15 tense political thrillers to binge after watching Hostage

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Since Hostage has recently become available on Netflix, it’s likely to be binge-watched quickly, given its five captivating episodes.

Featuring performances by Suranne Jones and Julie Delpy, the drama written by Matt Charman revolves around a complex and chilling blackmail plot involving the British Prime Minister and French President. This intricate scheme endangers the lives of their closest loved ones.

In a brief five-episode run, this show offers quite an exhilarating ride and gives viewers a peek into the inner workings of 10 Downing Street. However, “Hostage” is by no means the first political thriller to captivate TV audiences. Shows such as “Bodyguard,” “Zero Day,” and “Scandal” have also provided tantalizing glimpses into the political world, delivering nail-biting suspense along the way.

If you’ve finished watching Hostage and are in search of more political thrillers, here are 15 top recommendations you might want to add to your viewing list right away. Keep scrolling!

1. Bodyguard

Where to watch: Netflix

In a departure from his usual work, Jed Mercurio delved into the political arena for the production of this popular series that premiered in 2018. The story revolves around David Budd, a war veteran who takes on the role of a bodyguard. Interestingly, he is assigned to protect Home Secretary Julie Montague, whose political views differ significantly from his own. Despite these personal differences, Budd must carry out his duties diligently.

2. The Diplomat

Where to watch: Netflix

As a movie enthusiast, let me share my thoughts on an upcoming Netflix sensation – a thrilling series where Keri Russell takes center stage. In this gripping tale, she portrays Kate Wyler, a former US diplomat who finds herself thrust into the limelight as the new ambassador to the UK amidst an international crisis.

With a crumbling marriage and increased media attention, the stage is set for a rollercoaster ride filled with unexpected twists. Catch the third season very soon on Netflix, where you’ll be on the edge of your seat!

3. Designated Survivor

Where to watch: Netflix

In this series, Kiefer Sutherland plays an unconventional U.S. President, a role that isn’t foreign to him given his past experience as the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development. Following a tragic explosion that claims everyone in the succession line, he finds himself thrust into the presidency, not only dealing with the responsibilities of leading the country but also investigating who orchestrated the initial attack.

4. Homeland

Where to watch: Disney+

The series boasts an impressive eight seasons filled with compelling twists that will keep you engaged. Claire Danes plays the role of Carrie Mathison, a CIA operative grappling with bipolar disorder. In the beginning, she investigates an American prisoner, Damian Lewis, whom she suspects has allied himself with Al-Qaeda.

5. Scandal

Where to watch: Disney+, Channel 4

One of Kerry Washington’s standout performances is in the captivating TV show “Scandal,” a series that makes for an engaging binge-watch. In this program, Kerry portrays Olivia Pope, a crisis management professional who delves into some of the most scandalous and sensitive political matters on behalf of her clients. While each episode typically focuses on a single case, the show also explores Olivia’s personal connections to the White House and President Fitzgerald Grant, played by Tony Goldwyn.

6. The Night Agent

Where to watch: Netflix

It’s a great opportunity to dive into this series now since it’s about to start its third season. The main character, played by Gabriel Basso, is Peter Sutherland, an FBI agent who takes on a pivotal role when he gets a phone call that sets him in the midst of a broader White House conspiracy plot while he’s working on a crisis hotline.

7. Jack Ryan

Where to watch: Prime Video

This Prime Video series, titled “John Krasinski’s Jack Ryan,” is another expansion within Tom Clancy’s sprawling universe. Comprising four substantial seasons, it follows the character John Krasinski, a CIA analyst who transitions from his usual desk job to active fieldwork. Throughout each season, intricate international storylines unfold, combining action, politics, and warfare in thrilling episodes that delve deep into these complex themes.

8. Zero Day

Where to watch: Netflix

The new series, which premiered on Netflix this year, features an illustrious ensemble led by Robert De Niro portraying George Mullen, a beloved former president. After a devastating cyberattack that claimed thousands of lives strikes the US, he is appointed as the head of a special commission tasked with identifying and bringing to justice those responsible for these deadly digital assaults.

9. The Newsroom

Where to watch: Sky and NOW

This drama offers a unique perspective on politics, focusing on the bustling behind-the-scenes activities at the fictional Atlantis Cable News (ACN). Developed by renowned writer Aaron Sorkin from The West Wing, it explores the media industry, the halls of power, and the relentless pursuit of corporate profit, all while striving for excellent content production.

10. Paradise

Where to watch: Disney+

In a recent debut, the captivating series titled Paradise presents a maze of unexpected twists, with one becoming particularly prominent by the close of its first episode. The President of the United States meets an untimely end in his tranquil neighborhood, casting suspicion on his Secret Service agent Xavier (portrayed by Sterling K Brown). Though he’s innocent, the intricate nature of their close-knit community compels him to discover the truth – and it proves to be anything but simple.

11. The Night Manager

Where to watch: BBC iPlayer

Working nightly as manager at an exclusive hotel, Jonathan Pine is approached by intelligence operative Angela Burr (played by Olivia Colman) to join a perilous inner circle linked to illicit arms trades, political figures and other clandestine activities. While he strives to stay incognito while gathering crucial details, the series’ nail-biting intensity will make you grip your chair in suspense. Now is an opportune moment to catch up before the series resumes for another two episodes.

12. The Americans

Where to watch: Disney+

In this new series, Keri Russell teams up with Matthew Rhys, portraying a pair who are actually Soviet spies disguised as an ordinary American couple. The show unfolds during the Cold War era, delving into the geopolitical strife between Russia and the U.S., while simultaneously depicting their personal struggles in maintaining a typical married life – all while covertly gathering intelligence on the American government.

13. 24

Where to watch: Disney+

In a heart-pounding, character-defining drama that unfolds over 24 hours per season, I can’t help but feel the tension building in every episode of Kiefer Sutherland’s series. As an ardent fan, I follow Jack Bauer, a dedicated agent from Los Angeles’ Counter Terrorist Unit, who navigates the complex political landscape to prevent terror attacks, often at great personal cost, no matter who might be on either side of it all.

14. Borgen

Where to watch: Netflix

In simple terms, this Danish drama revolves around Birgitte Nyborg, the head of a smaller political party, with ambitions to become Denmark’s inaugural female Prime Minister. The acclaimed show chronicles her journey through shifting political landscapes, relevant societal matters, and various challenges.

15. State of Play

Where to watch: ITVX, U

This series, unlike the 2009 movie bearing the same title featuring Ben Affleck and Russell Crowe, originates from Paul Abbott, the writer of Shameless. It revolves around a group of journalists who delve into the fallout of a political researcher’s demise, unearthing numerous political secrets along the way.

“Don’t forget to include ‘Hostage’ in your favorite shows on the TopMob: Must-Watch TV app – grab it today for personalized daily TV suggestions, special features, and so much more!

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2025-08-22 09:15