the commonly used plot of political intrigues or international spy thrillers by pairing a CIA lawyer with a former asset. While he’s not as tough as Jack Ryan and tends to get himself and everyone else in trouble, Owen Hendricks’ adventures are sure to captivate many. The story’s heart lies in its atypical CIA thriller protagonist, who is genuinely a good person with two best friends looking out for him.There’s also that delightful balance between drama, comedy and mystery to satisfy diverse taste.
Noah Centineo was absolutely awesome in this role, earning him adoration despite his character’s flaws. With the compelling manner in which the first season ended, everyone who’s invested in the series would be eager to know what is next for Owen. Fortunately,The Recruithas beenrenewed for a Season 2.
Related:How The Recruit TV Series Revitalizes the Spy Thriller Genre
9The Terminal List (2022-Present)
The Terminal Listpremiered in 2022 on Prime Video with another thrilling and gritty tale that centers around conspiracy theories and the theme of revenge. It is based on Jack Carr’s 2018 novel of the same name and follows a Lieutenant commander who seeks vengeance against those who murdered his family.
Despite garnering mixed reviews from critics upon its arrival,The Terminal Listswiftly rose to the Top 10 list of shows on Prime Video within just two weeks. It has drawn comparisons to other heart-pounding thrillers likeJack Ryan. While critics found it lacking, many fans were left totally impressed. Chris Pratt plays his role convincingly well, with the range of his character’s emotions visible on his face, proving that he can be just as terrific in action thrillers as he is in comedies.
8Treason (2022)
InTreason, Charlie Cox plays an MI6 agent whose once-promising career takes a nosedive when a Russian spy, with whom he shares a complicated relationship, resurfaces in his life. As his life spirals out of control, he becomes increasingly suspicious of everyone around him. While the show is quite intriguing, some viewers may find the series less than realistic and occasionally predictable, which might disappoint some viewers.
It’s fair to say that it does not quite reach the caliber of shows likeJack RyanorReacher, but it is definitely going to be a treat for fans of double-crossing espionage or for those seeking a bingeworthy miniseries. There are enough twists and turns to keep many invested in the story even if the storyline seems weak and illogical sometimes. Cox’s portrayal of a spy is likely to be a pure delight for his fans.
7Designated Survivor (2016-2019)
Designated Survivorstars Keifer Sutherland as Kirkman, a low-level cabinet member who finds himself suddenly thrust into the role of the President of the United States after a devastating bomb attack wipes out the President and the entire line of succession. The show blends elements of political drama, conspiracy thriller, and suspense as it explores Kirkman’s journey from an unassuming cabinet member to a strong and principled President.
Lovers of24’s Jack Bauer will definitely love this as both series have a lot common beyond just sharing the same actor as a main character. Sutherland delivers a standout performance as usual, complemented by supporting actors like Kal Penn, Natascha McElhone, and others. While many have praised the show for its gripping and fantastic first two seasons, some have noted a decline in quality as the series progressed.
6Slow Horses (2022-Present)
Based on theSlough Houseseries of novels by Mick Heron, this solid spy thriller follows British Intelligence agents relegated to MI5’s dumping ground department due to their past screw-ups. However, when a young man is kidnapped and his abductors threaten to behead him live on the internet, it’s these underestimated members of the MI5 that rise to the occasion. River Cartwright, one of their own, seizes this opportunity to redeem himself.
Slow Horsesboasts top-notch settings and a stellar cast,with Gary Oldmanat the forefront, delivering a performance as impressive as his Oscar-winning role inThe Darkest Hour.Slow Horsestakes its time to create its characters with care while developing the story without losing its gripping and suspenseful side. There’s of course well-balanced doses of dark humor to enhance the overall entertainment value.
