10 Best TV Shows Like The Recruit You Need To Watch Next

In “The Recruit,” Noah Centineo, known for his role in “To All the Boys,” embarks on an extraordinary journey as Owen Hendricks. This Netflix series unfolds as a fresh-faced lawyer with the CIA stumbles upon intriguing information hidden within ancient file boxes. Upon sharing this discovery with his superiors, he’s thrust into a globe-trotting mission to safeguard a former asset from disclosing sensitive knowledge to the highest bidder.

In a twist from conventional spy series, “The Recruit” offers a fresh perspective by featuring its protagonist, Owen, as a lawyer instead of a seasoned or disgraced agent. His unfamiliarity with fieldwork is evident as he struggles to evade those pursuing him, a far cry from what his legal education at Georgetown Law School prepared him for. This unexpected role was not the expectation shared by his colleagues Violet (Aarti Mann) and Lester (Colton Dunn), who had assumed the newcomer would be engaging in less action-packed activities when they pranked him with the box-moving task during their initiation ritual.

If you’re searching for a series to keep you entertained until fresh episodes of “The Recruit” arrive, you’ve come to the right place! While there are numerous spy shows available, these 10 stand out as excellent choices if you’re seeking shows similar to “The Recruit.” From stories about memory loss and covert operations to teen spies and period settings, there’s a bit of everything for everyone to enjoy.

Quantico

What happens when an FBI trainee is the top suspect for a terrorist attack on Grand Central Terminal? That’s what “Quantico” explores. Priyanka Chopra is Alex Parrish, a new FBI agent believed to be behind the attack. Over the course of the first season, the timeline of the series shifts from the present day right after the attack to back when she and the other main characters were at the FBI Academy. While trying to prove her innocence, she’s intent on discovering who is actually responsible for the explosion.

Similar to the character Owen in “The Recruit,” Alex displays a robust presence and primarily manages her challenges independently. Although they receive assistance from various sources, this help isn’t consistently beneficial, particularly as they strive to uncover the realities of their predicaments before time runs out. Initially, Alex collaborates with the FBI, but later finds herself associated with the CIA, much like Owen does.

If you’re seeking a TV series with a strong female lead, packed with equal measures of action and drama, similar to ‘The Recruit’, then ‘Quantico’ could be your choice. Both shows incorporate comic relief and romantic undertones, but they primarily revolve around protagonists striving to unravel mysteries greater than themselves within a limited timeframe. The odds are stacked against them and they lack many allies, yet they remain resolute in their pursuit of justice.

Starring: Priyanka Chopra, Jake McLaughlin, Johanna Braddy
Year: 2015-2018
Rating: TV-14
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 70%

The Lincoln Lawyer

Mickey Haller, portrayed by Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, is a defense attorney who’s also on the path to recovery from addiction. Unlike many lawyers, he doesn’t operate out of a conventional office. Instead, he handles cases from his Lincoln Navigator in Los Angeles. His casework spans a wide range, including drug offenses and murder investigations. He’s supported by his investigator Cisco (Angus Sampson) and his driver Izzy (Jazz Raycole).

In essence, “The Lincoln Lawyer” isn’t about spying but rather depicts a scenario where the character, Owen, exhibits more lawyerly behavior, despite his frequent field assignments. Mickey, on the other hand, handles multiple legal cases in an unconventional manner, often finding himself in dangerous predicaments, such as being ambushed in a parking garage. Unlike typical attorneys, he engages in activities like chasing individuals, striking deals during soccer games, and performing fieldwork similar to Owen’s, albeit for distinct motives.

If you’re a viewer who appreciates a focus on legal work and enjoys a more authentic take on law, then “The Lincoln Lawyer” is the series to catch. Unlike popular shows like “Suits,” this show is grounded in real-life inspiration, offering a unique perspective in the legal drama genre. The Netflix production offers plenty of unexpected twists, with one major revelation being that someone has been tailing Mickey. Fans who enjoyed “The Recruit” will find themselves drawn to another lawyer navigating unconventional situations.

Starring: Manuel Garcia-Rulfo, Becki Newton, Angus Sampson
Year: 2022-present
Rating: TV-MA
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 90%

The Night Agent

When an unexpected call comes from a phone that should never ring, Peter Sutherland (Gabriel Basso) shifts from a basement agent to one on the run. Following the demise of two covert government operatives working the night shift, members of a clandestine program for top-secret intelligence gathering, more hidden than both the CIA and FBI, Peter uncovers the shadowy depths of the federal administration. He then finds himself assisting Rose (Luciane Buchanan), the niece of the deceased night agents, in evading their unknown assailants.

In “The Recruit,” Peter and Owen discover treacherous secrets lurking within the U.S. government, involving people who work closely with the President himself as well as an apparent CIA asset that was left untouched. Finding themselves far from their usual office routines, these two young professionals don’t let their inexperience deter them; instead, they dive headfirst into their new assignments with unwavering determination and commitment.

The Recruit” and “The Night Agent” are two series that share similarities in their storytelling. Both follow young male characters as they navigate careers that present unexpected twists. While Owen is expected to deal with legal matters, he finds himself globetrotting, uncovering intelligence about an asset hidden within a pile of documents. Similarly, Peter is supposed to man the phone, but ends up fleeing for his life at Camp David. Despite their initial roles, they both eagerly embrace new responsibilities and the difficulties that come with them.

Starring: Gabriel Basso, Luciane Buchanan, Fola Evans-Akingbola
Year: 2023-present
Rating: TV-MA
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 79%

Homeland

Character named Carrie Mathison, portrayed by Claire Danes, works for the Central Intelligence Agency. She suspects Nicholas Brody (Damian Lewis), a Marine who was rescued from captivity in 2013 after being presumed missing since 2003, poses a danger to America. Her suspicions stem from his capture by al-Qaeda. Instead of informing the CIA about her concerns, she chooses to conduct her own investigation secretly. Unfortunately, this covert action leads to complications for Carrie.

In “The Recruit,” Owen operates independently, yet his superior is aware of his actions because it is this same supervisor who dispatches him to various locations to assess whether the intelligence he encounters warrants the agency’s attention. Similarly, Carrie frequently works alone in the series, but she can generally count on assistance from Saul Berenson, her mentor at the CIA, much like Owen. As the story progresses, both characters traverse the globe, venturing to new destinations to pursue leads.

If you’re a fan of “The Recruit” and crave more gripping, suspenseful storytelling, I highly recommend diving into “Homeland.” The intricate plotlines and character development will undoubtedly resonate with fans of “The Recruit,” as both series share compelling themes. With almost 100 episodes spread across eight seasons, you’ll be captivated by Carrie’s thrilling journey as she navigates complex twists and turns in her quest for the truth. So buckle up and prepare yourself for an exhilarating ride that will leave you on the edge of your seat!

Starring: Claire Danes, Damian Lewis, Mandy Patinkin
Year: 2011-2020
Rating: TV-MA
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 85%

Alex Rider

In the story “Alex Rider,” a teenager named Alex (Otto Farrant) isn’t just your average after-school worker. Instead, he gets enlisted into M16 following an incident where he breaks into a school to retrieve a friend’s stolen phone. His mission takes him to Point Blanc, a special boarding school for troubled teenagers, where his work is far from ordinary. Interestingly, Alex’s guardian, Uncle Ian (Andrew Buchan), is also an M16 agent, making this line of work a family affair. The series is based on books written by Anthony Horowitz, and each season adapts a different book in the collection.

In my perspective, I find myself and my colleague, Owen, thrust into situations we hadn’t anticipated. I thought I was just a kid with some skills, helping out a friend when needed. Little did I know, it would lead me to M16 – an alternative to foster care. Meanwhile, poor Owen, who expected nothing more than desk work after his first week of handling those piles of files, finds himself in a tricky situation due to decisions made above him. Both of us have been unwillingly drawn into challenging positions by the choices of our superiors.

Alex Rider” is a series perfect for fans who appreciate the youthful charm of its characters. While Alex may technically be in his mid-20s, his exuberance often gives the impression of someone even younger. Interestingly enough, both shows share an intriguing commonality: Can you imagine many teenagers claiming to be secret agents or lawyers engaging in CIA fieldwork?

Starring: Otto Farrant, Vicky McClure, Brenock O’Connor
Year: 2020-present
Rating: TV-14
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 86%

Condor

Joe Turner (Max Irons) is a new analyst with the CIA, optimistic about the job and the opportunity. However, everything quickly goes downhill when everyone in his office is murdered when he’s out. Turner discovers that there is a planned attack that could threaten millions in the United States, and the program he developed helps identify the individual carrying the weapons that the terrorists plan on using. There is more than meets the eye with the plan, and the analyst gets a crash course in preventing biological warfare.

Initially, Joe and Owen are optimistic about their professional paths and the influence they might wield. However, as they delve deeper into the covert aspects of the intelligence community, they encounter its hidden, darker side, which toughens them, pushing them out of their presumed safe zones and compelling them to confront unforeseen obstacles. At first, Joe feels uneasy about his project’s application, but he soon changes his mind when he discovers that the individual in question actually possessed something potentially harmful. This situation mirrors Owen’s thought process throughout “The Recruit.

Both “The Recruit” and “Condor”, inspired by James Grady’s novel “Six Days of the Condor”, share a common theme where desk-bound characters are thrust into fieldwork due to a singular discovery. If it weren’t for Joe’s software noticing that individual, he might have remained at his desk. Similarly, if Owen hadn’t brought the letter to his superior’s attention, he would likely have been working peacefully in his office. “Condor” presents a unique kind of conspiracy compared to other series, offering equal doses of action and suspense.

Starring: Max Irons, Kristen Hager, Bob Balaban
Year: 2018-present
Rating: TV-MA
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 87%

Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan

When Jack Ryan (John Krasinski), a CIA analyst, discovers millions of dollars in transactions may be connected to a terrorist, he’s immediately in the middle of the action. From a trip to Yemen where he meets the terrorist in the first episode to trying to speak to the antagonist through a video game, Jack has his work cut out for him now that he’s out of the office.

Initially desk-bound individuals, Jack and Owen find themselves abruptly transitioning to fieldwork after stumbling upon crucial information hidden within bank statements (for Jack) and asset documents (for Owen). This unexpected discovery thrusts them into the heart of intricate conspiracies, neither foreseeing this turn of events. However, they adapt admirably to the new circumstances, with Jack ultimately climbing the ranks within the CIA in subsequent seasons.

Both “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan” and “The Recruit” offer top-notch spy drama, filled with thrilling action and unexpected twists that will keep viewers engaged. With four seasons worth of content, it’s a lengthy yet rewarding watch, and its impressive cast makes it stand out. If you enjoyed “The Recruit,” you’ll likely find “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan” to be another excellent series to explore next.

Starring: John Krasinski, Wendell Pierce, Abbie Cornish
Year: 2018-2023
Rating: TV-MA
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 78%

The Americans

If you enjoy spy-themed entertainment, “The Americans” is a TV series you shouldn’t miss. This highly praised show delves into the complex relationship between the FBI and the KGB during the peak of the Cold War. The story revolves around a couple posing as an all-American family in Virginia – Philip and Elizabeth Jennings, portrayed by Keri Russell and Matthew Rhys. Remarkably, their neighbor in suburban America is actually an FBI agent, placing them on opposite sides in a unique way.

If you’re a fan of “The Recruit” and intrigued by historical backdrops, “The Americans” is the series to catch. Spanning over six years during the Cold War era, it shares numerous themes with its predecessor. Although the characters are fictional, they are influenced by real-life events. An interesting trivia for dedicated fans of “The Americans” is that the show was significantly impacted by the 2010 arrests of ten Russian spies operating undercover in the U.S.

According to Joseph Weisberg, the arrests served as the foundation for the series he created. In a conversation with Time magazine, he explained this. A contemporary setting didn’t feel appropriate, as people reacted with surprise and indifference to the 2010 scandal due to perceptions that Russia was no longer an enemy. To address this on television, it seemed logical to return to the Cold War era.

Starring: Keri Russell, Matthew Rhys, Noah Emmerich
Year: 2013-2018
Rating: TV-MA
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 96%

Covert Affairs

As a devoted fan, I’d put it this way: “In my viewpoint, ‘Covert Affairs’ chronicles my journey as Annie Walker, a swiftly promoted CIA agent, portrayed by Piper Perabo. From the classroom to the field, my transition happens at breakneck speed. My partner in this covert dance is Auggie (Christopher Gorham), a tech-savvy, blind CIA operative who guides me through the labyrinth of espionage. Known for my linguistic versatility, I can converse in seven languages, which proves invaluable on missions across the globe. These tasks range from chasing down vital information to embedding myself within a network of diamond smugglers.

Over the span of the initial season of “The Recruit,” Annie finds herself in deep waters, but gradually comprehends her role over the course of the five seasons of “Covert Affairs.” Similar to Owen, she starts off as an enthusiastic and somewhat naive character. However, due to circumstances, she develops a tough exterior to effectively carry out her duties while managing to survive.

If you enjoy ‘The Recruit’ and are seeking a female-driven series to delve into next, then “Covert Affairs” might be an excellent choice. Similar to ‘The Recruit’, this show focuses on CIA novices navigating global adventures. They often find themselves in tricky predicaments, but their development makes them engaging characters to cheer for.

Starring: Piper Perabo, Christopher Gorham, Kari Matchett
Year: 2010-2014
Rating: TV-14
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 93%

Citadel

The story revolves around Mason Kane (Richard Madden) and Nadia Sinh (Priyanka Chopra), two individuals who were once spies within an organization known as Citadel. A tragic incident causes them to forget their past, leading them to adopt new personas. However, they eventually uncover their true selves with the assistance of Bernard Orlick (Stanley Tucci), a former associate who requires their aid.

Just like Owen, Mason and Nadia are on the hunt for crucial information. They aim to ensure it doesn’t fall into the wrong set of hands, while Owen requires it to decide if he can clear someone’s name. Much like Owen and Max (played by Laura Haddock), Mason and Nadia maintain a relationship characterized by secrecy, revealing vital details only when necessary, and harboring mutual distrust despite shared experiences.

If you’re seeking a series similar to “The Recruit,” consider watching “Citadel.” It shares the same level of intrigue and offers an engaging twist: Mason and Nadia didn’t lose their memories due to an accident; instead, someone purposely triggered a failsafe mechanism in case they survived. The plot is almost as captivating as “The Recruit,” and boasts an exceptional ensemble cast throughout its six episodes. Some viewers may have been initially disgruntled, but the climax of “Citadel” Season 1 makes it all worthwhile.

Starring: Richard Madden, Priyanka Chopra, Stanley Tucci
Year: 2023-present
Rating: TV-14
Rotten Tomatoes Score: 51%

2025-03-09 20:04