Barney Miller is a classic American sitcom that aired from 1975 to 1982, focusing on the lives and work of a group of detectives in New York City’s 12th Precinct. If you love the blend of comedy and drama that Barney Miller offers, you’ll want to check out these 17 similar TV shows that capture the same spirit. You can find more about Barney Miller here.
1. Hill Street Blues
“Hill Street Blues” is a groundbreaking police drama that aired from 1981 to 1987. The show follows the lives of the staff of a police precinct in an unnamed American city. Starring Daniel J. Travanti and Veronica Hamel, it is known for its realistic portrayal of police work and its ensemble cast.
2. NYPD Blue
“NYPD Blue” is another gritty police drama that aired from 1993 to 2005. The series delves into the personal and professional lives of the detectives of the 15th Precinct in Manhattan. Starring Dennis Franz and David Caruso, it was lauded for its raw storytelling and complex characters.
3. Brooklyn Nine-Nine
“Brooklyn Nine-Nine” is a comedic take on the police procedural genre, airing from 2013 to 2021. The show follows the antics of Detective Jake Peralta and his quirky colleagues in the 99th Precinct. Starring Andy Samberg and Terry Crews, it combines humor with heartfelt moments.
4. The Wire
“The Wire” is a critically acclaimed drama that aired from 2002 to 2008. The series offers a deep dive into the city of Baltimore, exploring the interconnected lives of law enforcement, drug dealers, and residents. Starring Dominic West and Idris Elba, it’s known for its intricate storytelling and social commentary.
5. Homicide: Life on the Street
“Homicide: Life on the Street” aired from 1993 to 1999 and is based on David Simon’s book “Homicide: A Year on the Killing Streets.” The show follows a team of homicide detectives in Baltimore. Starring Richard Belzer and Andre Braugher, it’s praised for its realistic portrayal of police work.
6. Law & Order
“Law & Order” is a long-running procedural drama that aired from 1990 to 2010. The series follows both the police who investigate crimes and the district attorneys who prosecute the offenders. Starring Jerry Orbach and Sam Waterston, it’s known for its “ripped from the headlines” storylines.
7. Blue Bloods
“Blue Bloods” is a police procedural drama that debuted in 2010 and is still running. The series centers on the Reagan family, a multigenerational family of cops in New York City. Starring Tom Selleck and Donnie Wahlberg, it combines crime-solving with complex family dynamics.
8. Dragnet
“Dragnet” is a pioneering police procedural that originally aired from 1951 to 1959 and was revived in later decades. The show follows Sergeant Joe Friday and his partners as they solve crimes in Los Angeles. Starring Jack Webb, it’s known for its straightforward storytelling and iconic catchphrases.
9. Cagney & Lacey
“Cagney & Lacey” aired from 1982 to 1988 and focuses on two female detectives in New York City. The show broke new ground by addressing social issues and featuring strong female leads. Starring Tyne Daly and Sharon Gless, it’s celebrated for its feminist themes and compelling characters.
10. The Shield
“The Shield” is a gritty police drama that aired from 2002 to 2008. The series follows a corrupt anti-gang unit in Los Angeles, led by Detective Vic Mackey. Starring Michael Chiklis and Walton Goggins, it’s known for its intense storytelling and morally complex characters.
11. Southland
“Southland” aired from 2009 to 2013 and offers a raw look at the lives of LAPD officers. The show is known for its realistic portrayal of police work and its ensemble cast, including Michael Cudlitz and Regina King. It’s praised for its gritty realism and emotional depth.
12. Reno 911!
“Reno 911!” is a comedy series that aired from 2003 to 2009, with a revival in 2020. The show parodies the reality TV format, following the inept deputies of the fictional Reno Sheriff’s Department. Starring Thomas Lennon and Niecy Nash, it’s known for its improvisational humor and absurd situations.
13. The Closer
“The Closer” aired from 2005 to 2012 and centers on Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson, who leads the LAPD’s Priority Homicide Division. Starring Kyra Sedgwick, the show is known for its strong female lead and compelling crime stories.
14. Castle
“Castle” aired from 2009 to 2016 and follows a mystery novelist who teams up with an NYPD detective to solve crimes. Starring Nathan Fillion and Stana Katic, the show combines crime-solving with romantic tension and witty banter.
15. Hawaii Five-0
“Hawaii Five-0” is a reboot of the classic series, airing from 2010 to 2020. The show follows an elite task force set up to fight crime in Hawaii. Starring Alex O’Loughlin and Scott Caan, it’s known for its action-packed episodes and stunning scenery.
16. L.A. Law
“L.A. Law” aired from 1986 to 1994 and offers a look at the personal and professional lives of the partners and associates at a Los Angeles law firm. Starring Harry Hamlin and Corbin Bernsen, it’s known for its blend of legal drama and character development.
17. Third Watch
“Third Watch” aired from 1999 to 2005 and focuses on the lives of New York City’s emergency responders. The show follows firefighters, paramedics, and police officers as they navigate the challenges of their jobs. Starring Michael Beach and Coby Bell, it’s praised for its ensemble cast and intense storylines.
