Fast-paced television series are popular among viewers who love action-packed excitement or stories that have one major twist after the other. Some of the best TV shows of all time effectively balance action with suspense throughout the series, ensuring audiences remain invested in the characters and storylines. However, it can be good when a TV show moves fast and delivers on every episode, leaving no room for boring moments or "filler."

These are thrilling TV series that keep you guessing the whole way through and offer a wide range of excitement, like small-town conspiracies that go all the way to the top, like Reacher, or series that play a back-and-forth cat-and-mouse game between detective and assassin, like Killing Eve. Whether it's a tense psychological drama, brutally graphic shoot-outs, or plots that are impossible to predict, the best thriller shows are often those that have narratives and episode cliffhangers that demand to be binge-watched.

10 Shooter (2016-2018)

Starring Ryan Phillippe And Shantel VanSanten

Adapted from the cult classic 2007 film, Shooter follows former Marine sniper Bob Lee Swagger (Ryan Phillippe) as he is drawn back into action to help prevent an alleged presidential assassination. Framed for a crime he didn't commit, Swagger must go on the run and use his military expertise and survival knowledge to evade capture and reveal a larger conspiracy to prove his innocence. With each episode, the stakes rise as Swagger contends with corrupt government officials and dangerous mercenaries looking to kill the man who murdered the President.

This series thrives on its high-intensity action sequences and realistic tactics. Shooter features a relentless pace, blending a combination of sniper duels, hand-to-hand combat, and intense chase shots. Phillippe's portrayal of Swagger adds complexity to the character, balancing action with moments of reflection and tender family moments. The conspiracy-laden plot keeps viewers guessing, and its thrilling execution makes it an exciting series from start to finish.

9 Bodyguard (2018)

Starring Richard Madden And Keeley Hawes

This British series follows Afghanistan War veteran David Budd (Richard Madden), now working as a bodyguard for the controversial British politician Julia Montague MP (Keeley Hawes). As Budd grapples with bouts of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), he is drawn into a world of political intrigue and terrorism that forces him to confront both his duty and personal issues. The stakes escalate throughout the six-episode series as he becomes further entangled in a conspiracy threatening his life and national security.

Bodyguard has been nominated for several awards, including Golden Globe Award nominations for Best Drama Television Series and Best Actor In A Television Series Drama for star Richard Madden (Winner) as well as a Prime Time Emmy nomination for Outstanding Drama Series.

Critically praised as one of the best thrilling TV shows for its breakneck pacing and taut suspense, Bodyguard offers heart-stopping moments from its very first episode. The series perfectly balances action and emotion, with Madden delivering a powerful and suspenseful performance. Each episode builds tension, leading to shocking revelations and literal, explosive confrontations with the finale producing one of the most gripping moments of television in recent memory. With its sharp writing and genuine realism, Bodyguard is a must-watch for thriller enthusiasts.

8 The Night Agent (2023)

Starring Gabriel Basso And Luciane Buchanan

This political thriller revolves around FBI agent Peter Sutherland (Gabriel Basso), who uncovers a dangerous conspiracy about a mole in upper levels of the US government while working in a quiet government hotline office. When a frantic call pulls him into a web of political intrigue, Peter finds himself racing against time to protect an innocent civilian who knows too much and unravel a plot that reaches the highest levels of security.

The Night Agent is based on a novel and combines mysterious characters with fast-paced action, delivering twists and turns in almost every episode. It's a tight narrative with high-stakes tension to ensure that each scene feels urgent. Basso's strong performance elevates the show, while the constantly evolving conspiracy keeps the momentum going. This series stands out for its clever blend of espionage and action, making it impossible to turn away once the plot thickens.

7 Gangs Of London (2020-Present)

Starring Joe Cole And Ṣọpẹ́ Dìrísù

When London’s most dominant crime family leader is killed in a setup involving a juvenile and inexperienced hired gun, disorder ensues as competing gangs seek to seize control of the city's criminal enterprises. Gangs of London depicts the violent power struggle that follows as Sean Wallace (Joe Cole) steps into his father’s role while seeking vengeance for the assassination that claimed his father's life. The series combines action, crime, and drama as alliances change and betrayals abound in this extensive criminal underworld narrative.

However, beyond the chaos, there is a carefully constructed story that delves into loyalty, power, and criminal family dynamics.

Gangs of London presents a relentless series of intense action and intricate storylines. Recognized for its stunning fight choreography and gripping expertly captured shootouts, the show doesn't shy away from legitimately gruesome violence. However, beyond the chaos, there is a carefully constructed story that delves into loyalty, power, and criminal family dynamics. With high-quality production values and an exceptionally talented cast, Gangs of London is a thrilling viewing experience.

6 Orphan Black (2013-2017)

Starring Tatiana Maslany And Dylan Bruce

This Canadian science-fiction thriller follows the story of Sarah Manning (portrayed by Tatiana Maslany), a woman who discovers she is one of several clones. As Sarah delves into the enigma surrounding her and her clone's development, she becomes engaged in a dangerous conspiracy involving powerful scientific platforms and government agencies. The series offers a blend of action, excellent science fiction, and psychological drama as Sarah strives to safeguard her family and uncover the truth about her situation.

Maslany's portrayal of multiple distinct characters is the actual standout aspect of Orphan Black, making the show essential for those who love it. It is a thrilling and thought-provoking experience. The series maintains high tension through action, suspense, and emotionally impactful moments. Its fast-paced plot, packed with surprising turns and scientific intrigues, creates a thrilling rollercoaster that captures audiences' attention and keeps them wanting more at the end of each episode.

5 The Night Manager (2016-Present)

Starring Tom Hiddleston And Hugh Laurie

Jonathan Pine (Tom Hiddleston), a former soldier turned hotel night manager, is enlisted by British intelligence to infiltrate the inner circle of arms dealer Richard Roper (Hugh Laurie). Assuming the guise of a criminal, Pine must navigate treacherous waters as he earns Roper's trust while gathering evidence against him and becoming further involved in his operation. Set against multiple glamorous international backdrops, The Night Manager presents a tense game of cat and mouse between two well-developed characters.

The Night Manager season 2 is officially happening.

Hiddleston and Laurie deliver outstanding performances, heightening the palpable psychological tension between them, and the chemistry they share flies off the screen. The series is skillfully fast-paced, with a wealth of intrigue, deceit, and action to captivate audiences. It's a stylish thriller that melds espionage with genuine scenarios, ensuring each episode builds toward a gripping conclusion.

4 Banshee (2013-2016)

Starring Antony Starr And Ivana Miličević

Banshee is a series set in a small town. In it, a former convict (Antony Starr, known more recently for his stellar performance in The Boys franchise) who stole $15 million worth of diamonds for his Ukrainian mob boss employer takes on the persona of the recently murdered local sheriff. The man plans to continue his criminal endeavors and reclaim his fortune while facing old adversaries and new dangers. The series is widely recognized for its intense action sequences and intricate, dark characters, blending aspects of crime drama with high-energy action throughout the exciting narrative.

The rapid pace of Banshee ensures there's never a dull moment. From hand-to-hand combat to gun battles, the action is gritty and unflinching, with each scene seemingly raising the consequences of the convict's journey. Antony Starr's depiction of the morally ambiguous sheriff adds complexity to the expansive storyline, creating a thrilling journey filled with turns, betrayals, and explosive encounters and is one not to be overlooked.

3 Reacher (2022)

Starring Alan Ritchson And Malcolm Goodwin

Adapted from the famous Jack Reacher novels, this series follows Reacher (Alan Ritchson), a larger-than-life former military police officer who travels the country and finds himself entangled in a volatile situation. In the first season, Reacher uncovers a conspiracy involving corrupt local officials and wealthy business owners in a small town where he's falsely accused of murder, leading to intense action sequences and entertaining confrontations involving Reacher and those who want to stop him.

Reacher was the most streamed TV show for its release in the second week of February 2022. The first Amazon Prime Video production to garner this accolade since its inception in 2014.

Reacher stands out for its physicality and swiftly unfolding plot, with Ritchson delivering a compelling performance and believability in his combat scenes. The series is brimming with brutal fight choreography, gripping chases, and enigmatic narrative arcs. Its constant weaving of action, sharp dialogue, witty one-liners, and captivating leading man make it essential viewing for fans of adrenaline-pumping thrillers and close to the top of this list.

2 Killing Eve (2018-2022)

Starring Sandra Oh And Jodie Comer

This British series revolves around MI6 agent Eve Polastri (Sandra Oh) and incredibly captivating and proficient assassin Villanelle (Jodie Comer) as they become fixated on each other, resulting in a perilous game of pursuit, ion, and evasion. Their involvement leads to a series of gripping confrontations and murders, further propelling the story with a pace of action that leaves audiences breathless. Killing Eve has four seasons in total, and each one has its own unique story while being connected through its overarching plot involving the two main characters.

Every episode heightens the tension, blending action with intricate character dynamics, making it impossible to avert one's gaze.

This series thrives on its psychological elements, and genuinely unforeseeable plot turns. The dynamic chemistry between Oh and Comer is fascinating. Combined with the dark humor and captivating storyline, it makes Killing Eve one of the most exciting and binge-watchable shows ever. Every episode heightens the tension, blending action with intricate character dynamics, making it impossible to avert one's gaze.

1 The Punisher (2017-2019)

Starring Jon Bernthal And Ebon Moss-Bachrach

The Punisher follows Frank Castle (Jon Bernthal), a former Marine who becomes a ruthless and brutal vigilante after his family is murdered in cold blood. Seeking justice, Castle embarks on a sadistic campaign against organized crime organizations, using his military skills to take down those responsible for destroying his life. Each episode advances the plot intriguingly and surprisingly. The show delves deep into the psychological trauma of its lead character while delivering high-octane sequences.

Bernthal’s intense performance as Frank Castle is the true backbone of The Punisher, making it one of the most gripping and violent series in the Marvel universe and at an electric pace that makes it hard to keep up with. The fight choreography is exceptional, and the plot is filled with twists, betrayals, and deeply emotional turns. With its fast-paced narrative and unrelenting action, The Punisher is a must-watch for action-packed thriller fans, especially with his confirmed Marvel Cinematic Universe return.