
Spy shows on Netflix are a thrill ride of secrets, suspense, and shocking twists that will keep you glued to the screen. From undercover agents dodging danger to heart-pounding missions that blur the lines between right and wrong, these shows know how to hook you. Whether it is a covert operation or a web of espionage, the stakes are always high, and so is the tension. You will never know what comes your way, which makes them pretty irresistible!
Some of the best spy thrillers on Netflix are not just about gadgets and codes; they create stories so gripping that you will find yourself reaching for the next episode before you can think twice about it!
The Recruit
Noah Centineo, known for his charming roles
in romantic comedies, takes on the more intense character of Owen Hendricks in The Recruit
. Owen is a 24-year-old CIA lawyer who has graduated from law school and whose life takes a big sharp turn as he is pushed into a world of high-stakes espionage.
Noah Centineo returns in The Recruit on January 30! Here’s your first look including sneak peeks at Teo Yoo and Nathan Fillion. pic.twitter.com/RA8Sr1Q14X
— Netflix (@netflix) December 3, 2024
The show also features other notable star cast members, including Laura Haddock as Max Meladze, Fivel Stewart as Hannah Copeland, and Colton Dunn as Lester Kitchens
offering a refreshing angle on the spy genre, combining exciting plots with relatable characters. The first season is available on Netflix, and with season two expected to be on the way, you will not want to miss it!
Read More: What is Next on Netflix? Here Is All We Know About The Rumored Event for February 2025
The Night Agent
has quickly become quite the highlight in Netflix’s thriller lineup,
captivating viewers with its intense narrative and compelling characters. The plot focuses on Peter Sutherland played by Gabriel Busso
, a low-grade FBI representative stationed in the White House basement to watch a phone line that never rings.
A low-level FBI agent’s only job is to sit in the basement of the White House, manning a phone that never rings…until it does! (Dun dun duuun!!)
All 10 episodes of new spy thriller THE NIGHT AGENT are now on Netflix. pic.twitter.com/SKNYvyCtXZ
— Netflix UK & Ireland (@NetflixUK) March 23, 2023
His routine is broken with a call from Rose Larkin played by Luciane Buchanan
, a high-tech entrepreneur who is involved in a deadly plot. Together they uncover a country-threatening conspiracy leading to a thrilling game of cat and mouse. For those who are looking for a gripping spy thriller, The Night Agent
is the perfect blend of suspense, action, and drama to keep you hooked!
House of Ninjas
Coming to you from the heart of modern Japan, the Tawara family, once the nation’s most formidable ninjas, make a strong comeback with their shurikens and swords when a mysterious menace threatens to destroy the entire nation. The series follows them as they fight to reconnect, heal from old wounds, and face challenge after challenge that tests their unity and skills. Created by Dave Boyle, House of Ninjas
blends thrills, drama, and family dynamics with exciting martial arts and a unique story.
Ninjas have fascinated the world with their mysterious and fearsome physical abilities… but what if they were still hiding in modern Japan? HOUSE OF NINJAS is now playing on Netflix. pic.twitter.com/kUrWYCjdku
— Netflix Geeked (@NetflixGeeked) February 15, 2024
Queen Sono
In this first South African original series on Netflix, Queen Sono
introduces you to an impressive secret agent played by Pearl Thusi, known for her role in Quantico
. Queen is a highly skilled operative working for the Special Operations Group (SOG), a covert South African intelligence agency to dismantle high-risk criminal operations threatening the nation. Queen Sono
offers the spy genre a fresh point of view by infusing South African culture and politics and stands out with the action-packed drama that it promises.
She’ll either kick your ass or save it.
Queen Sono is now streaming. pic.twitter.com/mLNIeQUTy7
— Netflix (@netflix) February 28, 2020
Glória
Set against the haunting backdrop of 1960s Portugal during the Cold War, Glória
follows João Vidal, a young radio engineer who becomes a KGB spy. He infiltrates RARET, an American intelligence station in the village of Glória do Ribatejo, to carry out covert missions that could literally change the course of history. Gloria
has all the elements to make a thrilling narrative, from high-stakes espionage, political intrigue, to personal drama.
Uma luta travada por ondas de rádio e alguém disposto a jogar pelos dois lados. Parece-me a receita perfeita para uma maratona. Glória, a primeira série Portuguesa da Netflix, estreia a 5 de novembro. pic.twitter.com/rMirhusx83
— Netflix Portugal (@NetflixPT) October 19, 2021
Furthermore, the show is packed with a powerful cast, including Miguel Nunes as João Vidal, Matt Rippy as James Wilson, and Stephanie Vogt as Anne O’Brien Wilson
, and has been admired for its authentic depiction of the era and intense plot twists, making it a standout addition.
Killing Eve
In the world of spy thrillers, Killing Eve
has carved its own niche, backed by Golden Globe, wins with its dark humor and intense drama. The series is about Eve Polastri, a British intelligence investigator played brilliantly by Sandra Oh
, who is captivated by this charming assassin Villanelle, played by Jodie Comer.
Every episode of Killing Eve is coming to Netflix in the US on April 15 🔪
You’re welcome baby x pic.twitter.com/H1OjszYzHm
— Netflix (@netflix) March 26, 2024
Their cat-and-mouse chase turns into a complex obsession, blurring the lines between hunter and hunted. The show really digs deep into identity, morality, and the human psyche, offering viewers a heart-pounding immersive viewing experience.
Kleo
Kleo
is a sharp German spy thriller set in the chaotic time following the fall of the Berlin Wallthat has been loved by fans for its unique blend of suspense, action, and dark humor. The show follows Kleo Straub, a former East German assassin portrayed by Jella Haase
on an intense mission.
Netflix Recommendations:
KLEO (Series, S1 and 2, 2024)
German. Spy movie. Espionage. Thriller.This is probably the best thing on Netflix at the moment. A show about an unhinged betrayed female spy in old Germany.
Must see.
9.5/10 pic.twitter.com/SnofPSS9FP— Netflix Recommendations (@OritogunM) August 25, 2024
After she is cheated on by the state, she starts to uncover new twists and conspiracies of her past leading to an exciting journey. With this gripping plot, Kleo
offers a fresh take on the spy genre with strong lead performances making it a standout addition to Netflix’s lineup.
Caliphate
Caliphate
is an intense, gripping Swedish thriller that goes really deep into the complexities of radicalization and the fight against terrorism. The series follows Pervin, a young Swedish woman who’s disillusioned with life under ISIS in Raqqa, Syria, and seeks to escape and return home. Her journey eventually intertwines with Fatima, an agent of the Swedish Security Service, who is determined to thwart a looming terrorist attack on Sweden.
🎬 Caliphate (2020) – Netflix
Dark, Gritty, and Heartwrenching.
This is a no nonsense Swedish thriller based on the real-life case of the Bethnal Green trio while subtly exploring how common individuals are lured to join extremists ideologies.
Realistic, a bit too realistic. pic.twitter.com/zc4yOpvZHe
— The Cinéprism (@TheCineprism) June 5, 2023
The show masterfully brings out the intensity of the real challenges faced by the characters as they address the pressing issues of society. With its strong female leads, Caliphate
tells an authentic and bold story without shying away from the intricacies surrounding extremism, making it a one-of-a-kind show you must watch at least once
.
The Spy
Set in the middle of the 1960s, Eli Cohen, a dedicated Israeli clerk, sets out on a dangerous mission to penetrate Syria’s elite. Tasked by Mossad, he assumes the identity of Kamel Amin Thaabet, a wealthy Syrian businessman to gather critical intelligence that could shift the balance in the Middle East.
This series on Netflix is well worth a watch. An incredible story and unimaginable bravery. Eli Cohen, the Mossad spy, in Syria in the 1960s. pic.twitter.com/iMhq3lQwqL
— TC🌳 (@WoodlandNomad) January 1, 2025
Supported by a strong cast, with the powerful performance of Sacha Baron Cohen who has dropped his comedic persona to take on the complex character of Eli Cohen, Noah Emmerich as Dan Peleg, and Hadar Ratzon Rotem as Nadia Cohen
, The Spy
is an engaging story that without a doubt will keep you at the edge of your seat!
Black Doves
Joe Barton, known for his popular drama show, Giri/Haji
has come up
with yet another exciting new thriller drama! Black Doves
is an exciting British spy thriller starring Keira Knightley as Helen Webb
, a seasoned spy leading a double life as the wife of the Secretary of State for Defense. With her life hanging in the balance after her covert activities with the secret organization known as Black Doves are threatened, her bosses hire Sam Young, played by Ben Whishaw
, a gifted killer to protect her.
Black Doves Season 2 is coming… Bang, bang. pic.twitter.com/gEcoP1zBlh
— Netflix UK & Ireland (@NetflixUK) December 20, 2024
Set against the holiday backdrop in London, Black Doves
is a high-concept espionage spy thriller that also brings emotional depth to an already gripping story about loyalty, betrayal, and personal cost. It has been reportedly renewed for a second season even before the first season premiered last year promising fans some really thrilling adventures. So, what are you waiting for? Grab your snacks and settle down for your next thrilling watch with these exciting spy flicks!
Which show is making it to your watchlist? Let us know in the comments which spy show had you on the edge of your seat!