Best Cop TV Shows to Watch in 2024

Police procedurals have been a staple of television for decades, with countless shows featuring detectives, crime scenes, and high-stakes investigations. But not all cop shows are created equal. Some stand out for their gripping storylines, complex characters, and attention to detail, while others fall flat.

In this article, we’ll be exploring the best cop TV shows on the market, taking a deep dive into what makes them great and why they’re worth your time. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the genre or simply looking for a new series to binge-watch, we’ve got you covered.

When it comes to choosing the right cop show, there are a few key factors to keep in mind. First and foremost, you want a series that is well-written, with compelling characters and intricate plotlines that keep you on the edge of your seat. You also want a show that is grounded in reality, with accurate depictions of police work and criminal investigations.

Of course, different viewers will have different preferences when it comes to tone and style. Some may prefer gritty, hard-hitting dramas, while others may prefer lighter, more comedic fare. Whatever your taste, we’ve got a cop show that’s sure to satisfy.

In the following sections, we’ll be highlighting some of the best cop TV shows on the market, discussing what makes them stand out and why they’re worth watching. So buckle up and get ready to dive into the world of police procedurals – you won’t be disappointed.

Best Cop TV Shows

We all love a good crime show, and cop TV shows have been a staple in the entertainment industry for decades. From gritty dramas to hilarious comedies, there’s no shortage of shows to choose from. In this roundup, we’ve compiled a list of the best cop TV shows that you can stream on Amazon right now. Whether you’re a fan of classic police procedurals or more modern crime shows, we’re confident that you’ll find something to love on our list. So sit back, grab some popcorn, and get ready to binge-watch some of the best cop TV shows out there.

S.W.A.T. Uncensored

If you’re looking for a cop TV show that will keep you on the edge of your seat, S.W.A.T. Uncensored is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The action scenes are intense and well-choreographed.
• The characters are well-developed and the acting is top-notch.
• The show tackles important social and political issues in a thoughtful way.

Cons

• Some of the dialogue can be a bit clichéd at times.
• The show can be a bit heavy-handed with its messaging at times.
• The plot can be a bit predictable at times.

We recently had the chance to watch S.W.A.T. Uncensored and we were blown away by the quality of the show. The action scenes are some of the best we’ve seen on TV, with expertly choreographed shootouts and high-speed chases that will leave you breathless.

But what really sets S.W.A.T. Uncensored apart is its characters. Each member of the S.W.A.T. team is given a chance to shine, with well-developed backstories and complex motivations. And the acting is top-notch, with everyone from the lead actors to the supporting cast delivering standout performances.

One thing we really appreciated about S.W.A.T. Uncensored is that it doesn’t shy away from tackling important social and political issues. From police brutality to immigration, the show takes on some weighty topics in a thoughtful and nuanced way.

Of course, no show is perfect, and S.W.A.T. Uncensored does have a few flaws. Some of the dialogue can be a bit clichéd at times, and the show can be a bit heavy-handed with its messaging. And while the plot is generally engaging, there are a few moments where it feels a bit predictable.

Overall, though, we would highly recommend S.W.A.T. Uncensored to anyone looking for a gripping cop TV show. With intense action, well-developed characters, and thoughtful social commentary, it’s definitely one of the best shows of its kind out there.

Andy Griffith Show

If you’re a fan of classic TV shows and police procedurals, the Andy Griffith Show is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The show is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time and remains just as entertaining now as it was when it first aired.
• The characters are well-developed and endearing, making it easy to get invested in their stories and root for them.
• The show strikes a great balance between comedy and drama, making it a great choice for those who want a lighthearted show that still has substance.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the show’s pacing to be slow compared to more modern police dramas.
• The show’s setting and tone may not appeal to all viewers, especially those who prefer grittier, more realistic portrayals of law enforcement.
• As a show from a different era, some of the humor and social norms may not resonate with modern audiences.

Overall, if you’re looking for a classic police procedural that’s equal parts heartwarming and entertaining, the Andy Griffith Show is definitely worth checking out.

Cops – Bad Girls

If you’re a fan of gritty, hardcore law enforcement shows, then Cops – Bad Girls is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The show offers a unique perspective on how cops deal with female suspects.
• The episodes are raw, real, and will keep you on the edge of your seat.
• The DVD is a great option for those who don’t have cable or want to watch the show on their own time.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the content too graphic or disturbing.
• The DVD only contains one disc with a runtime of 30 minutes.
• The show may not be suitable for all audiences due to strong language and mature themes.

We were impressed with the show’s no-holds-barred approach to law enforcement. The female suspects featured in Cops – Bad Girls are just as feisty and unpredictable as their male counterparts, and it’s fascinating to see how cops across the country handle these situations.

While some viewers may find the content too intense, we appreciated the show’s realism and willingness to tackle tough issues. The DVD is a great option for fans of the show who want to watch it on their own time, and the quality is top-notch.

Overall, we recommend Cops – Bad Girls to anyone who enjoys gritty, realistic law enforcement shows. Just be prepared for some intense moments and mature themes.

Longmire: The Complete Series (DVD)

If you’re looking for a thrilling cop TV show with a Western twist, Longmire: The Complete Series (DVD) is a great choice.

Pros

• The show has a unique blend of crime drama and Western elements that makes it stand out from other cop shows.
• The characters are well-developed and the acting is top-notch.
• The complete series includes 15 discs, so you’ll have plenty of episodes to watch.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the pacing to be slow at times.
• The show can be quite dark and gritty, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
• The DVD set is quite bulky and may take up a lot of shelf space.

Longmire follows the story of Walt Longmire, the sheriff of Absaroka County, Wyoming, who is trying to rebuild his life after the murder of his wife. Along with his loyal deputies, he works to keep the peace in his county while dealing with personal and professional challenges.

One of the things that sets Longmire apart from other cop shows is its unique blend of crime drama and Western elements. The show takes place in a small town in Wyoming, and the beautiful scenery and cowboy culture are an integral part of the story.

The characters in Longmire are well-developed and the acting is top-notch. Australian actor Robert Taylor does an excellent job portraying the stoic and unflappable Walt Longmire, while Katee Sackhoff shines as his tough and loyal deputy Vic Moretti.

However, some viewers may find the pacing of the show to be slow at times. The show is also quite dark and gritty, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

Overall, if you’re a fan of crime dramas with a Western twist, Longmire: The Complete Series (DVD) is definitely worth checking out. With 15 discs included in the set, you’ll have plenty of episodes to keep you entertained for hours.

Baretta – Season One

If you’re a fan of classic cop shows, Baretta – Season One is a must-watch.

Pros

• Robert Blake’s performance as Tony Baretta is outstanding
• The show is gritty, realistic, and set the standard for cop shows
• The first season contains all 12 episodes of the series

Cons

• The show is dated and may not appeal to younger viewers
• Some of the dialogue and themes may be considered offensive by modern standards
• Only one season is available on DVD

Baretta is an undercover cop who is tough, eccentric, and dangerous. Robert Blake’s performance as Baretta is outstanding, and he truly brings the character to life. The show is gritty and realistic, setting the standard for cop shows that followed.

However, the show is dated and may not appeal to younger viewers. Some of the dialogue and themes may be considered offensive by modern standards. Additionally, only one season is available on DVD, so fans of the show may be left wanting more.

Overall, if you’re a fan of classic cop shows, Baretta – Season One is definitely worth a watch. Just be aware of the show’s dated elements and limited availability.

Best Of The Best 4 Movie Collection DVD Box Set

We highly recommend this Best Of The Best 4 Movie Collection DVD Box Set for those who are fans of martial arts and action movies. This set is perfect for those who want to experience all four Best Of The Best movies in one go.

Pros

• The set includes all four Best Of The Best movies, so you can enjoy the complete story from start to finish.
• The movies are perfect for those who love martial arts, action, and sports genres, and the fight scenes are well-choreographed and thrilling to watch.
• The collection includes a total of 469 minutes of runtime, making it a great value for your money.

Cons

• The DVD set does not include any special features or bonus content, so you only get the movies themselves.
• Some of the movies in the set may not be suitable for children due to violence and mature content.
• The DVD set may not be compatible with all DVD players or regions, so make sure to check before purchasing.

The Best Of The Best 4 Movie Collection DVD Box Set is a must-have for fans of martial arts and action movies. The storyline is engaging, and the fight scenes are well-executed and exciting to watch. The movies are perfect for those who enjoy sports and action genres, and the collection includes all four Best Of The Best movies, so you can enjoy the complete story from start to finish.

If you’re a fan of martial arts and action movies, this DVD set is an excellent investment. The movies are well worth watching, and the collection offers a great value for your money. However, keep in mind that some of the movies may not be suitable for children, and the DVD set may not be compatible with all DVD players or regions. Overall, we highly recommend the Best Of The Best 4 Movie Collection DVD Box Set for anyone looking for an exciting and engaging movie collection.

Beverly Hills Cop

If you’re a fan of action-packed cop movies, Beverly Hills Cop is an absolute must-see. It’s a classic film that has stood the test of time and continues to be a fan favorite.

Pros

• Eddie Murphy’s performance as Axel Foley is outstanding and will keep you entertained throughout the entire movie.
• The action scenes are well-choreographed and will have you on the edge of your seat.
• The soundtrack is amazing and perfectly complements the movie’s tone.

Cons

• The movie’s content advisory includes nudity, violence, substance use, alcohol use, smoking, foul language, and sexual content, which may not be suitable for all viewers.
• Some of the jokes and references in the movie may feel outdated to modern audiences.
• The plot may feel predictable to some viewers.

From the opening scene to the end credits, Beverly Hills Cop delivers an unforgettable experience that will leave you wanting more. Eddie Murphy’s performance as Axel Foley is simply outstanding, and the supporting cast does an excellent job of bringing the story to life. The action scenes are well-choreographed and will have you on the edge of your seat, while the soundtrack is amazing and perfectly complements the movie’s tone.

However, it’s worth noting that the movie’s content advisory includes nudity, violence, substance use, alcohol use, smoking, foul language, and sexual content, which may not be suitable for all viewers. Additionally, some of the jokes and references in the movie may feel outdated to modern audiences, and the plot may feel predictable to some viewers.

Overall, Beverly Hills Cop is a classic cop movie that is definitely worth watching. If you’re a fan of the genre, you won’t be disappointed.

Numbers: The Complete Series

If you’re looking for a TV show that combines crime-solving with mathematics, then Numbers: The Complete Series might be the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The show’s unique concept of using mathematics to solve crimes makes it stand out from other cop TV shows.
• The cast’s chemistry and performances are excellent, making the characters and their relationships feel genuine.
• The DVD set is well-packaged and the discs are clear and without skips.

Cons

• Some viewers might find the math-heavy dialogue hard to follow or understand.
• The show’s quality declines towards the end, with some storylines feeling repetitive or forced.
• The discs are somewhat out of order, which might require some effort to sort them correctly.

We were impressed by the show’s concept and execution, which manages to blend procedural crime drama with mathematics in an engaging and unique way. The cast’s performances are also a highlight, with David Krumholtz and Rob Morrow’s brotherly dynamic being a standout. The packaging of the DVD set is also well-done, with clear and skip-free discs.

However, we acknowledge that some viewers might find the math-heavy dialogue and concepts hard to follow or understand. Additionally, the show’s quality does decline towards the end, with some storylines feeling repetitive or forced. Finally, the discs are somewhat out of order, which might require some effort to sort them correctly.

In conclusion, if you’re a fan of crime dramas and are looking for a unique twist, Numbers: The Complete Series might be worth checking out. Just be aware of the potential drawbacks.

Pacific Criminal (English Subtitles)

If you’re a fan of French crime dramas, Pacific Criminal is a must-watch.

Pros

• The storyline is captivating and keeps you on the edge of your seat.
• The acting is top-notch, especially from lead actress Yaelle Trules.
• The cinematography is stunning and adds to the overall atmosphere of the show.

Cons

• The lack of subtitles can be frustrating for non-French speakers.
• Some of the plot points can be a bit convoluted and hard to follow.
• The show can be quite graphic and violent at times, so it may not be suitable for all viewers.

We were immediately drawn in by the intricate plot and the strong performances from the cast. Yaelle Trules in particular shines as the complex and flawed police captain. The show does a great job of balancing the personal lives of the characters with the intense investigations they’re involved in.

One downside is that there are no subtitles available, so if you don’t speak French, you’ll have to rely on your own language skills or miss out on some of the nuances of the story. Additionally, some of the plot twists can be a bit hard to follow, especially if you’re not paying close attention.

Overall, Pacific Criminal is a fantastic addition to any crime drama lover’s watchlist. Just be aware that it’s not for the faint of heart – there are some intense and graphic scenes throughout the show.

If you’re interested in checking out Pacific Criminal for yourself, you can find it on Amazon here.

CHiPs: The Complete Sixth and Final Season

If you’re a fan of the classic cop drama, CHiPs, then you’ll definitely want to add the complete sixth and final season to your collection.

Pros

• The season kicks off with an exciting undercover operation that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
• The addition of new series regular, Bobby Nelson, adds a fresh dynamic to the show.
• Guest stars such as David Caruso and Julie Newmar bring their own unique flair to the series.

Cons

• The absence of Jon Baker may disappoint some fans.
• The final season may not be as strong as previous ones.
• The lack of special features may be a downside for collectors.

As someone who has watched the entire series, we can confidently say that the sixth and final season of CHiPs is a must-have for fans. The season starts off with a bang, as Ponch and his new partner go undercover to catch illegal weapons hijackers. The addition of a new character, Bobby Nelson, brings a fresh dynamic to the show and keeps things interesting.

While some fans may be disappointed by the absence of Jon Baker, the show still manages to hold its own. Guest stars such as David Caruso and Julie Newmar bring their own unique flair to the series.

Overall, the lack of special features may be a downside for collectors, but the excitement and intrigue of the final season make it a worthwhile addition to any CHiPs fan’s collection. Click here to purchase CHiPs: The Complete Sixth and Final Season on DVD.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best cop TV show, there are a few key features to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind before making your selection:

Genre

First and foremost, consider the genre of the show. Cop shows can vary widely in tone and style, from gritty crime dramas to lighthearted comedies. Think about what kind of mood you’re in and what kind of themes and storylines you enjoy.

Acting

One of the most important aspects of any TV show is the quality of the acting. Look for shows with strong, believable performances from the main cast, as well as compelling supporting characters.

Writing

The writing is another crucial element to consider. Look for shows with well-crafted scripts that balance action, drama, and character development. A good cop show should keep you engaged and invested in the story from start to finish.

Production Values

Finally, consider the production values of the show. Look for high-quality cinematography, sound design, and special effects that help bring the story to life. A well-produced cop show can be a truly immersive experience.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can make a more informed decision when choosing the best cop TV show for your viewing pleasure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some classic police series considered must-watch?

If you’re looking for classic police shows that have stood the test of time, we recommend “Hill Street Blues”, “NYPD Blue”, “The Wire”, “Law -amp; Order”, and “The Shield”. These shows set the standard for the police procedural genre and are still highly regarded by critics and audiences alike.

Which police dramas are currently trending for binge-watching?

If you’re looking for a police drama to binge-watch, we recommend “Mindhunter”, “True Detective”, “Line of Duty”, “Broadchurch”, and “Happy Valley”. These shows have gained popularity in recent years and are known for their compelling storylines and well-developed characters.

What are the top-rated police procedural series on streaming platforms?

Some of the top-rated police procedural series on streaming platforms include “The Killing”, “Bosch”, “Criminal Minds”, “Chicago P.D.”, and “Blue Bloods”. These shows are popular among audiences and have received positive reviews from critics.

Can you recommend any gritty detective shows with compelling storylines?

If you’re looking for a gritty detective show with a compelling storyline, we recommend “The Fall”, “Luther”, “Top of the Lake”, “Happy Valley”, and “Broadchurch”. These shows are known for their intense and suspenseful plots, as well as their strong lead performances.

Which police TV shows from the 2020s have garnered critical acclaim?

Some of the most critically acclaimed police TV shows from the 2020s include “Watchmen”, “I May Destroy You”, “The Undoing”, “Mare of Easttown”, and “The Queen’s Gambit”. These shows have received widespread praise for their storytelling, performances, and production values.

Are there any reality-based law enforcement series worth watching?

If you’re interested in reality-based law enforcement series, we recommend “Cops”, “Live PD”, “The First 48”, “Forensic Files”, and “Body Cam”. These shows offer a glimpse into the real-life work of law enforcement officers and are known for their gripping and often intense footage.