Edge-of-Your-Seat Excitement: 10 Action Series You Can't Miss

1. Banshee (2013-2016)

If you're not familiar with Banshee, you're missing out on one of the most underrated action series out there. This Cinemax gem centers on a master thief (The Boys' one and only, Antony Starr), who assumes the identity of the sheriff of Banshee, Pennsylvania, while hiding from a powerful crime lord. The real kicker? He's not trying to reform. He continues his criminal activities, even as he enforces his own version of justice. The series blends explosive action with noirish storytelling, creating a visceral viewing experience.

2. Into the Badlands (2015-2019)

Post-apocalyptic settings and martial arts? Yes, please! Into the Badlands is a visual spectacle from AMC that beautifully blends Asian martial arts cinema with a dystopian setting. The series follows a skilled warrior and a young boy navigating through feudal baronies after civilization's fall.

With stunning cinematography, exquisite fight scenes (there's no stunt double for lead actor Daniel Wu – he does all the action himself), and a compelling storyline, it's a must-watch for action fans. The series has an approval rating of 84% on Rotten Tomatoes, which isn't too shabby for an action series.

3. Strike Back (2010-2020)

This British-American series based on a novel of the same name by Chris Ryan takes us into the heart-stopping world of a special branch of the British Secret Intelligence Service. Filled with nail-biting action, political intrigue, and unexpected plot twists, Strike Back features two main characters with intriguingly contrasted personalities: the cerebral, meticulous Michael Stonebridge (Philip Winchester) and the impulsive, street-smart Damian Scott (Sullivan Stapleton).

It's been praised for its excellent fight choreography and heart-pounding pacing – a perfect choice for those who love their action mixed with a dose of espionage.

4. Person of Interest (2011-2016)

Person of Interest might have been created by Christopher Nolan's brother, Jonathan, but it tends to fly under the radar of many action lovers. It's a crime thriller with a sci-fi twist, following a billionaire software genius (Michael Emerson) and a former CIA operative (Jim Caviezel) who team up to stop crimes before they happen with the help of a superintelligent AI.

Sounds like Minority Report, right? Well, the dynamic between Emerson's Finch and Caviezel's Reese brings a unique flavor to the table. Add to that an intense exploration of themes like privacy and AI ethics, and you've got a series that's both entertaining and thought-provoking, especially in the AI shadow of 2023.

5. The Last Ship (2014-2018)

Produced by Michael Bay, The Last Ship is a post-apocalyptic action-drama that's all about survival in the face of a deadly pandemic. It chronicles the experiences of the crew aboard a U.S. Navy ship, who find themselves among the world's last survivors after a virus wipes out most of the earth's population. The series beautifully interweaves naval operations with a desperate race to find a cure, making it a gripping watch. While it may not have swept the Emmys, it boasts a 83% Rotten Tomatoes critics approval rating.

6. Colony (2016-2018)

Colony is a sci-fi action drama that you might have missed. Set in a near-future Los Angeles, the city has been occupied by an organization of extraterrestrials, and the series follows a family's struggle to survive under this new regime. Starring Josh Holloway and Prison Break's Sarah Wayne Callies, Colony weaves together elements of espionage, family dynamics, and resistance to craft a narrative that keeps you on edge. The series was co-created by Carlton Cuse, one of the masterminds behind Lost.

7. Longmire (2012-2017)

This modern western action-drama might be the most relaxed entry on our list, but don't be fooled. Longmire packs a punch when it comes to delivering suspense and excitement. It follows Walt Longmire, the sheriff of Absaroka County, Wyoming, as he investigates major crimes within his jurisdiction while dealing with personal and political challenges. Based on the Walt Longmire Mysteries series of novels by Craig Johnson, Longmire is a compelling, character-driven series that'll hook you from the first episode.

8. Hanna (2019-2021)

Next up, we've got Hanna, an action drama series on Amazon Prime Video. Based on the 2011 film of the same name, it tells the story of a young girl raised in the wilderness by her ex-CIA operative father, trained to be the perfect assassin. When she's thrust into the real world, she sets out on a mission while evading relentless pursuit by a rogue CIA agent. With breathtaking action sequences and an intriguing storyline, it's a testament to the series that it's maintained a steady viewership despite flying under many viewers' radars.

9. Gomorrah (2014-2021)

The Italian crime drama series Gomorrah brings us into the world of the Savastano mafia clan and their control over Naples. Based on the non-fiction book by Roberto Saviano, it's a dark, gritty, and realistic portrayal of the life and operations of the Neapolitan mafia.

With its complex characters and gripping narrative, it's often been compared to The Sopranos, but with a more intense focus on the criminal activities. It may not be as well-known to international audiences, but it's been a massive hit in Italy, even leading to a spin-off prequel film. You can watch all 5 seasons on HBO Max.

10. Gang Related (2014)

This crime-action series is a hidden gem that weaves a complex tale of loyalty, duty, and deception. The series centers on a member of the Los Angeles Police Department's Gang Task Force who, before his tenure with the police, was associated with a notorious gang. As he grapples with balancing his loyalties, we're treated to a thrilling journey filled with dangerous twists and exciting action sequences. Available on Prime Video, Gang Related boasts a solid 89% audience approval score on Rotten Tomatoes.