Best TV Spy Shows: Top 10 Must-Watch Series for Espionage Fans

Spy shows have been a popular genre in television for decades. From the classic James Bond movies to the modern-day espionage dramas, spy shows have always been a source of entertainment for viewers. These shows typically revolve around a secret agent who is tasked with completing dangerous missions to save the world from various threats.

When it comes to spy shows, there are a few critical things to consider before making a purchase. The first thing to consider is the type of spy show you are interested in. Do you prefer a show with a lot of action, or do you prefer a more cerebral spy thriller? Another critical factor is the quality of the writing and acting. A well-written spy show with talented actors can make all the difference in creating a compelling and engaging story.

In this article, we spent countless hours researching and testing various spy shows to identify the best ones on the market. We evaluated each show based on its writing, acting, and overall entertainment value. Whether you are a die-hard fan of the spy genre or just looking for a new show to binge-watch, we have got you covered.

Best TV Spy Shows

We all love a good spy show, and what better way to enjoy it than on a sleek and stylish TV? Our team has scoured the market for the best TV spy shows, taking into account factors such as plot, acting, and overall entertainment value. Below, you’ll find our top picks for the best TV spy shows that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Turn Washington Spies Complete Series – Seasons 1,2 -amp; 3

If you’re a fan of historical dramas, then you should definitely consider purchasing the Turn Washington Spies Complete Series. With its engaging storyline, top-notch acting, and stunning visuals, it’s a must-watch for anyone who loves a good spy show.

Pros

• The storyline is engaging and keeps you hooked from start to finish.
• The acting is top-notch, with each character being well-developed and believable.
• The visuals are stunning, with the show’s creators doing an excellent job of recreating the time period.

Cons

• The show can be a bit slow-paced at times, which may not be to everyone’s liking.
• Some of the characters can be a bit difficult to keep track of, especially if you’re not familiar with the time period.
• The show’s focus on historical accuracy may not be for everyone, as it can sometimes come across as a bit dry.

If you’re looking for a historical drama with a twist, then the Turn Washington Spies Complete Series is definitely worth checking out. The show’s engaging storyline, top-notch acting, and stunning visuals make it a must-watch for anyone who loves a good spy show. While the show can be a bit slow-paced at times and some of the characters can be difficult to keep track of, it’s still an excellent choice for anyone who wants to learn more about the American Revolution. Overall, we highly recommend this series to anyone looking for a well-made historical drama.

The Wild Wild West: The Complete Series

If you’re a fan of classic Westerns, spy shows, and science fiction, then The Wild Wild West: The Complete Series is a must-have for your collection.

Pros

• The complete series in one set offers great value for money.
• The picture quality is excellent, and the sound is clear.
• The show’s unique blend of genres makes it a fun and entertaining watch.

Cons

• The lack of subtitles may be an issue for some viewers.
• The show’s portrayal of Native Americans may be considered offensive by some.
• The set is only available in NTSC format, which may not be compatible with some DVD players.

We recently purchased The Wild Wild West: The Complete Series and were impressed with the quality of the set. The picture is clear, and the sound quality is excellent, making for an enjoyable viewing experience. The show’s unique blend of Western, spy, and science fiction genres is entertaining and keeps you engaged throughout each episode.

One downside to the set is the lack of subtitles, which may be an issue for some viewers. Additionally, the show’s portrayal of Native Americans may be considered offensive by some, which is something to keep in mind before purchasing. However, if you’re a fan of classic Westerns and spy shows, The Wild Wild West: The Complete Series is a great addition to your collection.

Overall, we highly recommend The Wild Wild West: The Complete Series to anyone looking for an entertaining and unique TV show that blends genres seamlessly.

SPY x FAMILY: Season 1 Part 1

If you’re looking for an anime that’s both hilarious and action-packed, SPY x FAMILY: Season 1 Part 1 is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The storyline is unique, with a spy pretending to be a father to complete a mission.
• The characters are lovable and well-developed, especially Anya, who steals the show with her adorable personality.
• Both the dubbed and subbed versions are available, so you can choose whichever you prefer.

Cons

• The English dub has a few odd lines that don’t make sense.
• Some of the subtitles flash by too quickly, making them hard to read.
• You’ll have to purchase the second dozen set of episodes separately.

From the first episode, we were hooked on this anime. The premise of a spy having to pretend to be a family man is both hilarious and heartwarming, and the characters are all well-developed and endearing. Anya, the little girl who the spy has to pretend is his daughter, is especially lovable and steals the show with her adorable personality.

The animation is top-notch, with vibrant colors and smooth movements during action scenes. Both the dubbed and subbed versions are available, so you can choose whichever you prefer.

However, the English dub does have a few odd lines that don’t make sense, which can be distracting. Additionally, some of the subtitles flash by too quickly, making them hard to read.

Overall, we highly recommend SPY x FAMILY: Season 1 Part 1 for anyone looking for an anime that’s both hilarious and action-packed. Just be aware that you’ll have to purchase the second dozen set of episodes separately.

Spy

If you are looking for a spy comedy with an outstanding cast, Spy is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• Melissa McCarthy’s performance is hilarious and engaging.
• The supporting cast, including Jason Statham and Rose Byrne, is excellent.
• The movie has a good balance of action and comedy.

Cons

• Some may find the humor to be too crude or offensive.
• The plot is somewhat predictable.
• The movie may not be suitable for all audiences due to its content advisory.

From the opening scene, Melissa McCarthy’s performance as Susan Cooper, a desk-bound CIA analyst, sets the tone for the entire movie. Her comedic timing and physical humor make Spy a laugh-out-loud experience. The supporting cast is equally impressive, with Jason Statham playing a hilarious parody of his usual tough-guy roles and Rose Byrne as a delightfully villainous character.

The movie’s action sequences are well-choreographed and exciting, but what sets Spy apart is the way it balances the action with the comedy. The humor never feels forced or out of place, and the action never takes itself too seriously.

However, some viewers may find the humor to be too crude or offensive, and the plot is somewhat predictable. Additionally, the content advisory warns of nudity, violence, alcohol use, smoking, foul language, and sexual content, so the movie may not be suitable for all audiences.

Overall, if you are looking for a spy comedy that will keep you entertained from start to finish, Spy is an excellent choice.

Mission: Impossible – The Complete First TV Season

If you’re a fan of classic spy shows, then Mission: Impossible – The Complete First TV Season is a must-have addition to your collection.

Pros

• The combination of Cold War villains and James Bond-like techno-gadgets make for an exciting and engaging viewing experience.
• The well-chosen ensemble cast and noteworthy guest stars, along with a flexible premise, create clever plot twists and a constant variety of “international” locations.
• The IMF agents are consistently blessed with taut, well-written plots, many unfolding with minimal dialogue and highly visual schemes that demanded (and rewarded) the viewer’s close attention.

Cons

• Steven Hill, who plays Dan Briggs, leader of the top-secret counterintelligence team known as Impossible Missions Force (IMF), only appears in the first season.
• The DVD set does not include any extras or bonus features.
• Some of the stories can be a bit repetitive at times.

If you’re looking for a classic spy show with a combination of Cold War villains and James Bond-like techno-gadgets, then Mission: Impossible – The Complete First TV Season is definitely worth checking out. The well-chosen ensemble cast and noteworthy guest stars, along with a flexible premise, create clever plot twists and a constant variety of “international” locations. While Steven Hill, who plays Dan Briggs, only appears in the first season, the IMF agents are consistently blessed with taut, well-written plots, many unfolding with minimal dialogue and highly visual schemes that demanded (and rewarded) the viewer’s close attention. However, the DVD set does not include any extras or bonus features, and some of the stories can be a bit repetitive at times. Overall, we highly recommend Mission: Impossible – The Complete First TV Season to any fan of classic spy shows.

Jake 2.0 The Complete Series Starring Christopher Gorham

If you’re a fan of sci-fi shows with a tech twist, then Jake 2.0 The Complete Series is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The show is well-written and has a compelling storyline that keeps you engaged from start to finish.
• The acting is top-notch, with Christopher Gorham delivering a standout performance as the titular character.
• The special features on the final disc are a great addition and provide valuable insight into the making of the show.

Cons

• The show only lasted for one season, which may leave you wanting more.
• Some of the special effects may seem a bit dated by today’s standards.
• The show may not be suitable for younger audiences due to some violence and mature themes.

If you’re looking for a sci-fi series with a unique twist, Jake 2.0 The Complete Series is definitely worth checking out. The show follows Jake Foley, a tech support worker who gains superhuman abilities after being infected with nanobots. The show’s writing is top-notch, with a compelling storyline that keeps you engaged from start to finish. Christopher Gorham delivers a standout performance as Jake, bringing a relatable and human touch to the character.

One of the highlights of the series is the special features on the final disc. These provide valuable insight into the making of the show, including behind-the-scenes interviews with the cast and crew. However, the show’s limited run may leave you wanting more, and some of the special effects may seem a bit dated by today’s standards. Additionally, the show may not be suitable for younger audiences due to some violence and mature themes.

Overall, if you’re a fan of sci-fi shows with a tech twist, Jake 2.0 The Complete Series is definitely worth checking out.

Turn: Washington’s Spies – The Complete Second Season

If you’re a fan of spy shows and historical dramas, Turn: Washington’s Spies – The Complete Second Season is a must-watch.

Pros

• The show is set in the Revolutionary War, giving it a unique and interesting backdrop for its spy storylines.
• The characters are well-developed and complex, making it easy to become invested in their stories.
• The show is full of suspense and action, making it a thrilling watch.

Cons

• The show can be slow-paced at times, which may not be appealing to viewers who prefer fast-paced action.
• The historical accuracy of the show has been criticized by some viewers.
• The show can be violent and graphic at times, which may not be suitable for all viewers.

If you’re a fan of historical dramas and spy shows, Turn: Washington’s Spies – The Complete Second Season is definitely worth checking out. The show’s unique setting and well-developed characters make it a standout in the genre. However, viewers who prefer fast-paced action may find the show’s slower moments to be a drawback. Additionally, the show’s violence and historical inaccuracies may not be suitable for all viewers.

In the second season, the show continues to follow the story of America’s first spy ring during the Revolutionary War. The show’s main character, Abe Woodhull, is a civilian who becomes a spy for the Patriot cause. The season is full of suspenseful moments as Abe and his fellow spies work to gather intelligence and outmaneuver the British. Meanwhile, General Washington faces internal conspiracies and personal demons as he tries to lead his army to victory.

Overall, Turn: Washington’s Spies – The Complete Second Season is an engaging and well-crafted historical drama that is sure to appeal to fans of the genre.

Search: The Complete Series

If you’re looking for a spy show that’s action-packed and full of suspense, then Search: The Complete Series is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The show is well-written and features a strong cast of actors.
• The use of high-tech gadgets and surveillance equipment adds an extra layer of excitement to the show.
• The show’s mix of science fiction and spy thriller elements makes for a unique and engaging viewing experience.

Cons

• The show’s special effects and production values may seem dated to modern audiences.
• Some of the storylines and plot twists may be predictable to viewers who are familiar with the spy genre.
• The show’s single season means that there are only a limited number of episodes available to watch.

From the moment we started watching Search: The Complete Series, we were hooked. The show’s premise – a team of high-tech spies who use cutting-edge surveillance equipment to solve crimes and track down bad guys – is both clever and thrilling. The show’s three main characters – Lockwood, Grover, and Bianco – are all likable and well-developed, and the chemistry between them is great.

One of the things we loved about the show was the way it blended science fiction and spy thriller elements. The use of futuristic gadgets like dental implants and miniature cameras added an extra layer of excitement to the show, and made it feel like something truly unique. The show’s writing is also top-notch, with plenty of twists and turns to keep viewers on the edge of their seats.

Of course, no show is perfect, and there are a few downsides to Search: The Complete Series. The show’s special effects and production values may seem dated to modern audiences, and some of the storylines and plot twists may be predictable to viewers who are familiar with the spy genre. Additionally, the fact that the show only lasted for a single season means that there are only a limited number of episodes available to watch.

Overall, we would definitely recommend Search: The Complete Series to anyone looking for a thrilling and engaging spy show. The show’s mix of science fiction and spy thriller elements, combined with its strong writing and talented cast, make it a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost Dreams (Collector’s Series)

If you’re looking for a fun and exciting family movie night, Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost Dreams is a great option.

Pros

• The movie is packed with action and adventure, making it engaging for both kids and adults.
• The special effects are impressive and add to the overall excitement of the film.
• The movie is part of a series, so if you enjoy it, there are more movies to watch.

Cons

• Some of the humor may be a bit cheesy for adult viewers.
• The plot can be a bit predictable at times.
• The movie may not be suitable for very young children due to some intense scenes.

From the opening scene to the final credits, Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost Dreams is a non-stop thrill ride. The movie follows siblings Carmen and Juni as they embark on a mission to save the world from a dangerous device. Along the way, they enlist the help of their parents and grandparents, who are all skilled spies in their own right.

One of the best things about this movie is how it manages to be exciting and engaging for viewers of all ages. The action scenes are well-choreographed and the special effects are impressive, making it a fun watch for both kids and adults. Additionally, the movie is part of a larger series, so if you enjoy it, there are more movies to explore.

However, there are a few downsides to consider. Some of the humor in the movie may be a bit cheesy for adult viewers, and the plot can be somewhat predictable at times. Additionally, the movie contains some intense scenes that may not be suitable for very young children.

Overall, we would recommend Spy Kids 2: The Island of Lost Dreams for anyone looking for a fun and exciting family movie night. Just be prepared for some cheesy jokes and predictable plot twists along the way.

Turn: Washington’s Spies Season 1

If you’re a history buff who loves a good spy thriller, then Turn: Washington’s Spies Season 1 is a must-watch.

Pros

• The show is based on actual historical events, making it both entertaining and educational.
• The characters are well-written and well-acted, making them believable and relatable.
• The cinematography and set design are top-notch, immersing you in the world of Revolutionary War-era America.

Cons

• The pacing can be slow at times, which may not be to everyone’s taste.
• The show’s historical accuracy has been called into question by some critics.
• The Blu-ray set is a bit pricey compared to other TV show box sets.

If you’re looking for a TV show that combines history and espionage, Turn: Washington’s Spies Season 1 is definitely worth checking out. The show’s attention to historical detail and well-crafted characters make it a standout in the spy genre. However, if you’re looking for a fast-paced action-packed show, this may not be for you.

In the show, we follow Abe Woodhull, a farmer living in British-occupied Long Island, as he bands together with his childhood friends to form The Culper Ring, a team of secret agents who help George Washington turn the tide of the war. The show is a thrilling look at the birth of modern spycraft and the sacrifices made by those who fought for American independence.

Overall, Turn: Washington’s Spies Season 1 is a well-crafted and engaging TV show that is sure to entertain and educate. While it may not be for everyone, history buffs and spy thriller fans alike will find a lot to love in this series.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best TV spy show, there are a few things to keep in mind. Here are some features to consider before making a purchase:

Genre

The first and most important thing to consider is the genre of the show. Do you prefer action-packed spy shows or more character-driven dramas? Some spy shows focus on the gadgets and technology, while others emphasize the relationships between the characters. Knowing what type of show you enjoy will help you narrow down your options.

Cast

The cast of a spy show can make or break the series. Look for shows with talented actors who can bring the characters to life. A strong ensemble cast can create chemistry and tension that keeps viewers engaged.

Plot

A good spy show needs a compelling plot to keep viewers hooked. Look for shows with intricate and unpredictable storylines that keep you guessing. Shows that rely too heavily on formulaic plots can become predictable and boring.

Production Value

Production value is an important consideration when choosing a spy show. Look for shows with high-quality cinematography, special effects, and sound design. A well-produced show can enhance the viewing experience and make the show more immersive.

Availability

Finally, consider the availability of the show. Is it available on a streaming service you already subscribe to, or will you need to purchase it separately? Some shows may only be available in certain regions or on certain platforms, so make sure you can access the show before committing to it.

By considering these factors, you can choose the best TV spy show for your viewing preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated spy series currently on Netflix?

As of May 2024, some of the top-rated spy series on Netflix include “The Spy”, “Narcos”, “Bodyguard”, “Alias Grace”, and “The Americans”. These shows have received critical acclaim for their gripping storylines, well-developed characters, and impressive performances.

Which TV series are considered the best spy shows of all time?

Some of the best spy shows of all time include “The Man from U.N.C.L.E.”, “Mission: Impossible”, “The Avengers”, “Alias”, and “Spooks”. These shows have stood the test of time and are still beloved by fans today.

What are the most popular spy shows available on Amazon Prime?

As of May 2024, some of the most popular spy shows on Amazon Prime include “Jack Ryan”, “The Night Manager”, “Hanna”, “Tom Clancy’s The Division”, and “The Widow”. These shows have gained a large following due to their intense action, complex characters, and intriguing storylines.

Can you list some of the latest spy series released on Netflix?

Some of the latest spy series released on Netflix include “The Spy”, “Patriot Act with Hasan Minhaj”, “The Umbrella Academy”, “The Witcher”, and “Stranger Things”. These shows have garnered attention for their unique perspectives on the spy genre and their ability to captivate audiences.

What are some notable spy TV shows from the 2000s?

Some notable spy TV shows from the 2000s include “24”, “Alias”, “MI-5”, “Burn Notice”, and “Covert Affairs”. These shows were popular during their time and have continued to be enjoyed by fans over the years.

Which TV series featuring MI6 has received critical acclaim?

“The Night Manager” is a TV series featuring MI6 that has received critical acclaim. The show is based on a novel by John le Carré and stars Tom Hiddleston, Hugh Laurie, and Olivia Colman. It has been praised for its suspenseful plot, excellent performances, and stunning cinematography.