10 Shows & Movies Similar to Danger Man (1960)

Description: Mission: Impossible shares with Danger Man a focus on covert operations and espionage, often involving intricate plots and high-stakes scenarios. Both series emphasize teamwork, though Danger Man often centers on a lone operative. The meticulous planning and execution of missions in Mission: Impossible echo the calculated, suspenseful storytelling of Danger Man.

Fact: The iconic theme music was composed by Lalo Schifrin. The show was known for its self-destructing mission tapes. Peter Graves joined the cast in the second season, replacing Steven Hill.

Description: The Prisoner, created by Danger Man star Patrick McGoohan, shares themes of espionage, identity, and psychological manipulation. Both shows explore the moral ambiguities of the spy world, though The Prisoner delves deeper into surreal and philosophical territory. The visual style and tense atmosphere are reminiscent of Danger Man, but with a more avant-garde approach.

Fact: The show was filmed in the picturesque village of Portmeirion, Wales. Patrick McGoohan wrote and directed several episodes. The series was initially intended to run for more seasons but was cut short due to McGoohan's creative differences with the network.

Description: The Persuaders! shares with Danger Man a blend of action, adventure, and humor, featuring a charismatic lead (Roger Moore again) in international settings. While more lighthearted, the show maintains the espionage and intrigue elements, with a focus on wealthy, sophisticated protagonists navigating dangerous situations.

Fact: The show paired Roger Moore with Tony Curtis as an unlikely crime-fighting duo. It was one of the most expensive TV series of its time. Despite its popularity in Europe, it was canceled after one season due to poor ratings in the US.

Description: Spooks (known as MI-5 in the US) updates the espionage genre for the 21st century, much like Danger Man did for the 1960s. Both shows focus on the gritty realities of intelligence work, with a mix of action, suspense, and moral complexity. The high-stakes, often personal dilemmas faced by the agents mirror those in Danger Man.

Fact: The show was praised for its realistic portrayal of MI5 operations. It featured early career appearances by actors like Matthew Macfadyen and Keeley Hawes. The infamous 'deep fat fryer' scene in the first episode shocked audiences and set the tone for the series.

Description: The Ipcress File, like Danger Man, is a Cold War-era spy thriller with a focus on brainwashing and psychological manipulation. Both shows feature intelligent, resourceful protagonists navigating a world of deception. The stylish, period-accurate production design echoes the aesthetic of Danger Man.

Fact: The series is a remake of the 1965 film starring Michael Caine. It was filmed in Liverpool, which doubled for 1960s London. The show expands on the original story, adding new characters and plotlines.

Description: Berlin Station shares with Danger Man a focus on the personal and professional lives of spies, set against the backdrop of Cold War-esque tensions (though updated for modern times). Both shows explore the psychological toll of espionage, with a mix of action and drama.

Fact: The show was created by Olen Steinhauer, a renowned spy novelist. It features a mix of American and European actors, reflecting its international setting. The series was praised for its authentic depiction of Berlin's espionage history.

Description: Condor, like Danger Man, revolves around a reluctant spy thrust into a world of conspiracy and betrayal. Both shows emphasize the moral ambiguities of intelligence work, with protagonists who must rely on their wits to survive. The tense, suspenseful storytelling is a hallmark of both series.

Fact: The series is based on the novel Six Days of the Condor by James Grady. It updates the 1975 film Three Days of the Condor for a modern audience. The show explores contemporary issues like surveillance and whistleblowing.

Description: Similar to Danger Man (1960), The Saint features a suave, intelligent protagonist who operates in the world of espionage and international intrigue. Both shows are rooted in the Cold War era, blending action with sophisticated storytelling. The Saint, like Danger Man, often involves undercover missions and moral dilemmas, with a charismatic lead who navigates complex situations with wit and resourcefulness.

Fact: The Saint was based on the novels by Leslie Charteris. Roger Moore, who played Simon Templar, later became famous as James Bond. The show was filmed in black and white for its first two seasons before switching to color.

Description: The Sandbaggers is often compared to Danger Man for its realistic portrayal of espionage, focusing on the bureaucratic and personal challenges faced by spies. Both shows eschew glamorized action in favor of gritty, thought-provoking storytelling. The emphasis on the psychological and political aspects of spy work is a key similarity.

Fact: The show was created by former intelligence officer Ian Mackintosh. It was praised for its accurate depiction of MI6 operations. The series was canceled after three seasons due to Mackintosh's mysterious disappearance.

Description: The Night Manager, like Danger Man, centers on a lone operative infiltrating a dangerous world of international crime and espionage. Both shows feature a charismatic protagonist using wit and charm to navigate perilous situations. The sophisticated storytelling and high production values are reminiscent of Danger Man's style.

Fact: The series is based on John le Carré's novel of the same name. Tom Hiddleston's performance earned him a Golden Globe. The show was filmed in multiple countries, including the UK, Spain, and Morocco.