ITV continues to impress viewers with its growing lineup, bolstered by a deal with Disney+ that allows both networks to share content. One of the standout series recently added to ITV’s roster is “The Old Man,” an action thriller featuring renowned actors Jeff Bridges and John Lithgow. Though it has garnered attention, fans face a notable limitation: only the first season, which aired from 2022 to 2024, is available for streaming.
“The Old Man” is adapted from the novel by Thomas Perry and centers on Dan Chase, portrayed by Jeff Bridges—a retired CIA operative and Vietnam War veteran. The storyline kicks off when an assassin attempts to eliminate Dan, forcing him to flee and prompting Harold Harper, played by John Lithgow and the FBI’s Assistant-Director for Counterintelligence, to pursue him. However, the motivations of Harper appear ambiguous as he recruits hitman Julian Carson (Gbenga Akinnagbe) to hunt Dan down. The official synopsis describes the show as a tale of a retired CIA agent who must confront both external threats and his own psychological demons.
Viewer reactions to “The Old Man” have been notably positive regarding its debut season, while opinions have diverged with the release of the second season. Many fans have praised the compelling storytelling and performances of Bridges and Lithgow, with some expressing that the initial episodes provided a gripping viewing experience. One fan lauded the first season for its exceptional narrative flow and thrilling sequences, calling Bridges’ performance “sublime.” However, sentiments shifted during the second season, where critics noted a shift in pace and quality. Some found the dialogue and overall execution lacking compared to the first season, expressing disappointment that it seemed like a different show altogether.
The cast is headlined by Jeff Bridges, known for his performances in classics like “Iron Man” and “Tron,” and John Lithgow, celebrated for roles in “Dexter” and “The Crown.” They are joined by a talented ensemble that includes E.J. Bonilla, Bill Heck, Leem Lubany, Alia Shawkat, Gbenga Akinnagbe, Amy Brenneman, Navid Negahban, Jacqueline Antaramian, and Hiam Abbass, adding depth to the series.
Despite the mixed reviews for the second season, “The Old Man” stands as a testament to high-quality storytelling and acting in the action thriller genre. With its strong character development and production values, fans are hopeful that future episodes will capture the same essence as the first season, keeping viewers engaged and eager for more.