Top 20 Fan-Favorite Action & Adventure TV Shows Ever!

Fasten your seatbelts, folks! We’re about to embark on a thrilling journey through the most adrenaline-pumping, heart-racing, edge-of-your-seat gripping TV shows ever to grace the small screen. From daring heists to epic battles, from nail-biting chases to mind-boggling mysteries, these shows have it all. We’ve scoured the annals of television history, polled fans far and wide, and now we’re ready to unveil the “Top 20 Fan-Favorite Action & Adventure TV Shows Ever!” Whether you’re a die-hard action junkie or a casual viewer looking for a new obsession, this list is your treasure map to television gold. So, grab your popcorn, dim the lights, and prepare to be entertained. The action is about to begin!
The Umbrella Academy

The Umbrella Academy

“The Umbrella Academy” is a thrilling action and adventure TV show that revolves around a dysfunctional family of superheroes. Together, they embark on a mission to uncover the truth behind their father’s death, while also facing the impending threat of the apocalypse. With a talented cast including Aidan Gallagher, Elliot Page, and Tom Hopper, this series, released on February 15, 2019, promises an exciting and mysterious storyline that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

Cast: Aidan Gallagher (Number Five) , Elliot Page (Vanya Hargreeves / Viktor Hargreeves / Number Seven) , Tom Hopper (Luther Hargreeves / Number One) , Emmy Raver-Lampman (Allison Hargreeves / Number Three) , Robert Sheehan (Klaus Hargreeves / Number Four) , David Castañeda (Diego Hargreeves / Number Two) , Justin H. Min (Ben Hargreeves / Number Six) , Ritu Arya (Lila Pitts) , Colm Feore (Sir Reginald Hargreeves) , Génesis Rodríguez (Sloane Hargreeves)

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Writers: Gabriel Bá, Gerard Way

Tags: superhero, time travel, dysfunctional family, based on comic, alternate history, apocalypse, universe, super power, end of world, siblings, children

The Boys

The Boys

“The Boys” is an action-packed and thrilling TV show that made its debut on July 25, 2019. It follows a group of vigilantes called “The Boys” who are determined to take down corrupt superheroes using their blue-collar determination and a willingness to fight dirty. With an incredible cast including Jack Quaid, Karl Urban, Antony Starr, and more, this show is a must-watch for fans of action and adventure.

Cast: Jack Quaid (Hughie Campbell) , Karl Urban (Billy Butcher) , Antony Starr (John Gillman / Homelander) , Erin Moriarty (Annie January / Starlight) , Dominique McElligott (Queen Maeve) , Jessie T. Usher (A-Train) , Laz Alonso (Mother’s Milk) , Chace Crawford (Kevin Moskowitz / The Deep) , Tomer Capone (Frenchie) , Nathan Mitchell (Black Noir) , Karen Fukuhara (Kimiko / The Female) , Colby Minifie (Ashley Barrett) , Claudia Doumit (Victoria Neuman) , Jensen Ackles (Soldier Boy)

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Tags: superhero, gore, based on comic, revenge, nudity

The Mandalorian

The Mandalorian

“The Mandalorian” is a thrilling action and adventure TV show that has been voted as one of the best of all time. Set in a galaxy plagued by lawlessness after the fall of the Galactic Empire, the story follows a lone gunfighter who travels through the outer reaches, working as a bounty hunter. Starring Pedro Pascal and Katee Sackhoff, this highly acclaimed series premiered on November 12, 2019, and is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Cast: Pedro Pascal (Din Djarin / The Mandalorian) , Katee Sackhoff (Bo-Katan Kryze)

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Writers: George Lucas

Tags: bounty hunter, space western, space opera, space exploration

House of the Dragon

House of the Dragon

“House of the Dragon” is an upcoming action-packed and adventurous TV show set to release on August 21, 2022. Set in the Targaryen dynasty, the show takes us to a time when they ruled with immense power, commanding over 15 dragons. The story revolves around the breaking of tradition as King Viserys names his daughter Rhaenyra as the heir to the Iron Throne, leading to a slow fall and division within the realm. With a talented cast including Emma D’Arcy, Olivia Cooke, Paddy Considine, Matt Smith, Rhys Ifans, and Robert Ryan, this highly anticipated series promises to be a thrilling journey into the world of dragons and power struggles.

Cast: Emma D’Arcy (Princess Rhaenyra Targaryen) , Olivia Cooke (Alicent Hightower) , Paddy Considine (King Viserys I Targaryen) , Matt Smith (Prince Daemon Targaryen) , Rhys Ifans (Ser Otto Hightower) , Robert Ryan (Household Targaryen Guard)

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Writers: George R. R. Martin

Tags: based on novel or book, giant monster, knight, dragon, king, fantasy world

Outer Banks

Outer Banks

“Outer Banks” is an action-packed and thrilling TV show that follows a group of close-knit teenagers as they stumble upon a long-hidden secret. This discovery sets off a series of exciting and forbidden events, leading them on an unforgettable adventure. With a talented cast including Chase Stokes, Madelyn Cline, and Jonathan Daviss, this show is a must-watch for fans of action and adventure. Released in 2020, it’s definitely one of the best action and adventure TV shows of all time.

Cast: Chase Stokes (John B. Routledge) , Madelyn Cline (Sarah Cameron) , Madison Bailey (Kiara Carrera) , Jonathan Daviss (Pope Heyward) , Rudy Pankow (JJ Maybank) , Drew Starkey (Rafe Cameron) , Charles Esten (Ward Cameron) , Connor Schnell (Museum Patron/Kook Pool Party Guest) , Carlacia Grant (Cleo) , Charles Halford (Big John)

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Tags: child abuse, surfing, diving, treasure hunt, north carolina, boat chase, illegal drugs, outer banks

Game of Thrones

Game of Thrones

“Game of Thrones” is an epic action and adventure TV show that has captivated audiences since its release in 2011. Set in the mythical land of Westeros, it follows the intense power struggles between seven noble families, leading to a full-scale war. As if that wasn’t enough, an ancient evil lurking in the far north adds an extra layer of suspense. With a talented cast including Peter Dinklage, Kit Harington, and Emilia Clarke, this show is a must-watch for fans of thrilling battles, political intrigue, and supernatural elements.

Cast: Peter Dinklage (Tyrion ‘The Halfman’ Lannister) , Kit Harington (Jon Snow) , Nikolaj Coster-Waldau (Sir Jaime ‘Kingslayer’ Lannister) , Lena Headey (Cersei Lannister) , Emilia Clarke (Daenerys Targaryen) , Liam Cunningham (Davos Seaworth) , Maisie Williams (Arya Stark) , Isaac Hempstead-Wright (Brandon ‘Bran’ Stark) , Sophie Turner (Sansa Stark) , John Bradley (Samwell ‘Sam’ Tarly) , Rory McCann (Sandor ‘The Hound’ Clegane) , Joe Dempsie (Gendry) , Gwendoline Christie (Brienne of Tarth) , Jacob Anderson (Grey Worm)

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Writers: George R. R. Martin

Tags: based on novel or book, kingdom, dragon, king, intrigue, fantasy world

Star Trek: The Next Generation

Star Trek: The Next Generation

“Star Trek: The Next Generation” is an action-packed and adventurous TV show that follows the captivating intergalactic journeys of Captain Jean-Luc Picard and his dedicated crew on the USS Enterprise NCC-1701D. With a stellar cast including Patrick Stewart, Jonathan Frakes, Brent Spiner, Michael Dorn, Marina Sirtis, LeVar Burton, and Gates McFadden, this iconic series takes viewers on thrilling explorations of new worlds. Premiering on September 28, 1987, it has become one of the best-voted action and adventure TV shows of all time.

Cast: Patrick Stewart (Jean-Luc Picard) , Jonathan Frakes (William T. Riker) , Brent Spiner (Data) , Michael Dorn (Worf) , Marina Sirtis (Deanna Troi) , LeVar Burton (Geordi La Forge) , Gates McFadden (Beverly Crusher)

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Tags: spacecraft, oxygen, space travel, alien, space, alien planet, trek, space opera, adventurer

Halo

Halo

“Halo” is an exciting action and adventure TV show set in the 26th century, where humanity is locked in a thrilling conflict with an alien threat called the Covenant. With a talented cast including Pablo Schreiber, Natascha McElhone, and Jen Taylor, the series combines intense personal stories with thrilling action sequences, all set in a captivating vision of the future. Get ready to immerse yourself in this epic sci-fi adventure when it premieres on March 24, 2022.

Cast: Pablo Schreiber (Master Chief / John-117) , Natascha McElhone (Dr. Catherine Halsey) , Jen Taylor (Cortana (voice)) , Yerin Ha (Kwan Ha) , Charlie Murphy (Makee) , Shabana Azmi (Margaret Parangosky) , Danny Sapani (Jacob Keyes) , Olive Gray (Dr. Miranda Keyes) , Kate Kennedy (Kai-125) , Natasha Culzac (Riz-028) , Bentley Kalu (Vannak-134) , Bokeem Woodbine (Soren-066)

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Tags: space travel, alien, distant future, based on video game, future war

Peacemaker

Peacemaker

“Peacemaker” is an action-packed TV show that follows the story of a charismatic yet self-absorbed man named Peacemaker, who will stop at nothing to achieve peace, even if it means taking countless lives. Set after the events of “The Suicide Squad,” the show promises to deliver thrilling adventures. With a star-studded cast including John Cena, Danielle Brooks, and Freddie Stroma, get ready for an action and adventure series that will keep you on the edge of your seat when it premieres on January 13, 2022.

Cast: John Cena (Christopher Smith / Peacemaker) , Danielle Brooks (Leota Adebayo) , Freddie Stroma (Adrian Chase / Vigilante) , Chukwudi Iwuji (Clemson Murn) , Jennifer Holland (Emilia Harcourt) , Steve Agee (John Economos) , Robert Patrick (August ‘Auggie’ Smith / White Dragon) , Annie Chang (Sophie Song) , Lochlyn Munro (Larry Fitzgibbon)

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Tags: superhero, dark comedy, based on comic, aftercreditsstinger, dc extended universe (dceu)

Firefly

Firefly

“Firefly” is a thrilling action and adventure TV show that takes place in the year 2517, where humans have settled in a new star system. Join the renegade crew of Serenity, a “Firefly-class” spaceship, as they embark on exciting adventures. With a talented ensemble cast, including Nathan Fillion, Gina Torres, and Alan Tudyk, this show promises to keep you on the edge of your seat. Released in 2002, it’s a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Cast: Nathan Fillion (Mal Reynolds) , Gina Torres (Zoë Washburne) , Alan Tudyk (Hoban Washburne) , Morena Baccarin (Inara Serra) , Adam Baldwin (Jayne Cobb) , Jewel Staite (Kaylee Frye) , Sean Maher (Simon Tam) , Summer Glau (River Tam) , Ron Glass (Derrial Book)

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Tags: future, spacecraft, heist, outlaw, space, space western, space opera

The Last Kingdom

The Last Kingdom

“The Last Kingdom” is an action-packed and thrilling TV show that combines real historical events with fictional characters. Set in the past, it tells the story of a people’s fight for their land and their journey to create a place they can call home. With a talented cast including Alexander Dreymon and Emily Cox, this show explores themes of politics, religion, warfare, love, and loyalty, making it a must-watch for fans of action and adventure.

Cast: Alexander Dreymon (Uhtred of Bebbanburg) , Emily Cox (Brida) , Eliza Butterworth (Aelswith) , Mark Rowley (Finan) , Ruby Hartley (Stiorra) , Cavan Clerkin (Father Pyrlig) , Arnas Fedaravicius (Sihtric) , Harry Gilby (Aethelstan) , Timothy Innes (Edward) , Stefanie Martini (Eadith) , Phia Saban (Aelfwynn) , Adrian Schiller (Aethelhelm)

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Writers: Bernard Cornwell

Tags: viking, historical fiction, king, historical drama, costume drama, saxons, 9th century

Rome

Rome

Release Date: 2005-08-28

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama

“Rome” is an incredible action-packed TV show that takes us back to the last days of the Roman Republic. With a talented cast including Kevin McKidd, Ray Stevenson, and Ciarán Hinds, it offers a down-to-earth account of the lives of both famous and ordinary Romans. Released in 2005, this show is definitely a must-watch for history enthusiasts and fans of thrilling adventures.

Cast: Kevin McKidd (Lucius Vorenus) , Ray Stevenson (Titus Pullo) , Ciarán Hinds (Julius Caesar) , James Purefoy (Mark Antony) , Polly Walker (Atia of the Julii) , Tobias Menzies (Marcus Junius Brutus) , Lindsay Duncan (Servilia of the Junii) , Nicholas Woodeson (Posca) , Kerry Condon (Octavia of the Julii) , David Bamber (Marcus Tullius Cicero) , Max Pirkis (Gaius Octavian) , Chiara Mastalli (Eirene) , Lee Boardman (Timon) , Ian McNeice (Newsreader) , Simon Woods (Gaius Octavian Caesar) , Tommaso Sacco (Centurion)

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Tags: rome, italy, roman empire, ancient rome, betrayal, soldier, rise to power, historical drama, 1st century, brutal violence, political rival

Stargate SG-1

Stargate SG-1

“Stargate SG-1” is an action-packed and thrilling TV show that follows the adventures of an elite Air Force special operations team called SG-1. Set in a world where an ancient alien device called the Stargate allows access to numerous planets, the team explores the galaxy and defends Earth against menacing threats like the Goa’uld, Replicators, and the Ori. With a talented cast including Ben Browder, Amanda Tapping, Christopher Judge, Michael Shanks, Claudia Black, and Beau Bridges, this fan-favorite series first premiered on July 27, 1997, and has since become one of the best voted action and adventure TV shows of all time.

Cast: Ben Browder (Cameron Mitchell) , Amanda Tapping (Samantha Carter) , Christopher Judge (Teal’c) , Michael Shanks (Daniel Jackson) , Claudia Black (Vala Mal Doran) , Beau Bridges (Hank Landry)

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Writers: Dean Devlin

Tags: space travel, alien, space, travel, alien planet, military, distant planet, secret military program

Scorpion

Scorpion

Release Date: 2014-09-22

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama, Crime

“Scorpion” is an action-packed and thrilling TV show based on a true story. It follows the adventures of Walter O’Brien and his team of brilliant misfits who use their unique skills to protect the world from high-tech threats. With a talented cast including Elyes Gabel, Jadyn Wong, Katharine McPhee, and more, this show is a must-watch for fans of action and adventure.

Cast: Elyes Gabel (Walter O’Brien) , Jadyn Wong (Happy Quinn) , Katharine McPhee (Paige Dineen) , Eddie Kaye Thomas (Toby Curtis) , Ari Stidham (Sylvester Dodd) , Riley B. Smith (Ralph Dineen) , Robert Patrick (Agent Cabe Gallo)

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Tags: hacker, autism, genius, nerd, national security, social outcast

Station 19

Station 19

Release Date: 2018-03-22

Genres: Drama, Action & Adventure

“Station 19” is an action-packed and heartwarming TV show that follows the lives of a group of courageous firefighters at Seattle Fire Station 19. Led by an incredible cast including Jaina Lee Ortiz, Jason George, Boris Kodjoe, Grey Damon, Barrett Doss, Jay Hayden, Okieriete Onaodowan, and Danielle Savre, this show takes you on a thrilling journey as these heroes risk their lives to save others, both on and off duty. With its release in 2018, it has quickly become one of the best voted action and adventure TV shows of all time.

Cast: Jaina Lee Ortiz (Andy Herrera) , Jason George (Ben Warren) , Boris Kodjoe (Captain Robert Sullivan) , Grey Damon (Jack Gibson) , Barrett Doss (Victoria Hughes) , Jay Hayden (Travis Montgomery) , Okieriete Onaodowan (Dean Miller) , Danielle Savre (Maya Bishop)

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Tags: fire brigade, seattle, washington, firefighting, spin off, firefighter

Star Wars: Andor

Star Wars: Andor

“Star Wars: Andor” is an upcoming action-packed TV show set in the beloved Star Wars universe. It follows the story of Cassian Andor, a rebel hero, as he navigates a dangerous era filled with deception and intrigue. With an incredible cast including Diego Luna and Stellan Skarsgård, this highly anticipated series is set to premiere on September 21, 2022, and promises to be an epic adventure that explores the origins of the rebellion against the Empire.

Cast: Diego Luna (Cassian Andor) , Stellan Skarsgård (Luthen Rael) , Kyle Soller (Syril Karn) , Adria Arjona (Bix Caleen) , Genevieve O’Reilly (Mon Mothma) , Denise Gough (Dedra Meero) , Faye Marsay (Vel Sartha) , Anton Lesser (Major Partagaz) , Elizabeth Dulau (Kleya Marki) , Varada Sethu (Cinta Kaz) , Alastair Mackenzie (Perrin Fertha) , Joplin Sibtain (Brasso)

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Writers: George Lucas

Tags: rebellion, prequel, revolutionary, political thriller, spy thriller

Smallville

Smallville

“Smallville” is a captivating action and adventure TV show that delves into the origins of the iconic superhero, Superman. It follows the journey of Clark Kent, from his arrival on Earth as a refugee from Krypton to his teenage years, as he navigates the challenges of embracing his destiny as the Man of Steel. With a talented cast including Tom Welling, Erica Durance, Cassidy Freeman, and Justin Hartley, this series has been captivating audiences since its release in 2001.

Cast: Tom Welling (Clark Kent) , Erica Durance (Lois Lane) , Cassidy Freeman (Tess Mercer) , Justin Hartley (Oliver Queen)

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Writers: Joe Shuster, Jerry Siegel

Tags: superhero, kansas, usa, based on comic, alien, super power, origin story

Battlestar Galactica

Battlestar Galactica

“Battlestar Galactica” is an action-packed and thrilling TV show that takes place in a futuristic world. After the Cylons, an old enemy, destroy humanity’s 12 colonies, the crew of the Galactica, led by Edward James Olmos and Mary McDonnell, must protect the last remaining survivors as they search for Earth, the mythical 13th colony. With an incredible cast including Jamie Bamber, Katee Sackhoff, James Callis, Tricia Helfer, Tahmoh Penikett, Grace Park, Michael Hogan, and Aaron Douglas, this show, released in 2004, is a must-watch for fans of action and adventure.

Cast: Edward James Olmos (William Adama) , Mary McDonnell (Laura Roslin) , Jamie Bamber (Lee ‘Apollo’ Adama) , Katee Sackhoff (Kara ‘Starbuck’ Thrace) , James Callis (Gaius Baltar) , Tricia Helfer (Number Six) , Tahmoh Penikett (Karl ‘Helo’ Agathon) , Grace Park (Sharon ‘Boomer’ Valerii) , Michael Hogan (Saul Tigh) , Aaron Douglas (Galen Tyrol)

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Writers: Carla Robinson

Tags: spacecraft, artificial intelligence, cyborg, space travel, invasion, space, alien planet, space opera, cybernetic

Cobra Kai

Cobra Kai

Release Date: 2018-05-02

Genres: Action & Adventure, Drama, Comedy

“Cobra Kai” is a thrilling action-packed TV show that continues the story of “The Karate Kid” after 30 years. It follows Johnny Lawrence as he seeks redemption by reopening the infamous Cobra Kai karate dojo, reigniting his rivalry with Daniel LaRusso. With a talented cast including Ralph Macchio and William Zabka, this series brings back the nostalgia of the original film while introducing new characters and intense martial arts battles. Released in 2018, it’s a must-watch for fans of the classic franchise.

Cast: Ralph Macchio (Daniel LaRusso) , William Zabka (Johnny Lawrence) , Courtney Henggeler (Amanda LaRusso) , Xolo Mariduena (Miguel Diaz) , Tanner Buchanan (Robby Keene) , Mary Mouser (Samantha LaRusso) , Jacob Bertrand (Eli ‘Hawk’ Moskowitz) , Peyton List (Tory Nichols) , Vanessa Rubio (Carmen Diaz) , Thomas Ian Griffith (Terry Silver) , Martin Kove (John Kreese) , Dallas Dupree Young (Kenny Payne)

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Tags: martial arts, california, karate, rivalry, sensei, dojo, martial artist, father figure, frenemies, father son relationship

9-1-1

9-1-1

Release Date: 2018-01-03

Genres: Drama, Crime, Action & Adventure

“9-1-1” is an action-packed TV show that delves into the intense lives of police officers, paramedics, and firefighters. Set in the present day, it follows these brave emergency responders as they face unimaginable challenges, both on the job and in their personal lives. With a talented cast including Peter Krause, Angela Bassett, and Jennifer Love Hewitt, this gripping series premiered on January 3, 2018, and has been captivating audiences ever since.

Cast: Peter Krause (Bobby Nash) , Angela Bassett (Athena Grant) , Oliver Stark (Evan Buckley) , Kenneth Choi (Howard Han) , Aisha Hinds (Henrietta Wilson) , Jennifer Love Hewitt (Maddie Buckley) , Corinne Massiah (May Grant) , Gavin McHugh (Christopher Diaz) , Ryan Guzman (Eddie Diaz)

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Tags: california, police, los angeles, california, police officer, firefighter, emergency, procedural, first responders, emergency services

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