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- CBS/Criminal Minds, TNT/The Mentalist
The 43 Best TV Crime Dramas Of The 2000s, Ranked
Vote up your favorite 2000s shows that feature detectives, police, and crime.
- Simon Baker, Robin Tunney, Tim Kang
Starring Simon Baker as Patrick Jane, a former psychic medium turned consultant for the California Bureau of Investigation, this series is a unique twist on the crime drama genre. Jane uses his keen observational skills and uncanny ability to read people to help solve crimes, all while maintaining a personal vendetta against the elusive serial killer Red John, who murdered his wife and daughter.
More The Mentalist- #78 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #92 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
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- Sean Murray, Wilmer Valderrama, Brian Dietzen
This gripping crime drama delves into the world of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, as they tackle complex cases involving military personnel and their families. The show boasts strong character development and long-lasting story arcs to keep viewers engaged. Led by Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Mark Harmon), the ensemble cast showcases a perfect blend of wit, camaraderie, and emotion that resonates with fans worldwide.
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- #50 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Joe Mantegna, A.J. Cook, Kirsten Vangsness
A riveting exploration of the minds of serial killers and criminals, this series follows a team of elite profilers from the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) as they use their psychological expertise to solve harrowing cases. The show delves into the darkest recesses of human nature while shedding light on the complexities of the criminal mind.
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- #30 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Emily Deschanel, David Boreanaz, T.J. Thyne
This forensic-based crime drama brings together the unlikely duo of Dr. Temperance Brennan (Emily Deschanel), a brilliant but socially awkward forensic anthropologist, and FBI Special Agent Seeley Booth (David Boreanaz), a seasoned investigator with a flair for intuition. Together, they unravel complex murder cases using cutting-edge science and technology, while grappling with their own evolving personal relationship.
More Bones- #42 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #11 of 120 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
- #127 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- Nathan Fillion, Stana Katic, Susan Sullivan
Best-selling mystery novelist Richard Castle (Nathan Fillion) and NYPD Detective Kate Beckett (Stana Katic) form an unorthodox partnership in this witty, suspenseful series. As they solve intricate murder cases, their undeniable chemistry and playful banter captivate audiences and keep them guessing until the very end.
More Castle- #93 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #10 of 120 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
- #136 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- Ted Danson, Elisabeth Shue, George Eads
Set in the glitzy world of Las Vegas, this groundbreaking procedural drama follows a team of forensic investigators led by the enigmatic Gil Grissom (William Petersen) as they use cutting-edge scientific methods to solve baffling crimes. The series' clever storytelling and meticulous attention to detail have made it a staple of the crime drama genre.
- #94 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #209 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #20 of 54 onThe 50+ Best TV Shows With 10+ Seasons
- Mariska Hargitay, Ice-T, Kelli Giddish
A powerful spin-off of the original Law & Order series, SVU focuses on the dedicated detectives of the NYPD's Special Victims Unit, who investigate sexually-based crimes. Starring Mariska Hargitay as the relentless Lieutenant Olivia Benson, this long-running show provides a raw and unflinching look at the emotional toll these cases take on both the victims and the investigators.
- Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn
A high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer, Walter White (Bryan Cranston), descends into a life of crime in this critically acclaimed series. As he becomes increasingly entangled in the dangerous world of drug cartels and law enforcement, the show explores themes of morality, family, and the dark side of the American dream.
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- #4 of 145 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- Matt Bomer, Tim DeKay, Tiffani Thiessen
A stylish and intelligent crime drama, White Collar centers on the unlikely partnership between charming con artist Neal Caffrey (Matt Bomer) and straight-laced FBI Agent Peter Burke (Tim DeKay). Together, they navigate the world of high-stakes white-collar crime while attempting to keep Caffrey's criminal instincts in check.
More White Collar- #159 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #157 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time
- #14 of 120 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
- Tony Shalhoub, Ted Levine, Traylor Howard
Tony Shalhoub stars as Adrian Monk, a brilliant but deeply troubled former police detective turned private consultant. Plagued by obsessive-compulsive disorder and an array of crippling phobias, Monk uses his uncanny attention to detail to solve cases others can't crack. The series balances humor and heartbreak as it explores the challenges faced by those living with mental illness.
More Monk- #81 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #275 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #4 of 120 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
- James Roday Rodriguez, Dulé Hill, Corbin Bernsen
This clever and light-hearted series follows Shawn Spencer (James Roday), a young man with an eidetic memory who poses as a psychic detective to help the Santa Barbara Police Department solve crimes. Alongside his best friend and reluctant partner Gus (Dulé Hill), they use their unique skills and unconventional methods to crack even the most baffling cases.
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- #105 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Kristen Bell, Enrico Colantoni, Jason Dohring
This cult-favorite series stars Kristen Bell as the eponymous Veronica Mars, a high school student by day and a tenacious private investigator by night. Set in the seemingly idyllic town of Neptune, California, the show tackles both episodic mysteries and season-long story arcs while addressing issues of class, race, and gender discrimination.
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- #46 of 1,058 onThe 250+ Best Streaming Shows Of The Last Few Years
- Kathryn Morris, Danny Pino, John Finn
This emotionally charged crime drama revolves around the Philadelphia Homicide Division's lone female detective, Lilly Rush (Kathryn Morris), who specializes in solving "cold cases" - long-unsolved crimes that have been forgotten by time. The series is known for its unique storytelling approach, utilizing flashbacks to the time of the crime and featuring music from that era to heighten the emotional impact.
More Cold Case- #138 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #13 of 56 onThe Best CBS Dramas of All Time
- #100 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- Dominic West, John Doman, Frankie R. Faison
Hailed as one of the greatest television shows of all time, The Wire offers a gritty, realistic portrayal of life in Baltimore, weaving together the stories of law enforcement, drug dealers, politicians, and everyday citizens. Created by David Simon, the series is praised for its intricate storytelling, multidimensional characters, and unflinching examination of systemic corruption.
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- #9 of 145 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- Michael C. Hall, Jennifer Carpenter, C.S. Lee
This critically acclaimed series follows the double life of Dexter Morgan (Michael C. Hall), a blood-spatter analyst for the Miami Metro Police Department who moonlights as a vigilante serial killer, targeting criminals who have evaded justice. With its darkly humorous tone and morally complex protagonist, Dexter offers a fresh take on the crime genre.
- Rob Morrow, David Krumholtz, Judd Hirsch
In this innovative crime drama, brilliant mathematician Charlie Eppes (David Krumholtz) assists his FBI agent brother Don (Rob Morrow) in solving complex cases using mathematical algorithms and statistical analysis. As they navigate the delicate balance between intellect and intuition, the series explores the fascinating intersection of crime-solving and mathematics.
More NUMB3RS- #184 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #20 of 56 onThe Best CBS Dramas of All Time
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- Peter Falk, Mike Lally, John Finnegan
A classic crime drama with a twist, Columbo features Peter Falk as the unassuming yet brilliant LAPD homicide detective Lieutenant Columbo. Known for his disheveled appearance and seemingly bumbling demeanor, Columbo often lulls suspects into a false sense of security before revealing his true intellect and cunning, ultimately solving even the most baffling cases.
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- #220 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #42 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- Charlie Hunnam, Katey Sagal, Kim Coates
Set in the world of outlaw motorcycle clubs, this gritty crime drama follows the lives of the members of the Sons of Anarchy Motorcycle Club, Redwood Original (SAMCRO). Led by protagonist Jax Teller (Charlie Hunnam), the series explores themes of brotherhood, loyalty, and redemption as SAMCRO navigates a dangerous and often corrupt criminal underworld.
- Hugh Dancy, Odelya Halevi, Sam Waterston
This venerable crime drama series set the standard for the genre, seamlessly blending elements of a police procedural with courtroom drama. Created by Dick Wolf, the show offers an unflinching look at the criminal justice system, with each episode focusing on the investigation, arrest, and prosecution of perpetrators in the bustling city of New York.
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- #83 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Kyra Sedgwick, J.K. Simmons, Corey Reynolds
Kyra Sedgwick stars as Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson, a skilled interrogator and head of the LAPD's Priority Homicide Division, in this character-driven crime drama. Known for her ability to "close" difficult cases, Johnson's unorthodox methods and strong Southern personality provide a fresh take on the traditional police procedural.
More The Closer- #247 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #148 of 657 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #54 of 267 onThe 195+ Best TV Shows With Female Leads
- Michael Chiklis, Benito Martinez, CCH Pounder
A powerful and controversial series, The Shield revolves around the morally ambiguous Detective Vic Mackey (Michael Chiklis) and his team of corrupt officers operating in the fictional Farmington district of Los Angeles. The show delves into the complexities of police corruption, exploring the limits of loyalty and morality in a world where the lines between right and wrong are often blurred.
More The Shield- #45 of 145 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- #154 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #143 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- James Gandolfini, Lorraine Bracco, Edie Falco
Widely regarded as one of the greatest TV shows ever created, The Sopranos chronicles the life of mob boss Tony Soprano (James Gandolfini) as he struggles to balance the demands of his crime family with those of his personal life. This groundbreaking series offers a complex and nuanced portrayal of the American Mafia, blending dark humor, intense drama, and unforgettable characters.
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- #2 of 145 onThe Best Of Premium Cable TV Series
- Tim Roth, Kelli Williams, Monica Raymund
This intriguing series showcases the work of Dr. Cal Lightman (Tim Roth), a deception expert who uses his ability to read microexpressions and body language to assist law enforcement in solving crimes. The show offers a unique perspective on the science of human behavior while exploring the ways in which lies and deceit permeate our everyday lives.
More Lie to Me- #200 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
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- Chris O'Donnell, LL Cool J, Linda Hunt
A spin-off of the original NCIS series, this action-packed crime drama follows the high-stakes missions of the Office of Special Projects (OSP), an undercover division of the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. Led by G. Callen (Chris O'Donnell) and Sam Hanna (LL Cool J), the team utilizes cutting-edge technology and expertly crafted disguises to bring down criminals who pose a threat to national security.
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- #40 of 83 onThe 75+ Best CBS Shows
- Anna Torv, Joshua Jackson, John Noble
Blending elements of crime drama, science fiction, and horror, Fringe delves into the unexplained phenomena that reside on the fringes of science. FBI Agent Olivia Dunham (Anna Torv) teams up with a brilliant but eccentric scientist, Dr. Walter Bishop (John Noble), and his estranged son Peter (Joshua Jackson) to investigate these bizarre occurrences and uncover a larger conspiracy at play.
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- #74 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- Wentworth Miller, Dominic Purcell, Sarah Wayne Callies
A thrilling blend of crime drama and suspense, Prison Break tells the story of Michael Scofield (Wentworth Miller), a brilliant engineer who orchestrates an elaborate scheme to break his wrongfully accused brother (Dominic Purcell) out of prison. The series is known for its intricate plots, unexpected twists, and compelling exploration of the lengths one will go to in the name of family and justice.
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- #46 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
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- Michael Cudlitz, Benjamin McKenzie, Regina King
This raw and realistic crime drama provides an intimate look at the lives of LAPD officers and detectives, as they navigate the daily challenges and moral dilemmas that come with policing the streets of Los Angeles. With its documentary-style cinematography and powerful performances, Southland offers a compelling and unvarnished portrayal of life on the front lines of law enforcement.
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- #22 of 117 onThe 100+ Best TV Cop Shows
- Gary Sinise, Sela Ward, Carmine Giovinazzo
A spin-off of the original CSI series, this crime drama transports viewers to the bustling streets of New York City, following a team of forensic investigators led by the stoic Detective Mac Taylor (Gary Sinise). The show's engaging storylines and use of cutting-edge forensic technology provide an intriguing glimpse into the world of crime-solving in the Big Apple.
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- #254 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #40 of 102 onThe Best Spin-Off Shows
- David Caruso, Emily Procter, Adam Rodriguez
A spin-off of the original CSI series, this sun-soaked crime drama follows the work of the Miami-Dade Crime Scene Investigators, led by the charismatic and enigmatic Horatio Caine (David Caruso). Known for its stunning visuals and action-packed storylines, CSI: Miami offers a captivating look at the high-stakes world of forensic science in one of America's most vibrant cities.
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- #239 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #218 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- Kiefer Sutherland, Mary Lynn Rajskub, Cherry Jones
This innovative and adrenaline-fueled crime drama stars Kiefer Sutherland as Jack Bauer, a counter-terrorism agent racing against the clock to thwart various threats to national security. Each season takes place over the course of a single day, with each episode unfolding in real time, creating a unique sense of urgency and tension that keeps viewers on the edge of their seats.
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- #60 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #170 of 355 onTV Shows Canceled Before Their Time