Every Action Movie & TV Show Coming Out in January 2026

The start of 2026 brings a diverse slate of high-octane entertainment to both the big and small screens. Fans of disaster epics, gritty police procedurals, and international espionage have several major premieres to anticipate throughout the month of January. From returning television favorites on major networks to highly anticipated cinematic sequels, the schedule is packed with adrenaline-fueled storytelling. This lineup highlights the most significant action releases arriving this month across various platforms and theaters.

‘Greenland 2: Migration’ (2026)

Gerard Butler returns as John Garrity in this sequel to the 2020 disaster film. The story follows the Garrity family as they venture out of the Greenland bunker to find a new home in the decimated wasteland of Europe. They must navigate a frozen landscape and encounter other survivors while seeking a permanent sanctuary. The film reunites Butler with director Ric Roman Waugh and co-star Morena Baccarin. It explores the physical and emotional toll of surviving in a post-apocalyptic world.

‘Primate’ (2026)

This action-thriller directed by Johannes Roberts features Troy Kotsur in a lead role. The plot centers on a scientific experiment involving a highly intelligent primate that goes horribly wrong. As the creature escapes and begins to terrorize the surrounding area, a specialized team must contain the threat before it spreads. The film blends elements of suspense and high-stakes action within a claustrophobic setting. It marks a significant entry in the creature-feature subgenre for the winter season.

‘Night Patrol’ (2026)

Justin Long and Jermaine Fowler star in this intense action-thriller set on the streets of Los Angeles. An LAPD officer discovers that a local gang is executing a series of sophisticated and violent home invasions. He must balance his professional duties with the realization that the conspiracy might involve people within his own department. The film explores the dangerous realities of urban policing during a single, high-stakes night shift. It is directed by Ryan Prows and emphasizes gritty, ground-level combat and tension.

‘Mercy’ (2026)

Chris Pratt leads this near-future action film as a detective who finds himself accused of a crime he did not commit. In a society where capital crime rates have led to extreme judicial measures, he must go on the run to clear his name. Rebecca Ferguson stars alongside Pratt in a story that explores themes of justice, technology, and surveillance. The production is directed by Timur Bekmambetov, known for his unique visual style in contemporary action cinema. This project represents a high-budget collaboration between Amazon MGM Studios and major industry talent.

‘The Rookie’ (2018–2026)

John Nolan and his team at the Mid-Wilshire Division return for new episodes on ABC this January. The series continues to follow the challenges faced by the LAPD as they handle complex criminal investigations and personal milestones. This season focuses on the evolving dynamics between seasoned officers and the new recruits joining the force. The show maintains the blend of procedural action and character-driven drama that has defined its long run. It remains a central part of the network’s scripted winter programming.

‘Will Trent’ (2023–2026)

Special Agent Will Trent returns to navigate the complex legal landscape of the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. Based on the popular book series by Karin Slaughter, the show follows the titular character as he uses his unique perspective to solve difficult cases. The new season delves deeper into Will’s past while he balances his evolving relationship with Angie Polaski. It continues to feature the sharp dialogue and procedural puzzles that the audience expects from the series. The show has gained a consistent following for its lead performance by Ramón Rodríguez.

‘Tehran’ (2020–2026)

The acclaimed Israeli espionage thriller returns to Apple TV+ for its latest season. Tamar Rabinyan, a Mossad hacker-agent, continues her high-stakes undercover work in the heart of the Iranian capital. This season introduces new players to the political chessboard, including a character portrayed by Hugh Laurie. The series explores the thin line between duty and survival in the world of international intelligence and cyber-warfare. It remains a standout production for its realistic portrayal of modern geopolitical tensions.

‘Gangs of London’ (2020–2026)

This gritty crime drama continues to explore the power vacuum and violence within the London underworld on AMC+. Following the fallout of previous betrayals, the remaining factions fight for control over the city’s lucrative criminal enterprises. The show remains known for its elaborate action sequences and visceral depictions of organized gang warfare. Each episode reveals the complex web of alliances and rivalries that define the city’s shadow economy. The third season expands the scope of the conflict to include international interests.

‘Wild Cards’ (2024–2026)

The procedural dramedy returns to The CW, following the unlikely partnership between a demoted detective and a clever con artist. The duo continues to solve crimes by utilizing their contrasting skill sets and unique perspectives on the legal system. Their professional relationship evolves as they tackle a new series of high-stakes cases across the city. The show balances lighthearted banter with genuine action and mystery elements in every episode. This second season aims to further explore the backstories of its lead characters while introducing new antagonists.

Tell us which of these action-packed premieres you are most excited to watch in the comments.