In the world of television, few genres captivate the audience like political thrillers, and it’s not hard to grasp why. Featuring high-stakes power struggles, intricate conspiracies, and edge-of-your-seat drama that often mirrors real-world conflicts and ethical dilemmas, the shows in the category keep audiences invested while offering sharp social commentary that resonates long after the credits roll.
Whether exploring the dark underbelly of politics or the personal sacrifices of those entangled in it, these shows dive deep into the cost of ambition and the murky morality of leadership. In the meantime, they challenge audiences to confront the complexities of power and those who shape it. From modern classics like The Americans to underrated gems like The Night Manager, these shows have masterfully blended suspense, strategy, and storytelling to amazing results. Without further ado, we rank some of the best political thrillers that have redefined the genre by masterfully blending suspense, strategy, and storytelling.
10
‘Designated Survivor’ (2016)
Created by David Guggenheim
Starring Kiefer Sutherland as Tom Kirkman, a low-level Cabinet member who unexpectedly becomes the President of the United States after a catastrophic attack on the Capitol during the State of the Union address, Designated Survivor is a must-see in the realm of political thrillers.
Offering a unique blend of action, suspense, and political drama, Designated Survivor weaves a gripping narrative of conspiracies, ranging from domestic terrorism to internal government plots, that keeps the audience on edge throughout. As Kirkman navigates the cutthroat world of politics, the show explores real-world issues and the weight of leadership under pressure, resulting in both a timely and timeless watch. While it may not rank at the very top regarding the genre, David Guggenheim‘s show is still worth checking out.
9
‘The Diplomat’ (2023–)
Created by Debora Cahn
Delving into the world of international diplomacy, Debora Cahn‘s The Diplomat follows Kate Wyler, played by The Americans‘ Keri Russell, a seasoned diplomat who unexpectedly lands the role of U.S. Ambassador to the United Kingdom. Along the way, she must confront personal and professional challenges, including a strained marriage with her husband Hal (Rufus Sewell) who happens to be a diplomat himself.
The Diplomat is the perfect pick for those who are just as intrigued by personal drama as they are by high-stakes political intrigue. The show explores the nuanced relationships at its center—including a marriage just as intense as the international crises unfolding around it—and a realistic look at the challenges of international diplomacy. With power struggles within the government’s diplomatic circles, hidden agendas, and global stability on the line, this political thriller keeps the stakes and drama high.
The Diplomat
- Release Date
-
2023 – 2022
- Showrunner
-
Debora Cahn
8
‘Scandal’ (2012–2018)
Created by Shonda Rhimes
Scandal follows former White House Communications Director Olivia Pope (Kerry Washington) as she navigates the difficult world of crisis management in Washington D.C. As Olivia and her team, known as the “Gladiators,” tackle these cases, they often find themselves entangled in a web of political intrigue, corruption, and personal drama.
Known for its rapid-fire plot twists and cliffhangers, Scandal keeps audiences hooked and constantly guessing. In the meantime, it digs into themes of race, gender, and power dynamics. With high-stakes drama and intricate plots involving rigging, assassinations, and secret government organizations, the series delights with its diverse cast, memorable characters, and gripping storylines. Not only does it entertain, it also paves the way for more diverse representation in pop culture (particularly thanks to its strong, black female lead, who killed it in a major network series).
Scandal
- Release Date
-
2012 – 2017
- Network
-
ABC
7
‘Paradise’ (2025–)
Created by Dan Fogelman
One of the most promising shows of recent times, Paradise is a captivating thriller that combines elements of sci-fi, mystery, and suspense. Created by Dan Fogelman, it stars Sterling K. Brown as a Secret Service agent tasked with uncovering the truth behind the murder of a former U.S. President in a secure underground community.
In the world of political thrillers, Paradise stands apart with its unusual setting, sci-fi twist, and bold genre-blending. Through its speculative elements and unique lens, the show explores themes of survival and control, adding a fresh perspective to the murder mystery genre. Add in compelling performances and a fast-paced narrative to keep viewers engaged, and it’s not surprising that it has left many viewers eager for more.
Paradise
- Release Date
-
January 26, 2025
- Network
-
Hulu
6
‘Bodyguard’ (2018)
Created by Jed Mercurio
Starring Richard Madden in an astounding lead role, Bodyguard is a gripping political thriller that does not shy away from depicting its protagonist’s struggles with PTSD. The story follows war veteran-turned-Specialist Protection Officer David Budd as he navigates the world of British politics while protecting ambitious and controversial Home Secretary Julia Montague (Keely Hawes).
Those who enjoy intense and suspenseful episodes, well-developed characters, and realistic portrayals of real-world issues—such as terrorism and surveillance laws—will probably not regret giving Bodyguard a try. Masterfully written and elevated by a compelling central performance, the series weaves an intriguing web of conspiracies involving government figures and security services while offering sharp social commentary on privacy rights, the impact of war on veterans, and the ever-present threat of terrorism.
5
‘The Night Manager’ (2016)
Created by David Farr
Based on John le Carré‘s novel, The Night Manager is a sleek and engrossing espionage thriller that throws stunning locations and cinematography into the mix with high-stakes intrigue. At its center is Tom Hiddleston‘s Jonathan Pine, a former British soldier turned hotel night manager. The show follows his dangerous journey into the world of international arms dealing as he is tasked with infiltrating the inner circle of ruthless arms dealer Richard Roper (Hugh Laurie).
Packed with engaging characters, The Night Manager thrives on its atmospheric setting and a sophisticated plot filled with spy tactics and double-crosses that ratchet up the tension as each episode goes by. David Farr’s adaptation is a masterclass in crafting suspenseful storytelling with intricate plotting, exploring the gray areas of espionage and morality. With standout central performances from its star-studded cast and a suspenseful narrative, The Night Manager is a must for anyone drawn to stories of power and corruption.
4
‘The Americans’ (2013–2018)
Created by Joseph Weisberg
Another masterfully crafted espionage drama, Joseph Weisberg‘s The Americans incorporates political thriller elements into its narrative through a plot that involves international relations and conspiracies between the U.S. and the Soviet Union. Set against the backdrop of the Cold War, the show centers around Elizabeth (Keri Russell) and Philip (Matthew Rhys), two Soviet KGB officers posing as an American married couple in the suburbs of Washington, D.C.
Set in the 1980s, The Americans is a story of deception, loyalty, and the personal toll of living a double life. Standing out for its portrayal of the tumultuous period, it is a compelling and thought-provoking watch for fans of political thrillers. However, what truly sets it apart isn’t just the spycraft and tension, but the personal struggles of its characters, which feel real and believable. With rich storytelling, top-notch performances, and sharp historical accuracy, the series has earned numerous nominations and awards that helped further solidify its place as one of the best shows in the genre.
3
‘Homeland’ (2011–2020)
Created by Alex Gansa and Howard Gordon
Alex Gansa and Howard Gordon‘s show kept viewers on the edge of their seats for a decade, and it’s not difficult to understand why. The critically acclaimed thriller delves into the world of international terrorism and U.S. intelligence operations, beginning with Carrie Mathison (Claire Danes) who suspects that U.S. Marine Sergeant Nicholas Brody (Damian Lewis) has been turned into a terrorist after eight years of captivity.
Homeland benefits from exceptional acting, particularly Danes’ powerful portrayal of Mathison, and its ability to capture the zeitgeist of global politics. Skillfully exploring themes like loyalty, identity, and morality in the context of espionage, Gansa and Gordon’s series has left a lasting impact on television, setting a high standard for political thrillers with its sharp writing and immersive atmosphere.
Homeland
- Release Date
-
2011 – 2019
- Network
-
Showtime
-
-
Brian O’Neill
Directeur du FBI Stendig
2
’24’ (2001–2010)
Created by Robert Cochran and Joel Surnow
This must-see action-thriller tells the story of Jack Bauer (Kiefer Sutherland), a Counterterrorism Unit agent who races against time to prevent an assassination attempt on presidential candidate David Palmer (Dennis Haysbert). As the seasons progress, Jack faces numerous terrorist threats, including nuclear attacks and biological warfare.
When it comes to the essential political thrillers that revolutionized television, 24 is most certainly at the top of the list. The groundbreaking series introduced a real-time format, where each 24-episode season spans just one day, immersing audiences in its adrenaline-pumping world of counter-terrorism. With perfect pacing and heart-pounding action sequences, the show set a new standard for the genre: not only did it refine how political thrillers could be structured, but it also raised the bar for suspenseful stories on TV.
24
- Release Date
-
2001 – 2009
- Showrunner
-
Robert Cochran
1
‘House of Cards’ (2013–2018)
Created by Beau Willimon
Despite controversies regarding its handling of real-world issues and the impact of Kevin Spacey‘s allegations, which ultimately led to his firing, House of Cards remains a defining series in the political thriller genre, known for its ruthless portrayal of power, manipulation, and the dark side of politics. The series follows the rise of ruthless and cunning politician Frank Underwood, alongside his equally ambitious wife Claire, played by Robin Wright.
House of Cards is as much of a political thriller as it is a social commentary—it offers a sharp critique of corruption, power dynamics, and the influence of money and lobbying in politics while delivering an interesting perspective on the inner workings of the government. Those keen on masterful suspense present in political thrillers know that the Beau Willimon show is the blueprint for the genre, with undeniable influence on television.
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