The Best 1980s Crime Drama TV Shows
- 1Tom Selleck, John Hillerman, Roger E. Mosley
Magnum, P.I. is a thrilling crime-drama series featuring the adventures of Thomas Magnum, a private investigator solving cases in Hawaii. The show is highly regarded by fans for its captivating storylines, stunning island scenery, and the charming charisma of Tom Selleck as the lead character.
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- 2Don Johnson, Philip Michael Thomas, Edward James Olmos
Set in the vibrant 1980s, the stylish and groundbreaking crime drama follows two undercover detectives tackling drug trafficking and organized crime. The show's compelling storylines, unforgettable fashion, iconic soundtrack, and strong chemistry between its leading actors make it a beloved classic among fans of all ages.
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- 3Daniel J. Travanti, Michael Warren, Bruce Weitz
The groundbreaking police drama follows the lives and challenges of officers working at a precinct in an unnamed American city. The show's realistic portrayal of law enforcement, strong character development, and engaging storylines have made it a beloved classic among fans of the genre.
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- 4Peter Falk, Mike Lally, John Finnegan
The captivating detective series follows the unassuming yet brilliant Lieutenant Columbo as he solves complex murder cases with his signature wit and charm. The show's enduring popularity stems from its unique format, where the audience knows the murderer from the beginning, and it's Peter Falk's iconic portrayal of Columbo that keeps fans engaged and entertained throughout each episode.
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- 5Stephanie Zimbalist, Pierce Brosnan, Doris Roberts
The captivating detective series follows the adventures of private investigator Laura Holt and her fictitious boss-turned-partner, Remington Steele. The show's unique blend of humor, romance, and suspense has made it a fan favorite for its engaging storylines and the undeniable chemistry between its lead actors, Stephanie Zimbalist and Pierce Brosnan.
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
- 6Jack Klugman, Garry Walberg, Robert Ito
A dedicated medical examiner with a knack for solving crimes delves into the world of forensics, using his expertise to uncover the truth behind mysterious deaths. The show's captivating blend of crime-solving and medical drama, along with its charismatic lead character, make it an unforgettable classic from the 80s era.
More Quincy, M.E.- #36 of 60 onThe Best 1980s Primetime TV Shows
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- 7Jameson Parker, Gerald McRaney, Jeannie Wilson
The thrilling detective series follows the adventures of two contrasting brothers as they solve cases together with wit, charm, and camaraderie. The show has captivated fans due to its unique blend of action, humor, and engaging character dynamics between the sibling duo.
More Simon & Simon- #30 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
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- #52 of 249 onThe Best TV Shows Of The '80s, Ranked
- 8Larry Wilcox, Erik Estrada, Robert Pine
Follow the thrilling adventures of two California Highway Patrol motorcycle officers as they navigate the challenges and hilarity of law enforcement in 1980s Los Angeles. The show's unique blend of action, comedy, and camaraderie between its lead characters sets it apart from other crime dramas, making it a nostalgic classic for generations to come.
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- #24 of 60 onThe Best 1980s Primetime TV Shows
- 9Angela Lansbury
A mystery writer finds herself solving real-life crimes in a charming coastal town, as each episode unveils new twists and turns. The show's enduring appeal lies in its clever storytelling, intriguing whodunits, and the brilliant performance of Angela Lansbury as the unassuming yet sharp-witted amateur detective.
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- 10David Hasselhoff, Edward Mulhare, Patricia McPherson
A lone crime-fighter and his technologically advanced, talking car take on criminals in a high-stakes battle for justice. The show's unique blend of action, humor, and futuristic gadgets make it an unforgettable classic from the 80s era.
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- 11Fred Dryer, Stepfanie Kramer, Charles Hallahan
A renegade cop and a by-the-book detective team up to solve crimes in the gritty, action-packed streets of Los Angeles. This show stands out from other 80s series due to its realistic portrayal of police work, as well as the dynamic chemistry between its two lead characters.
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- 12Robert Wagner, Stefanie Powers, Lionel Stander
A wealthy couple leads a glamorous double life as amateur detectives, solving crimes and mysteries while maintaining their luxurious lifestyle. The show's captivating chemistry between the main characters, combined with thrilling storylines and opulent settings, makes it an unforgettable classic from the 80s era.
More Hart to Hart- #36 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- #240 of 343 onThe Best TV Theme Songs of All Time
- #27 of 53 onThe Best ABC Dramas of All Time
- 13Edward Woodward, Robert Lansing, Steven Williams
A former intelligence agent with mysterious past uses his unique skills to help ordinary people in danger, while battling his own demons. The show's captivating blend of action, suspense, and complex character development keeps viewers hooked on every episode.
- 14Tyne Daly, Sharon Gless, Al Waxman
Two female police detectives navigate the challenges of crime-solving and personal lives in 1980s New York City, breaking barriers along the way. The show's captivating portrayal of strong, independent women tackling traditionally male-dominated roles sets it apart as a groundbreaking series that continues to inspire today.
More Cagney & Lacey- #46 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
- #23 of 56 onThe Best CBS Dramas of All Time
- #67 of 117 onThe 100+ Best TV Cop Shows
- 15Andy Griffith, Julie Sommars, Linda Purl
A folksy, Southern attorney uses his charm and intelligence to uncover the truth and defend the wrongly accused in high-stakes criminal cases. The show's captivating storytelling, combined with its charismatic lead character, keeps audiences hooked on each suspenseful episode.
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- 16Carroll O'Connor, Howard E. Rollins, Anne-Marie Johnson
A small-town Mississippi police chief and a big-city black detective form an unlikely partnership to solve racially charged crimes in this gripping 80s drama. The show's powerful storytelling, compelling characters, and unflinching exploration of social issues make it a must-watch for fans of thought-provoking television.
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- 17Brian Keith, Daniel Hugh Kelly, Joe Santos
A tough judge and a smart-mouthed ex-con form an unlikely crime-fighting duo, using their wits and a high-speed prototype car to bring criminals to justice. The show's unique blend of action, humor, and the chemistry between its lead actors creates a thrilling yet heartwarming experience for viewers.
- 18William Shatner, Adrian Zmed, Heather Locklear
A tough, no-nonsense veteran cop and his young partner patrol the gritty streets of Los Angeles, tackling crime head-on while grappling with their own personal demons. With its captivating storylines, dynamic characters, and William Shatner's memorable performance as the titular hero, this show remains a classic in the pantheon of 80s police dramas.
More T. J. Hooker- #46 of 53 onThe Best ABC Dramas of All Time
- #88 of 117 onThe 100+ Best TV Cop Shows
- #126 of 249 onThe Best TV Shows Of The '80s, Ranked
- 19Kelly Preston, Anne Francis, Richard Lewis
A trio of Vietnam War veterans-turned-detectives use their unique skills, a helicopter, and a speedboat to solve crimes along the sun-soaked shores of Southern California. The show's perfect blend of action, humor, and camaraderie keeps viewers hooked on the adventures of these unconventional heroes.
More Riptide- #72 of 86 onThe Best Shows About Crime-Fighting Duos
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- #126 of 156 onThe 120+ Best Detective Shows of All Time
- 20Buddy Ebsen, Lee Meriwether, Mark Shera
A retired private investigator unretires to solve his son's murder, teaming up with his daughter-in-law to crack cases and bring criminals to justice. The show's captivating blend of family dynamics, clever detective work, and thrilling action keeps audiences hooked from start to finish.
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- 21Lee Horsley, Pamela Hensley, Lincoln Kilpatrick
A wealthy Texan oil tycoon turned private investigator uses his charm, wit, and crime-solving skills to tackle high-profile cases in Los Angeles while balancing a luxurious lifestyle. The show's fun blend of mystery, action, and glamour with a charismatic lead creates an irresistible combination that keeps viewers hooked throughout its run.
- 22Dennis Farina, Anthony John Denison, John Santucci
Follow the gripping journey of a Chicago detective as he navigates the gritty underworld of 1960s organized crime, while battling both personal and professional demons. The show's captivating storytelling, complex characters, and authentic portrayal of the era make it an unforgettable viewing experience.
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- 23William Conrad, Joe Penny, Alan Campbell
A tough district attorney and his rotund investigator partner dive into high-profile cases, tackling crime with wit and determination in this 80s drama series. The show's unique blend of humor, action, and the charismatic chemistry between its lead characters make it a beloved classic for fans of the genre.
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- 24Holly Robinson Peete, Steven Williams, Peter DeLuise
A group of young undercover police officers infiltrate high schools to tackle a variety of crimes and social issues, making for an action-packed yet emotionally charged experience. The show's unique blend of thrilling crime-solving and poignant exploration of teenage struggles set it apart from other cop dramas, while also launching the careers of several talented actors.
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- 25Richard Dysart, Alan Rachins, Corbin Bernsen
A group of ambitious lawyers navigate the cutthroat world of law and their personal lives at a prestigious Los Angeles firm. The show's captivating blend of courtroom drama, romance, and comedy keeps viewers hooked while tackling relevant social issues.
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- 26
Sherlock Holmes
Jeremy Brett, Charles Gray, Edward HardwickeIn this captivating 80s adaptation, a brilliant detective and his loyal companion solve complex cases in Victorian England using their wit and keen observation skills. The show's greatness lies in its faithful portrayal of Arthur Conan Doyle's iconic characters, combined with gripping storylines and outstanding performances by the lead actors.
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- 27Ken Wahl, Jonathan Banks, Jim Byrnes
A dedicated undercover agent infiltrates the dangerous world of organized crime, navigating complex relationships and moral dilemmas to bring down powerful mob bosses. This show stands out due to its captivating storytelling, memorable villains, and a compelling performance by Ken Wahl as the conflicted protagonist.
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- 28Gordon Jackson, Lewis Collins, Martin Shaw
A trio of elite crime-fighting agents tackle high-stakes missions and dangerous criminals in this thrilling British series set in the 1980s. The show's unique blend of action, suspense, and character-driven drama sets it apart as a captivating classic that still resonates with audiences today.
- 29John Thaw, Kevin Whately, James Grout
A brilliant, yet troubled detective navigates the intellectually stimulating and often dangerous world of Oxford's criminal underbelly in this classic British crime drama. The show captivates audiences with its intricate mysteries, compelling characters, and stunning portrayal of Oxford's historic atmosphere.
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- 30
Miss Marple
Joan Hickson, Gwen Watford, David HorovitchAn elderly spinster applies her exceptional detective skills to solve perplexing murder mysteries in a quaint English village, much to the astonishment of local law enforcement. The show's charm lies in its cleverly woven plots, picturesque settings, and the brilliant portrayal of Miss Marple by Joan Hickson - who was personally chosen for the role by Agatha Christie herself.
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