If you’re a fan of crime dramas like Law & Order, you’re in for a treat. This genre is rich with intense storylines, compelling characters, and intricate plots that keep you on the edge of your seat. Here are 16 TV shows that capture the essence of Law & Order and will surely satiate your craving for more crime-solving action.
1. Criminal Minds
Criminal Minds delves into the psychological aspect of crime-solving as the FBI’s Behavioral Analysis Unit profiles and captures criminals. The show stars Mandy Patinkin, Thomas Gibson, and Shemar Moore.
2. NCIS
NCIS follows a team of special agents from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service as they solve crimes involving the Navy and Marine Corps. The series stars Mark Harmon, Michael Weatherly, and Pauley Perrette.
3. CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation focuses on a team of forensic scientists who uncover the truth behind mysterious deaths in Las Vegas. The show features William Petersen, Marg Helgenberger, and Jorja Fox.
4. Bones
Bones blends forensic science with police procedural elements, following Dr. Temperance Brennan and FBI agent Seeley Booth as they solve crimes using skeletal remains. The series stars Emily Deschanel and David Boreanaz.
5. The Mentalist
The Mentalist centers around Patrick Jane, a former psychic medium turned consultant for the California Bureau of Investigation. Simon Baker and Robin Tunney lead the cast.
6. Dexter
Dexter is a unique take on the crime drama genre, following Dexter Morgan, a forensic expert for the Miami Metro Police Department who leads a double life as a vigilante serial killer. The show stars Michael C. Hall and Jennifer Carpenter.
7. Blue Bloods
Blue Bloods explores the lives of the Reagan family, a multi-generational family of cops dedicated to New York City law enforcement. The series features Tom Selleck, Donnie Wahlberg, and Bridget Moynahan.
8. Chicago P.D.
Chicago P.D. is part of the Chicago franchise and focuses on the uniformed patrol officers and the Intelligence Unit of the 21st District of the Chicago Police Department. The show stars Jason Beghe, Jon Seda, and Sophia Bush.
9. The Blacklist
The Blacklist follows Raymond “Red” Reddington, a former criminal mastermind who surrenders to the FBI with an offer to help catch high-profile criminals. The series stars James Spader and Megan Boone.
10. True Detective
True Detective is an anthology series where each season focuses on a new case and a different set of characters. The show stars various actors, including Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, and Mahershala Ali.
11. Hannibal
Hannibal explores the early relationship between FBI special investigator Will Graham and Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a forensic psychiatrist destined to become Graham’s most cunning enemy. The series stars Hugh Dancy and Mads Mikkelsen.
12. Mindhunter
Mindhunter is based on true events and follows FBI agents as they interview imprisoned serial killers to understand how they think, hoping to apply this knowledge to ongoing cases. Jonathan Groff and Holt McCallany star.
13. Broadchurch
Broadchurch is a British crime drama that follows detectives Alec Hardy and Ellie Miller as they investigate the death of an 11-year-old boy in a small coastal town. The series stars David Tennant and Olivia Colman.
14. The Wire
The Wire offers a gritty look at the narcotics scene in Baltimore through the eyes of both law enforcement and drug dealers. The show stars Dominic West, Lance Reddick, and Sonja Sohn.
15. Sherlock
Sherlock is a modern adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic detective stories, featuring Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson solving crimes in 21st-century London. The series stars Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman.
16. Luther
Luther follows Detective Chief Inspector John Luther, a brilliant but troubled detective who solves complex crimes while battling his own demons. The series stars Idris Elba and Ruth Wilson.
These shows offer a mix of intense drama, intricate plots, and unforgettable characters that will keep you hooked from the first episode to the last. Happy watching!