Best Detective TV Shows to Watch in 2024

Detective TV shows have been a popular genre for decades, captivating audiences with their thrilling and suspenseful storylines. These shows typically follow a detective or team of detectives as they solve crimes and bring criminals to justice. From classic shows like “Columbo” and “Murder, She Wrote” to modern hits like “True Detective” and “Sherlock,” there is no shortage of options for fans of the genre.

When it comes to choosing the best detective TV show, there are a few critical things to consider. The first is the quality of the writing and acting. A well-written and well-acted show can keep viewers engaged and invested in the characters and their stories. Additionally, the pacing and structure of the show can play a significant role in its overall quality. A show that moves too slowly or lacks a compelling narrative arc may struggle to hold viewers’ attention.

Another critical factor to consider is the type of detective show you prefer. Some shows focus on a single detective, while others follow a team of detectives. Some shows are set in a specific time period or location, while others are more contemporary. By understanding what type of detective show you enjoy most, you can narrow down your options and find the perfect show to suit your tastes.

In this article, we spent countless hours researching and testing various detective TV shows to identify the best of the best. Whether you prefer classic whodunit-style mysteries or gritty, modern crime dramas, we’ve got you covered. Join us as we explore the top detective TV shows of all time and help you find your next binge-worthy obsession.

Best Detective TV Shows

We’ve scoured the depths of detective TV shows to bring you the best of the best. From classic whodunits to modern crime dramas, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a fan of the genre or just looking for a new show to binge-watch, our roundup has something for everyone. So grab some popcorn and get ready to solve some mysteries with our top picks for the best detective TV shows.

Best of TV Detectives 150 Episodes [DVD]

If you’re a fan of classic detective television shows, the Best of TV Detectives 150 Episodes DVD collection is a must-have addition to your collection.

Pros

• Contains 150 complete episodes from 33 different TV series.
• Features a wide variety of classic detective shows, including Dragnet, Alfred Hitchcock Presents, and Burke’s Law.
• Includes appearances from popular TV stars such as Jack Webb and David Janssen.

Cons

• The collection has not been remastered, so the picture and sound quality may not be up to modern standards.
• Some episodes may have minor skips or glitches.
• The packaging is somewhat basic and lacks any special features or bonus content.

Overall, we highly recommend the Best of TV Detectives 150 Episodes DVD collection for any fan of classic detective television. The collection offers an incredible variety of shows and episodes, and the chance to see some of the greatest TV stars of the era in action. While the picture and sound quality may not be perfect, the collection is still a great value and a must-have for any fan of classic TV.

In terms of specific shows included in the collection, fans will love the chance to see classic series like Dragnet, Dick Tracy, and Richard Diamond: Private Eye. The collection also includes lesser-known gems like Checkmate and The Man with a Camera, making it a great way to discover new shows and characters you may have missed.

While the lack of remastering is a downside, it’s important to remember that these shows were originally broadcast decades ago and were not filmed with modern technology in mind. Despite this, the picture and sound quality is still generally good, and any minor glitches or skips are a small price to pay for the chance to enjoy these classic shows once again.

Overall, if you’re a fan of classic detective television, the Best of TV Detectives 150 Episodes DVD collection is definitely worth checking out. With such a wide variety of shows and episodes included, it’s sure to provide hours of entertainment and nostalgia for fans of all ages.

Hawkins: The Complete TV-Movie Collection

If you’re a fan of classic detective shows, then Hawkins: The Complete TV-Movie Collection is a must-have.

Pros

• The collection features James Stewart in his prime, playing the role of Billy Jim Hawkins, a country lawyer who solves crimes with his cousin and a host of talented co-stars.
• The show has a fun, light-hearted tone that makes it perfect for fans of Perry Mason or other classic courtroom dramas.
• The collection includes 9 hours and 48 minutes of content on 4 discs, so you’ll have plenty to keep you entertained.

Cons

• The show’s format may feel a bit dated to modern audiences, with its reliance on courtroom scenes and formulaic plotlines.
• Some of the episodes may be a bit slow-paced for viewers who are used to more action-packed shows.
• The collection is only available on DVD, so you won’t be able to stream it online.

If you’re a fan of classic TV shows, then Hawkins: The Complete TV-Movie Collection is definitely worth checking out. With its charming cast of characters and engaging plotlines, it’s a great way to spend a lazy afternoon. Plus, with 9 hours of content to enjoy, you’ll definitely get your money’s worth.

Sherlock: The Complete Series

If you’re a fan of detective shows, then Sherlock: The Complete Series is a must-have for your collection.

Pros

• The acting is superb, with Benedict Cumberbatch and Martin Freeman delivering outstanding performances as Sherlock Holmes and Dr. John Watson, respectively.
• The show’s writing is top-notch, with clever plot twists and intricate mysteries that will keep you on the edge of your seat.
• The production value is impressive, with stunning cinematography and stylish visuals that add to the show’s overall appeal.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the show’s fast-paced storytelling and complex plotlines difficult to follow.
• The show’s darker themes and occasional violence may not be suitable for all audiences.
• The final season may leave some fans feeling unsatisfied with the resolution of certain storylines.

Overall, we highly recommend Sherlock: The Complete Series for anyone who loves a good detective show. With its brilliant acting, clever writing, and impressive production value, this show is sure to keep you entertained for hours on end. So why wait? Add it to your collection today and start solving mysteries with the world’s most famous detective!

Castle – Seasons 1-8 – The Complete Series – DVD

If you’re a fan of detective TV shows, then Castle – Seasons 1-8 – The Complete Series – DVD is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The series has a captivating storyline that keeps you engaged throughout.
• The dynamic between the two lead characters, Nathan Fillion and Stana Katic, is entertaining and enjoyable to watch.
• The show has a good balance of humor and drama, making it suitable for a wide range of audiences.

Cons

• The DVDs may have some playback issues, as some reviewers have noted that certain discs freeze or are defective.
• The series may become repetitive or formulaic at times, especially in later seasons.
• The show’s conclusion may not be entirely satisfying for all viewers.

We recently watched Castle – Seasons 1-8 – The Complete Series – DVD, and overall, we found it to be a highly entertaining and enjoyable show. The characters are well-developed, and the chemistry between the two leads is a highlight of the series. We appreciated the show’s balance of humor and drama, which kept us engaged and invested in the storyline.

However, we did notice some issues with the DVD playback, as some discs froze or were defective, which was frustrating. Additionally, while the show was consistently entertaining, we did find that it became somewhat repetitive or formulaic in later seasons. Finally, while the show’s conclusion was satisfying in some ways, it may not be entirely to everyone’s liking.

Overall, we would recommend Castle – Seasons 1-8 – The Complete Series – DVD to anyone looking for a fun and engaging detective TV show with great characters and a well-crafted storyline. Just be aware of the potential DVD playback issues and the possibility of some formulaic episodes.

The Magician // All 21 Episodes Plus TV Movie Pilot

If you’re looking for a classic detective TV show with a twist, then The Magician is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The unique premise of having a magician as the detective adds an interesting and entertaining element to the show.
• The collection includes all 21 episodes of the series as well as the TV movie pilot, giving you plenty of content to enjoy.
• The price is very reasonable for the amount of content included.

Cons

• The show can be a bit hokey at times, which may not be to everyone’s taste.
• Some of the special effects and tricks used in the show may seem a bit dated by today’s standards.
• The Magician was cancelled after just one season, so if you become invested in the characters and storylines, you may be disappointed that there isn’t more to watch.

Overall, we would recommend The Magician to anyone who enjoys classic detective shows and is looking for something a bit different. The show’s unique premise adds an entertaining twist to the genre, and the collection includes plenty of content to keep you entertained for hours.

Psych

If you’re looking for a comedic detective show, then Psych is the perfect choice for you.

Pros

• The show is hilarious and will keep you laughing throughout each episode.
• The characters are all unique and have great chemistry with each other, making for an enjoyable viewing experience.
• The cases are interesting and will keep you engaged until the very end.

Cons

• Some of the jokes may be hit or miss for some viewers.
• The show can be a bit formulaic at times, with each episode following a similar structure.
• The later seasons may not be as strong as the earlier ones.

Psych is a show that follows the adventures of Shawn Spencer, a man with a keen eye for detail and a photographic memory, who pretends to be a psychic in order to help the Santa Barbara police solve crimes. Along with his best friend Gus, Shawn solves a wide variety of cases, all while cracking jokes and making pop culture references.

One of the best things about Psych is its humor. The show is filled with witty one-liners and hilarious situations that will keep you laughing from start to finish. The characters are also a big part of what makes the show so enjoyable. Each member of the cast brings something unique to the table, and their interactions with each other are always entertaining.

While the show is primarily a comedy, the cases that Shawn and Gus solve are always interesting and engaging. Whether they’re tracking down a serial killer or trying to solve a seemingly impossible heist, you’ll find yourself invested in each case until the very end.

Overall, if you’re looking for a lighthearted detective show that will keep you entertained, then Psych is definitely worth checking out.

Unforgotten

We highly recommend Unforgotten for anyone who enjoys a well-crafted detective show with a strong plot and captivating characters.

Pros

• Gripping storyline that keeps you on the edge of your seat.
• Outstanding performances by the cast, especially Nicola Walker and Sanjeev Bhaskar.
• Beautifully shot with stunning cinematography that adds to the overall atmosphere.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the pacing slow at times.
• The show deals with heavy themes and can be emotionally intense.
• Not suitable for children due to mature content.

Unforgotten is a British detective series that follows detectives Cassie Stuart and Sunil “Sunny” Khan as they investigate cold cases. The show’s central theme is the idea that the past never truly stays buried and that secrets have a way of resurfacing. The plot is intricate and well-written, with plenty of twists and turns that keep you guessing until the very end.

What sets Unforgotten apart from other detective shows is its exceptional cast. Nicola Walker and Sanjeev Bhaskar have excellent chemistry and bring their characters to life in a way that is both relatable and compelling. The supporting cast is equally strong, with each actor delivering a nuanced performance that adds depth to the story.

The show’s cinematography is also worth mentioning. The shots are beautifully composed, with a keen eye for detail and atmosphere. The use of light and shadow adds to the overall mood of the show, making it a pleasure to watch.

While the pacing may be slow for some viewers, we found it to be a deliberate choice that allows the story to unfold at a natural pace. The show deals with heavy themes such as murder, abuse, and betrayal, so it can be emotionally intense at times. We recommend Unforgotten for mature audiences who enjoy a thought-provoking and well-crafted detective show.

In Plain Sight

If you’re looking for a detective TV show that’s both entertaining and suspenseful, In Plain Sight is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The show has a great cast of characters, each with their own unique personality and backstory.
• The writing is top-notch, with plenty of twists and turns to keep you guessing.
• The show strikes a good balance between the detective work and the personal lives of the characters.

Cons

• Some of the plotlines can be a bit predictable.
• The show can be a bit slow-paced at times.
• The show’s content advisory may not be suitable for all viewers.

In Plain Sight follows the story of Mary Shannon, a US Marshal who’s responsible for protecting witnesses in the Federal Witness Protection Program. The show is set in Albuquerque, New Mexico, and features a diverse cast of characters, including Mary’s partner Marshall Mann, her boss Stan McQueen, and her sister Brandi.

One of the things that makes In Plain Sight stand out is its cast of characters. Each character is well-developed and has their own unique personality and backstory. Mary, in particular, is a strong and complex lead character who’s not afraid to speak her mind and take risks.

The writing is also a strong point of the show. The plotlines are well-crafted and full of twists and turns that keep you guessing. The show also strikes a good balance between the detective work and the personal lives of the characters, which helps to keep things interesting.

However, some of the plotlines can be a bit predictable, and the show can be slow-paced at times. Additionally, the show’s content advisory may not be suitable for all viewers, as it includes violence, alcohol use, smoking, foul language, and sexual content.

Overall, In Plain Sight is a great detective TV show that’s worth checking out if you’re a fan of the genre. Its strong cast of characters and well-crafted writing make it a compelling and entertaining watch.

FBI

If you’re looking for a thrilling detective show that will keep you on the edge of your seat, then FBI is a great option to consider.

Pros

• The show features a diverse cast of characters, which is refreshing to see in a detective show.
• The cases that the FBI team investigates are always complex and intriguing, making for an engaging viewing experience.
• The show does a great job of balancing the personal lives of the characters with the high-stakes cases they’re working on.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the show’s pacing to be slow at times, especially in the earlier episodes.
• The show can be quite intense and graphic at times, which may not be suitable for all viewers.
• While the characters are well-developed, some viewers may find them to be a bit clichéd or predictable.

Overall, we would definitely recommend FBI to anyone looking for a well-written and exciting detective show. With its diverse cast, intriguing cases, and engaging storytelling, it’s definitely worth checking out.

True Detective

If you’re looking for a gripping detective TV show, True Detective is worth considering.

Pros

• The acting is superb, with Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson delivering standout performances.
• The storyline is intricate and keeps you guessing until the end.
• The cinematography is stunning and adds to the overall mood of the show.

Cons

• The pacing can be slow at times, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea.
• The show can be quite dark and intense, so it may not be suitable for all viewers.
• The second season received mixed reviews, so it’s best to focus on the first season.

We recently watched True Detective and were blown away by the acting and storyline. McConaughey and Harrelson have great chemistry and bring their characters to life in a way that’s both compelling and nuanced. The storyline is complex and keeps you guessing until the end, with plenty of twists and turns along the way.

One thing to note is that the pacing can be slow at times, which may not be everyone’s cup of tea. Additionally, the show is quite dark and intense, so it may not be suitable for all viewers. However, if you’re a fan of crime dramas and don’t mind a bit of grittiness, True Detective is definitely worth a watch.

Overall, we highly recommend checking out True Detective if you’re in the market for a new detective TV show. Just make sure to focus on the first season, as the second season received mixed reviews.

Buying Guide

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

Genre

Detective shows can fall into a variety of genres, including drama, comedy, and action. It’s important to choose a genre that suits your preferences and interests. Some shows may have elements of multiple genres, so be sure to read the description or watch a trailer before committing to a series.

Cast

The cast of a detective show can greatly impact your viewing experience. Look for shows with talented actors who bring depth and nuance to their characters. Chemistry between the cast members can also make for an enjoyable watch.

Writing

A well-written script can make or break a detective show. Look for shows with engaging storylines, clever plot twists, and well-developed characters. A show that keeps you guessing and leaves you on the edge of your seat is sure to be a hit.

Production Value

The production value of a show can greatly impact its overall quality. Look for shows with high-quality cinematography, sound design, and special effects. A well-produced show can transport you into the world of the story and make for an immersive viewing experience.

Availability

Finally, consider the availability of the show. Is it available on a streaming service you already subscribe to, or will you need to purchase it separately? Is it currently airing new episodes or has it already concluded? These factors can impact your ability to watch the show and keep up with new episodes.

By considering these key features, you can choose the best detective TV show for your viewing pleasure.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the top-rated detective series currently on Netflix?

Some of the top-rated detective series currently available on Netflix are “Mindhunter,” “Ozark,” “Narcos,” “The Sinner,” and “Broadchurch.” These shows offer a mix of suspense, mystery, and crime-solving that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

Which detective TV series are considered classics?

Some of the classic detective TV series that are still popular today include “Columbo,” “Murder, She Wrote,” “Perry Mason,” “Matlock,” and “The Rockford Files.” These shows have stood the test of time and continue to be enjoyed by audiences of all ages.

What are the latest detective series to watch in 2024?

As of 2024, some of the latest detective series to watch include “The Good Detective,” “The Rookie,” “Prodigal Son,” “FBI,” and “Magnum P.I.” These shows offer fresh storylines, compelling characters, and plenty of suspense to keep you engaged.

Which detective TV shows have the best IMDb ratings?

Some of the detective TV shows with the best IMDb ratings include “Breaking Bad,” “Sherlock,” “The Wire,” “True Detective,” and “The Killing.” These shows are highly regarded by both critics and audiences alike.

Can you recommend some compelling crime and mystery TV series?

Sure, some of the most compelling crime and mystery TV series include “The Blacklist,” “How to Get Away with Murder,” “The Mentalist,” “Castle,” and “Blindspot.” These shows offer a mix of suspense, drama, and mystery that will keep you hooked from start to finish.

What are the must-watch detective series available on Amazon Prime?

Some of the must-watch detective series on Amazon Prime include “Bosch,” “The Widow,” “Absentia,” “Goliath,” and “Sneaky Pete.” These shows offer a mix of crime-solving, suspense, and drama that will keep you entertained for hours.