Simon Pegg, widely known for his role as Benji in the Mission: Impossible franchise, has quietly become a staple in the action genre. While he may not headline blockbuster films, his presence alongside stars like Tom Cruise always adds a layer of charm and wit. Recently, Pegg has expanded his repertoire, joining the Harry Potter universe as Arthur Weasley in the new audiobook series and voicing Balrog in the upcoming season of The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power. But it's his 2022 spy thriller that's now making waves as a streaming sensation.
The Undeclared War, which premiered on Peacock in 2022, has returned for its second season after a four-year hiatus. The show has quickly climbed the ranks to become one of the most-watched series on the platform, landing in the top 10 globally alongside reality hits like Love Island USA and The Real Housewives of Orange County. This resurgence marks a significant moment for the series, which had been somewhat under the radar until now.
What Is 'The Undeclared War' About?
Set in a post-pandemic 2024, just before a British general election, The Undeclared War follows a team of analysts at GCHQ who secretly work to thwart a cyberattack on the country's electoral system. The story centers on Saara Parvan, a young student on work experience in the malware department, who finds herself thrust into a high-stakes data war with Russia. The series, written and showrun by Collin Teevan, known for The Tank and Das Boot, has earned a 62% critics' score and 72% audience score on Rotten Tomatoes.
For fans of Slow Horses, The Undeclared War offers a similar thrill—intelligence units racing against time to protect national security. Both shows excel at blending tension with character-driven storytelling, making them perfect companions for espionage enthusiasts.
Why It's a Sleeper Hit
The show's success can be attributed to its timely themes and Pegg's compelling performance. In an era where cyber threats are increasingly relevant, The Undeclared War taps into real-world anxieties with a gripping narrative. Pegg, known for his comedic timing, proves his versatility in a more serious role, adding depth to the series.
Peacock has been quietly building a strong library of original content, and The Undeclared War is a standout. Its recent surge in popularity mirrors the success of other streaming sleeper hits, like Black Bird on Apple TV+, which also found its audience after initial release.
Where to Watch
Both seasons of The Undeclared War are now available on Peacock. If you're a fan of spy thrillers or just looking for your next binge-watch, this is a show worth adding to your list. With its sharp writing and timely plot, it's no surprise it's become a 2026 streaming hit.
Stay tuned for more updates on Simon Pegg's upcoming projects, including his role in The Rings of Power and the next Mission: Impossible installment, which you can catch on HBO Max this September.
