2019 was a banner year for action TV shows, with both returning favorites and new series making a mark on the genre. Whether you’re a fan of superhero adventures, thrilling espionage, or dark, gritty dramas, 2019 had something for everyone. Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 best action TV shows of 2019.
1. The Mandalorian
- Network: Disney+
- Stars: Pedro Pascal, Gina Carano, Carl Weathers
- Synopsis: Set in the Star Wars universe, “The Mandalorian” follows the journey of a lone bounty hunter in the outer reaches of the galaxy, far from the authority of the New Republic. As he takes on various dangerous missions, he finds himself protecting a mysterious child with a powerful connection to the Force.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “The Mandalorian” brought a fresh perspective to the Star Wars saga with its blend of space western elements and epic action sequences. Pedro Pascal’s portrayal of the titular character, combined with the show’s groundbreaking visual effects and memorable characters (like the beloved “Baby Yoda”), made it a standout hit in 2019.
2. Stranger Things (Season 3)
- Network: Netflix
- Stars: Millie Bobby Brown, Finn Wolfhard, David Harbour
- Synopsis: In the summer of 1985, the kids of Hawkins, Indiana, face new threats from the Upside Down as they navigate adolescence. Season 3 brings more action as the Mind Flayer returns with a vengeance, and the group must band together to save their town once again.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Stranger Things” Season 3 turned up the action with more intense battles against supernatural forces, coupled with the nostalgic charm and emotional depth the series is known for. The dynamic between the characters and the thrilling finale solidified this season as a high point for the show.
3. The Witcher
- Network: Netflix
- Stars: Henry Cavill, Anya Chalotra, Freya Allan
- Synopsis: Based on the popular book series and video games, “The Witcher” follows Geralt of Rivia, a monster hunter navigating a brutal world filled with dangerous creatures and even more dangerous people. The series explores the intersecting destinies of Geralt, Yennefer, and Ciri.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “The Witcher” became an instant hit thanks to its blend of fantasy, intense action, and complex characters. Henry Cavill’s portrayal of Geralt, combined with the show’s rich world-building and epic fight choreography, made it one of the best action series of 2019.
4. Game of Thrones (Season 8)
- Network: HBO
- Stars: Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, Peter Dinklage
- Synopsis: The final season of “Game of Thrones” brings the epic fantasy saga to a close as the characters face off in the ultimate battle for the Iron Throne. Alliances are tested, and long-awaited confrontations lead to a climactic and controversial conclusion.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: Despite its divisive ending, the eighth season of “Game of Thrones” delivered some of the most intense and visually spectacular action sequences in television history, particularly the Battle of Winterfell. The show’s cultural impact and high production values make it a must-watch for fans of epic fantasy and action.
5. The Boys
- Network: Amazon Prime Video
- Stars: Karl Urban, Jack Quaid, Antony Starr
- Synopsis: “The Boys” is set in a world where superheroes are revered, but many of them are corrupt and driven by greed. The show follows a group of vigilantes who take it upon themselves to expose the truth and take down these so-called heroes by any means necessary.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “The Boys” turned the superhero genre on its head with its dark, satirical take on what happens when heroes abuse their power. The show’s gritty action, sharp writing, and complex characters made it one of the most talked-about series of 2019.
6. Titans (Season 2)
- Network: DC Universe
- Stars: Brenton Thwaites, Anna Diop, Teagan Croft
- Synopsis: The second season of “Titans” follows the team of young heroes as they face off against Deathstroke, one of their most formidable foes. As they struggle with their personal demons and past mistakes, they must come together to stop Deathstroke from tearing them apart.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Titans” Season 2 improved on the first season with more character development, better pacing, and thrilling action scenes. The introduction of Deathstroke added a new layer of intensity to the series, making it a standout superhero show of 2019.
7. Watchmen
- Network: HBO
- Stars: Regina King, Yahya Abdul-Mateen II, Jeremy Irons
- Synopsis: Set in an alternate history where masked vigilantes are treated as outlaws, “Watchmen” explores racial tensions, political conspiracies, and the legacy of heroism in America. The show serves as both a sequel to and a reimagining of the classic graphic novel.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Watchmen” redefined the superhero genre with its bold storytelling, complex themes, and striking visuals. Regina King’s performance, combined with the show’s innovative approach to action and narrative, made it one of the most critically acclaimed series of 2019.
8. The Umbrella Academy (Season 1)
- Network: Netflix
- Stars: Ellen Page, Tom Hopper, David Castañeda
- Synopsis: “The Umbrella Academy” follows a dysfunctional family of adopted siblings with extraordinary abilities who reunite after their father’s death to prevent an impending apocalypse. The series combines superhero elements with dark humor and family drama.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “The Umbrella Academy” offered a fresh take on the superhero genre with its quirky characters, unique storyline, and visually stunning action sequences. The show’s blend of humor, heart, and high-stakes action made it a hit in 2019.
9. Doom Patrol
- Network: DC Universe
- Stars: Diane Guerrero, April Bowlby, Alan Tudyk
- Synopsis: “Doom Patrol” follows a team of superpowered misfits who are brought together by the mysterious Chief to protect the world from bizarre and supernatural threats. Each member of the team struggles with their own trauma and insecurities as they navigate their newfound responsibilities.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Doom Patrol” stood out for its weirdness, humor, and emotional depth, offering a more unconventional take on the superhero team-up genre. The show’s offbeat approach, combined with its action-packed episodes, made it a cult favorite in 2019.
10. Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan (Season 2)
- Network: Amazon Prime Video
- Stars: John Krasinski, Wendell Pierce, Noomi Rapace
- Synopsis: In the second season of “Jack Ryan,” the CIA analyst is thrust into a dangerous political conspiracy in Venezuela. As he uncovers deeper threats to global security, Jack Ryan must use his intelligence and combat skills to stop a devastating plot.
- Why It’s a Must-Watch: “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan” continued to deliver intense action and smart political intrigue in its second season. John Krasinski’s portrayal of the titular character, combined with the show’s high production values and thrilling storyline, solidified its place as one of the top action series of 2019.
Conclusion
2019 was a stellar year for action TV shows, with a variety of series offering something for everyone. Whether you’re into superhero dramas, sci-fi epics, or gritty thrillers, these top 10 action TV shows delivered unforgettable moments, intense action, and compelling storytelling. If you’re looking to relive the excitement of 2019 or discover some of the best action-packed series from that year, these shows are the ones to watch.
