Prime Video’s newest series, Countdown, is set to premiere with three episodes on Wednesday, June 25. The series stars Jensen Ackles, who most fans know from the long-running series Supernatural as Dean Winchester. Over the last few years, he’s also had roles on Prime Video’s The Boys (where he reunited with Supernatural creator Eric Kripke), Big Sky, and Tracker.
In a world where first responder dramas are all the rage, Countdown fits right in but also manages to stand out on its own. The series itself feels massive, with some incredible cinematography and stunts that make you feel like you’re in a high-stakes action film throughout each episode. Being on Prime Video also gives them a bit more leeway than network television, so it’s fun to see them cursing in situations and reacting how we all would. Derek Haas, who also worked on the Chicago and FBI series, serves a masterclass with Countdown, smartly weaving together plot points and keeping the audience on the edge of their seats episode to episode.
This is Ackles’ first run after Supernatural leading his own show, and it’s clear that he’s perfect for this series. Mark Meachum is tailored perfectly to Ackles, and as the series progresses, Ackles really shows off his abilities here — not only as an incredible actor — but he solidifies himself as a leading man and action star who is going to gain a whole new, multi-generational audience. His wit and comedic timing are unmatched, and he has an innate ability to draw you in with every line delivery.
What I love about this series is that it gives way to stories with each character. Jessica Camacho’s Amber Oliveras goes toe-to-toe with Ackles’ Meachum, and they play off each other well. Eric Dane’s Nathan Blythe is smart and strong, and Dane always has a commanding presence on screen. Uli Latukefu as Luke Finau is so great, and I love his character development. Two of my favorite characters are Elliot Knight’s Keyonte Bell, who is so smart and fun to watch, and Violett Beane’s Evan Shepherd. As a self-proclaimed nerd (I mean, this is Nerds and Beyond), I loved seeing her character leading the tech side of things. The cast all really gel well together and are convincing as a team with some great moments.
One of my favorite things about this series is that it’s easy to see that it will span multiple generations. This is a show I could see my grandparents watching, my parents watching, my friends watching. It’s thrilling, exhilarating, and keeps you guessing – and trust me, this is going to be your new favorite show this summer.
Countdown premieres with three episodes on Wednesday, June 25, on Prime Video. Episodes will then be released weekly on Wednesdays until the season finale on Wednesday, September 3.
