The 50+ Best Procedural TV Shows, Ranked
Vote up the top procedural drama series, whether they follow crimes, courts, or high-tech problems.
- 1Joe Mantegna, A.J. Cook, Kirsten Vangsness
Engineered around the lives of a team of elite FBI profilers, Criminal Minds steps outside the usual procedural pigeonhole, delving deep into the psychology of America's most dangerous criminals. Driven by an ensemble cast that includes charismatic figures like Aaron Hotchner (Thomas Gibson), Spencer Reid (Matthew Gray Gubler), and Penelope Garcia (Kirsten Vangsness), the series breaks new ground, dealing with the complexities of criminal minds and not just their actions. It adroitly marries procedural storytelling with character dynamics, allowing viewers a glimpse into the agents' professional rigor and personal turmoil. Criminal Minds is a standout procedural drama that captivates viewers by merging mind-bending investigations and compelling character arcs.
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- 2Matt Bomer, Tim DeKay, Tiffani Thiessen
White Collar, is a unique take on the procedural genre, bringing together the world of crime and federal law through an unusual partnership between a charming con man, Neal Caffrey (Matt Bomer), and an FBI agent, Peter Burke (Tim DeKay). This interweaving of law enforcement with a cheeky sense of criminal cunning tosses traditional investigation styles into the wind, twisting the narrative to blend humor, suspense, and camaraderie brilliantly. The show makes a point to humanize its characters, allowing viewers to tread a delicate tightrope of trust, redemption, and moral dilemma. Overall, White Collar offers an enthralling viewing experience, intertwining clever cases and complex character dynamics that push the boundaries of typical procedural storytelling.
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- 3Dominic West, John Doman, Frankie R. Faison
The Wire stands as a powerful testament to the procedural genre, immersing viewers in the gritty reality of Baltimore's drug trade, political landscape, and law enforcement challenges. It shatters the traditional mold of linear investigation styles by providing raw, multifaceted insights into societal woes, intricately replicated through the eyes of characters like Detective Jimmy McNulty (Dominic West) and Avon Barksdale (Wood Harris). Remarkable for its masterful storytelling and complex characters, The Wire delivers a systemic perspective of urban life, making it remarkably distinct from conventional cop-centric shows. This seminal series embodies the ethos of procedurals not merely as entertainment but as a confronting mirror of society.
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- 4Emily Deschanel, David Boreanaz, T.J. Thyne
Bones breaks away from the norm of procedural TV shows by venturing into the world of forensic anthropology, weaving an intricate plot around the intelligent but socially awkward Dr. Temperance Brennan (Emily Deschanel) and her partnership with stoic FBI agent Seeley Booth (David Boreanaz). The show pushes the boundaries of typical investigative techniques, integrating scientific insights into crime-solving strategies, invariably leaving viewers fascinated by the art of decoding evidence. This melding of science, personal dynamics, and compelling murder cases offers a fresh take on procedural dramas. The series stands as a paragon of innovation in the procedural genre, coupling intricate character development with riveting plotlines to form a truly unique viewing experience
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- 5Hugh Dancy, Odelya Halevi, Camryn Manheim
A longstanding titan of procedural drama, Law & Order has set the bar high with its innovative format, dividing each episode equally between police work and courtroom drama. With fascinating characters like Detective Lennie Briscoe (Jerry Orbach) and Executive ADA Jack McCoy (Sam Waterston), it bridges the two aspects of law enforcement seamlessly. The show's strength lies not only in its compelling cases inspired by real events, but also in the intricacies of its characters who must navigate the convoluted legal system. Law & Order is a class act that has left an indelible print on the landscape of procedural television.
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- 6Sean Murray, Wilmer Valderrama, Brian Dietzen
NCIS has cemented its place as a mainstay in procedural television, driven by the dynamic team of special agents led by Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Mark Harmon). It brings a unique blend of action, complex investigations, and camaraderie, merging military settings with rewarding character arcs. The character-driven narrative, coupled with intriguing cases often tied to national security, makes it a standout in the genre. NCIS effectively marries plot progressions with interpersonal relationships, hence becoming an iconic series in the realm of procedural dramas.
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- 7Nathan Fillion, Stana Katic, Susan Sullivan
Castle brilliantly subverts the traditional police procedural format by pairing a best-selling mystery novelist with a tough-as-nails detective to solve baffling crimes. The eponymous novelist, Richard Castle, played by the charismatic Nathan Fillion, brings levity, creativity, and a fresh perspective to solving cases alongside the more pragmatic Detective Kate Beckett, portrayed by the talented Stana Katic. Their electric chemistry, combined with a strong ensemble cast and engaging storytelling that ranges from lighthearted whodunits to intense thrillers, ensures that Castle stands out among its contemporaries. This show is a prime example of how clever writing and character development can elevate a procedural drama into must-watch television.
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- 8James Roday Rodriguez, Dulé Hill, Corbin Bernsen
Psych expertly combines the best elements of a crime procedural with witty humor and an unconventional premise. Centered around Shawn Spencer, a gifted but unfocused young man who uses his keen observational skills to pose as a psychic and solve crimes for the police, the show is both engaging and hilarious. The dynamic between Spencer and his best friend Gus, who reluctantly joins him in his detective antics, adds another layer of enjoyment to each episode. With its colorful cast of characters, whip-smart dialogue, and intriguing mysteries, Psych earns its place as one of the best procedural TV shows of all time.
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- 9Simon Baker, Robin Tunney, Tim Kang
The Mentalist, a masterclass in procedural storytelling, introduces us to the enigmatic Patrick Jane (Simon Baker), a former psychic medium turned detective consultant for the California Bureau of Investigation. The series injects an unconventional aura into the standard cop drama by highlighting Jane's unorthodox but brilliant investigative methods rooted heavily in human psychology, observation, and intuition. It maintains a perfect blend of single-case episodes and overarching plots centered around the elusive serial killer, Red John. In essence, The Mentalist is a thrilling rollercoaster ride that amalgamates sharp wit, suspenseful narratives, and multifaceted characters effectively.
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- 10Tim Roth, Kelli Williams, Monica Raymund
Lie to Me defies the traditional procedural blueprint with its focus on microexpressions and body language to solve crimes, driven by the charismatic Dr. Cal Lightman (Tim Roth). This novel approach to crime-solving offers fresh and intriguing perspectives on human behavior, deviating from the typical 'whodunnit' format. The series thrives on the cerebral abilities of its characters, offering a captivating blend of science, psychology, and raw human emotion. Ultimately, Lie to Me proves that when it comes to procedural drama, there's more than one way to uncover the truth.
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- 11Tony Shalhoub, Ted Levine, Traylor Howard
Highlighting the peculiar yet endearing character of Adrian Monk (Tony Shalhoub), a brilliant detective with obsessive-compulsive disorder, Monk twists the conventional narrative of the procedural genre. The show cleverly intertwines Monk's personal struggles and his uncanny attention to detail into a series of compelling murder mysteries. Underneath the humorous veneer, Monk thoughtfully explores the human condition through its titular character's eyes, delivering tender moments of triumph over adversity amid its quirky crime-solving escapades. This balance of light-hearted humor and poignant storytelling sets Monk apart in the world of procedural dramas.
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- 12Idris Elba, Ruth Wilson, Dermot Crowley
Detective Chief Inspector John Luther's (Idris Elba) intense determination and obsession with his work set the stage for Luther, a gripping detective drama. It explores Luther's unconventional methods to solve cases, showcasing how his personal life intertwines with his professional one. The show breaks away from traditional procedural patterns, adopting a character-driven plot that adds a layer of complexity to each episode. In short, Luther is an absorbing journey into the world of crime-solving through a deeply flawed yet compelling protagonist.
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- 13Ted Danson, Elisabeth Shue, George Eads
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation revolutionized the procedural genre, introducing viewers to the world of forensic science. Featuring a dedicated team of crime scene investigators in Las Vegas, led by Gil Grissom (William Petersen), the series focuses on the evidential side of investigations. Its impressive mix of science, detective work, and personal stories provide a captivating viewing experience. With its knack for uncovering the truth down to the tiniest detail, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation has left an indelible mark on procedural television, inspiring numerous successful spin-offs.
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- 14Chris O'Donnell, LL Cool J, Linda Hunt
NCIS: Los Angeles adds a Californian flavor to the successful franchise, focusing on the high-stakes world of a division of NCIS charged with apprehending dangerous criminals-threatening national security. The seamless blend of intense action, advanced technology, and the intricate dynamics of characters like G. Callen (Chris O'Donnell) and Sam Hanna (LL Cool J), makes this series a standout. This spin-off successfully expands the universe of its parent show while carving out its niche within the procedural genre.
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- 15Kyra Sedgwick, J.K. Simmons, Corey Reynolds
The Closer puts Deputy Chief Brenda Johnson (Kyra Sedgwick) center-stage, a police detective with a knack for obtaining confessions. The show cleverly integrates traditional crime-solving methods with Johnson's interpersonal skills, creating a balance of investigative acuity and human connection. The series adeptly explores various themes, including politics within the police department and the emotional toll of balancing professional and personal life. Overall, The Closer is a compelling procedural drama that consistently delivers captivating cases and memorable character interactions.
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- 16Alex O'Loughlin, Scott Caan, Chi McBride
Hawaii Five-0 reimagines the classic series with an updated cast, including Steve McGarrett (Alex O'Loughlin), and a renewed focus on high-stakes crime in Hawaii. The series effectively uses its unique setting to add depth and style to the conventional procedural format, tying in local culture and beautiful landscapes into the narrative. The camaraderie between the team and the diverse set of crimes they tackle keeps the show exciting, making Hawaii Five-0 a captivatingly vibrant procedural drama.
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- 17Dennis Franz, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Gordon Clapp
NYPD Blue revolutionized procedural dramas by taking viewers into the grittier side of law enforcement, presenting complex characters like Detective Andy Sipowicz (Dennis Franz) in a realistic and often unglamorous light. The series pushes through the stereotypical 'case of the week' format, delivering deeper insights into the personal lives of its characters and their flawed, sometimes controversial relationships with law enforcement. NYPD Blue set the precedent for subsequent shows to imbibe raw grittiness and authenticity, thus leaving an indelible mark on procedural television.
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- 18Angela Lansbury
Murder, She Wrote is an iconic procedural drama featuring mystery novelist Jessica Fletcher (Angela Lansbury), who has a knack for finding herself amidst real-life murders. The show's charm lies in its blend of traditional whodunits with the quirks of its central character. With Fletcher's sharp wit and keen observational skills, Murder, She Wrote puts a delightful spin on the conventional procedural, making it a timeless classic in the genre.
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- 19Anthony LaPaglia, Poppy Montgomery, Marianne Jean-Baptiste
Without a Trace creates a shift in the procedural genre by concentrating on missing person cases, led by senior agent Jack Malone (Anthony LaPaglia). Each episode is a ticking clock, adding an intense urgency to the investigations that sets it apart from the more common homicide-focused dramas. With its intricate storytelling and exploration of the human elements in each disappearance, Without a Trace offers a refreshing take on the procedural format.
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- 20Rob Morrow, David Krumholtz, Judd Hirsch
NUMB3RS offers a fresh perspective on crime-solving by utilizing mathematics as an essential tool for FBI investigations. Brothers Don Eppes (Rob Morrow), an FBI agent, and Charlie Eppes (David Krumholtz), a mathematical genius, form the crux of the story. The show cleverly integrates real mathematics into its narrative, offering a unique spin on the conventional procedural format. By balancing complex equations with engaging character dynamics, NUMB3RS holds its position as a distinct and intellectually stimulating procedural drama.
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- 21Kathryn Morris, Danny Pino, John Finn
Cold Case stands out in the procedural genre by focusing on long-unsolved homicides, with detective Lilly Rush (Kathryn Morris) dedicated to seeking justice for forgotten victims. The show's unique narrative style, weaving flashbacks from different periods into the present-day investigation, provides a fresh perspective on procedural storytelling. Its handling of character interaction and the emotional impact of reopening old wounds breathes life into each episode. The mix of historical intrigue, moving narratives, and satisfying resolutions positions Cold Case as a distinct specimen in the procedural drama landscape.
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- 22Christopher Meloni, Dylan McDermott, Ainsley Seiger
Law & Order: Organized Crime distinguishes itself from the many Law & Order series with its focus on a single major case per season, allowing for deeper and more intricate storytelling. Christopher Meloni's highly anticipated return to the franchise as Detective Elliot Stabler adds another layer of interest for fans, showcasing his character's evolution since leaving Law & Order: Special Victims Unit. The show skillfully incorporates real-life issues such as police reform while providing gripping plotlines and complex characters. This spinoff's bold approach, combined with Meloni's powerful performance, secures its place among the best procedural TV shows.
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- 23Tom Selleck, Donnie Wahlberg, Bridget Moynahan
Blue Bloods stands out in the procedural genre by centering on the Reagan family of police officers in New York City, blending crime-solving with complex family dynamics. Police Commissioner Frank Reagan (Tom Selleck) leads the family, with each member contributing to the law enforcement narrative from their standpoint. From street crime to legal proceedings, the show delivers a balanced mix of personal ethos and professional duty, making it a distinctive gem in the world of procedural dramas.
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- 24Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, Michael Mando
Better Call Saul, a prequel to Breaking Bad, shows the evolution of small-time lawyer Jimmy McGill (Bob Odenkirk) into the morally ambiguous Saul Goodman. While not a procedural in the strictest sense, the series adopts an episodic structure that investigates Jimmy's transformation, making it a character-driven procedural. The show's ability to weave together various threads of multiple character arcs to build towards a bigger narrative is truly remarkable, demonstrating the creative potential of procedural storytelling.
- 25Michael Chiklis, Benito Martinez, CCH Pounder
The Shield stands out within the procedural genre due to its raw portrayal of corrupt police practices, focusing on Detective Vic Mackey (Michael Chiklis) and his Strike Team. The narrative moves away from the usual 'case of the week' format, delving into the murky moral depths of its complex characters. Its unvarnished depiction of police corruption and gritty storytelling make The Shield a hard-hitting portrayal of law enforcement that's worth a watch.
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- 26Jason Beghe, Patrick Flueger, LaRoyce Hawkins
Part of Dick Wolf’s Chicago franchise, Chicago P.D. is a gritty police drama focusing on the officers of District 21 who put their lives on the line to serve and protect their community. Sergeant Hank Voight (Jason Beghe), a man who doesn’t always play by the rules, leads the team. The show successfully integrates personal relationships, department politics, and high-stakes cases, offering viewers an authentic depiction of life in a police department. Chicago P.D. continues the legacy of its creator, masterfully mixing procedural elements with hard-hitting social issues.
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- 27Mary McDonnell, G.W. Bailey, Anthony John Denison
Major Crimes, a spin-off of The Closer, carries forward the legacy of its predecessor, taking viewers back into the Los Angeles Police Department's high-profile crime unit. Led by Captain Sharon Raydor (Mary McDonnell), this series combines intricate crime-solving with dynamic character relationships. The show skillfully balances the professional and personal lives of its characters while solving complicated cases, establishing its distinguished standing in the procedural genre.
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- 28Gary Sinise, Sela Ward, Carmine Giovinazzo
CSI: NY transports the successful forensic procedural formula to the streets of New York, with Detective Mac Taylor (Gary Sinise) heading the crime lab. The show successfully adapts the science-heavy investigations of the original while incorporating the unique culture and challenges of its new setting. This careful blend of innovative forensic analysis, compelling character arcs, and the backdrop of the Big Apple makes CSI: NY a thrilling addition to the CSI franchise and procedural genre as a whole.
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- 29Paula Newsome, Matt Lauria, Mandeep Dhillon
CSI: Vegas revitalizes the legendary CSI franchise with updated technology, a fresh cast of characters, and the return of several beloved original cast members. As they delve into the world of forensic science, the show continues to intrigue viewers with its cutting-edge approach to solving crimes. The new ensemble cast, led by Paula Newsome and Matt Lauria, brings added depth to the series while reuniting with fan-favorites Jorja Fox and William Petersen. With its blend of nostalgia and innovation, CSI: Vegas successfully carries the torch of the groundbreaking original series and earns its place among the best procedural shows.
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- 30David Caruso, Emily Procter, Adam Rodriguez
CSI: Miami takes the successful investigative techniques of the original CSI to the sun-soaked streets of Miami. Led by Lieutenant Horatio Caine (David Caruso), the series explores high-stakes forensic investigations against the backdrop of Miami's diverse culture and beautiful coastline. Its unique setting, coupled with complex character development and innovative forensic science, make CSI: Miami a distinctive and engaging addition to the procedural genre.
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