The 160 Best Mystery TV Shows Of All Time
- 1Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Andrew Scott
A brilliant yet eccentric detective uses his unparalleled powers of deduction to solve complex and bizarre crimes in modern-day London. With his trusty friend and partner, a war veteran, they tackle cases that baffle the police and leave viewers captivated by the duo's chemistry and wit.
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- #12 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 2Rod Serling, Robert McCord, Jay Overholts
Prepare for a spine-chilling journey into the bizarre and unexplainable as each standalone episode explores a different freakish theme. From eerie encounters with extraterrestrials to sinister government conspiracies, there's no shortage of mind-bending tales that are sure to leave you questioning the very fabric of reality.
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NEW#92Bodkin
- 3Jade Ramsey, Tasie Lawrence, Brad Kavanagh
In this gripping series that seamlessly blends friendship, adventure, and ancient mythology, a group of boarding school students unearth dark secrets while uncovering an elusive artifact. Their thrilling escapades will keep viewers on the edge of their seats, navigating twists and turns that ultimately reveal an ancient Egyptian mystery.
More House of Anubis- #635 of 654 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #60 of 64 onThe 60+ Best Daytime TV Shows
- #55 of 161 onThe 140+ Best High School Shows, Ranked
- 4Neil Dudgeon, Nick Hendrix, Fiona Dolman
Delve into the seemingly idyllic English village of Midsomer, where murder and mayhem lurk beneath its picturesque surface. As a seasoned detective, and his various assistants unravel complex mysteries, you'll find yourself immersed in the suspenseful atmosphere and character-driven stories that unfold in each episode.
More Midsomer Murders- #2 of 76 onThe 70 Best Acorn TV Shows, Ranked
- #9 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
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- 5Winona Ryder, David Harbour, Millie Bobby Brown
Set in the nostalgic era of the 1980s, this sci-fi thriller follows a group of kids as they uncover chilling secrets surrounding their small town and face terrifying supernatural forces to save their friend. Prepare for a rollercoaster of emotions, spine-tingling suspense, and captivating storytelling in a series that pays homage to classic horror films.
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- #13 of 282 onThe 260+ Best SciFi Shows Of All Time
- 6Jared Padalecki, Jensen Ackles, Misha Collins
Embark on an otherworldly journey with two brothers who hunt down supernatural creatures and phenomena across America. This eerie, action-packed show uniquely blends horror, mystery, and heartwarming family dynamics, keeping viewers captivated over the course of 15 thrilling seasons.
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- #19 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 7James Roday Rodriguez, Dulé Hill, Corbin Bernsen
Get ready for a healthy dose of comedy mixed with crime-solving intrigue, as a quick-witted fake psychic solves crimes using his heightened observational skills and astute memory. Joined by his childhood best friend, they're an unconventional duo that always finds a way to get to the bottom of each enigma.
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- #107 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 8Tony Shalhoub, Ted Levine, Traylor Howard
Meet an extraordinary detective who battles both criminals and his debilitating OCD to solve San Francisco's most perplexing cases. With the support of his therapist, assistant, and quirky friends, his journey features equal parts humor and heart, making for a compelling watch.
More Monk- #81 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #4 of 119 onThe 100+ Best Dramedy TV Series, Ranked
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- 9Simon Baker, Robin Tunney, Tim Kang
A former psychic medium turned consultant uses his exceptional skills in cold reading and observation to help a California law enforcement agency solve baffling crimes. With a deep-rooted thirst for revenge and redemption, this charismatic character will enthrall viewers with his sly wit and remarkable crime-solving abilities.
More The Mentalist- #79 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
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- #92 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- 10David Tennant, Olivia Colman, Andrew Buchan
Gripping and raw, this British crime drama unearths the dark secrets of a tight-knit coastal community when a young boy is murdered. As two detectives work tirelessly to bring the killer to justice, the tangled web of relationships leaves you guessing until the very end.
More Broadchurch- #175 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #22 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- #51 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- 11Peter Falk, Mike Lally, John Finnegan
With his rumpled raincoat and disheveled appearance, this unassuming detective uses his unique approach and deceptive charm to catch even the most cunning of murderers. Watch the killers squirm as they underestimate his brilliance time and time again in this iconic series.
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- #42 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
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- 12
Sherlock Holmes
Jeremy Brett, Charles Gray, Edward HardwickeImmerse yourself in the foggy streets of Victorian London and join literature's most famous detective as he tackles some of his most challenging cases. These classic mysteries, accompanied by the ever-loyal Dr. Watson, are a timeless testament to the power of deduction and the human intellect.
More Sherlock Holmes- #11 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
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- 13Don Messick, Frank Welker, Casey Kasem
Follow a group of mystery-solving teenagers and their lovable talking Great Dane as they put their wits and courage to the test to unmask the real villains behind seemingly supernatural occurrences. A nostalgic blend of comedy, adventure, and good old-fashioned whodunits make this an enduring favorite for all ages.
- #5 of 540 onThe 500+ Best Cartoons Of All Time, Ranked
- #140 of 282 onThe 260+ Best SciFi Shows Of All Time
- #15 of 578 onThe 500+ Best Animated TV Shows Ever Made
- 14Angela Lansbury
A charming, small-town author moonlights as an amateur sleuth, using her keen observation skills and natural charm to solve murders wherever she goes. This long-running classic offers intrigue, humor, and a healthy dose of wholesome entertainment.
More Murder, She Wrote- #60 of 218 onThe 220 Best Cult TV Shows
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- 15Joe Mantegna, A.J. Cook, Kirsten Vangsness
Join an elite team of FBI profilers as they delve deep into the twisted psyches of notorious serial killers and criminals. With fast-paced action, clever twists, and chilling insights into the human mind, this show is sure to keep you riveted throughout.
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- #30 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 16Raymond Burr, Barbara Hale, William Hopper
Step into the courtroom with an exceptional defense attorney who will stop at nothing to prove the innocence of his clients. Set against a backdrop of 1950s Los Angeles, you'll be gripped by the complex legal dramas and the striking personalities that populate this classic series.
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- #156 of 218 onThe 220 Best Cult TV Shows
- #30 of 83 onThe 75+ Best CBS Shows
- 17David Suchet, Hugh Fraser, Philip Jackson
Witness the brilliance of Belgium's most famous detective as he unravels intricate mysteries with precision and flair. Set in the elegant Art Deco era, each episode brings a classic Agatha Christie whodunit to life with unparalleled style and sophistication.
- #7 of 76 onThe 70 Best Acorn TV Shows, Ranked
- #10 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #126 of 298 on285+ Smart TV Shows That Only Intellectuals Appreciate
- 18Tom Ellis, Lauren German, DB Woodside
What happens when the Devil himself abandons Hell for a life in Los Angeles? He runs a nightclub, of course, and helps a homicide detective solve murders, naturally. This devilishly charming series provides a unique mix of humor, supernatural intrigue, and heartfelt moments.
More Lucifer- #33 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #5 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- #28 of 144 onThe Best Comic Book And Superhero Shows Of All Time
- 19Julia McKenzie, Geraldine McEwan
Step into the shoes of an unassuming elderly spinster with a knack for solving some of England's most baffling murders. This series expertly recreates the charm and intrigue of Agatha Christie's classic stories on the small screen, keeping viewers guessing until the very end.
- #25 of 109 onThe Best British Detective Series
- #6 of 31 onThe Best Movies Based on Agatha Christie Stories
- #13 of 43 onWhat to Watch If You Love 'Sherlock'
- 20Gillian Anderson, David Duchovny, Mitch Pileggi
Trust no one but the iconic duo of Mulder and Scully as they uncover government conspiracies, extraterrestrial encounters, and paranormal events in this groundbreaking series. Their relentless pursuit of the truth has captivated audiences for years, making this a must-see classic.
- 21
Miss Fisher's Murder Mysteries
Essie Davis, Nathan Page, Hugo Johnstone-BurtJoin a glamorous lady detective in 1920s Melbourne as she fearlessly solves murder cases armed with her pearl-handled pistol, sharp wit, and innate charm. With stunning period costumes and fantastic chemistry between characters, this series is a must-watch for fans of whimsical mysteries.
- #11 of 76 onThe 70 Best Acorn TV Shows, Ranked
- #17 of 43 onWhat to Watch If You Love 'Sherlock'
- #82 of 219 onThe Best TV Series Based on Books
- 22Shaun Evans, Roger Allam, James Bradshaw
Explore the origins of beloved detective Inspector Morse as he tackles gruesome murder cases in 1960s Oxford. The series paints a rich, atmospheric portrait of the prestigious city and showcases the beginnings of the brilliant and enigmatic detective.
More Endeavour - 23James Garner, Noah Beery, Joe Santos
Buckle up for thrilling car chases and ingenious cons in this action-packed series featuring a daring private investigator. With his wry sense of humor and strong moral code, our hero navigates a world of crime and corruption while managing to keep the audience entertained.
More The Rockford Files- #79 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
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- #74 of 654 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- 24James Spader, Diego Klattenhoff, Hisham Tawfiq
When a notorious criminal turns himself in and offers to help the FBI track down other high-profile criminals on his "blacklist," you know you're in for a wild ride. His mysterious motivations and uncanny ability to stay one step ahead keep viewers captivated through each suspenseful episode.
More The Blacklist- #55 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #63 of 218 onThe 220 Best Cult TV Shows
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- 25Alfred Hitchcock, Harry Tyler, John Williams
Experience the genius of the Master of Suspense as he brings spine-tingling tales of crime, mystery, and the macabre to the small screen. Each anthology-style episode is expertly crafted, providing viewers with the perfect blend of suspense, shock, and even dark humor.
- #38 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- #47 of 654 onThe 500+ Best Drama Shows
- #8 of 64 onThe Best NBC Dramas of All Time
- 26Jim Caviezel, Michael Emerson, Kevin Chapman
When a reclusive billionaire creates a machine that can predict violent crimes before they occur, he recruits a former CIA operative to help him prevent them. Packed with action, intrigue, and thought-provoking themes, this series keeps viewers constantly guessing what's next.
More Person of Interest- #53 of 282 onThe 260+ Best SciFi Shows Of All Time
- #129 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- #84 of 202 onThe TV Shows With The Best Writing
- 27Sean Murray, Wilmer Valderrama, Brian Dietzen
Dive into the thrilling world of a team of special agents who investigate crimes involving the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. With its mix of crime-solving, camaraderie, and compelling characters, this long-running series continues to captivate audiences with its compelling mysteries.
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- #50 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
- 28Stephanie Zimbalist, Pierce Brosnan, Doris Roberts
Discover the unique partnership between a smart, resourceful private investigator and a suave, mysterious former thief who's assumed the identity of her fictional boss. This delightful caper series offers equal parts mystery, romance, and humor, making it irresistibly entertaining.
More Remington Steele- #83 of 218 onThe 220 Best Cult TV Shows
- #16 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- #37 of 60 onThe Best 1980s Primetime TV Shows
- 29Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez
When three true-crime obsessed neighbors find themselves embroiled in a real-life murder investigation within their own apartment building, they team up to uncover the truth. This fresh, comedic take on the classic whodunit genre is packed with twists, eccentric characters, and small-town secrets.
- 30Nathan Fillion, Stana Katic, Susan Sullivan
A charming crime novelist partners up with a tough-as-nails police detective to solve bizarre and challenging murders in this witty and engaging series. Their undeniable chemistry and entertaining banter make this show a fan favorite for those who love mystery with a side of humor.
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