The Best 1990s Crime Drama TV Shows
- 1Hugh Dancy, Odelya Halevi, Camryn Manheim
On the gritty streets of New York, the powerhouse series Law & Order earned its well-deserved place among the titans of '90s crime dramas. From the unmistakable "dun-dun" sound to its revolving door of district attorneys, this show did not pull any punches. With an ensemble cast that included the likes of Jerry Orbach, Sam Waterston, and S. Epatha Merkerson, this compelling blend of police-told and lawyer-centric storylines kept viewers on the edge of their seats week after week. Its long-lasting impact was cemented by multiple spin-offs and its influence on countless other crime procedurals that followed in its footsteps.
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- 2James Gandolfini, Lorraine Bracco, Edie Falco
From its unforgettable opening montage to its enigmatic final scene, The Sopranos is lauded as one of the most incredible and groundbreaking television shows of the '90s. Focusing on the life of mob boss Tony Soprano, played by the late great James Gandolfini, this crime drama was credited with ushering in a new dawn of complex, character-driven storytelling. With its powerhouse performances, immersive storylines, and thought-provoking exploration of morality, The Sopranos set the bar sky-high for television dramas and left an indelible mark on TV history.
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- 3Gillian Anderson, David Duchovny, Mitch Pileggi
The truth was indeed out there in the '90s, and The X-Files took viewers on a thrilling journey to uncover it. FBI agents Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) captivated audiences as they delved into the bizarre, otherworldly, and unexplained. The show's unique blend of science fiction, crime-solving, and conspiracy theories cast a spell over its fans and had them obsessively scouring each episode for clues. Expertly combining chilling storylines with a pervasive sense of unease, The X-Files solidified its place as one of the '90s most unforgettable and influential crime dramas.
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- 4Dennis Franz, Mark-Paul Gosselaar, Gordon Clapp
With its potent combination of hard-hitting realism and impeccably drawn characters, NYPD Blue set the standard for '90s police dramas. The crux of the series was the volatile partnership of Andy Sipowicz, a rough around the edges detective impeccably portrayed by Dennis Franz, and David Caruso's cool and calculating counterpart, John Kelly. Viewers were drawn into their controversial cases, emotional turmoil, and unbreakable camaraderie. NYPD Blue's envelope-pushing storylines and unforgettable characters ensured that it holds a cherished place in the annals of crime television.
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- 5Mariska Hargitay, Ice-T, Kelli Giddish
Building upon the solid foundation laid by its predecessor, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit quickly made a name for itself as a captivating and thought-provoking crime drama. Focusing on the harrowing cases involving crimes of a sexual nature, this show tackled even the toughest of topics with sensitivity and grit. The formidable duo of Mariska Hargitay and Christopher Meloni as Detectives Olivia Benson and Elliot Stabler anchored the series, their chemistry and conviction driving its success. With its unflinching examination of society's darkest corners, this spin-off ensured that the Law & Order legacy would endure well beyond the '90s.
- 6Ernie Hudson, Terry Kinney, Harold Perrineau
Behind the concrete walls of Oswald State Penitentiary loomed a world of intrigue, betrayal, and brutality, all captured by the series Oz. This groundbreaking '90s drama broke new ground with its raw storytelling and visceral performances, earning it a rightful spot among the decade's greats. Guided by the omnipresent Augustus Hill, expertly played by Harold Perrineau, viewers were immersed in the lives and struggles of the diverse cast of characters. Though often shocking and unrelenting, Oz shone a stark light on the underbelly of the American prison system and left a lasting impression on crime television.
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- 7Dick Van Dyke, Barry Van Dyke, Victoria Rowell
With Dick Van Dyke at the helm, Diagnosis: Murder charmed its way into the hearts and minds of '90s television audiences. Combining tension-filled whodunits with lighthearted banter, the show effortlessly balanced crime-solving with humor, all while showcasing Van Dyke's considerable talents. As Dr. Mark Sloan, he teamed up with his police detective son Steve (Barry Van Dyke) to crack cases and bring the guilty to justice. With its enticing blend of levity and suspense, Diagnosis: Murder stands out as a unique and appealing entry in the '90s pantheon of crime dramas.
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- 8Andy Griffith, Julie Sommars, Linda Purl
Beneath that amiable southern charm, Andy Griffith's wily defense attorney Ben Matlock harbored a razor-sharp mind and relentless determination, making Matlock a standout in the crowded field of '90s crime dramas. The show deftly balanced courtroom theatrics with dogged investigations, guided by the unshakeable belief in the truth. With its compelling weekly mysteries and a strong supporting cast, Matlock won over legions of fans and remains an enduring favorite among aficionados of television crime dramas.
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- 9Richard Belzer, Giancarlo Esposito, Peter Gerety
Homicide: Life on the Street captivated audiences with its gritty realism, exploring the dark underbelly of Baltimore and the detectives who labored relentlessly to solve the crime-ridden city's most brutal murders. Featuring a stellar ensemble cast, including Andre Braugher, Clark Johnson, and Melissa Leo, the show's unique blend of character development and gritty storytelling garnered critical acclaim and a loyal following. Often hailed as one of the finest crime dramas of its day, Homicide paved the way for future television classics like The Wire and NCIS.
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- 10Richard Dysart, Alan Rachins, Corbin Bernsen
L.A. Law burst onto the small screen with a bang, effectively capturing the high-stakes atmosphere of a prestigious Los Angeles law firm. Delving into the professional and personal lives of its dynamic characters, the show tackled topical and controversial issues with aplomb. With a powerhouse cast that included the likes of Jimmy Smits, Susan Dey, and Corbin Bernsen, L.A. Law offered viewers a compelling inside look at the legal world, touching upon the human stories at its heart, and carved out a lasting legacy in the 90s crime drama landscape.
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- 11Chuck Norris, Clarence Gilyard, Sheree J. Wilson
Chuck Norris kicked his way into the annals of '90s television history as the hard-hitting, high-kicking Texas Ranger, Cordell Walker. Melding high-stakes action with a potent dose of pathos, Walker, Texas Ranger deftly explored the lives of its characters as they battled against the criminal underworld. Supported by a strong cast, including Clarence Gilyard Jr. as his trusted partner James Trivette, Norris delivered a compelling portrayal of a modern-day lawman whose dedication to justice was as unwavering as his legendary roundhouse kick.
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- 12Michael Chiklis, Theresa Saldana, Kaj-Erik Eriksen
Embracing the challenges of balancing his professional responsibilities with his personal life, Michael Chiklis's Tony Scali redefined the role of the compassionate, yet tough as nails, police commissioner in the popular crime drama, The Commish. As the devoted family man and dedicated law enforcement professional, Scali navigated the often-murky waters of small-town politics and crime-fighting with a combination of wit, ingenuity, and moral conviction. The Commish's refreshing take on the police procedural genre and its uniquely human touch left an enduring impact on '90s crime television.
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- 13David Suchet, Hugh Fraser, Philip Jackson
Agatha Christie's Poirot took viewers on a captivating journey through the elegant and mysterious world of legendary fictional detective Hercule Poirot. Masterfully portrayed by David Suchet, Poirot solved even the most intricate of crimes with unmatched flair, intelligence, and wit. Throughout its long and iconic run, audiences were treated to an array of sumptuous period details, twisty narratives, and compelling character dynamics, solidifying its reputation as a perennial favorite among crime drama enthusiasts.
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- 14Don Johnson, Cheech Marin, Jodi Lyn O'Keefe
As Nash Bridges, Don Johnson brought his signature charisma to the streets of San Francisco, solving complex cases with his boundless wit and guile. Coupled with the irrepressible humor of his loyal partner Joe Dominguez (Cheech Marin), Johnson's Bridges wrestled with balancing his duty to the badge and the pursuit of personal happiness. With its engaging storylines, endearing characters, and picturesque setting, Nash Bridges gave viewers a captivating and unforgettable ride through the tumultuous world of '90s crime dramas.
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- 15Holly Robinson Peete, Steven Williams, Peter DeLuise
21 Jump Street, an innovative and boundary-pushing police procedural, centered on a group of young police officers who went undercover as high school students to investigate crimes. Featuring a memorable cast led by Johnny Depp, the show tackled hard-hitting issues such as drug abuse and the challenges faced by teenagers. By breaking free of typical crime drama tropes, 21 Jump Street carved a niche for itself within the genre and set the stage for other, more unconventional crime shows in the years to follow.
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- 16Fred Dryer, Stepfanie Kramer, Charles Hallahan
Hunter catapulted viewers into the high-octane universe of LAPD homicide detective Rick Hunter (Fred Dryer) and his equally tenacious partner, Dee Dee McCall (Stepfanie Kramer). With its riveting storylines and explosive action, this '90s crime drama showcased the unbreakable bond between partners as they pursued justice in the City of Angels. Hunter's winning combination of gripping crime investigations and believable characters cemented its place in the pantheon of memorable television crime dramas.
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- 17Ally Walker, Julian McMahon, A Martinez
Profiler delved deep into the mind of the criminals, offering viewers an intriguing look at the world of forensic psychology. At its core was Dr. Samantha Waters, compellingly portrayed by Ally Walker, who used her uncanny ability to "see" into the minds of killers to assist the FBI's Violent Crimes Task Force. By exploring the roots and motivations of criminal behavior, Profiler balanced intellectual analysis with edge-of-your-seat drama, earning its status as a must-watch 90s crime drama.
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- 18Chris Bauer, Coby Bell, Bonnie Dennison
Third Watch managed to captivate viewers with its unique focus on not only police officers but also firefighters and paramedics, showcasing the heroes who risked their lives to keep New York City safe. Boasting strong writing and a standout cast, including Bobby Cannavale, Kim Raver, and Molly Price, the show portrayed the intersection of these critical emergency response professions with both intensity and a touch of humanity. The gripping stories and compelling characters cemented Third Watch's place as one of the 90s must-watch crime dramas.
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- 19Rob Estes, Mitzi Kapture, Charlie Brill
Silk Stalkings capitalized on the steamier side of crime dramas, drawing in viewers with its salacious mix of murder and passion among Palm Beach's elite. Rob Estes and Mitzi Kapture starred as the handsome duo tasked with untangling the lurid mysteries found within their city's glamorous world. With a generous helping of titillation and intrigue, Silk Stalkings quickly garnered a substantial following and secured its status as a guilty pleasure among its devoted viewers.
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- 20Maria Bello, Aidan Quinn, Kirk Acevedo
Prime Suspect, led by the incomparable Helen Mirren as the tenacious and trailblazing Detective Chief Inspector Jane Tennison, blazed a path for strong female leads in television crime dramas. Battling both increasingly sordid crimes and rampant sexism within the police force, Tennison's unwavering pursuit of justice struck a chord with audiences worldwide. Prime Suspect's nuanced portrayal of gender dynamics, coupled with its unflinching examination of societal issues through engrossing storylines, guaranteed its place in the annals of crime drama history.
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- 21Emilia Fox, Richard Lintern, David Caves
Silent Witness captivated audiences with its unflinching look at forensic pathology, introducing them to the world of the committed and driven Dr. Sam Ryan, brilliantly portrayed by Amanda Burton. As her keen instincts and unyielding dedication guided her through the challenging crime-solving process, viewers witnessed Ryan's personal and professional life unfolding in tandem. Combining gritty storytelling with a nuanced exploration of the human condition, Silent Witness left an indelible mark on the crime drama landscape.
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- 22John Thaw, Kevin Whately, James Grout
Inspector Morse became an instant classic among aficionados of the genre, weaving intricate and sophisticated tales of murder and betrayal in the picturesque environs of Oxford. Featuring John Thaw and Kevin Whately as the eponymous Chief Inspector Morse and his loyal Sergeant Lewis, the series masterfully combined cerebral plots with rich character development, drawing viewers back week after week. Thanks to its stylish presentation, meticulous writing, and memorable performances, Inspector Morse remains a fan favorite among 90s crime dramas.
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- 23Warren Clarke, Colin Buchanan, David Royle
Dalziel and Pascoe brought to life the odd-couple dynamic of the eponymous Detectives Andy Dalziel, a brash and brutish Yorkshireman, and Peter Pascoe, a soft-spoken and well-educated scholar. As they navigated their disparate approaches to crime-solving, the pair's perfect blend of wit, camaraderie, and perspicacity made for thrilling television. Adapted from Reginald Hill's best-selling novels, this crime drama quickly captured the hearts of viewers as the pair's keen insights led them through the criminal underbelly of the English countryside.
- 24Tom Wilkinson, Patrick Malahide, Simon Williams
The Inspector Alleyn Mysteries, steeped in equal parts charm and intrigue, presented the refined and intellectual Chief Inspector Roderick Alleyn, impeccably portrayed by Patrick Malahide. Followed by his loyal, wisecracking sidekick Sergeant Fox, this duo of Scotland Yard detectives captured audiences worldwide, navigating the sordid world of 1940s British high society, where murder was always lurking behind closed doors. As they deftly pieced together each case's intricate puzzle, their exploits cemented The Inspector Alleyn Mysteries as a memorable addition to the crime drama pantheon.
25The Cops
John Henshaw, David Crellin, Katy CavanaghThe Cops, a gritty and realistic crime drama, took viewers into the chaotic world of a British police force as they grappled with the harsh realities of their job. Featuring John Henshaw, David Crellin, and Tony Mooney, the series excelled in portraying the raw human stories behind the badge, delving into the ethical dilemmas and moral quandaries that went hand in hand with policing. Lauded for its arresting performances and unfiltered look at law enforcement, The Cops remains a standout series from the 90s.
- 26Alex Norton, Blythe Duff, John Michie
Taggart, a beloved Scottish crime drama, delighted fans across the decades with its fearless dedication to unmasking even the darkest facets of Glasgow's underworld. Starring the iconic Mark McManus as the eponymous Detective Chief Inspector Jim Taggart, the show's intricate plots, compelling characters, and distinctive Scottish flavor enamored viewers worldwide. Taggart's success and enduring legacy are a testament to its position as one of the 90s most iconic and memorable crime dramas.
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- 27Nikki Sanderson, Rupert Ward-Lewis, Joseph McFadden
Heartbeat, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the North Yorkshire Moors, endeared itself to viewers with a unique blend of crime drama, romance, and nostalgia. Centered around the spirited police constable Nick Rowan, played by Nick Berry, Heartbeat struck a perfect balance between gripping investigations and heartwarming stories of love and community. With a strong ensemble cast and captivating portrayals of the charms and challenges of rural English life in the 1960s, Heartbeat won the hearts of millions of viewers, cementing its place as a beloved classic among 90s crime dramas.
