Best Crime TV Shows to Watch in 2024

Crime television shows have been a staple of entertainment for decades, captivating audiences with their thrilling storylines and complex characters. From classic crime dramas like “Law -amp; Order” to newer hits like “Mindhunter,” crime TV shows have a wide range of appeal and continue to draw in viewers.

When it comes to selecting the best crime TV shows, there are a few critical factors to consider. The first is the quality of the writing and acting. A well-written script and strong performances from the cast can make all the difference in creating a compelling and immersive viewing experience. Additionally, the show’s pacing and plot development should keep viewers engaged and guessing throughout each episode.

Another important consideration is the show’s tone and subject matter. Some crime shows are more lighthearted and comedic in nature, while others are darker and more serious. The subject matter can also vary widely, from police procedurals to psychological thrillers to true crime adaptations.

At our publication, we’ve spent countless hours researching and watching crime TV shows to identify the best of the best. We’ve taken into account all of these critical factors and more to bring you a list of the top crime TV shows that are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat.

Best Crime TV Shows

We’ve scoured the depths of Amazon Prime Video to bring you our top picks for the best crime TV shows. Whether you’re a fan of gritty police procedurals or thrilling whodunits, our list has something for everyone. From classic crime dramas to new releases, these shows are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. So grab some popcorn and settle in for some thrilling TV viewing.

Banacek: The Complete Series Box Set

If you’re a fan of classic TV shows and mysteries, then Banacek: The Complete Series Box Set is a must-have for your collection.

Pros

• The series features a great cast of actors, including George Peppard, Margot Kidder, Brenda Vaccaro, and more, who deliver excellent performances.
• The stories are well-written and engaging, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you on the edge of your seat.
• The bonus features, including the original pilot episode, photo gallery, and TV trivia crossword puzzles, add even more value to this set.

Cons

• The series is from the early 70s, so the production quality may not be up to par with modern TV shows.
• Some of the storylines and themes may be outdated and not suitable for all viewers.
• The set only includes 16 episodes, so it may not provide as much content as other box sets.

If you’re a fan of classic TV mysteries and crime shows, Banacek: The Complete Series Box Set is definitely worth checking out. The show features a great cast of actors who deliver excellent performances, and the stories are well-written and engaging. Plus, the bonus features add even more value to this set. However, keep in mind that the production quality may not be up to par with modern TV shows, and some of the storylines and themes may be outdated and not suitable for all viewers.

The FBI Files

If you’re a fan of true crime shows, The FBI Files is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The show is based on real cases, making it more interesting and educational than fictional crime dramas.
• Each episode is well-researched and provides in-depth details about the FBI’s investigation process.
• The show includes interviews with FBI agents, witnesses, and victims, adding a personal touch to the storytelling.

Cons

• The show can be graphic and disturbing at times, so it may not be suitable for all viewers.
• Some episodes may feel slow-paced, as the show focuses on the investigation process rather than action or suspense.
• The show is not currently available on streaming services, so purchasing the DVD set may be the only way to watch it.

Overall, we would recommend The FBI Files to true crime fans who are interested in learning more about the FBI’s investigation process. While the show may not be for everyone due to its graphic nature and slow pacing, it provides a unique perspective on real-life crime investigations. If you’re interested in purchasing the show, you can find it on Amazon here.

Bones: The Complete Series

We highly recommend purchasing Bones: The Complete Series for any crime TV show enthusiast.

Pros

• The cast is excellent and delivers captivating performances.
• The cases are intriguing and not predictable.
• Every episode is complex and has very good co-stars which keeps each episode surprising.

Cons

• The later seasons tend to focus more on family life than forensic life.
• The discs are stacked in an unusual way and require extra care when handling.
• The fifth season is not available in German language.

From the very first episode, we were hooked on Bones. The chemistry between David Boreanaz and Emily Deschanel is fantastic, and their performances only get better as the series progresses. The supporting cast is equally impressive, and each actor brings something unique to the show.

The cases in Bones are always interesting and keep you guessing until the very end. Unlike some crime TV shows, the outcomes are not always predictable. Each episode is complex and requires close attention to detail, but the payoff is worth it.

While the later seasons tend to focus more on family life than forensic life, the characters are still interesting and amusing. The show never loses its charm, and the writing remains strong throughout.

The only downside to Bones: The Complete Series is the way the discs are stacked. They come in an unusual arrangement that requires extra care when handling to avoid damage. Additionally, the fifth season is not available in German language, which may be a disappointment for some viewers.

Overall, Bones: The Complete Series is an excellent addition to any crime TV show collection. The performances are top-notch, the cases are intriguing, and the writing is consistently strong. We highly recommend it.

Cannon//The Complete Collection/5 Seasons ,122 Episodes

If you are a fan of old-school crime TV shows, then Cannon//The Complete Collection/5 Seasons, 122 Episodes is a must-have in your collection.

Pros

• A complete collection of all five seasons and 122 episodes.
• Starring William Conrad, Robert Loggia, Leslie Nielsen, Nick Nolte, Stefanie Powers, Quinn Martin, David Janssen, and Tina Louise.
• Created and produced by Quinn Martin, who is known for his other award-winning productions like Barnaby Jones, The Streets of San Francisco, and The Fugitive.

Cons

• The quality of the transfer to DVD is not as good as other shows of similar times, such as The Fugitive.
• Some episodes have slightly poor screen quality.
• The show’s plot might not appeal to everyone.

Cannon is a TV show that ran for 5 seasons from 1971 to 1976. The star, William Conrad, played Frank Cannon, an ex-cop who became a private detective. He often went at it alone, using his wits and courage to solve crimes and protect his clients.

The show features a lot of action, suspense, and drama, with Cannon’s character always at the center of it all. The episodes are well-written, with a great mix of mystery and action that keeps you engaged from start to finish.

The complete collection includes all five seasons of the show, with a total of 122 episodes. This means that you get to see the entire story arc of Cannon’s character, from his early days as a private detective to his later years as a seasoned pro.

Overall, if you are a fan of classic crime TV shows, then Cannon//The Complete Collection/5 Seasons, 122 Episodes is definitely worth checking out. It’s a great addition to any collection and provides hours of entertainment.

Unforgotten

If you’re on the hunt for a gripping crime TV show, Unforgotten is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The storyline is complex and unpredictable, keeping you on the edge of your seat.
• The acting is superb, with each character bringing depth and nuance to their role.
• The production values are high, with beautiful cinematography and a haunting soundtrack.

Cons

• The pacing can be slow at times, which may not be to everyone’s taste.
• Some of the subject matter can be heavy and emotionally draining.
• The show can be graphic and disturbing, so it may not be suitable for all viewers.

We were immediately drawn in by the intricate plot and the compelling characters. Each episode is full of twists and turns, and we were constantly guessing who the culprit might be. The acting is top-notch, with Sanjeev Bhaskar and Sinead Keenan delivering standout performances. We also appreciated the attention to detail in the production design, which helped to create a realistic and immersive world.

That being said, the show isn’t without its flaws. There were a few moments where the pacing dragged, and we found ourselves checking the time. Additionally, some of the subject matter is quite heavy and can be difficult to watch. We also want to caution viewers that the show can be quite graphic and disturbing, with depictions of violence and abuse.

Overall, if you’re a fan of crime dramas and are looking for something that will keep you on the edge of your seat, Unforgotten is definitely worth checking out. Just be prepared for a rollercoaster of emotions along the way.

Forever: The Complete Series DVD

If you’re looking for a crime TV show that will keep you entertained for hours, then Forever: The Complete Series DVD is a great option.

Pros

• The show has an interesting premise that keeps you hooked from the very beginning.
• The characters are well-developed and likable.
• The show’s mix of crime-solving and supernatural elements make it unique and captivating.

Cons

• The show was cancelled after only one season, leaving many questions unanswered.
• Some of the crime-solving elements can be predictable.
• The show’s supernatural elements may not appeal to all viewers.

If you’re a fan of crime shows with a supernatural twist, then Forever: The Complete Series DVD is definitely worth checking out. The show follows the story of Dr. Henry Morgan, a medical examiner who has been alive for over 200 years. As he helps solve crimes in New York City, he must keep his immortality a secret while also trying to uncover the mystery behind his own existence.

One of the best things about Forever is its interesting premise. The idea of a man who can’t die is fascinating, and the show does a great job of exploring the implications of this. Additionally, the characters are well-developed and likable, making it easy to become invested in their stories.

However, one of the downsides of the show is that it was cancelled after only one season. This means that some storylines are left unresolved, which can be frustrating for viewers. Additionally, some of the crime-solving elements can be predictable, which may not appeal to all viewers. Finally, the show’s supernatural elements may not be everyone’s cup of tea.

Overall, if you’re looking for a crime show with a unique twist, then Forever: The Complete Series DVD is definitely worth checking out. The show’s interesting premise, well-developed characters, and blend of crime-solving and supernatural elements make it a captivating watch.

The Mentalist: The Complete Series

If you’re a fan of crime dramas, The Mentalist: The Complete Series is a must-have in your collection.

Pros

• The show has a unique premise that sets it apart from other crime dramas.
• The characters are well-developed and have great chemistry with each other.
• The show has a good balance of humor and drama.

Cons

• Some of the cases can be predictable and formulaic.
• The show can get repetitive with its use of certain plot devices.
• The later seasons can feel rushed and lack the same quality as the earlier ones.

We highly recommend The Mentalist: The Complete Series for its unique premise, well-developed characters, and great balance of humor and drama. While some of the cases can be predictable and the show can get repetitive with its use of certain plot devices, it’s still a great addition to any crime drama fan’s collection.

The show follows former psychic Patrick Jane, who uses his skills of observation and deduction to help the California Bureau of Investigation solve crimes. The chemistry between the characters, particularly between Jane and his boss Teresa Lisbon, is a highlight of the show.

While some of the cases can be predictable, the show still manages to keep things interesting with its unique premise and use of psychology and chess to solve crimes. However, the later seasons can feel rushed and lack the same quality as the earlier ones.

Overall, The Mentalist: The Complete Series is a great addition to any crime drama fan’s collection. It’s a unique show with well-developed characters and a great balance of humor and drama.

Top Crime TV Show: Breaking Bad

If you’re looking for a crime TV show that will leave you on the edge of your seat, Breaking Bad is the perfect choice. We highly recommend this show for anyone who loves a good crime drama.

Pros

• Gripping storyline that will keep you hooked from start to finish.
• Incredible character development that will make you feel invested in the lives of the characters.
• Excellent acting from the entire cast, especially Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the show’s violence and drug use to be too intense.
• The show can be emotionally draining at times.
• The ending may be divisive for some viewers.

Breaking Bad tells the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher who turns to cooking and selling meth to provide for his family after being diagnosed with cancer. The show is full of suspenseful moments and unexpected twists that will keep you guessing until the very end.

One of the best things about Breaking Bad is the character development. You’ll find yourself rooting for characters you never thought you would care about, and feeling conflicted about characters you thought were the heroes. The show does an excellent job of making you feel invested in the lives of the characters.

The acting in Breaking Bad is top-notch. Bryan Cranston’s performance as Walter White is truly remarkable, and Aaron Paul’s portrayal of Jesse Pinkman is equally impressive. The supporting cast is also excellent, with standout performances from Giancarlo Esposito and Jonathan Banks.

While Breaking Bad is certainly not a show for everyone, we highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys a good crime drama. The show’s gripping storyline, excellent character development, and top-notch acting make it one of the best crime TV shows of all time.

FBI

If you’re looking for a crime TV show that will keep you on the edge of your seat, FBI is a great choice.

Pros

• The show features a diverse cast of characters, which adds depth and complexity to the storylines.
• The writing is strong, with well-crafted plot twists and character development.
• The show offers a unique perspective on the FBI and the work that its agents do.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the show’s depictions of violence and crime to be too intense.
• The pacing can be slow at times, which may be frustrating for viewers who prefer a faster-paced show.
• The show’s focus on the FBI may not be of interest to viewers who prefer shows that explore other aspects of law enforcement.

FBI is a well-crafted crime drama that offers a unique perspective on the work of the FBI. The show’s diverse cast of characters adds depth and complexity to the storylines, and the writing is consistently strong. While the show’s depictions of violence and crime can be intense, they are always handled with care and sensitivity. However, the pacing can be slow at times, which may be frustrating for viewers who prefer a faster-paced show. Overall, if you’re looking for a crime TV show that will keep you engaged and entertained, FBI is definitely worth checking out.

CSI: Crime Scene Investigation

If you’re a fan of crime shows, then you might want to check out CSI: Crime Scene Investigation. Here’s what we think about this show:

Pros

• The show has a unique take on crime-solving, as it focuses on forensic evidence and science. This makes for a refreshing change from the usual detective work that you see in other shows.
• The cast is excellent, with each actor bringing their own unique style to their character. You’ll find yourself invested in their personal lives as much as you are in the cases they’re working on.
• The show has a great balance of drama and suspense, with each episode leaving you wanting more.

Cons

• The show can be quite graphic, with some scenes being too intense for some viewers.
• Some of the cases can be predictable, with the culprit being easy to guess early on in the episode.
• The show can be quite formulaic, with each episode following a similar structure.

Overall, we think that CSI: Crime Scene Investigation is worth checking out if you’re a fan of crime shows. The unique take on crime-solving and excellent cast make for an enjoyable viewing experience. However, the graphic nature of some scenes and predictability of some cases may turn off some viewers. If you’re interested in checking it out, you can find it on Amazon here.

Buying Guide

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

Genre

First and foremost, consider the type of crime show you’re interested in. Do you prefer a classic whodunit mystery or a gritty police procedural? Are you looking for a show with a strong female lead or a series that explores the criminal underworld? Knowing your preferred genre can help narrow down your options and ensure you find a show that fits your interests.

Cast

The cast of a crime show can make or break the viewing experience. Look for shows with talented actors who bring depth and nuance to their roles. A strong ensemble cast can also help create a sense of camaraderie and make the show more engaging to watch.

Writing

A well-written crime show is essential for keeping viewers on the edge of their seats. Look for shows with intricate plots, clever twists, and compelling character development. A good crime show should also balance suspense with moments of levity and humor.

Production Value

The production value of a crime show can greatly impact its overall quality. Look for shows with high-quality cinematography, realistic sets and costumes, and well-executed action sequences. A strong attention to detail can help create a more immersive viewing experience.

Accessibility

Finally, consider how accessible the show is to watch. Is it available on a streaming service you subscribe to, or will you need to purchase individual episodes? Is it currently airing new episodes, or is the series complete and available to binge-watch? These factors can influence how easy it is to watch the show and how invested you become in its storyline.

By considering these factors, you can find the best crime TV show for your viewing preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated crime series to watch right now?

As of 2024, some of the top-rated crime series to watch include “Mindhunter,” “True Detective,” “Ozark,” “Narcos,” and “The Sopranos.” These shows have received critical acclaim and have been praised for their compelling storylines, well-developed characters, and excellent performances.

Which crime TV series is considered the best of all time?

The answer to this question can vary depending on personal preference, but many consider “The Wire” to be the best crime TV series of all time. The show is known for its realistic portrayal of crime and law enforcement in Baltimore, as well as its complex characters and nuanced storytelling.

Can you recommend some crime thriller series that are a must-watch?

If you’re looking for some must-watch crime thriller series, we recommend checking out “Breaking Bad,” “The Killing,” “Peaky Blinders,” “Broadchurch,” and “Fargo.” These shows have all received critical acclaim and are known for their suspenseful and thrilling storylines.

What are some compelling detective shows currently available?

If you’re a fan of detective shows, we recommend checking out “Sherlock,” “The Mentalist,” “Criminal Minds,” “Luther,” and “Line of Duty.” These shows all feature compelling detectives and intriguing cases that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Which crime shows on streaming platforms are based on true stories?

If you’re interested in crime shows based on true stories, we recommend checking out “Mindhunter,” “Narcos,” “Unbelievable,” “Manhunt: Unabomber,” and “The Assassination of Gianni Versace: American Crime Story.” These shows are all based on real-life events and have received critical acclaim for their accuracy and attention to detail.

Are there any critically acclaimed serial killer shows?

Yes, there are several critically acclaimed serial killer shows, including “Dexter,” “Hannibal,” “Mindhunter,” “The Fall,” and “Zodiac.” These shows are known for their chilling portrayals of serial killers and their psychological profiles.