10 Shows Like Mission: Impossible (1966)

Description: Danger Man (known as Secret Agent in the U.S.) is a precursor to Mission: Impossible, featuring a lone spy undertaking dangerous missions. Both shows emphasize realism and psychological tension, with protagonists relying on their wits rather than gadgets. The series' Cold War backdrop and international settings mirror those of Mission: Impossible.

Fact: Danger Man starred Patrick McGoohan, who later created The Prisoner. The show was initially canceled but revived due to the popularity of the spy genre. McGoohan performed many of his own stunts, adding to the show's gritty realism.

Description: The Avengers shares Mission: Impossible's blend of espionage, action, and stylish storytelling. Both shows feature sophisticated, well-dressed protagonists who outwit their enemies with intelligence and charm. The Avengers' quirky, sometimes surreal tone aligns with the more eccentric elements of Mission: Impossible.

Fact: The show originally starred Ian Hendry before Patrick Macnee took over as the lead. Diana Rigg's Emma Peel became a cultural icon, symbolizing 1960s fashion and feminism. The series was known for its witty dialogue and avant-garde storytelling techniques.

Description: Like Mission: Impossible, The Man from U.N.C.L.E. is a spy series that blends action, intrigue, and a touch of humor. Both shows feature a team of agents working undercover to thwart international threats, often using sophisticated gadgets and elaborate schemes. The series also shares a similar Cold War-era espionage theme, making it a natural counterpart to Mission: Impossible.

Fact: The show was created by Sam Rolfe, who also worked on Have Gun – Will Travel. The series was initially conceived as a more serious spy drama but evolved to include more humor and lighter tones. Robert Vaughn and David McCallum became iconic figures of 1960s television through their roles in the series.

Description: Get Smart shares Mission: Impossible's espionage theme but approaches it with a comedic twist. Both shows involve secret agents using high-tech gadgets and elaborate plans, though Get Smart parodies the genre's tropes. The show's satirical take on spy dramas like Mission: Impossible makes it a fun and lighthearted counterpart.

Fact: Get Smart was created by Mel Brooks and Buck Henry. The iconic shoe phone was inspired by a real-life concept of miniaturized spy gadgets. The show won multiple Emmy Awards, including Outstanding Comedy Series.

Description: The Prisoner, created by Danger Man's Patrick McGoohan, shares Mission: Impossible's themes of espionage and identity. However, it delves deeper into psychological and philosophical questions, offering a more surreal take on the spy genre. Both shows feature protagonists who are masters of deception and survival.

Fact: The Prisoner was initially conceived as a sequel to Danger Man but evolved into a unique series. The show's ambiguous ending has sparked debates among fans for decades. The iconic Village setting was filmed in Portmeirion, Wales.

Description: The Champions combines espionage with science fiction, much like some of Mission: Impossible's more fantastical episodes. Both shows feature a team of agents with extraordinary abilities working for a secret organization. The series' blend of action, intrigue, and supernatural elements makes it a unique counterpart to Mission: Impossible.

Fact: The show was created by Dennis Spooner, who also worked on The Avengers. The Champions' premise of superhuman agents was ahead of its time. The series was filmed in various international locations, adding to its exotic appeal.

Description: The Persuaders! shares Mission: Impossible's glamorous, jet-setting lifestyle and action-packed plots. Both shows feature wealthy, sophisticated protagonists who use their resources to fight crime. The series' blend of humor, adventure, and style aligns with the lighter moments of Mission: Impossible.

Fact: The Persuaders! starred Roger Moore and Tony Curtis as an unlikely crime-fighting duo. The show was a co-production between the UK and the U.S., aimed at both markets. Despite its short run, the series has gained a cult following over the years.

Description: The Saint, like Mission: Impossible, features a charismatic lead who operates outside conventional law enforcement. Both shows blend action, mystery, and adventure, with the protagonist often assuming different identities. The Saint's globe-trotting adventures and sophisticated tone are reminiscent of Mission: Impossible.

Fact: Roger Moore's portrayal of Simon Templar launched his career as a leading man. The show was based on the novels by Leslie Charteris. Moore directed several episodes of the series himself.

Description: I Spy, like Mission: Impossible, is a groundbreaking spy series that combines action, adventure, and international intrigue. Both shows feature undercover agents working to protect global security, often in exotic locations. I Spy is notable for its realistic portrayal of espionage, much like the more serious episodes of Mission: Impossible.

Fact: I Spy was the first American television series to feature a Black actor (Bill Cosby) in a leading role. The show was filmed on location around the world, adding to its authentic feel. Robert Culp and Bill Cosby's chemistry was a major factor in the show's success.

Description: Randall and Hopkirk (Deceased) mixes espionage with supernatural elements, similar to some of Mission: Impossible's more unconventional episodes. Both shows feature protagonists solving mysteries and outwitting villains, though Randall and Hopkirk adds a ghostly twist. The series' blend of detective work and fantasy makes it a quirky counterpart to Mission: Impossible.

Fact: The show was created by Dennis Spooner, who also worked on The Champions. The series was remade in 2000 with Vic Reeves and Bob Mortimer. Mike Pratt, who played Jeff Randall, was also a successful songwriter.