Shows Like Lioness (2021)

Shannon Esra in Lioness (2021)

8.2 / 10 (based on 125 reviews)

A woman loses her children, her lover and her freedom when she is framed for fraud committed by her husband before his death.

Genre: Thriller

Main Cast: Shannon Esra, Joshua Daniel Eady, Terrence Ngwila, Ilana Cilliers
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1 season, 10 episodes

Shows Most Like Lioness (2021)

Dam (2021)

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5.6 / 10 (based on 253 reviews)

Set in an Eastern Cape farming community, the story follows Yola who returns home from Chile for her father’s funeral, only to be met by the ghosts of her past.

Genre: Horror, Thriller

Main Cast: Lea Vivier, Pallance Dladla, Natasha Loring, Neil Sandilands
Creators: Alex Yazbek
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1 season, 8 episodes, 45.0-minute runtime

Legacy (2020)

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8.6 / 10 (based on 27 reviews)

Set in the fast-lane world of investment billionaires. Legacy takes a look at the opulent lives of a family at war with itself. The stakes are high as secrets keep unraveling, but the Prices will do everything to protect their Legacy.

Genre: Drama

Main Cast: Robert Hobbs, Trix Vivier, Sean-Marco Vorster, Dawid Minnaar
Creators: Gwydion Beynon, Phathutshedzo Makwarela
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2 seasons, 10 episodes

4 Mure (2021)

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6.4 / 10 (based on 11 reviews)

A series of five episodes set in the same hotel room. Five different stories, five different genres and Marcelina, the charming yet incompetent hotel cleaner.

Genre: Drama

Main Cast: Lida Botha, Beer Adriaanse, Carel Nel, Tinarie van Wyk Loots
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1 season, 5 episodes

Kompleks (2020)

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8.1 / 10 (based on 8 reviews)

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Genre: Romance

Main Cast: Arthur Falko, Melissa Myburgh, Armand Aucamp, Roeline Daneel
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1 season, 9 episodes

Still Breathing (2020)

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8.6 / 10 (based on 58 reviews)

A deeply moving drama series about a group of old friends who have drifted apart as they have grown older. They are brought together when tragedy strikes.

Genre: Drama

Main Cast: Kate Liquorish, Tyrone Keogh, Sivuyile Ngesi, Morné du Toit
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1 season, 13 episodes, 46.0-minute runtime

Lioness (2023)

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A young Marine is recruited by the CIA to befriend the daughter of a terrorist group in order to bring down the organization from within.

Genre: Action, Drama, Thriller

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Creators: Taylor Sheridan, Jill Wagner
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1 season, 8 episodes

Reyka (2021)

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6.4 / 10 (based on 810 reviews)

In 1994 South Africa, a multiracial couple’s daughter is kidnapped. She escapes, and as an adult she becomes a detective. Continuing to deal with her past trauma, Reyka Gama uses her skills to raise her child and solve mysteries that have challenged others.

Genre: Crime

Main Cast: Kim Engelbrecht, Iain Glen, Anna-Mart van der Merwe, Rashaan Stackling
Creators: Rohan Dickson
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1 season, 8 episodes, 52.0-minute runtime

Masantonio (2021)

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6.8 / 10 (based on 101 reviews)

In Italy every year 20,000 people disappear. In Genoa, Prefect Attilio has created a task force to find them. This special unit is led by a mysterious man, a cynical lone wolf with a complicated past, Elio Masantonio.

Genre: Crime

Main Cast: Alessandro Preziosi, Davide Iacopini, Claudia Pandolfi, Virginia Campolucci
Creators: Valerio Cilio
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1 season, 10 episodes, 50.0-minute runtime

The Girl from St. Agnes (2019)

The Girl from St. Agnes (2019)

7.3 / 10 (based on 82 reviews)

Dark secrets are revealed after a tragic event at an elite boarding school sets off a search for the truth.

Genre: Drama, Mystery

Main Cast: Nina Milner, Graham Hopkins, Robert Hobbs, Jane de Wet
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1 season, 8 episodes, 52.0-minute runtime

Chasing the Sun (2020)

Chasing the Sun (2020)

9.6 / 10 (based on 288 reviews)

Chasing the Sun is a powerful SuperSport documentary made in collaboration with the Springboks and tells the rousing tale of their path to redemption and World Cup glory in 2019.

Genre: Documentary

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1 season, 5 episodes


In the vast landscape of television, finding a show that stands out for its unique storytelling, compelling characters, and gripping plot can sometimes feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. However, every so often, a series like Lioness (2021) comes along, proving itself to be that rare find. It’s a show that not only captivates its audience with thrilling espionage but also delves deep into the complex dynamics of its characters, making it a must-watch for anyone craving substance and excitement in their viewing experience.

The Premise

At its core, Lioness (2021) is a tale of espionage, focusing on a secret female operative’s world within the CIA, tasked with taking down a global terrorism network. But to label it merely as a spy drama would be an oversimplification. The show intricately weaves personal stories with high-stakes missions, exploring themes of loyalty, sacrifice, and the blurred lines between right and wrong. It’s this blend of personal and political that elevates Lioness from a typical spy drama to a nuanced exploration of the human condition.

Characters and Performances

The Protagonist

Central to Lioness is its protagonist, a character that breaks the mold of the traditional spy archetype. She’s not just a skilled operative; she’s a person with fears, hopes, and a life outside of her covert operations. This depth makes her relatable and her missions all the more gripping. The performance by the lead actress brings this complexity to life, delivering a portrayal that is both powerful and nuanced.

Supporting Cast

The brilliance of Lioness doesn’t stop with its lead. The supporting cast, each with their own backstories and motivations, adds layers to the narrative. From mentors and allies to adversaries, each character is meticulously crafted, contributing to the show’s rich tapestry. The interactions among these characters are a highlight, showcasing the actors’ chemistry and elevating the drama.

Writing and Direction

The writing in Lioness is a standout, skillfully balancing the show’s various elements. The dialogue is sharp, the plot twists are well-executed, and the pacing is just right, ensuring that viewers are always on the edge of their seats. The direction complements the writing, with visually striking scenes and a keen eye for detail that immerses the audience in the world of espionage.

Themes and Messages

Lioness is more than just entertainment; it’s a show that makes you think. It tackles complex issues such as the ethics of espionage, the cost of loyalty, and the sacrifices made in the name of duty. These themes are handled thoughtfully, inviting viewers to ponder the moral ambiguities faced by those in the world of covert operations.

Why It Stands Out

In a sea of TV shows, Lioness distinguishes itself for several reasons:

  • Originality: In an era where remakes and adaptations are common, Lioness offers a fresh story, proving that original content can still captivate audiences.
  • Character Depth: Unlike many spy dramas that focus solely on the action, Lioness gives equal weight to character development, making the stakes feel personal.
  • Topical Themes: By exploring current issues through the lens of espionage, Lioness remains relevant and engaging, prompting viewers to reflect on the real-world implications of the show’s themes.
  • Quality Production: From the writing and acting to the direction and cinematography, every aspect of Lioness is executed with precision and care, making it a high-quality viewing experience.

Conclusion

Lioness (2021) is a testament to the power of storytelling. It’s a show that not only entertains but also challenges its audience, making it a standout in the landscape of television. With its compelling characters, thought-provoking themes, and high-stakes drama, Lioness is a series that will be remembered and discussed for years to come. Whether you’re a fan of espionage thrillers or character-driven dramas, Lioness offers something for everyone, making it a must-watch for any TV enthusiast.

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