10 Shows Like 'Jack Ryan' for the Fans of Action-Packed Dramas

"Jack Ryan" graced international television for four beautiful seasons, showing viewers an action-packed political thriller. Like "Jack Ryan," many television shows follow a similar premise, offering a captivating journey into espionage, danger, and unyielding heroism.

Since its 2018 premiere on Amazon Prime, "Jack Ryan" has become one of the most well-loved shows. The series revolves around veteran Jack Ryan (John Krasinski) and his journey from his desk job as a CIA analyst to an on-ground position as the head of the Terror, Finance, and Arms Division.

"Jack Ryan" ran for four seasons, each focusing on a unique narrative. However, the titular character's persona unfolds in each chapter, going from a reserved intellectual into an action hero.

The political action thriller, featuring chase scenes, explosions, and other heart-stopping clips, made headlines several times as a must-watch series. Although the show has ended, fans can look forward to a Prime Video spin-off starring Brie Shaffer's husband, Michael Peña, as a CIA agent.

Until then, fans will have to explore other intriguing on-screen productions. For those who enjoyed watching "Jack Ryan," many other shows of the same genre are available on television and streaming platforms.

'Reacher'

Amazon Prime released another outstanding action-packed series, "Reacher," which premiered in 2022. Although not CIA related, the series focuses on a former Army investigator, Jack Reacher, who was convicted of murder while on a trip to Georgia.

However, as deaths increase in the town, it becomes clear that Reacher did not commit any crimes, especially when his brother becomes one of the victims. When released from his wrongful imprisonment, the police ask Reacher to help investigate the crimes.

Alan Ritchson stars as the show's titular character alongside Malcolm Goodwin, Willa Fitzgerald, Hugh Thompson, Chris Webster, Bruce McGill, and many other talented stars.

'The Recruit'

Netflix's "The Recruit" has a similar premise to "Jack Ryan," being a compelling addition to the array of CIA-starring shows. The series follows the life of Owen Hendricks as the CIA recruits him as a lawyer. However, his career turns unexpectedly when Max Meladze, a former asset, threatens to reveal her ties with the agency.

Unless released from incarceration, Meladze won't keep quiet. Amidst this issue, Hendricks finds himself entangled in an international conflict that brings him in on an action-packed mission on the field.

"The Recruit" stars Noah Centineo as the leading character, Hendricks, and Laura Haddock as Meladze. It also features talents such as Fivel Stewart, Aarti Mann, Colton Dunn, Vondie Curtis-Hal, and Daniel Quincy Annoh.

'Designated Survivor'

"Designated Survivor" is another political series following Tom Kirkman's rise to power as the US President. Initially a cabinet member, Kirkman finds himself in the highest government seat after several successors die.

Unlike "Jack Ryan," the series has fewer action scenes but will leave audiences wanting to know more. The show stars Kiefer Sutherland, Adan Canto, Italia Ricci, Kal Penn, and Maggie Q, among others.

'The Blacklist'

From 2013 to 2023, "The Blacklist" graced television screens with nerve-wracking scenes. The series focuses on Navy officer-turned-criminal Raymond Reddington, who offers the FBI his services to capture other wanted criminals. In return, he wants his freedom.

He also requests to work only with FBI profiler Elizabeth Keen. The action begins when the FBI agrees to Reddington's deal. As they work together, more secrets are revealed.

The beloved television show stars James Spader as Reddington and Megan Boone as Elizabeth Keen. The other stellar cast members include Diego Klattenhoff, Ryan Eggold, Harry Lennix, and Hisham Tawfiq.

'Condor'

Like "Jack Ryan," "Condor" is also about a CIA analyst named Joe Turner, who discovers a conspiracy at work. It appears that the information he learned is big news, so much so that his co-workers and fellow department agents are killed.

Turner later discovers his bosses were involved in the crime and is out to get him. As he tries to stay alive, he also investigates the rationale behind the murders. The series stars Max Irons as Turner, alongside Kristen Hager, Bob Balaban, and Sam McCarthy.

'Homeland'

"Homeland" is another CIA-starring television series focused on national security and thrilling missions. It focuses on a possible attack on the US following a terrorist-related kidnapping.

The beloved television series first premiered in 2011 and ended in 2020. The show features Claire Danes, Mandy Patinkin, Damian Lewis, Rupert Friend, Maury Sterling, F. Murray Abraham, and many other talents.

'SIX'

Although it only ran for two seasons, "SIX" quickly became a fan-favorite series, following the adventures of Navy SEAL Team Six. Much like "Homeland," the squad faces terrorists who captured one of their members in Nigeria.

The action-packed series tackles much about military service and its effect on team members and their families. "SIX" had a stellar cast, including Barry Sloane, Kyle Schmid, Juan Pablo Raba, Edwin Hodge, and Brianne Davis.

'Covert Affairs'

"Covert Affairs" follows new CIA trainee Annie Walker, who rapidly evolves into a seasoned operative after several on-ground missions. Despite lacking formal training, Walker must adapt to a CIA agent's dangerous and difficult life.

The series ran from 2010 to 2014, starring Piper Perabo as Walker, Christopher Gorham, Kari Matchett, Peter Gallagher, Hill Harper, and Anne Dudek. Perabo's performance on the show won her a Gracie Allen Award and a Golden Globes nomination.

'The Night Manager'

"The Night Manager," tells the story of lavish hotel night manager Jonathan Pine, who suddenly gets invited by the Foreign Office to join a dangerous task. A former British soldier, Pine must get to a weapons dealer's inner circle without anyone knowing.

The beloved series stars Marvel Cinematic Universe actor Tom Hiddleston, Hugh Laurie, Elizabeth Debicki, Olivia Colman, Alistair Petrie, and Michael Nardone.

'Bodyguard'

"Bodyguard" follows the life of David Budd as he takes on the job of protecting Home Secretary Julia Montague. However, he does not believe in her views and grapples with keeping her safe. Budd is equipped with the skills to accomplish his task as a war veteran.

The one-season series starred Richard Madden, Sophie Rundle, Vincent Franklin, and Ash Tandon. It was also recognized with BAFTA awards and nominations, a Golden Globe nomination, and Primetime Emmy nominations.