How to watch – Prime Video’s latest original series, Countdown, has officially arrived, bringing high-stakes crime drama to your screen. Created by Derek Haas, the mastermind behind the Chicago Med/Fire/P.D. universe, the series stars Supernatural alum Jensen Ackles as LAPD detective Mark Meachum, who finds himself in the middle of a dangerous federal conspiracy.
If you’re looking to dive into the intense world of Countdown, here’s everything you need to know—including how to watch it online for free.
What Is Countdown About?
Set in Los Angeles, Countdown follows Detective Mark Meachum (Ackles), who is pulled into a covert task force after a Homeland Security agent is murdered in broad daylight. What begins as a homicide investigation soon spirals into a deadly race against time involving nuclear threats, international crime, and government secrets.
The elite task force includes operatives from the LAPD, DEA, FBI, and Homeland Security, each with a complex backstory and hidden motivations. As their investigation unfolds, the team must stop a mysterious Belarusian figure with a global agenda—before it’s too late.
When and Where to Watch Countdown Season 1
Premiere date: Wednesday, June 25, 2025
Time: 12:00 a.m. ET
Episodes: First 3 episodes available now
Total episodes: 13 (weekly releases every Wednesday)
Platform: Prime Video (Amazon)
New episodes will be released weekly, with the season finale scheduled for September 3, 2025.
How to Watch Countdown Online for Free
To watch Countdown, you’ll need access to Amazon Prime Video. Luckily, Amazon offers a 30-day free trial for new subscribers, allowing you to stream the first several episodes at no cost.
Watch Free with Amazon Prime:
-
Sign up for a 30-day free trial
-
Stream Countdown and other Prime Video exclusives
-
Cancel anytime before the trial ends to avoid charges
Prime Video is also available as a standalone subscription for $8.99/month.
Who’s in the Cast of Countdown?
-
Jensen Ackles as Mark Meachum (LAPD Detective)
-
Eric Dane as Nathan Blythe (Task Force Leader)
-
Jessica Camacho as Amber Oliveras (DEA Agent)
-
Violett Beane as Shepherd (FBI Cyber Unit)
-
Uli Latukefu as Finau (LAPD Gangs/Narcotics)
-
Elliot Knight as Bell (FBI Counterterrorism)
-
Jonathan Togo as Drew (Homeland Security)
Derek Haas praised the ensemble cast, describing their chemistry as “lightning in a bottle,” and promising a character-driven story with explosive action and emotional stakes.
What to Expect from Countdown
The series blends the gritty realism of 24 and the fast-paced action of Die Hard, with Ackles leading the charge as a detective navigating corruption, loyalty, and moral compromise.
Critics have called the show a mix of “tense action, government intrigue, and high-octane drama.” Fans of shows like Reacher, Jack Ryan, and The Terminal List will likely find Countdown to be their next streaming obsession.
Final Thoughts
With conspiracy, suspense, and intense action at its core, Countdown is shaping up to be one of Prime Video’s most thrilling debuts of the year. Whether you’re a fan of crime dramas or just want to see Jensen Ackles back in the spotlight, now’s the perfect time to tune in.
🎬 Catch the first three episodes now streaming on Prime Video, and follow the countdown every week through September.
