Jensen Ackles has found his next major TV triumph. Following comparisons to The Terminal List, his new Prime Video action series Countdown is quickly becoming a global hit. And it’s not just fans who are taking notice.
Despite a rocky start with critics, Countdown has climbed into the Top 10 streaming charts in over 25 countries, including the U.S. and U.K., cementing itself as one of the summer’s surprise breakout shows.
Countdown Series: From Underdog to Streaming Giant
Countdown launched on Prime Video in late June 2025 to lukewarm reviews, debuting with a 31% Rotten Tomatoes critic score. But in true underdog fashion, the show has begun to win over the press. Its score has steadily ticked up to 38%, and it continues trending on social media and streaming platforms.
While critics may still be mixed, audiences are loving it, giving Countdown a strong 72% rating on the audience-powered Popcornmeter.
Ackles leads the high-octane thriller as a former operative thrown into a deadly conspiracy, offering a character blend that feels like a spiritual successor to Chris Pratt’s James Reece from The Terminal List. But where Terminal List leaned heavily into military grit, Countdown injects urgency, mystery, and emotional stakes, all set against a high-stakes ticking clock.
Countdown vs. The Terminal List
When Countdown first dropped, many were quick to compare it to The Terminal List, the Chris Pratt-led military drama also on Prime Video. Both series lean into tactical action, lone-wolf protagonists, and deep government conspiracies—but fans are saying Countdown packs more narrative punch and stakes.
Created by veteran TV writer Derek Haas—the architect behind the One Chicago universe (Chicago Fire, P.D., and Med) and co-writer of blockbuster films like Wanted, 2 Fast 2 Furious, and 3:10 to Yuma, Countdown has all the makings of a long-running hit.
Countdown Series Star Power: Jensen Ackles and a Talented Cast
Ackles is joined by an impressive ensemble including:
- Jessica Camacho (Bosch: Legacy)
- Eric Dane (Euphoria)
- Violett Beane (God Friended Me, The Flash)
Each adds depth and tension to a series that’s drawing viewers with its blend of action, drama, and conspiracy-laced storytelling.
The show’s fast-paced structure and pulse-pounding set pieces make it perfect binge material, with fans praising its intensity and Ackles’ rugged charisma.
Countdown Series Created by a Proven Hitmaker
Countdown is the brainchild of Derek Haas, a veteran showrunner best known for launching NBC’s One Chicago universe (Chicago Fire, Chicago P.D., Chicago Med). He’s penned over 600 episodes of television and brings cinematic experience from writing 2 Fast 2 Furious, Wanted, and 3:10 to Yuma.
That pedigree is showing. The show’s pacing, structure, and character arcs reflect Haas’ experience balancing action with emotional storytelling.
Jensen Ackles Rejoins The Boys in 2026
Ackles fans have even more to look forward to. Though his Soldier Boy was mostly absent in The Boys Season 4, he’s officially returning for Season 5, which has wrapped filming for a 2026 release.
Plus, he’ll lead the newly announced prequel series Vought Rising, alongside the return of Aya Cash’s Stormfront and a mini Supernatural reunion with Misha Collins and Jared Padalecki.
Why Countdown Is Winning Fans and Critics
Even with a modest critic score, Countdown is pulling ahead because:
- It delivers tight, character-driven action
- Ackles brings a gritty, grounded charm
- The global audience relates to the themes of corruption and survival
- The cast chemistry and twist-heavy writing keep viewers coming back
With new episodes still releasing, Countdown could very well become Prime Video’s next flagship action series.
Countdown is proving that star power, a sharp creative team, and relentless momentum can outweigh early critical skepticism. For fans of The Terminal List, Jack Ryan, or Reacher, this is your next must-watch.
As the show continues to climb charts and expand its fanbase, one thing is clear: Jensen Ackles is not slowing down.