Prime Video is rolling out a highly anticipated new addition to its action-thriller lineup today, August 27, 2025, with the premiere of “The Terminal List: Dark Wolf.” This new series serves as a prequel to the popular 2022 show “The Terminal List,” delving deep into the backstory of Ben Edwards, a pivotal character from the original, now taking center stage. Starring Taylor Kitsch in a leading role, the series promises to expand the gritty universe created by Jack Carr, offering viewers an intense exploration of espionage, warfare, and the complex moral landscape of covert operations.
Taylor Kitsch Steps into the Spotlight: The Making of Ben Edwards
At the heart of “The Terminal List: Dark Wolf” is Taylor Kitsch, reprising his role as Ben Edwards, a character whose complex motivations and ultimate betrayal were a significant plot point in the first season. Kitsch, known for his compelling performances in projects like “Friday Night Lights” and “True Detective,” initially expressed hesitation about revisiting the character, citing the emotional toll the role had taken. However, the depth of the script and the opportunity to explore Edwards’ journey from decorated Navy SEAL to a conflicted CIA operative proved irresistible. Showrunner David DiGilio and executive producer Antoine Fuqua were reportedly convinced of Kitsch’s suitability for the role almost immediately, recognizing his innate ability to embody the character’s internal struggles. This prequel gives Kitsch the spotlight he’s long deserved, allowing him to anchor a high-stakes narrative that examines the origins of Edwards’ moral ambiguities and the events that shaped him into the man seen in the original series. The series is already being hailed as a showcase for Kitsch’s talent, positioning him as a formidable action star.
Expanding the “Terminal List” Universe: From SEALs to CIA Shadows
“The Terminal List: Dark Wolf” is set approximately seven years before the events of the initial series, tracing Ben Edwards’ career path after his honorable discharge from the Navy SEALs. The narrative kicks off in 2015 Iraq, where Edwards, alongside his teammates Raife Hastings (Tom Hopper) and Ernest “Boozer” Vickers (Jared Shaw), is involved in critical operations. A turning point comes when a mission leads to the death of a friend and a subsequent compromising of a crucial CIA plan due to Edwards’ rage. This incident results in his dishonorable discharge, setting him on a darker trajectory.
Recruited by CIA spymaster Jed Haverford (Robert Wisdom), Edwards is drawn into the clandestine world of intelligence. The series plunges into the darker side of warfare and espionage, exploring the psychological toll and human cost associated with these shadowy operations. It meticulously details Edwards’ transition into CIA Special Operations, navigating intricate loyalties, political conspiracies, and the morally gray areas that define the world of intelligence. The series aims to provide context for Edwards’ actions in the original “The Terminal List,” exploring how he arrived at such a compromised position and the betrayals that followed, making it a compelling watch for fans seeking deeper lore.
Chris Pratt’s Return and a Stellar Ensemble Cast
While “The Terminal List: Dark Wolf” undeniably belongs to Taylor Kitsch’s Ben Edwards, the series also features the return of Chris Pratt as Lieutenant Commander James Reece, the protagonist of the original series. Pratt, who also serves as an executive producer, reprises his role, though his presence is more peripheral, appearing in a limited capacity, primarily in the early episodes. His involvement underscores the narrative connection between the prequel and the original, as Edwards’ journey is intrinsically linked to Reece’s. The series also boasts a strong supporting cast, including Tom Hopper as Raife Hastings, a fellow SEAL and colleague, and Luke Hemsworth as Jules Landry, a CIA contractor. Other notable cast members include Dar Salim, Rona-Lee Shimon, Robert Wisdom, Shiraz Tzarfati, and Jared Shaw, all contributing to the rich tapestry of the espionage thriller.
Authenticity in Action: Veterans Behind the Scenes
A key pillar of “The Terminal List” franchise, and particularly emphasized in “Dark Wolf,” is its commitment to authenticity. The series draws heavily from the experiences of its creators and cast, many of whom are military veterans. Jack Carr, the author of the “Terminal List” novels and a former Navy SEAL, co-created the series and ensures that military operations, intelligence work, and the psychological realities of service are portrayed with respect and accuracy. This dedication extends to the writing room and on-set advisory roles, providing a genuine perspective that resonates with audiences who value realism in action storytelling. Jared Shaw, a former SEAL who plays Boozer and serves as a writer and technical advisor, highlights that this veteran involvement is crucial for “buy-in” from viewers who have lived in high-stress environments. This collaborative approach aims to capture the mindset, brotherhood, and moral complexities of special operations.
Prime Video’s Growing Streaming Slate
The premiere of “The Terminal List: Dark Wolf” reinforces Prime Video’s strategy of investing in high-caliber, genre-defining content. As a streaming service that has successfully launched other acclaimed action dramas, Prime Video is betting on the franchise’s established popularity. The release positions “Dark Wolf” alongside other notable TV show offerings, catering to viewers who enjoy intense, character-driven thrillers. It’s part of a wave of significant TV releases in August, underscoring Prime Video’s commitment to delivering diverse and engaging content. This new show is expected to be a significant draw for subscribers, potentially becoming a trending topic.
Premiering Today: Your Guide to “The Terminal List: Dark Wolf” Releases
For fans eager to dive into Ben Edwards’ origins, “The Terminal List: Dark Wolf” officially premieres today, August 27, 2025. Prime Video is releasing the first three episodes simultaneously, offering viewers a substantial binge-watching opportunity from the outset. Following this initial drop, subsequent episodes will be released weekly on Wednesdays. The first season comprises a total of seven episodes, with the season finale scheduled for September 24, 2025. This staggered release strategy is designed to maintain audience engagement throughout the season, keeping the conversation going week after week.
Conclusion
“The Terminal List: Dark Wolf” arrives on Prime Video as more than just a spin-off; it’s an ambitious expansion of a beloved franchise, offering a deep character study set against a backdrop of thrilling espionage and military action. With Taylor Kitsch delivering a commanding performance, a star-studded ensemble, and a commitment to authenticity, the series is poised to captivate audiences. As a new TV show and a significant release in the streaming landscape, “The Terminal List: Dark Wolf” is set to be a must-watch for fans of the original and newcomers alike, further cementing “The Terminal List” as a formidable presence in the action-thriller genre. The news of its premiere today marks an exciting moment for television and a chance to explore the shadowed past of one of the franchise’s most intriguing characters.
