There are five screen entries in the Equalizer franchise: the original Edward Woodward TV series, three Denzel Washington films, and a separate Queen Latifah TV reimagining. For the films, watch in release order: The Equalizer (2014), The Equalizer 2 (2018), then The Equalizer 3 (2023). The two television series are distinct versions, not continuations of the film storyline.
Every Equalizer movie and TV show
The franchise began on television and later expanded into a film trilogy and a new television adaptation. Here is the release chronology:
| # | Preview | Product | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
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Universal 10-Film Action Collection [DVD] | $18.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 2 |
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Action - 20 Movie Collection | $29.98 | Buy on Amazon |
| 3 |
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Jack Ryan Movie 5-Pack | $13.07 | Buy on Amazon |
| 4 |
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The Bourne Complete Collection [DVD] | $13.99 | Buy on Amazon |
| 5 |
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Tom Cruise 10-Movie Collection | $15.32 | Buy on Amazon |
| Release | Title | What it is |
|---|---|---|
| 1985–1989 | The Equalizer (original TV series) | CBS crime and spy drama co-created by Michael Sloan and Richard Lindheim, starring Edward Woodward as Robert McCall. Google Play lists its broadcast run as September 18, 1985, to August 24, 1989. Source |
| 2014 | The Equalizer (film) | Denzel Washington plays Robert McCall, who leaves his quiet life to protect Teri, played by Chloë Grace Moretz, from violent gangsters. Sony Pictures |
| 2018 | The Equalizer 2 | Washington returns as McCall, serving justice for people who are exploited and oppressed. Sony Pictures |
| 2021–2025 | The Equalizer (CBS series) | Queen Latifah stars as Robyn McCall in CBS’s reimagining of the original series. CBS lists five seasons and dates the finale, “Decisions,” May 4, 2025. CBS |
| 2023 | The Equalizer 3 | McCall is in Southern Italy, where local crime bosses threaten his new friends. Sony Pictures |
What order should you watch the Equalizer movies?
Watch the Denzel Washington films in release order:
- The Equalizer (2014)
- The Equalizer 2 (2018)
- The Equalizer 3 (2023)
This is the practical order for following Washington’s Robert McCall across the three films. The CBS series is a reimagining with a different lead character and is not a fourth installment in that film sequence.
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How are the two Equalizer TV series different?
The original series: Edward Woodward as Robert McCall
The original CBS show ran from 1985 to 1989 and centered on Robert McCall, played by Edward Woodward. Google Play lists the series broadcast dates as September 18, 1985, through August 24, 1989. Google Play’s series listing
The CBS reimagining: Queen Latifah as Robyn McCall
The newer CBS series stars Queen Latifah as Robyn McCall. CBS describes it as “A reimagining of the classic series in which Queen Latifah portrays an enigmatic figure who uses her extensive skills to help those with nowhere else to turn.” CBS lists five seasons, with the final episode, “Decisions,” dated May 4, 2025. CBS series page
Rank #2
It is a separate interpretation of the premise, not a continuation of either the Edward Woodward series or the Denzel Washington films.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Where can you watch The Equalizer?
CBS labels its series page “NOW STREAMING” and lists all five seasons, but that page alone does not establish where the show is currently available in every country or subscription tier. Check the catalog for your region and account before subscribing. A Paramount press release described access to a specific episode in 2024 under particular subscriber conditions; it is not confirmation of current, universal availability. Paramount press release
Rank #3
Sony’s film pages list home-video formats: The Equalizer and The Equalizer 2 list 4K Ultra HD, Blu-ray, and DVD; The Equalizer 3 lists DVD and digital and links to 4K retail listings. Stock and format options can change, so check the retailer listing for the specific film. Film 1 · Film 2 · Film 3
For 4K HDR playback, Sony says viewers need a 4K UHD TV with HDR, an Ultra HD Blu-ray player, and high-speed HDMI 2.0A cables.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- Tom Cruise 10 Movie Collection
- Product Type: Physical Movie
- Brand: Paramount
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
