Top 20 War & Politics TV Shows Ever: Audience’s Ultimate Picks!

Welcome, fellow couch commanders and armchair politicians! If you’re a fan of the thrilling world of war and politics, then you’re in the right place. We’ve scoured the annals of television history to bring you the ultimate list of the top 20 war and politics TV shows ever made. These are the shows that have kept audiences on the edge of their seats, their hearts pounding, and their minds racing. From the ruthless power struggles of ancient empires to the high-stakes drama of modern-day politics, these shows have it all. So, whether you’re a seasoned political junkie or a newbie looking for a gripping new series to binge, prepare to be entertained, educated, and enthralled. Get ready to dive into a world of intrigue, strategy, and suspense. Let’s march on to the countdown!
Band of Brothers

Band of Brothers

Release Date: 2001-09-09

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“Band of Brothers” is a gripping war and politics TV show that takes you on an emotional journey through the experiences of Easy Company, a group of paratroopers during World War II. Based on real interviews, journals, and letters, this series follows their training in Georgia, their heroic actions on D-Day, and their involvement in the Battle of the Bulge. With an incredible cast including Damian Lewis, Donnie Wahlberg, and David Schwimmer, this show brings to life the extraordinary bravery and fear these men faced, making it a legendary and must-watch series.

Cast: Damian Lewis (Richard D. Winters) , Donnie Wahlberg (C. Carwood Lipton) , David Schwimmer (Herbert Sobel) , Eion Bailey (David Kenyon Webster) , Ron Livingston (Lewis Nixon) , Matthew Settle (Ronald Speirs) , Michael Cudlitz (Denver ‘Bull’ Randleman) , Neal McDonough (Lynn ‘Buck’ Compton) , Scott Grimes (Donald Malarkey) , Shane Taylor (Eugene Roe) , Ross McCall (Joseph Liebgott) , Frank John Hughes (William ‘Wild Bill’ Guarnere) , Nolan Hemmings (Charles ‘Chuck’ Grant) , Michael Fassbender (Burton ‘Pat’ Christenson) , Dexter Fletcher (John Martin) , James Madio (Frank Perconte) , Richard Speight Jr. (Warren ‘Skip’ Muck) , Rick Warden (Harry Welsh) , Kirk Acevedo (Joseph D. Toye) , Rick Gomez (George Luz) , Peter Youngblood Hills (Darrel ‘Shifty’ Powers) , Nicholas Aaron (Robert ‘Popeye’ Wynn) , Douglas Spain (Antonio C. García) , Dale Dye (Robert Sink) , Matthew Leitch (Floyd ‘Tab’ Talbert)

Directors:

Writers: Stephen Ambrose

Tags: world war ii, us army, paratroops, miniseries, historical, combat, historical drama, war in europe, paratrooper, 1940s

The Last Kingdom

The Last Kingdom

“The Last Kingdom” is an incredible TV show that combines thrilling battles, political intrigue, and deep themes of love, loyalty, and identity. Set in a historical backdrop, it tells the story of a people fighting to reclaim their land and create a place they can call home. With a talented cast led by Alexander Dreymon and Emily Cox, this show is a must-watch for anyone who enjoys epic war and politics dramas.

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)

Directors:

Writers: Bernard Cornwell

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

Star Wars: Andor

Star Wars: Andor

“Star Wars: Andor” is an exciting new TV show set in the beloved Star Wars universe. It takes us back to a time when the rebellion against the Empire was just beginning to take shape. Follow the journey of Cassian Andor, played by Diego Luna, as he navigates a dangerous world filled with deception and intrigue, ultimately becoming a hero of the rebel cause. With a talented cast including Stellan Skarsgård, Kyle Soller, and Adria Arjona, this highly anticipated series is set to premiere on September 21, 2022.

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)

Directors:

Writers: George Lucas

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

Vikings

Vikings

“Vikings” is an epic TV show that takes us back to the age of Norse warriors and their captivating sagas. Follow the incredible journey of Ragnar Lothbrok, a fearless warrior who rises to become the King of Viking tribes. Filled with thrilling battles, family dynamics, and a touch of mythology, this series brings to life the legendary tales of a hero said to be a direct descendant of Odin, the god of war. With a talented cast and its release in 2013, “Vikings” has rightfully earned its place among the 20 best voted war and politics TV shows of all time.

Cast: Alex Høgh Andersen (Ivar Lothbrok / Ivar the Boneless) , Jordan Patrick Smith (Ubbe Lothbrok) , Marco Ilsø (Hvitserk Lothbrok) , Peter Franzén (King Harald Finehair) , Georgia Hirst (Torvi) , Danila Kozlovsky (Prince Oleg of Novgorod)

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Tags: scandinavia, viking, historical fiction, middle ages, norse mythology, historical drama, warrior, 8th century

SEAL Team

SEAL Team

“SEAL Team” is a thrilling military drama that takes you into the intense world of Navy SEALs. Follow the lives of these highly skilled and dedicated individuals as they face dangerous missions, showcasing their unwavering commitment to protecting our country. With a talented cast including David Boreanaz and Max Thieriot, this show is a must-watch for fans of war and politics TV shows.

Cast: David Boreanaz (Jason Hayes) , Max Thieriot (Clay Spenser) , Neil Brown Jr. (Ray Perry) , A.J. Buckley (Sonny Quinn) , Toni Trucks (Lisa Davis) , Tyler Grey (Trent) , Justin Melnick (Brock)

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Tags: u.s. navy seal, soldier, special forces, military, warfield

Generation Kill

Generation Kill

“Generation Kill” is a gripping war drama that takes you back to the first 40 days of the Iraq war. Through the eyes of a group of elite U.S. Marines and an embedded Rolling Stone reporter, you’ll witness the intense and often-improvised initiative that guided them. With a talented cast including Alexander Skarsgård and James Ransone, this 2008 release offers a vivid and captivating account of the soldiers’ experiences on the frontlines.

Cast: Alexander Skarsgård (Brad Colbert) , James Ransone (Josh Ray Person) , Lee Tergesen (Evan Wright) , Jon Huertas (Antonio Espera) , Stark Sands (Nathaniel Fick) , Owain Yeoman (Eric Kocher) , Billy Lush (Harold Trombley) , Chance Kelly (Stephen Ferrando) , Michael Kelly (Bryan Patterson) , Jonah Lotan (Robert Bryan) , Eric Nenninger (Dave McGraw) , Pawel Szajda (Walt Hasser) , Kellan Lutz (Jason Lilley) , Neal Jones (John Sixta) , Benjamin Busch (Todd Eckloff) , Brian Patrick Wade (Craig Schwetje) , Sean Brosnan (Daniel Redman) , Wilson Bethel (Evan Stafford) , Marc Menchaca (Mike Wynn) , Eric Ladin (Cpl. James Chaffin)

Directors:

Writers: Evan Wright

Tags: miniseries, iraq war, us military

Generation War

Generation War

Release Date: 2013-03-17

Genres: War & Politics, Drama

“Generation War” is a gripping German TV show that takes us back to World War II. It follows the lives of five young friends who make a pact to reunite after the war, but their dreams of peace and happiness quickly turn into a heartbreaking nightmare. With a talented cast including Volker Bruch, Tom Schilling, and Katharina Schüttler, this emotionally charged series will transport you to a time of turmoil and tragedy. Released in 2013, it’s a must-watch for history buffs and fans of war and politics dramas.

Cast: Volker Bruch (Wilhelm Winter) , Tom Schilling (Friedhelm Winter) , Katharina Schüttler (Greta Müller) , Ludwig Trepte (Viktor Goldstein) , Miriam Stein (Charlotte) , Mark Waschke (Dorn) , Henriette Richter-Röhl (Hildegard) , Götz Schubert (Dr. Jahn) , Hildegard Schroedter (Brigitte) , Sylvester Groth (Hiemer)

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Tags: berlin, germany, nazi, world war ii, jew persecution, soviet union, partisan, russian history, nazism, military hospital, 1940s, political repression

M*A*S*H

M*A*S*H

Release Date: 1972-09-17

Genres: War & Politics, Drama, Comedy

“M*A*S*H” is a beloved war and politics TV show that aired from 1972 to 1983. Set in the Korean war, it follows the humorous and heartwarming adventures of the doctors, nurses, administrators, and soldiers of the 4077th Mobile Army Surgical Hospital. With a talented cast including Alan Alda, Mike Farrell, Loretta Swit, Jamie Farr, Harry Morgan, David Ogden Stiers, and William Christopher, this show offers a unique blend of practical jokes, revenge, and camaraderie that makes wartime life a little more bearable.

Cast: Alan Alda (Hawkeye Pierce) , Mike Farrell (B. J. Hunnicutt) , Loretta Swit (Margaret Houlihan) , Jamie Farr (Maxwell Klinger) , Harry Morgan (Sherman Potter) , David Ogden Stiers (Charles Winchester) , William Christopher (Father Mulcahy)

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Tags: based on novel or book, surgeon, korean war, us army, doctor, american abroad, military, sitcom, military hospital, medical drama, field hospital, army camp

Vikings: Valhalla

Vikings: Valhalla

“Vikings: Valhalla” is an exciting sequel to the popular series “Vikings,” set a hundred years later. It follows a new generation of legendary heroes as they carve their own path and leave their mark on history. With a talented cast including Sam Corlett, Frida Gustavsson, Leo Suter, Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson, Laura Berlin, and David Oakes, get ready for an epic adventure when the show premieres on February 25, 2022.

Cast: Sam Corlett (Leif Eriksson) , Frida Gustavsson (Freydis Eriksdotter) , Leo Suter (Harald Sigurdsson) , Jóhannes Haukur Jóhannesson (Olaf Haraldson) , Laura Berlin (Emma of Normandy) , David Oakes (Earl Godwin)

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Tags: fight, sword, viking, survival, historical, medieval, european history, war, blood, nordic history, historical war, sword & shield

Bodyguard

Bodyguard

Release Date: 2018-08-26

Genres: Crime, Drama, War & Politics

“Bodyguard” is a gripping war and politics TV show that has been voted as one of the best of all time. It follows a troubled war veteran who is assigned to protect a controversial politician from a potential terror plot. With a talented cast including Richard Madden and Keeley Hawes, this thrilling series premiered on August 26, 2018, and is definitely worth checking out if you’re a fan of intense dramas.

Cast: Richard Madden (David Budd) , Keeley Hawes (Julia Montague) , Sophie Rundle (Vicky Budd) , Gina McKee (Anne Sampson) , Pippa Haywood (Lorraine Craddock) , Stuart Bowman (Stephen Hunter-Dunn) , Paul Ready (Rob MacDonald) , Ash Tandon (Deepak Sharma) , Nina Toussaint-White (Louise Rayburn) , Vincent Franklin (Mike Travis)

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Tags: army, assassination, middle east, police, politics, bodyguard, politician, terrorism, family, female politician, security, veteran, traumatized

The Pacific

The Pacific

“The Pacific” is an acclaimed war and politics TV show that takes you on a gripping journey through the Pacific Theater during World War II. It follows the real-life stories of three U.S. Marines – Robert Leckie, John Basilone, and Eugene Sledge – as they navigate the challenges and horrors of war. With a stellar cast including James Badge Dale, Jon Seda, Joseph Mazzello, and Rami Malek, this 2010 miniseries is a must-watch for history buffs and fans of intense storytelling.

Cast: James Badge Dale (Robert Leckie) , Jon Seda (John Basilone) , Joseph Mazzello (Eugene Sledge) , Ashton Holmes (PFC Sidney Phillips) , Jacob Pitts (PFC Bill ‘Hoosier’ Smith) , Rami Malek (PFC Merriell ‘Snafu’ Shelton) , William Sadler (Lt Col. Lewis ‘Chesty’ Puller) , Jon Bernthal (Sgt. Manuel “Manny” Rodriguez) , Matt Craven (Dr. Grant) , Noel Fisher (Pvt. Hamm) , Caroline Dhavernas (Vera Keller) , Brendan Fletcher (Bill Leyden) , Isabel Lucas (Gwen) , Annie Parisse (Lena Mae Riggi-Basilone) , Claire van der Boom (Stella) , Keith Nobbs (PFC Wilbur ‘Runner’ Conley) , Tom Hanks (Narrator) , Nicholas Cooper (Army Officer) , Leon Ford (1st Lt. Edward “Hillbilly” Jones) , Scott Gibson (Capt. Andrew “Ack Ack” Haldane)

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Tags: world war ii, marine corps, okinawa, pacific war, miniseries, historical, military life, guadalcanal, iwo jima, pacific theater, military, historical drama, paratrooper, 1940s, war, modern warfare, modern history, military drama

Tom Clancy's Jack Ryan

Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan

“Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan” is an intense and thrilling war and politics TV show that follows CIA analyst Jack Ryan as he uncovers a suspicious series of bank transfers. Forced to leave his desk job, he embarks on a dangerous mission across Europe and the Middle East, facing off against a rising terrorist leader planning a massive attack on the US and its allies. With a stellar cast including John Krasinski and Wendell Pierce, this action-packed series is a must-watch for fans of the genre.

Cast: John Krasinski (Jack Ryan) , Wendell Pierce (James Greer) , Abbie Cornish (Cathy Mueller) , Okieriete Onaodowan (Adebayo ‘Ade’ Osoji) , Louis Ozawa (Chao Fah Sein) , Zuleikha Robinson (Zeyara Lemos) , Ryn Greenwell (Bennu Fah) , Michael Peña (Domingo Chavez) , Betty Gabriel (Elizabeth Wright) , Michael Kelly (Mike November)

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Tags: cia, based on novel or book

For All Mankind

For All Mankind

“For All Mankind” is an exciting and captivating TV show that takes us on a journey to an alternate reality where NASA and space exploration are at the forefront of our society. Set in the 1960s, it follows the lives of NASA astronauts, engineers, and their families, offering a unique perspective on what could have been. With a talented cast including Joel Kinnaman and Shantel VanSanten, this series promises to be a thrilling and thought-provoking watch.

Cast: Joel Kinnaman (Ed Baldwin) , Shantel VanSanten (Karen Baldwin) , Jodi Balfour (Ellen Wilson) , Krys Marshall (Danielle Poole) , Edi Gathegi (Dev Ayesa) , Cynthy Wu (Kelly Baldwin) , Casey Johnson (Danny Stevens) , Coral Peña (Aleida Rosales) , Wrenn Schmidt (Margo Madison)

Directors:

Writers: Sabrina Almeida, Will Yeager, Eric W. Phillips

Tags: moon, planet mars, nasa, politics, cold war, dystopia, space war, moon landing, alternate history, astronaut, space race, moon colony

Homeland

Homeland

Release Date: 2011-10-02

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“Homeland” is a gripping war and politics TV show that has been voted as one of the best of all time. It follows the story of CIA officer Carrie Mathison, who despite her bipolar disorder, excels in her field. With the support of her mentor Saul Berenson, Carrie fearlessly puts everything on the line, including her own well-being, as she navigates through unpredictable situations. Starring talented actors such as Claire Danes, Mandy Patinkin, and Linus Roache, this intense series first premiered on October 2, 2011.

Cast: Claire Danes (Carrie Mathison) , Maury Sterling (Max Piotrowski) , Numan Acar (Haissam Haqqani) , Nimrat Kaur (Tasneem Qureshi) , Mandy Patinkin (Saul Berenson) , Linus Roache (David Wellington) , Costa Ronin (Yevgeny Gromo)

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Tags: cia, terrorist, espionage, marine, conspiracy, psychological thriller, war on terrorism, national security, political thriller, political, psychological, conspiracy thriller, political conspiracy

King David

King David

Release Date: 2012-01-24

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“King David” is a captivating war and politics TV show that takes us back to ancient Israel in 1045 B.C. The story revolves around a young and humble shepherd named David, who is overshadowed by his warrior brothers. As we follow David’s journey, we witness his rise from a household servant to becoming a legendary figure in history. With a talented cast including Leonardo Brício and Renata Dominguez, this 2012 release is a must-watch for fans of epic tales and historical dramas.

Cast: Leonardo Brício (David) , Renata Dominguez (Bate-Seba) , Maria Ribeiro (Mical) , Cláudio Fontana (Jonatas) , Gracindo Júnior (Saul) , Isaac Bardavid (Samuel)

Directors: Edson Spinello

Writers: Vivian de Oliveira

Tags:

SIX

SIX

“SIX” is an action-packed drama series that takes inspiration from the real-life missions of Navy SEAL Team Six. Starring Olivia Munn, Barry Sloane, and a talented ensemble cast, this show delves into the intense world of war and politics. With its release in 2017, it has gained recognition as one of the best-voted war and politics TV shows of all time.

Cast: Olivia Munn (Gina Cline) , Barry Sloane (Joe ‘Bear’ Graves) , Dominic Adams (Michael Nasry) , Kyle Schmid (Alex Caulder) , Juan Pablo Raba (Ricky ‘Buddha’ Ortiz) , Edwin Hodge (Robert Chase) , Brianne Davis (Lena Graves) , Nadine Velazquez (Jackie Ortiz) , Jessica Garza (Anabel Ortiz) , Jaylen Moore (Armin Khan) , Eric Ladin (Trevor)

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Tags: navy, kidnapping, u.s. navy seal, terrorism, special forces, veteran, military, boko haram

The Diary of Anne Frank

The Diary of Anne Frank

Release Date: 2009-01-05

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“The Diary of Anne Frank” is a powerful and emotional five-part TV show that brings to life the famous wartime diaries of Anne Frank. Set in wartime Amsterdam, it follows the story of a young teenager and her family as they hide from the Nazis. With a talented cast including Ellie Kendrick, Kate Ashfield, and Iain Glen, this 2009 release is a must-watch for anyone interested in war and politics TV shows.

Cast: Ellie Kendrick (Anne Frank) , Kate Ashfield (Miep Gies) , Ron Cook (Hermann Van Daan) , Iain Glen (Otto Frank) , Felicity Jones (Margot Frank) , Tamsin Greig (Edith Hollander-Frank) , Lesley Sharp (Petronella Van Daan) , Nicholas Farrell (Albert Dussel) , Geoffrey Breton (Peter van Daan) , Roger Frost (Mr. Kleiman) , Tim Dantay (Mr. Kugler)

Directors: Jon Jones

Writers:

Tags: based on novel or book, nazi, holocaust (shoah), world war ii, diary, anne frank, miniseries, nazi occupation, historical drama, 1940s, crime against humanity, children in wartime

Designated Survivor

Designated Survivor

Release Date: 2016-09-21

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“Designated Survivor” is an intense and gripping TV show that follows the unexpected journey of Tom Kirkman, a low-level cabinet member who becomes the President of the United States after a devastating attack wipes out the entire Presidential line of succession. With an incredible cast including Kiefer Sutherland, Maggie Q, Kal Penn, and more, this thrilling series explores the challenges and complexities of leading a nation in times of crisis. Premiering in 2016, it quickly became a fan favorite for its suspenseful plot and stellar performances.

Cast: Kiefer Sutherland (Tom Kirkman) , Maggie Q (Hannah Wells) , Kal Penn (Seth Wright) , Adan Canto (Aaron Shore) , Italia Ricci (Emily Rhodes) , Emiliano Díez (Président Ortega)

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Tags: usa president, politics, president, terrorism, usa politics

Shooter

Shooter

“Shooter” is an intense war and politics TV show that follows the story of Bob Lee Swagger, a skilled marksman living in exile. When he discovers a dangerous plot to assassinate the president, he is reluctantly drawn back into action. With a talented cast including Ryan Phillippe, Shantel VanSanten, and Omar Epps, this gripping series premiered on November 15, 2016, and is sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Cast: Ryan Phillippe (Bob Lee Swagger) , Shantel VanSanten (Julie Swagger) , Cynthia Addai-Robinson (Nadine Memphis) , Omar Epps (Isaac Johnson) , Lexy Kolker (Mary Swagger) , Jesse Bradford (Harris Downey)

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Tags: sniper, assassination, police, fbi, murder, betrayal, conspiracy, shooter, soldier, family, agent, military, based on movie

Hitler: The Rise of Evil

Hitler: The Rise of Evil

Release Date: 2003-05-18

Genres: Drama, War & Politics

“Hitler: The Rise of Evil” is a gripping biopic that takes you on a journey through the life of history’s most notorious figure, Adolf Hitler. With an incredible cast including Robert Carlyle, Zoe Telford, and Peter O’Toole, this TV show delves into Hitler’s humble beginnings and follows his rise to power in Germany. Released in 2003, it offers a fascinating insight into the mind of a madman who shaped the course of history.

Cast: Robert Carlyle (Adolf Hitler) , Zoe Telford (Eva Braun) , Justin Salinger (Dr. Joseph Goebbels) , James Babson (Rudolf Hess) , Stockard Channing (Klara Hitler) , Peter Stormare (Ernst Rohm) , Peter O’Toole (President Paul von Hindenburg) , Terence Harvey (Gustav von Kahr) , Jena Malone (Geli Raubal) , Liev Schreiber (Ernst Hanfstaengl) , Julianna Margulies (Helene Hanfstaengl) , Matthew Modine (Fritz Gerlich) , Jiří Datel Novotný (Von Lossow) , Friedrich von Thun (General Erich Ludendorff) , Chris Larkin (Hermann Göring) , Patricia Netzer (Sophie Gerlich) , Harvey Friedman (Friedrich Hollaender) , Nicole Marischka (Blandine Ebinger) , Julie-Ann Hassett (Angela Raubal) , Thomas Brodie-Sangster (Adolf Hitler (10 yrs)) , Robert Glenister (Anton Drexler) , Ian Hogg (Alois Hitler) , Filip Hes (Egon Hanfstaengl) , Brendan Hughes (Lieutenant Guffman) , Robert Russell (Franz Von Papen)

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Tags: nazi, world war ii, biography, adolf hitler

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