If you’re a fan of the classic police procedural drama Cagney & Lacey, you’re in for a treat. This genre has produced some truly remarkable TV shows over the years, featuring strong characters, gripping storylines, and a touch of nostalgia. Here are 18 TV shows that you might enjoy if you loved Cagney & Lacey.

1. Hill Street Blues

Hill Street Blues is an iconic police procedural series that delves into the lives of the officers and detectives of the Hill Street Station. Starring Daniel J. Travanti and Veronica Hamel, the show is known for its gritty realism and complex characters.

2. Law & Order

Law & Order is a long-running series that combines police investigations with courtroom drama. Starring Jerry Orbach and Sam Waterston, the show has become a staple in the genre, known for its “ripped from the headlines” storylines.

3. NYPD Blue

NYPD Blue offers a raw and emotional look at the lives of New York City police officers. Starring Dennis Franz and Jimmy Smits, the series is praised for its character development and realistic portrayal of police work.

4. Cold Case

Cold Case focuses on a team of detectives who investigate unsolved crimes. Starring Kathryn Morris and Danny Pino, the show is known for its emotional depth and the unique way it interweaves past and present timelines.

5. The Closer

The Closer follows Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson, played by Kyra Sedgwick, as she solves high-profile cases in Los Angeles. The show blends drama with occasional humor, making it a compelling watch.

6. Major Crimes

A spinoff of The Closer, Major Crimes continues to follow the LAPD’s Major Crimes Division. Starring Mary McDonnell, the series focuses on the complexities of solving crimes while dealing with the legal and political ramifications.

7. Blue Bloods

Blue Bloods centers around a multi-generational family of police officers dedicated to New York City law enforcement. Starring Tom Selleck and Donnie Wahlberg, the show explores both personal and professional challenges.

8. Homicide: Life on the Street

Homicide: Life on the Street is a gritty series based on David Simon’s book about the Baltimore homicide unit. Starring Richard Belzer and Andre Braugher, the show is known for its realistic portrayal of police work and complex characters.

9. Criminal Minds

Criminal Minds follows a team of FBI profilers who analyze the country’s most dangerous criminal minds. Starring Matthew Gray Gubler and Kirsten Vangsness, the show is both thrilling and psychologically intense.

10. The Wire

The Wire offers a deep dive into the various facets of Baltimore, from the drug trade to the police force. Starring Dominic West and Idris Elba, the series is critically acclaimed for its storytelling and character development.

11. Chicago P.D.

Chicago P.D. is a gripping drama that follows the Intelligence Unit of the Chicago Police Department. Starring Jason Beghe and Sophia Bush, the show focuses on solving major crimes while dealing with personal and professional challenges.

12. Bones

Bones combines forensic science with police procedural elements as Dr. Temperance Brennan and FBI Agent Seeley Booth solve crimes. Starring Emily Deschanel and David Boreanaz, the show is known for its unique blend of science and drama.

13. Castle

Castle follows a mystery novelist who teams up with a New York City detective to solve crimes. Starring Nathan Fillion and Stana Katic, the series mixes crime-solving with romantic tension and humor.

14. Southland

Southland provides a raw and authentic look at the lives of LAPD officers. Starring Michael Cudlitz and Regina King, the series is praised for its realistic portrayal of police work and personal struggles.

15. Rizzoli & Isles

Rizzoli & Isles centers on the partnership between a Boston detective and a medical examiner. Starring Angie Harmon and Sasha Alexander, the show blends crime-solving with strong female friendships.

16. Unforgettable

Unforgettable follows a former detective with a rare medical condition that gives her a perfect memory. Starring Poppy Montgomery and Dylan Walsh, the series combines unique storytelling with intriguing crime cases.

17. Prime Suspect

Prime Suspect features Helen Mirren as Detective Chief Inspector Jane Tennison, tackling crime in London. The show is celebrated for its strong lead performance and its exploration of gender issues within the police force.

18. The Shield

The Shield is a gritty drama about a corrupt LAPD unit. Starring Michael Chiklis and Walton Goggins, the show is known for its intense storytelling and morally complex characters.

Dive into these captivating series and enjoy the thrilling world of police procedural dramas!