Stemming from an idea by Harvey Weinstein, SIX is a History Channel drama inspired by real missions, capturing the intense lives of U.S. Navy SEALs. With a focus on the life-and-death decisions they make and their personal struggles, the show delivers a blend of action and drama that keeps viewers engaged. Each season unfolds in a different location, starting with Africa, adding variety and depth to the storytelling.
Plot Overview
The show follows U.S. Navy SEAL Team Six, one of the most elite counterterrorism units, as they embark on high-risk missions. The story begins in 2014, when the team is sent to Afghanistan to eliminate a Taliban leader. However, their mission takes an unexpected turn when they uncover a U.S. citizen among the terrorists. This shocking discovery sets the tone for the series, showing the complexity of modern warfare.
The lead character, Richard “Rip” Taggart (played by Walton Goggins), is a seasoned SEAL who has spent too much time in combat. Hardened by war and personal loss, Rip’s lack of a moral filter causes friction within the team, particularly with Alex Caulder (Kyle Schmid) and his right-hand man, Joe “Bear” Graves (Barry Sloane). When an operation goes wrong, leading to the death of a possibly innocent man, the consequences ripple through the unit.
Fast forward two years, and Rip is now a private contractor in Nigeria, working for an oil company. When the company becomes a target for Boko Haram, Rip finds himself in grave danger. His former squad is drawn back into the fray, but they are not the only ones searching for him—an enemy with a personal vendetta is also closing in. The stakes are high, and the suspense keeps audiences hooked.
The Strengths of SIX
One of the standout aspects of SIX is its dedication to realism—at least in terms of character depth and equipment. The actors underwent rigorous training to portray their roles authentically, bringing a level of intensity rarely seen in military dramas. Their performances, especially that of Walton Goggins, add layers of complexity to the show, making the characters feel genuine and relatable.
Beyond the battlefield, SIX explores the personal struggles of its characters. It highlights how the pressures of war extend beyond the mission, affecting marriages, friendships, and family life. The drama does not shy away from showing the imperfections of these elite warriors, making them feel more human. However, some critics argue that while the show excels in portraying military brotherhood, its depiction of personal lives sometimes lacks depth.
The Tactical Accuracy Debate
Despite its strengths, SIX has faced criticism from military enthusiasts and veterans regarding its tactical realism. While the equipment—guns, sights, vests, night vision devices, and infrared lasers—is spot on, the combat tactics often stray into Hollywood territory. Some scenes feature SEALs standing in the open during firefights instead of seeking cover, an unrealistic approach that could frustrate those with real-world experience. However, it’s important to remember that SIX is, at its core, a television drama, and some exaggerations are to be expected for entertainment value.
Is SIX Worth Watching?
For those looking for a mix of action, military drama, and character-driven storytelling, SIX is definitely worth a watch. The firefights may lean into Hollywood-style spectacle, but the intensity of the missions and the personal struggles of the characters make for compelling viewing. The show does not shy away from the harsh realities of war, including its emotional and psychological toll, adding a layer of depth beyond just combat sequences.
Viewers should watch the entire first season before forming an opinion. The show builds its narrative over time, leading to a payoff that makes the journey worthwhile. Be prepared for graphic scenes—not just in combat but also in terms of language and emotional intensity.
The Rise and Fall of SIX
SIX ran for two seasons before being canceled ahead of a potential third. The reason? Competition. In 2017, three other Navy SEAL-themed shows—SEAL Team (CBS), The Brave (NBC), and Valor (The CW)—were released simultaneously, creating an oversaturated market. Despite History Channel’s efforts to delay the release of SIX Season 2 until after the broadcast season, ratings still declined by 50% compared to the first season.
However, the cancellation was not a reflection of the show’s quality. Fans of military dramas still regard SIX as one of the best Navy SEAL shows, often ranking it above SEAL Team in terms of storytelling and character development.
Final Thoughts
SIX may not be perfect, but it offers a gripping look into the lives of Navy SEALs, blending action, emotion, and high-stakes missions. While its tactical realism is debatable, its portrayal of military brotherhood and the personal costs of war make it a standout in the genre. If you enjoy military dramas that balance thrilling combat sequences with deeper character narratives, SIX is worth adding to your watchlist.
Other Recommended Navy SEAL Movies and TV Shows:
- The Warfighters
- SEAL Team
- Act of Valor
- Navy SEALs: America’s Secret Warriors
UPDATE: It was so disappointing to hear that this show has been canceled. I am praying that it gets picked up by another network or platform. So far, there is no clue will it ever be continued.
