What To Watch If You Love 'Law & Order: SVU'

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Updated May 27, 2024 78 items

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482 votes

76 voters

Voting Rules

Vote up the films and television series that you know other fans of 'Law & Order: Special Victims Unit' will love.

Wondering what to watch after Law & Order: Special Victims Unit? If the police procedural and legal drama of the series has you hungry for more crime shows, you're in luck! Since the public fascination with investigation and courtroom drama is not ceasing any time soon, there are loads of other movies and TV shows like Law & Order: SVU ready for you to start bingeing.

If you’re on the hunt for movies and TV shows similar to Law & Order: SVU, Chicago P.D. is a great TV series about Chicago Police Department cops that was also created by Dick Wolf. FBI is another great show, about the inner working of the New York Office.

For fans of Law & Order: SVU looking for good movie recommendations, Heat is an excellent film that follows a crime heist and the cops who investigate it in Los Angeles. Other good movies and shows featured on this list include the entire Law & Order franchise, Anatomy of a Murder, and To Kill a Mockingbird.

If you have a favorite movie or TV series like Law & Order: SVU on this list, give the project a thumbs up!

With more than 40 million people visiting Ranker every month, we are able to offer you data-driven recommendations based on voting across thousands of film & TV polls.

Photo: NBC
1
8 votes
Law & Order
Detectives and prosecutors pursue justice in the New York City streets and courtrooms.
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Photo: CBS
2
33 votes
Criminal Minds
An elite squad of FBI profilers analyzes the country's most-twisted criminal minds.
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- #30 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
Photo: NCIS
3
16 votes
NCIS
Special agents investigate crimes related to the Navy and Marine Corps.
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- #50 of 302 onThe Best TV Shows Of The Past 20 Years
Photo: Chicago P.D.
4
22 votes
Chicago P.D.
Chicago P.D.'s Intelligence Unit investigates formidable offenses to deliver justice for the city.
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Photo: The Good Wife
5
6 votes
The Good Wife
A woman takes even more responsibility for her family after her husband goes to prison.
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Photo: Boston Legal
6
6 votes
Boston Legal
Boston Legal, a critically acclaimed legal dramedy, invites viewers into the fast-paced world of a prestigious law firm. With an ensemble cast led by the charismatic duo of Alan Shore (James Spader) and Denny Crane (William Shatner), the show effortlessly balances humor and drama while tackling thought-provoking courtroom cases. Throughout its five-season run, Boston Legal garnered numerous accolades, including multiple Emmy Awards for its principal actors. The series shines a spotlight on the complex relationships among its characters, as well as the ethical dilemmas faced by legal professionals - all wrapped in a package of wit, charm, and unforgettable moments.
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Photo: 9-1-1
7
23 votes
9-1-1
Check out more shows like 9-1-1!
The lives and careers of emergency response providers who put their lives at risk to save others.
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Photo: 9-1-1: Lone Star
8
19 votes
9-1-1: Lone Star
A New York firefighter relocates to Austin with his son.
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Photo: Fox
9
22 votes
Bones
Dr. Temperance Brennan uses impressive forensics skills to solve murders.
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Photo: Rizzoli & Isles
10
20 votes
Rizzoli & Isles
In the crime-solving realm of television, Rizzoli & Isles offers a refreshing take on the detective genre, combining elements of drama and humor. The series, based on Tess Gerritsen's novels, follows the unlikely partnership of tough-as-nails detective Jane Rizzoli (Angie Harmon) and brilliant medical examiner Dr. Maura Isles (Sasha Alexander). Together, they tackle Boston's most puzzling cases while navigating their own complicated personal lives. Throughout its seven-season run, the show garnered several award nominations, including a People's Choice Award for Favorite Cable TV Drama. Rizzoli & Isles remains an engaging watch, as viewers are drawn to the protagonists' dynamic chemistry and the show's unique perspective on crime-solving.
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Photo: CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
11
16 votes
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation
An investigation team in Las Vegas scours crime scenes for forensic evidence.
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Photo: CSI: NY
12
10 votes
CSI: NY
Forensic investigators use high-tech science to follow evidence and solve crimes in the Big Apple.
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Photo: FBI
13
16 votes
FBI
Agents use all of their talents, intellect and expertise to keep New York and the country safe.
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Photo: FBI: Most Wanted
14
13 votes
FBI: Most Wanted
The Fugitive Task Force relentlessly tracks notorious criminals on the Bureau's Most Wanted list.
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Photo: Fox
15
13 votes
Prodigal Son
Prodigal Son is a psychological thriller that delves into the twisted relationship between a criminal psychologist, Malcolm Bright (Tom Payne), and his notorious serial killer father, Dr. Martin Whitly (Michael Sheen). With a compelling storyline, this gripping series explores the complexities of family dynamics while maintaining an air of suspense throughout. The show has garnered critical acclaim for its talented ensemble cast, including standout performances by Bellamy Young and Lou Diamond Phillips. Nominated for several awards, Prodigal Son consistently keeps viewers on the edge of their seats as it masterfully navigates the murky waters of morality and the haunting legacy of a murderous past.
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Photo: Chicago Fire
16
14 votes
Chicago Fire
The firefighters and paramedics of Firehouse 51 risk their lives to save and protect their city.
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Photo: TNT
17
7 votes
Animal Kingdom
In the gritty, adrenaline-fueled world of Animal Kingdom, viewers are thrust into the complex dynamics of the Cody family, a Southern California clan with a penchant for crime. The show, which has garnered critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base, masterfully weaves together elements of drama, action, and suspense while delving into themes of loyalty, power, and betrayal. Ellen Barkin's standout performance as the cunning matriarch, Smurf Cody, is bolstered by an exceptional ensemble cast including Shawn Hatosy (Pope), Ben Robson (Craig), and Jake Weary (Deran). As alliances shift and tensions rise, Animal Kingdom proves to be an engrossing exploration of a family bound together by their criminal pursuits.
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Photo: Netflix
18
7 votes
Mindhunter
A meticulously crafted crime drama, Mindhunter delves into the chilling world of criminal psychology and the birth of modern serial killer profiling. Boasting two seasons garnished with rave reviews, this gripping series presents an unnerving yet fascinating exploration of the darkest recesses of the human mind. Protagonists Holden Ford (Jonathan Groff) and Bill Tench (Holt McCallany), FBI agents in the Behavioral Science Unit, engage in intense interviews with notorious real-life murderers to understand their motivations and develop techniques to catch future criminals. The show's masterful storytelling, bolstered by its authentic period setting, has earned it widespread critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
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Photo: Hawaii Five-0
19
10 votes
Hawaii Five-0
Hawaii Five-0, an action-packed police procedural drama, gracefully showcases the picturesque landscape of Hawaii while delving into its rich cultural heritage. The series has garnered several award nominations for its exceptional storytelling and stellar performances. At its core, the show follows a skilled task force led by Steve McGarrett (Alex O'Loughlin) and Danny Williams (Scott Caan), as they tackle high-profile crimes across the islands. Each episode blends thrilling action sequences with moments of heartfelt camaraderie among the team members, creating an engaging and immersive viewing experience. Steeped in local lore and traditions, Hawaii Five-0 offers a refreshing take on the classic crime-solving genre.
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Photo: Blue Bloods
20
10 votes
Blue Bloods
A multigenerational family of police officers dedicated to enforcing the law in New York.
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Photo: CBS
21
12 votes
NCIS: Los Angeles
OSP agents track criminals who threaten national security.
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Photo: Tommy
22
9 votes
Tommy
A former high-ranking NYPD officer becomes the first female police chief of Los Angeles.
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Photo: New Line Cinema
23
6 votes
Seven
In Seven, Detective William Somerset (Morgan Freeman), a seasoned but weary crime fighter, partners with the young and impulsive Detective David Mills (Brad Pitt) to investigate a series of grisly murders. Each murder uniquely represents one of the seven deadly sins - a chilling theme that pervades the movie. The film, directed by David Fincher, is dark and atmospheric, delivering an intense thriller that delves into the heart of human depravity. As the detectives unravel each horrifying crime, they are drawn deeper into a twisted killer's methodical madness. A critical success, this 1995 film won an MTV Movie Award for Best Movie.
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Photo: CSI: Miami
24
6 votes
CSI: Miami
Delving into the world of forensic science, CSI: Miami offers a thrilling exploration of criminal investigations in the sun-soaked city. Led by Lieutenant Horatio Caine (David Caruso), this skilled team of investigators unravels complex cases through meticulous analysis and cutting-edge technology. The show's gripping narratives, coupled with its dynamic ensemble cast, have earned it numerous award nominations, including six Primetime Emmy Awards. With a blend of drama, suspense, and occasional humor, CSI: Miami has made a lasting impression on television audiences, solidifying its place as an iconic crime procedural in the pantheon of TV classics.
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Photo: Fargo
25
5 votes
Fargo
Fargo, a dark comedy-crime film, is an unforgettable journey into the frozen heart of Minnesota. Jerry Lundegaard (William H. Macy), a car salesman in Minneapolis, hatches a desperate scheme involving his wife and two bumbling criminals, Carl Showalter (Steve Buscemi) and Gaear Grimsrud (Peter Stormare). The plan backfires when it attracts the attention of Marge Gunderson (Frances McDormand), the pregnant police chief of Brainerd. McDormand won an Oscar for her portrayal of Gunderson, whose tenacious investigation unravels the plot amidst the snow-swept landscapes. The film's unique blend of horror and humor has earned it a cult following and multiple awards, including two Academy Awards.
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Photo: Fargo
26
5 votes
Fargo
Venturing into the frosty landscape of Minnesota, this darkly humorous crime drama weaves a complex web of deception and violence. With each season presenting a self-contained narrative inspired by the Coen Brothers' original film, viewers are immersed in the entangled lives of its multidimensional characters. Among them, Lorne Malvo (Billy Bob Thornton) embodies pure chaos, leaving a trail of destruction in his wake. The series has garnered critical acclaim for its exceptional storytelling and stellar performances, resulting in numerous award nominations, including Emmys and Golden Globes. Fargo's distinct blend of wit, suspense, and intricate plotlines ensures a memorable viewing experience without compromising on substance.
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Photo: Unbelievable
27
5 votes
Unbelievable
Unbelievable invites viewers into a world where the pursuit of justice is both gripping and heart-wrenching. This limited series, inspired by true events, follows the emotional journey of a young woman, Marie Adler (Kaitlyn Dever), who struggles with the aftermath of a harrowing assault. Parallel to her story, two relentless detectives, Grace Rasmussen (Toni Collette) and Karen Duvall (Merritt Wever), join forces to solve a string of similar cases. Lauded for its compelling storytelling and remarkable performances, Unbelievable has garnered multiple award nominations, including Golden Globe and Emmy nods. With its delicate handling of sensitive subject matter, this drama series offers a thought-provoking exploration of resilience and empathy.
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Photo: The Alienist
28
5 votes
The Alienist
A journalist tries to solve a series of murders in New York City in 1896.
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Photo: FX
29
5 votes
The Shield
The story of an inner-city Los Angeles police precinct.
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Photo: True Detective
30
5 votes
True Detective
Police investigations unearth the personal and professional secrets of those involved.
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9-1-1