10 Movies & Shows Like Rescue: Special Ops

Description: Focuses on the lives of elite special forces operatives, blending high-stakes missions with personal drama, similar to the intense and action-packed nature of special ops narratives.

Fact: The show was created by David Mamet, known for his sharp dialogue and intricate plots. It was praised for its realistic portrayal of military life and the challenges faced by soldiers and their families.

Description: A psychological thriller centered on espionage and national security, mirroring the intelligence and covert operations that define special forces work.

Fact: Homeland is based on an Israeli series called 'Prisoners of War.' It won numerous awards, including Emmys and Golden Globes, for its gripping narrative and complex characters.

Description: Follows a naval crew's survival in a post-apocalyptic world, combining military action with survivalist themes, akin to the strategic and life-or-death scenarios in special ops tales.

Fact: The show is based on a novel of the same name by William Brinkley. It gained popularity for its unique premise and intense action sequences set against a global catastrophe.

Description: Follows a highly skilled marksman drawn into conspiracies and dangerous missions, echoing the precision and tactical expertise of special operations personnel.

Fact: Shooter is based on the novel 'Point of Impact' by Stephen Hunter and the 2007 film of the same name. It delves into themes of betrayal and redemption within a military context.

Description: A political drama about an unexpected leader thrust into power after a catastrophic attack, reflecting the themes of crisis management and national security prevalent in special ops stories.

Fact: Kiefer Sutherland, known for his role in 24, stars as the titular designated survivor. The show explores the challenges of rebuilding a government from the ground up.

Description: Centers on a team of Navy SEALs, showcasing their dangerous missions and the psychological toll of their work, mirroring the high-adrenaline and emotional depth of special ops stories.

Fact: The series employs former Navy SEALs as consultants to ensure authenticity in its portrayal of military operations. It also delves into the personal lives of the team members, adding a layer of human drama.

Description: A tense political thriller featuring a war veteran assigned to protect a controversial figure, blending personal conflict with high-stakes security scenarios, much like the protective and tactical aspects of special ops.

Fact: Bodyguard became the UK's most-watched drama in over a decade. Its gripping storyline and unexpected twists earned critical acclaim and a dedicated fanbase.

Description: A real-time counterterrorism thriller with relentless action and constant danger, capturing the urgency and precision of special operations missions.

Fact: 24 was groundbreaking for its real-time format, with each season representing 24 hours. It popularized the use of split screens and multiple storylines unfolding simultaneously.

Description: Set in a military hospital in Afghanistan, it highlights the bravery and challenges of medical personnel in war zones, paralleling the heroism and tension found in special ops environments.

Fact: The show was inspired by real-life experiences of military doctors. It was filmed in Toronto, using sets designed to replicate a NATO hospital in Kandahar.

Description: Revolves around a military unit's covert missions and the secrets they keep, reflecting the clandestine and high-risk operations typical of special forces narratives.

Fact: Valor was one of the first TV series to focus on female pilots in special operations. It was canceled after one season but left a mark for its bold storytelling.