10 Best TV Shows About Pirates, Ranked

Ranking the top television shows featuring pirates, starting with the unlikely choice of an animated series. The Pirates of Dark Water, produced by Hanna-Barbera, debuted in 1991 and follows a young hero named Ren as he discovers his royal heritage while battling a corrosive ocean substance. Featuring a talented voice cast and ambitious fantasy world, the show is an enjoyable watch for younger audiences.

Another notable entry is Crossbones, an NBC period drama that hypothesizes Blackbeard's survival post-deaths. Despite its short-lived run with just nine episodes, the series stands out due to the unorthodox casting of actor John Malkovich as the legendary pirate. The show also showcases Neil Cross' moody touch, adding a unique flavor to the genre.

One Piece, a best-selling manga series adapted into a Netflix live-action show, follows the adventures of a young pirate named Monkey D. Luffy and his eclectic crew in their quest for the mythical One Piece. Despite some skepticism following Netflix's live-action Cowboy Bebop, One Piece delivers a faithful adaptation that appeals to fans with its strong ensemble cast and imaginative set pieces.

Sandokan: The Pirate Prince, an Italian series based on the iconic swashbuckler created by Emilio Salgari, showcases the romanticized pirate on Borneo and the South China Sea. Starring Can Yaman in the titular role, this 2025 production offers plenty of genre action and unapologetically sensual performances, providing an entertaining escape from reality.

Lastly, HBO Max's original series Our Flag Means Death offers a comedic take on 18th-century aristocrat Stede Bonnet, who transforms into a gentleman pirate. Rhys Darby leads the cast, and the show's blend of entertainment, humor, and swashbuckling action make it a noteworthy addition to the pirate genre.