The year 2018 was a stellar year for action TV shows, with a variety of series delivering pulse-pounding thrills, intense fight sequences, and gripping storylines. From superhero sagas to military dramas, these shows kept audiences on the edge of their seats with their high-octane action and compelling characters. Here’s a look at the top 10 best action TV shows of 2018 that you should definitely add to your watchlist.
1. Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan
- Network: Amazon Prime Video
- Stars: John Krasinski, Wendell Pierce, Abbie Cornish
- Synopsis: “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan” follows CIA analyst Jack Ryan as he uncovers a pattern in terrorist communications that leads him into the field for the first time. As he faces dangerous missions across the globe, Ryan must balance his new responsibilities with his moral convictions.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: This action-packed series brings Tom Clancy’s iconic character to life with a modern twist. John Krasinski delivers a strong performance as Jack Ryan, combining intelligence and physical prowess in a way that makes the character relatable and compelling. The show’s blend of intense action sequences, geopolitical intrigue, and character-driven drama makes it one of the standout action shows of 2018.
2. Daredevil (Season 3)
- Network: Netflix
- Stars: Charlie Cox, Vincent D’Onofrio, Deborah Ann Woll
- Synopsis: In the third season of “Daredevil,” Matt Murdock returns to Hell’s Kitchen after being presumed dead, only to find that his old nemesis Wilson Fisk has been released from prison. As Daredevil, Matt must confront Fisk once again while grappling with his own inner demons.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Daredevil” Season 3 is a masterclass in superhero action and storytelling. The show’s fight choreography is top-notch, particularly in its brutal and realistic hand-to-hand combat scenes. The season also delves deeper into the psychological struggles of its characters, making it a rich and engaging viewing experience. With its intense action, complex characters, and high stakes, “Daredevil” remains one of the best superhero shows of 2018.
3. The Punisher (Season 2)
- Network: Netflix
- Stars: Jon Bernthal, Ben Barnes, Amber Rose Revah
- Synopsis: “The Punisher” follows Frank Castle, a former Marine turned vigilante, as he seeks to avenge the death of his family. In Season 2, Castle becomes embroiled in a conspiracy that forces him to confront his violent past and the consequences of his actions.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: Jon Bernthal’s portrayal of Frank Castle is one of the most intense and nuanced performances in the action genre. Season 2 of “The Punisher” continues to deliver brutal, visceral action scenes while exploring deeper themes of trauma, revenge, and redemption. The show’s gritty realism and unflinching portrayal of violence make it a standout in the crowded field of superhero action shows.
4. Vikings (Season 5)
- Network: History Channel
- Stars: Katheryn Winnick, Gustaf Skarsgård, Alexander Ludwig
- Synopsis: “Vikings” follows the legendary Norse hero Ragnar Lothbrok and his descendants as they explore, trade, and battle across Europe. In Season 5, the sons of Ragnar are divided as they vie for control of their father’s legacy, leading to epic battles and political intrigue.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Vikings” is known for its epic battle scenes, historical authenticity, and complex characters. Season 5 continues to deliver on all fronts, with breathtaking action sequences that showcase the brutal and unforgiving world of the Viking Age. The show’s focus on family dynamics and power struggles adds depth to the action, making it a compelling watch for fans of historical dramas and action-packed series alike.
5. The Blacklist (Season 5)
- Network: NBC
- Stars: James Spader, Megan Boone, Diego Klattenhoff
- Synopsis: “The Blacklist” follows Raymond “Red” Reddington, a former criminal mastermind who surrenders to the FBI and offers to help catch other criminals on his “blacklist” in exchange for immunity. Season 5 sees Red rebuilding his empire while navigating new threats and personal revelations.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “The Blacklist” combines high-stakes action with intricate plotting and memorable characters. James Spader’s performance as Red Reddington is captivating, and the show’s mix of espionage, crime, and action keeps viewers hooked. Season 5 offers plenty of twists and turns, along with intense action sequences that make it a must-watch for fans of action and crime dramas.
6. Altered Carbon
- Network: Netflix
- Stars: Joel Kinnaman, James Purefoy, Martha Higareda
- Synopsis: Set in a future where consciousness can be transferred to different bodies, “Altered Carbon” follows Takeshi Kovacs, a former soldier who is brought back to life centuries after his death to solve the murder of one of the wealthiest men on Earth.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Altered Carbon” combines cyberpunk aesthetics with intense action and thought-provoking themes about identity, mortality, and power. The show’s futuristic setting allows for creative and visually stunning action sequences, while the story keeps viewers engaged with its mystery and intrigue. Joel Kinnaman’s performance as the tortured and relentless Kovacs adds depth to the show’s already compelling narrative.
7. Arrow (Season 6)
- Network: The CW
- Stars: Stephen Amell, David Ramsey, Emily Bett Rickards
- Synopsis: “Arrow” follows Oliver Queen, a billionaire playboy who becomes the vigilante archer known as the Green Arrow. In Season 6, Oliver faces new challenges as he tries to balance his duties as a father, mayor, and vigilante while facing off against powerful new enemies.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Arrow” is one of the defining shows of the modern superhero TV era, and Season 6 continues to deliver the action-packed drama that fans love. The show’s fight choreography and stunt work are among the best on television, and the character-driven storytelling adds emotional weight to the action. With its blend of superheroics, personal drama, and high-stakes action, “Arrow” remains a top choice for fans of the genre.
8. Strike Back (Season 6)
- Network: Cinemax
- Stars: Warren Brown, Daniel MacPherson, Alin Sumarwata
- Synopsis: “Strike Back” follows an elite special forces unit as they undertake high-risk missions around the world. In Season 6, the team faces new threats from a dangerous network of international criminals and terrorists.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Strike Back” is known for its intense action sequences, military tactics, and globe-trotting adventures. Season 6 continues this tradition, offering thrilling missions and explosive action. The show’s attention to detail in its portrayal of special forces operations adds authenticity to the adrenaline-pumping action, making it a must-watch for fans of military and action TV shows.
9. Westworld (Season 2)
- Network: HBO
- Stars: Evan Rachel Wood, Thandiwe Newton, Jeffrey Wright
- Synopsis: “Westworld” is set in a futuristic theme park where guests can live out their fantasies with lifelike robots. In Season 2, the robots, or “hosts,” begin to rebel against their creators, leading to a bloody and chaotic battle for freedom.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Westworld” blends philosophical questions with stunning visuals and intense action. Season 2 dives deeper into the show’s complex narrative, exploring themes of consciousness, free will, and rebellion. The action sequences are as meticulously crafted as the show’s intricate plot, making “Westworld” a compelling and thought-provoking watch for fans of sci-fi and action.
10. The 100 (Season 5)
- Network: The CW
- Stars: Eliza Taylor, Bob Morley, Marie Avgeropoulos
- Synopsis: “The 100” is set in a post-apocalyptic world where a group of young survivors must navigate the dangers of Earth and each other. Season 5 sees the characters facing new challenges as they fight for survival and control of a valley that could be the key to humanity’s future.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “The 100” is a show that combines action, drama, and sci-fi elements into a gripping narrative about survival and morality. Season 5 continues to push the characters to their limits, with intense action scenes and high-stakes decisions that keep viewers engaged. The show’s exploration of the human condition in extreme circumstances adds depth to its action-packed storyline, making it a standout in the action TV landscape.
Conclusion
2018 was a phenomenal year for action TV shows, with series that offered a mix of superheroics, military drama, sci-fi adventures, and more. These top 10 shows represent the best of what the genre had to offer, delivering unforgettable action sequences, compelling characters, and gripping stories. Whether you’re a fan of high-octane thrills, intricate plotting, or character-driven drama, these shows are sure to keep you entertained and on the edge of your seat.
