COBRA (2020)
The UK government's elite crisis committee races against time as catastrophic emergencies push the nation to the brink.
COBRA - Series Information
- Original Title: COBRA
- First Air Year: 2020
- Last Air Year: 2023
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Drama, Crime
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Number of Episodes: 18
- Status: Returning Series
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- First Air Date: January 17, 2020 (Brazil - 16), January 17, 2020 (Spain - 18)
- Networks: Sky One, Sky Max
- Production Companies: Sky Studios, New Pictures
- Production Countries: United Kingdom
- Alternative Titles: Кобра (RU), 内阁作战室 (CN), 內閣作戰簡報室 (TW), Cobra Cyberwar (US)
COBRA - Plot
As widespread power outages cause chaos and threaten lives across the country, the COBRA (Cabinet Office Briefing Room) committee comprised of the UK's leading experts and politicians, gathers to find a way to turn the lights back on.
COBRA - Trailer
Watch the official trailer and see the crisis unfold from the heart of government:
Where to Watch COBRA
Looking for where to watch COBRA?
Compare all viewing options available in your region on JustWatch ↗
COBRA - Cast & Crew
Main Cast
- Robert Carlyle
- Victoria Hamilton
- David Haig
- Marsha Thomason
- Lucy Cohu
- Edward Bennett
- Lisa Palfrey
- Richard Dormer
- Alexa Davies
- Richard Pepple
COBRA - FAQs
What does COBRA stand for in the series?
COBRA stands for Cabinet Office Briefing Room A — the real UK government emergency committee that convenes during national crises. The series dramatises how this elite group of politicians and experts responds to catastrophic events threatening the country, from power grid failures to cyberattacks and civil unrest.
Is COBRA based on a true story?
COBRA is a fictional drama, but it draws heavily on the real COBRA committee — a genuine UK government crisis-management body. The scenarios depicted, from nationwide blackouts to cyberwarfare, are grounded in credible real-world threats, giving the series a compelling sense of authenticity despite being entirely invented.
Where can you stream COBRA?
COBRA is available to stream on PBS, PBS Masterpiece Amazon Channel, Thirteen, and WETA+. You can also buy episodes on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, Google Play Movies, and Fandango At Home. Free ad-supported viewing is available on KQED.
Who plays the Prime Minister in COBRA?
Robert Carlyle plays Robert Sutherland, the British Prime Minister at the centre of every crisis. Carlyle brings a restrained intensity to the role, portraying a leader caught between political survival and genuine moral conviction — a performance widely praised as one of his finest in recent years.
How many seasons and episodes does COBRA have?
COBRA spans three seasons with six episodes each, totalling 18 episodes. Season 1 tackles a catastrophic power outage, Season 2 (subtitled Cyberwar) explores digital warfare against the UK, and Season 3 (Rebellion) deals with civil unrest threatening the fabric of British society.
Is COBRA worth watching for political thriller fans?
Absolutely. COBRA delivers taut, intelligent drama that feels urgently relevant. Robert Carlyle anchors the series with a commanding performance, while the ensemble cast keeps the tension crackling across boardrooms and crisis centres. Fans of shows like Bodyguard or The Thick of It will find plenty to admire here.
What are the different storylines across COBRA's three seasons?
Each season presents a distinct national emergency. Season 1 centres on a devastating power grid collapse. Season 2, subtitled Cyberwar, shifts to a sophisticated digital attack on UK infrastructure. Season 3, Rebellion, confronts the government with widespread civil disorder — escalating the stakes with every instalment.
What shows are similar to COBRA?
If COBRA gripped you, try The Control Room, Suspicion, or Hidden Assets for similarly tense British and European drama. For broader political thriller territory, Goliath and The Outlaws offer compelling ensemble casts navigating high-stakes moral dilemmas with sharp, confident writing.
More About COBRA
Explore further details about COBRA on these authoritative databases: