Martial Arts TV Shows: Martial arts films have long been celebrated for their cinematic spectacle, but television has quietly taken the lead in recent years. With multi-season arcs, character growth, and choreographed action scenes that rival anything on the big screen, TV has become the ultimate home for martial arts storytelling.
Here are eight martial arts shows that prove the small screen often packs a bigger punch than Hollywood movies—plus where you can stream them today.
1. Into the Badlands — AMC+ / Prime Video
Set in a post-apocalyptic world, Into the Badlands stands out for its visually stunning fight sequences and epic storylines. With every episode featuring martial arts choreography at movie-level quality, it’s a must-watch for action fans.
📺 Where to Watch: AMC+ / Prime Video
🔥 Why It’s Great: A post-apocalyptic world meets wuxia-inspired battles. Each episode is filled with mind-blowing choreography and stunning visuals.
👉 Watch Trailer: Into the Badlands Official Trailer
2. Warrior — Max (formerly HBO Max)
Originally based on Bruce Lee’s concept, Warrior combines martial arts grit with 19th-century drama during San Francisco’s Tong Wars. Its blend of historical realism, cultural conflict, and breathtaking battles makes it one of the best martial arts shows ever produced.
📺 Where to Watch: Max (HBO Max)
🔥 Why It’s Great: Based on Bruce Lee’s vision, it’s gritty, stylish, and deeply moving. The Tong Wars backdrop adds historical depth.
👉 Watch Trailer: Warrior Official Trailer
3. Cobra Kai — Netflix
A modern revival of The Karate Kid legacy, Cobra Kai delivers karate battles, generational rivalries, and character-driven drama. Its perfect balance of nostalgia and fresh storytelling has made it one of Netflix’s most successful series.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix
🔥 Why It’s Great: A perfect mix of nostalgia and fresh drama. It keeps karate alive for a new generation.
👉 Watch Trailer: Cobra Kai Official Trailer
4. Wu Assassins — Netflix
Blending martial arts with mystical elements, Wu Assassins follows a San Francisco chef turned supernatural warrior. Led by Iko Uwais (The Raid), this series delivers fluid, hard-hitting action sequences with a fantasy twist.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix
🔥 Why It’s Great: Iko Uwais (The Raid) brings his signature intensity. A supernatural twist makes this series stand out.
👉 Watch Trailer: Wu Assassins Official Trailer
5. Banshee — Max (formerly HBO Max)
Though technically a crime drama, Banshee is packed with gritty, raw fight scenes that feel as intense as any martial arts flick. Its blend of small-town drama and unflinching action has earned it cult-favorite status.
📺 Where to Watch: Max (HBO Max)
🔥 Why It’s Great: It’s a crime thriller with some of the most brutal hand-to-hand combat on TV. Stylish, raw, and unforgettable.
👉 Watch Trailer: Banshee Official Trailer
6. Iron Fist — Disney+
Marvel’s Iron Fist introduces mystical martial arts to the superhero universe. While reception was mixed, its deep dive into chi, kung fu, and hidden warrior traditions has made it a unique blend of Marvel action and martial arts storytelling.
📺 Where to Watch: Disney+
🔥 Why It’s Great: A Marvel martial artist who channels chi and kung fu traditions. While divisive, it delivers mystical fight storytelling.
👉 Watch Trailer: Iron Fist Official Trailer
7. The Legend of Bruce Lee — Prime Video
This biographical series brings Bruce Lee’s life and legacy to the small screen. Unlike feature films, it takes time to explore his struggles, philosophies, and rise to martial arts superstardom. Fans of the legend will find this series both emotional and inspirational.
📺 Where to Watch: Prime Video
🔥 Why It’s Great: A deep dive into Bruce Lee’s life, struggles, and rise to martial arts greatness.
👉 Watch Trailer: The Legend of Bruce Lee Trailer
8. Avatar: The Last Airbender — Netflix / Paramount+
Though animated, Avatar deserves its spot for its martial arts-inspired bending styles rooted in real combat traditions. Its rich storytelling, breathtaking battles, and universal themes of balance and destiny make it one of the greatest martial arts-inspired shows ever.
📺 Where to Watch: Netflix / Paramount+
🔥 Why It’s Great: Inspired by real martial arts, this animated epic blends philosophy, culture, and stunning action.
👉 Watch Trailer: Avatar: The Last Airbender Trailer
Why TV Packs the Bigger Punch
Television provides room for characters and philosophies to evolve beyond quick cinematic climaxes. With seasons that build tension, develop fighters, and enrich cultures, these shows allow martial arts to be more than just spectacle—they become journeys.
From Bruce Lee-inspired dramas to modern reimaginings of martial traditions, TV proves it can outshine cinema by giving martial arts the space to breathe, grow, and resonate deeply with fans.
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