The Best '70s Detective & Cop Shows, Ranked
Photo: CBS/Hawaii Five-O, NBC/Columbo

The Best '70s Detective & Cop Shows, Ranked

Ranker TV
Updated May 1, 2024 79.9K views 34 items

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7.6K votes
1.4K voters
2 reranks

Time to wax nostalgic with our crowd-ranked list of the best 1970s detective shows, a defining era of television that brought us a number of classic crime dramas. The list was created based on fan popularity, engaging plotlines, compelling character development, and overall entertainment value. With crowd rankings, it's not about our opinion, but the shared views of thousands of fans who appreciate the thrill of a good whodunit.

Whether it's the cigar-chomping, rumpled detective in Columbo played by the unforgettable Peter Falk; the cool, cerebral and unsociable Ironside portrayed by Raymond Burr; the fast-talking, trouble-attracting private eye in The Rockford Files brought to life by James Garner; or the trailblazing tough cop Theo Kojak in Kojak made iconic by Telly Savalas, these 1970s shows introduced us to an array of engaging characters and storylines, each unique and thrilling in their own right. Also carving a niche of its own was Hawaii Five-O with its tropical setting and intense crime narratives, where Jack Lord's portrayal of Steve McGarrett became a standard for future cop shows.

As admirers and fans of these classic detective dramas, it's entirely up to you to rank these '70s detective shows. Your vote is what reaffirms a show's popularity and standing even after all these years. So, let your voice be heard! Start choosing your favorite '70s police TV shows and define the ranking for the charismatic heroes and unforgettable mysteries that continue to captivate us in television reruns.

  • The Feather And Father Gang
    31

    The Feather And Father Gang

    Stefanie Powers, Harold Gould, Edward Winter
    61 votes

    This captivating series follows the thrilling adventures of a suave, debonair lawyer and his clever conman father as they team up to solve complex cases and bring criminals to justice. The Feather and Father Gang showcases the undeniable chemistry between Stefanie Powers' portrayal of Toni "Feather" Danton, a quick-witted attorney, and Harold Gould's endearing performance as Harry Danton, her resourceful father with a shady past. With its unique blend of crime-solving intrigue, witty banter, and heartwarming family dynamics at its core, this show remains an unforgettable gem in television history.

  • Hawkins
    32

    Hawkins

    James Stewart, Sam Elliott, Strother Martin
    66 votes

    In this enthralling legal drama and murder mystery, viewers are taken on a journey through the captivating world of rural-bred lawyer Billy Jim Hawkins, masterfully portrayed by the legendary James Stewart. The show's unique blend of suspenseful storytelling and intricate character development allows for an immersive experience that keeps audiences hooked throughout its one-season run on CBS from 1973 to 1974. Not only does it showcase Stewart's exceptional acting prowess, but also delves deep into each case Hawkins investigates, providing specific context and facts that contribute to making this series truly memorable and engaging.

  • Jigsaw John
    33

    Jigsaw John

    Jack Warden, James Hong, Pippa Scott
    52 votes

    Delving into the world of a seasoned LAPD detective, audiences are captivated by his relentless pursuit of justice for victims of heinous crimes. The show's gripping narrative is bolstered by its portrayal of the protagonist, John St. John—played by the talented Jack Warden—who tirelessly solves cases with a combination of experience and intuition. Furthermore, viewers are treated to an inside look at 1970s Los Angeles, as they follow Jigsaw John navigating through complex relationships with colleagues and criminals alike in order to maintain peace within the city.

  • Griff
    34

    Griff

    Sal Mineo, Lorne Greene ... Marshall Cole, Vic Tayback
    49 votes

    The gripping narrative of an American crime drama series follows the life of a retired police officer, portrayed by Lorne Greene, who partners with a young private investigator played by Ben Murphy. Together, they navigate through complex criminal cases while showcasing their brilliant detective skills and undeniable chemistry on screen. This captivating show not only offers viewers intense action and thrilling suspense but also delves into the depths of human emotions as it explores the bond between two distinct generations in law enforcement.