The 100+ Best TV Shows About Murders, Ranked
- 1Mariska Hargitay, Ice-T, Kelli Giddish
With its unflinching portrayal of harrowing crimes and tireless pursuit for justice, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit has earned its reputation as one of television's most enduring crime dramas. Focusing on the dedicated detectives tasked with investigating sexually based offenses, this long-running series delves deep into the personal ramifications of criminal behavior while offering a powerful portrayal of resilience amidst adversity. Each episode skillfully weaves together compelling storylines, memorable characters, and gripping twists that keep viewers engaged season after season.
- 2Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, Anna Torv
Delving into the dark world of serial killers, Mindhunter expertly explores the complex psychology of murderers through its captivating narrative. Centered on two FBI agents in the Behavioral Science Unit, this gripping series showcases their relentless pursuit to understand and profile some of history's most notorious criminals. Seamlessly intertwining factual accounts with riveting storytelling, Mindhunter offers viewers a chilling glimpse into the minds behind these heinous acts. Its deft balance between criminal analysis and character development solidifies it as a standout show among other murder-focused series.
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- 3Mireille Enos, Joel Kinnaman, Gregg Henry
A masterclass in atmospheric storytelling, The Killing seamlessly blends intricate murder investigations with riveting character development. Set against the gloomy backdrop of Seattle, this critically acclaimed series follows detective duo Linden and Holder as they work tirelessly to solve confounding homicides. The engrossing narrative unfolds at a deliberate pace, meticulously building tension throughout each season while intricately exploring themes such as family dynamics, political corruption, and personal trauma. As emotionally haunting as it is suspenseful, The Killing stands out as an exceptional example within the murder-centric television landscape.
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- 4Joe Mantegna, A.J. Cook, Kirsten Vangsness
Criminal Minds distinguishes itself from traditional crime dramas by delving deep into the twisted psyches of society's most depraved individuals. Through expertly crafted episodes that showcase both grisly crimes and heartrending glimpses into victims' lives, this long-running series offers a uniquely thought-provoking look at the dark corners of human behavior. Bolstered by an ensemble cast that brings each member of the elite FBI Behavioral Analysis Unit to life with nuance and depth, Criminal Minds remains a standout among shows focused on murder investigations.
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- 5Hugh Dancy, Odelya Halevi, Camryn Manheim
As one of television's most enduring crime dramas, Law & Order set the standard for procedural storytelling by offering gripping portrayals of both police investigations and courtroom trials. The show's split narrative approach provides an engaging exploration of crime from multiple perspectives while highlighting the complexities inherent in pursuing justice within an imperfect system. Boasting memorable characters played by talented actors such as Sam Waterston and Jerry Orbach throughout its 20-year run, Law & Order remains an influential touchstone among murder-centric shows.
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- 6Benedict Cumberbatch, Martin Freeman, Andrew Scott
Breathing new life into Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's iconic detective, Sherlock cleverly updates the timeless tales for a modern audience while maintaining their essential spirit. With its lightning-fast wit, visually stunning cinematography, and masterful performances from Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman as Holmes and Watson, this captivating series offers a fresh take on classic murder mysteries. Each episode deftly blends intellectual puzzles with high-stakes action, drawing viewers in with its inventive storytelling and undeniable charm.
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- 7Michael C. Hall, Jennifer Carpenter, C.S. Lee
Darkly humorous and endlessly compelling, Dexter tells the tale of a blood-spatter analyst who moonlights as a vigilante serial killer targeting only criminals who've eluded justice. This unique premise sets the stage for riveting explorations of morality, justice, and personal identity throughout its eight-season run. Michael C. Hall's captivating portrayal of the titular character keeps viewers enthralled as he grapples with his own inner demons while navigating life, love, and murder in sun-soaked Miami.
- 8Simon Baker, Robin Tunney, Tim Kang
Charming and playful yet undeniably intelligent, The Mentalist follows former psychic medium Patrick Jane as he uses his keen observational skills to solve crimes alongside California Bureau of Investigation agents. At its core lies a deeply personal quest for vengeance against the elusive serial killer who murdered Jane's family – adding emotional depth to an otherwise lighthearted procedural format. Its expert mix of humor, intrigue, and character development makes this show a standout choice among those fascinated by murder mysteries.
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- 9Kathryn Morris, Danny Pino, John Finn
Cold Case distinguishes itself within the crowded crime drama genre by focusing on unsolved homicides, offering a compelling blend of mystery and emotional resonance. With its empathetic protagonist, Detective Lilly Rush, at the helm, this series skillfully interweaves past events with present-day investigations as she works tirelessly to bring closure to the victims' families. Each episode masterfully employs period-specific music and visuals to create a rich atmosphere that transports viewers back in time while unraveling long-buried secrets.
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- 10Kate Winslet, Julianne Nicholson, Jean Smart
Grounded in raw emotional authenticity and a gripping murder mystery, Mare of Easttown captivates viewers with its expertly woven narrative set against a bleak small-town backdrop. Kate Winslet delivers a powerhouse performance as troubled detective Mare Sheehan, whose determination to solve a local homicide is paralleled by her own personal struggles with family, grief, and community ties. The series' complex characters, intricate plotlines, and stunning performances make it an instant standout among television's offerings focused on murders.
- 11Mahershala Ali, Stephen Dorff, Carmen Ejogo
An anthology series that redefines the crime drama genre, True Detective offers viewers an engrossing exploration of murder through the lens of complex human relationships. Boasting impressive performances from Hollywood heavyweights such as Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, each season delves into a unique narrative driven by nuanced characters grappling with their own personal demons. With its gritty atmosphere, intricate storytelling, and haunting themes, True Detective stands as a singular achievement within television's landscape of murder-centric shows.
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- 12Joe Mantegna, A.J. Cook, Kirsten Vangsness
Building upon the rich history established by its predecessor Criminal Minds, Evolution expands upon that foundation with a new ensemble cast tasked with profiling and apprehending society's most dangerous criminals. As they delve deep into the twisted minds of murderers, viewers can expect an intense blend of psychological drama, intricate storytelling, and a fresh perspective on a beloved television franchise.
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- 13Ted Danson, Elisabeth Shue, George Eads
Pioneering the forensic procedural genre, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation brought cutting-edge technology and scientific methods to the forefront of television crime dramas. With an ensemble cast led by William Petersen and Marg Helgenberger, this long-running series offered a fascinating look at the behind-the-scenes work of criminal investigations while presenting engaging storylines filled with intricate plots and unexpected twists. Fans of murder mysteries can appreciate CSI for both its innovative approach and attention to detail.
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- 14David Tennant, Olivia Colman, Andrew Buchan
Set in a picturesque coastal town with a dark underbelly, Broadchurch weaves together a tragic murder investigation and the emotional fallout it leaves upon its residents. David Tennant and Olivia Colman shine as detectives Hardy and Miller, whose personal lives intertwine with their pursuit of justice amidst complex relationships, secrets, and lies. This critically acclaimed series offers not only a captivating mystery but also an affecting examination of grief, trust, and community bonds.
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- 15Peter Falk, Mike Lally, John Finnegan
With its innovative inverted narrative format and unforgettable protagonist, Columbo revolutionized crime dramas by revealing the identity of the murderer at the outset of each episode. This unique approach allowed viewers to focus on Lieutenant Columbo's clever techniques as he unraveled seemingly perfect crimes with his signature nonchalance and disarming charm. Peter Falk's masterful portrayal of the rumpled detective provided a delightful foil for the parade of guest stars who graced this iconic show during its storied run.
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- 16Angela Lansbury
A beloved classic in the realm of television crime dramas, Murder, She Wrote introduced audiences to Jessica Fletcher: mystery writer turned amateur detective. Played with grace and wit by Angela Lansbury over 12 seasons, Jessica's keen intellect and affable charm endeared her character to millions worldwide while cementing her status as an iconic figure within pop culture history. Featuring episodic cases filled with intriguing clues and surprising twists alongside an ensemble of memorable supporting characters, the series remains an enduring favorite for fans of murder mysteries.
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- 17Idris Elba, Ruth Wilson, Dermot Crowley
By delving deep into both psychological drama and riveting criminal investigations, Luther offers a captivating exploration of moral ambiguity within human nature itself. Idris Elba shines in his portrayal of tormented detective John Luther, whose unorthodox methods often blur the line between right and wrong while pursuing justice amidst London's chaotic criminal underworld. As much an examination of its titular character's mind as it is a thrilling ride through suspenseful cases, Luther stands out as an exceptional addition to any list featuring shows about murders.
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- 18Gillian Anderson, Jamie Dornan, Colin Morgan
An intense cat-and-mouse game between law enforcement and a serial killer unfolds in The Fall – providing nail-biting suspense alongside powerful character studies from both sides of the law. Gillian Anderson commands attention as dedicated investigator Stella Gibson while Jamie Dornan delivers chillingly cold-blooded performances as the murderer she's determined to catch. The show's taut pacing keeps viewers on edge while its exploration of societal norms adds depth to this chilling crime drama.
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- 19Gary Sinise, Sela Ward, Carmine Giovinazzo
Joining the ranks of forensic crime dramas pioneered by its predecessor CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, CSI: NY shines a spotlight on New York City's finest investigators as they solve baffling homicides using state-of-the-art technology and ingenuity. Led by Gary Sinise as stoic Mac Taylor, the ensemble cast delves into compelling storylines backed by iconic cityscapes while effortlessly balancing professional dedication with personal struggles throughout each gripping episode.
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- 20Tony Shalhoub, Ted Levine, Traylor Howard
Combining quirky humor with intriguing whodunits, Monk follows OCD-afflicted detective Adrian Monk as he solves San Francisco's most baffling cases using his extraordinary powers of observation. Tony Shalhoub brings warmth and charm to the titular character while deftly balancing comedy alongside darker moments dealing with loss and trauma. Both lighthearted entertainment and compelling storytelling come together in this beloved series that never fails to engage viewers from start to finish.
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- 21Jonny Lee Miller, Lucy Liu, Aidan Quinn
A modern reinterpretation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's iconic stories, Elementary takes audiences on thrilling adventures through New York City alongside unconventional versions of Sherlock Holmes (Jonny Lee Miller) and Dr. Joan Watson (Lucy Liu). As they unravel some of the city's most perplexing murder mysteries, the show offers a fresh take on classic characters while remaining faithful to their essence. Engaging cases and dynamic chemistry between its leads make this series an enjoyable addition to any list featuring shows about murders.
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- 22Neil Dudgeon, Nick Hendrix, Fiona Dolman
Charming villages in rural England serve as the backdrop for grisly homicides in Midsomer Murders – proving that even picturesque settings can harbor sinister secrets. Detective Chief Inspector Barnaby's investigations delve into intriguing cases filled with eccentric suspects, twisted motives, and surprising twists in this long-running British series beloved by fans worldwide. Blending traditional whodunit elements with idyllic scenery and memorable guest stars, Midsomer Murders provides an entertaining escape for viewers seeking solace within murder mysteries.
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- 23Juno Temple, Jon Hamm, Jennifer Jason Leigh
Inspired by the Coen brothers' iconic film, Fargo cleverly weaves together dark humor, eccentric characters, and grisly murders in its anthology format that spans different time periods and locations within the Midwest. With a rotating cast of powerhouse actors such as Billy Bob Thornton, Kirsten Dunst, and Ewan McGregor throughout each season, this critically acclaimed series never fails to captivate audiences with its unique blend of crime drama and offbeat comedy.
- 24Vincent D'Onofrio, Kathryn Erbe, Jay O. Sanders
Focusing on the psychological aspects of criminal behavior, Law & Order: Criminal Intent delves into the minds of murderers while highlighting the dedicated detectives who pursue them relentlessly. As part of the prolific Law & Order franchise, this spin-off brings a unique perspective to traditional procedural storytelling with its emphasis on understanding motives and exploring moral complexities. Strong performances from Vincent D'Onofrio and Kathryn Erbe anchor this engaging series that keeps viewers guessing until each case's satisfying conclusion.
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- 25Hugh Dancy, Mads Mikkelsen, Laurence Fishburne
A deliciously twisted dive into the mind of one of fiction's most notorious killers, Hannibal explores the unsettling relationship between criminal profiler Will Graham (Hugh Dancy) and his mentor Dr. Hannibal Lecter (Mads Mikkelsen). As they work together on brutal homicide cases, both men grapple with their own dark desires and obsessions in this visually stunning series that pushes boundaries beyond what many expect from a television drama. With its haunting atmosphere, bold storytelling, and complex characters, Hannibal offers a unique viewing experience for fans of murder-centric shows.
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- 26James Roday Rodriguez, Dulé Hill, Corbin Bernsen
Brimming with humor and heart, Psych follows the misadventures of "psychic" detective Shawn Spencer (James Roday Rodriguez) as he uses his keen observational skills to solve cases alongside his best friend Gus (Dulé Hill). Combining lighthearted banter with engrossing murder mysteries in sunny Santa Barbara, this show effortlessly entertains while providing thought-provoking puzzles for fans to unravel along with its endearing protagonists.
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- 27Kyra Sedgwick, J.K. Simmons, Corey Reynolds
At the helm of The Closer is Brenda Leigh Johnson (Kyra Sedgwick), whose unrelenting determination to catch criminals positions her as one of television's most formidable detectives. As she confronts personal challenges alongside professional triumphs, the series offers an engaging blend of character-driven storytelling and gripping murder investigations. With strong performances and engrossing plotlines, The Closer remains a favorite among crime drama aficionados.
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- 28Stefanie Martini, Sam Reid, Alun Armstrong
This gripping prequel to the groundbreaking British series Prime Suspect takes viewers back in time to witness Detective Jane Tennison's (Stefanie Martini) early days on the force as she faces sexism, corruption, and dangerous criminals while trying to solve her first murder case. With its strong performances and engaging storytelling, Prime Suspect 1973 provides fans with intriguing insight into the origins of their beloved protagonist.
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- 29David Suchet, Hugh Fraser, Philip Jackson
Timeless elegance personifies Agatha Christie's Poirot as it brings the legendary detective Hercule Poirot to life through David Suchet's impeccable portrayal. Set against the backdrop of 1930s England, this series faithfully adapts Christie's classic whodunits while capturing the essence of her most famous character. A must-watch for fans of murder mysteries dripping in sophistication and cunning intellect.
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- 30Steve Martin, Martin Short, Selena Gomez
A delightful mix of comedy, mystery, and true-crime podcast obsession, Only Murders In The Building offers a fresh take on murder-centric shows through its quirky cast led by Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez. As they investigate a suspicious death within their upscale New York City apartment building, these amateur sleuths navigate twists and turns in both their personal lives and the unfolding mystery – providing ample entertainment for audiences seeking a lighthearted escape.
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