Best Police TV Shows to Watch in 2024

Police procedural TV shows have been a staple of television programming for decades. These shows follow the work of police officers as they investigate crimes, gather evidence, and bring criminals to justice. They offer viewers a glimpse into the inner workings of law enforcement, and often showcase the personal lives of the officers involved.

When it comes to police TV shows, there are countless options to choose from. Some shows focus on the gritty realities of police work, while others take a more lighthearted approach. Some shows are set in the present day, while others take place in historical or fictional settings. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start.

When looking for the best police TV shows, there are a few key factors to consider. One important factor is the quality of the writing. A well-written show can keep viewers engaged and invested in the characters and storylines. Another important factor is the realism of the show. While some viewers may enjoy more fantastical elements, many prefer shows that accurately depict police work and the criminal justice system.

We spent hours researching and watching dozens of police TV shows to identify the best of the best. Our top picks offer a mix of compelling characters, engaging storylines, and realistic depictions of police work. Whether you’re a die-hard fan of the genre or just looking for a new show to binge-watch, these shows are sure to keep you hooked.

Best Police TV Shows

We have compiled a list of the best police TV shows that have captured our attention over the years. From nail-biting investigations to intense interrogations, these shows have kept us on the edge of our seats. Whether you’re a fan of classic crime dramas or modern police procedurals, we’ve got you covered. So, sit back, relax, and get ready to binge-watch some of the best police TV shows out there.

Police Story

If you’re a fan of classic police dramas, Police Story is a must-have addition to your collection.

Pros

• The 6-disc set includes 21 original 1-hour episodes, providing hours of entertainment.
• Notable guest stars, including Kurt Russell and Angie Dickinson, add to the show’s appeal.
• Created by Joseph Wambaugh, a former LAPD detective/sergeant, the show provides an authentic look at the challenges faced by cops in the 1970s.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the show’s gritty realism too intense.
• The show’s age may be apparent in its production values and pacing.
• The lack of bonus features may disappoint some collectors.

Police Story offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of policing in the 1970s, with its focus on real-world challenges and authentic portrayal of the era. While the show’s gritty realism may be too intense for some viewers, its strong writing and notable guest stars make it a compelling watch.

The 6-disc set includes 21 original 1-hour episodes, providing hours of entertainment. Notable guest stars such as Kurt Russell and Angie Dickinson add to the show’s appeal, while the show’s creator, Joseph Wambaugh, brings a level of authenticity to the storytelling that’s hard to find in other police dramas.

That being said, the show’s age may be apparent in its production values and pacing, which may turn off some viewers. Additionally, the lack of bonus features may disappoint collectors looking for additional content beyond the episodes themselves.

Overall, Police Story is a strong addition to any collection of police dramas, offering a unique look at the challenges faced by cops in the 1970s. If you’re a fan of the genre, it’s definitely worth checking out.

Police Squad: The Complete Series

If you’re looking for a hilarious and entertaining police TV show, then Police Squad: The Complete Series is definitely worth considering.

Pros

• The show is full of sight-gags, puns, and non-sequiturs that will keep you laughing from beginning to end.
• The characters are well-developed and their chemistry is fantastic, which makes the show even more enjoyable.
• The special features are decent and add some extra value to the set.

Cons

• The show only lasted for six episodes, which may leave you wanting more.
• The humor might not be for everyone, as it is very slapstick and zany.
• The show is only available in English, which may be a drawback for non-English speakers.

We recently watched Police Squad: The Complete Series and were thoroughly entertained by its quirky and offbeat humor. The show features Leslie Nielsen as Detective Frank Drebin and Alan North as Captain Ed Hocken, who solve some of the toughest cases with their unique brand of humor and wit.

One of the things we loved about the show was the constant barrage of sight-gags, puns, and non-sequiturs that kept us laughing from beginning to end. The show is also well-written, with characters that are well-developed and have great chemistry with each other.

While the show only lasted for six episodes, we still found it to be a great value for the price. The special features included with the set were also decent and added some extra value.

However, the humor in the show might not be for everyone, as it is very slapstick and zany. Additionally, the fact that the show is only available in English may be a drawback for non-English speakers.

Overall, we highly recommend Police Squad: The Complete Series to anyone who enjoys offbeat humor and is looking for a good laugh.

Police Squad! The Complete Series

If you’re looking for a hilarious and entertaining police TV show, Police Squad! The Complete Series is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• Non-stop sight gags and non sequiturs that will keep you laughing throughout each episode
• Great performances from Leslie Nielsen, Alan North, and the supporting cast
• Includes special features such as commentaries and interviews that provide insight into the show’s production

Cons

• Only six episodes were produced, so you’ll quickly run out of content to watch
• Some of the jokes may feel dated or repetitive
• The show was cancelled after only one season, so you won’t get to see the storylines fully resolved

From the first episode, we were hooked on Police Squad! The show’s unique blend of slapstick humor and clever writing make it a must-watch for anyone who enjoys a good laugh. Leslie Nielsen is perfect as the straight-faced detective Frank Drebin, and Alan North provides great comedic relief as Drebin’s befuddled boss, Capt. Ed Hocken. The supporting cast is also fantastic, with memorable characters like shoeshine boy “Johnny the Snitch” and lab technician Ted Olson.

One of the things we loved most about Police Squad! is the sheer number of sight gags and non sequiturs packed into each episode. You’ll need to pay close attention to catch them all, but it’s worth it for the laughs. We also appreciated the show’s willingness to poke fun at itself and other police dramas, with episode titles that never match the actual storyline and “celebrity guest stars” who get killed off in the opening credits.

While there are some downsides to Police Squad!, such as the limited number of episodes and the occasional dated joke, we still think it’s a great choice for anyone looking for a funny and entertaining police TV show. The special features included on the DVD, such as commentaries and interviews, also provide some interesting insights into the show’s production. Overall, we highly recommend Police Squad! The Complete Series.

Police Squad TV and Movie Collection

If you’re looking for a hilarious and satirical take on police TV shows, the Police Squad TV and Movie Collection is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• Leslie Nielsen’s comedic genius
• Classic TV show and three funny movies
• Affordable collection

Cons

• Only available in NTSC format
• Not compatible with UK DVD players
• Some customers received damaged or used products

We absolutely loved the Police Squad TV and Movie Collection. Leslie Nielsen’s deadpan humor and ridiculous situations had us laughing out loud throughout the entire collection. The classic TV show and three movies are all included, making this a great value for the price.

However, it’s important to note that this collection is only available in NTSC format, which may not be compatible with all DVD players. Some customers also received damaged or used products, so be sure to check your purchase carefully upon arrival.

Overall, we highly recommend the Police Squad TV and Movie Collection for anyone looking for a hilarious take on police TV shows. Just be sure to check your DVD player compatibility before purchasing.

Cuffs

If you’re looking for a thrilling police TV show, Cuffs is definitely worth checking out.

Pros

• The show features a diverse cast of characters, including strong female leads.
• The episodes are well-written and engaging, with plenty of action and suspense.
• The show also explores the personal lives of the characters, making them more relatable and interesting.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the show’s portrayal of police work to be unrealistic or overly dramatic.
• The show can be quite violent at times, with scenes of graphic injuries and deaths.
• The show’s use of stereotypes and clichés may be off-putting to some viewers.

Overall, we would recommend Cuffs to anyone looking for a fast-paced and exciting police TV show. The show’s diverse cast and well-written episodes make it a standout in the genre. However, viewers should be prepared for some graphic violence and potentially unrealistic portrayals of police work.

In Cuffs, we follow the lives of several police officers working in Brighton, England. The show does a great job of balancing action-packed crime scenes with more personal moments, giving us a glimpse into the characters’ personal lives and struggles. The show’s diverse cast is also a refreshing change of pace, with strong female characters and a range of ethnicities represented.

That being said, some viewers may find the show’s portrayal of police work to be overly dramatic or unrealistic. The show often relies on clichés and stereotypes when it comes to police officers and criminals, which may be off-putting to some viewers.

Overall, if you’re a fan of police TV shows and don’t mind some graphic violence, Cuffs is definitely worth checking out. The show’s engaging episodes and diverse cast make it a standout in the genre.

Brooklyn South: The Complete Series

If you’re looking for a gritty and realistic police drama, Brooklyn South: The Complete Series is worth checking out.

Pros

• The show features a talented ensemble cast, including Jon Tenney, Michael DeLuise, and Gary Basaraba.
• The writing is top-notch, with gripping storylines that tackle tough issues.
• The DVD set includes all 22 episodes of the show’s first (and only) season.

Cons

• The show can be quite graphic and violent at times, which may not be suitable for all viewers.
• Some viewers may find the large ensemble cast to be overwhelming or confusing.
• The show was cancelled after just one season, so viewers may be left wanting more.

Brooklyn South: The Complete Series is a gripping police drama that tackles tough issues and features a talented ensemble cast. The show follows a group of uniformed cops working a tough beat in New York City, dealing with the professional and personal fallout of various catastrophes.

The writing is top-notch, with each episode featuring multiple character-driven storylines that are both emotionally stark and ghoulishly funny. The show’s ensemble approach and busy episodes most closely resemble the form and balanced tones of Bochco’s classic Hill Street Blues.

However, some viewers may find the show’s graphic violence and large ensemble cast to be overwhelming or confusing. Additionally, the show was cancelled after just one season, so viewers may be left wanting more.

Overall, if you’re a fan of gritty and realistic police dramas, Brooklyn South: The Complete Series is definitely worth checking out.

The Force: Manchester

If you are a fan of gritty and realistic police dramas, then The Force: Manchester is a must-watch.

Pros

• The show offers a raw and unfiltered look into the daily lives of police officers in Manchester, England.
• The characters are well-developed and the acting is superb, making it easy to become invested in their stories.
• The show tackles tough and relevant issues, such as drug addiction and gang violence, in a thought-provoking manner.

Cons

• Some viewers may find the show’s depiction of violence and drug use to be too graphic or disturbing.
• The Manchester dialect and slang used by the characters may be difficult for some viewers to understand.
• The show’s pace can be slow at times, which may not appeal to those who prefer fast-paced action.

Overall, we highly recommend The Force: Manchester to fans of police dramas who are looking for a realistic and thought-provoking show. The characters are well-developed and the acting is superb, making it easy to become invested in their stories. While the show’s depiction of violence and drug use may be too graphic for some viewers, it offers a raw and unfiltered look into the daily lives of police officers in Manchester, England. If you’re willing to overlook the slow pace and occasional use of dialect and slang, The Force: Manchester is definitely worth a watch.

Best of TV Detectives 150 Episodes DVD

If you’re a fan of classic crime television shows, you might be interested in the Best of TV Detectives 150 Episodes DVD.

Pros

• With 150 episodes from 33 different shows, this DVD set offers a lot of content for fans of classic crime television.
• The set includes a variety of shows, from well-known series like Dragnet and Alfred Hitchcock Presents to lesser-known titles like The Cases of Eddie Drake and Miami Undercover.
• The DVD set is affordably priced, making it a good option for those who want to add some classic crime television to their collection without breaking the bank.

Cons

• While the set offers a lot of content, it may not be for everyone. Some viewers may prefer more modern crime shows or those with higher production values.
• The DVD set is not remastered, so the picture and sound quality may not be up to modern standards.
• Some reviewers have noted that there are occasional skips or stops in the episodes, which can be frustrating for viewers.

Overall, if you’re a fan of classic crime television and are looking for an affordable way to add some shows to your collection, the Best of TV Detectives 150 Episodes DVD could be a good choice. However, if you’re looking for high-quality picture and sound or prefer more modern shows, this set may not be for you.

Mod Squad// Complete Collection/all 5 seasons,124 episodes

If you’re looking for a classic police TV show with a unique twist, then the Mod Squad is definitely worth a watch.

Pros

• The show features cool, hip characters with riveting social commentary that is still relevant today.
• The complete collection includes all five seasons and 124 episodes, providing hours of entertainment.
• The show was a trailblazer in its time, paving the way for modern police dramas like Miami Vice.

Cons

• The show is set in the 1960s, so some of the themes and language may feel outdated to modern viewers.
• The show’s production values may seem dated compared to modern TV shows.
• The show’s pacing can be slow at times, particularly in the earlier seasons.

The Mod Squad is a show that focuses on the lives of three incredibly close 20-year-olds who were drafted into working for the police undercover. The show is immersed in the culture of the 70s and every bit as good as you remember it. The three leads, Peggy Lipton, Clarence Williams III, and Michael Cole, have great chemistry and bring their characters to life in a way that makes you care about them.

One of the best things about the Mod Squad is the way it tackles social issues. The show deals with topics like race, drug abuse, and police corruption in a way that is both thought-provoking and engaging. The show’s commentary on these issues is still relevant today and makes it a must-watch for anyone interested in police dramas.

The complete collection includes all five seasons and 124 episodes, providing hours of entertainment. The show’s production values may seem dated compared to modern TV shows, but the quality of the writing and acting more than makes up for it. The pacing can be slow at times, particularly in the earlier seasons, but the show’s engaging characters and social commentary make it worth sticking with.

Overall, if you’re a fan of classic police dramas, then the Mod Squad is definitely worth checking out. The show’s unique twist on the genre, engaging characters, and social commentary make it a standout in the genre.

Paris Police 1905 [DVD]

If you’re looking for a crime drama that takes you back in time, Paris Police 1905 is a must-watch. With a gripping storyline, this French TV show keeps you on the edge of your seat until the very end.

Pros

• The storyline is engaging and keeps you hooked.
• The actors deliver strong performances, making the characters come to life.
• The show offers a unique glimpse into Paris’ history and culture.

Cons

• The show is in French with English subtitles, which may not be ideal for some viewers.
• The plot can be slow-paced at times, which may not appeal to those who prefer fast-paced action.
• The show may not be suitable for younger audiences due to mature themes.

Paris Police 1905 takes you on a journey through Paris in the early 1900s, where Inspector Antoine Jouin investigates a mysterious murder in the Bois de Boulogne gardens. The show’s plot is well-crafted, with plenty of twists and turns that keep you guessing until the very end.

The actors in Paris Police 1905 deliver strong performances, bringing the characters to life in a way that makes you feel invested in their stories. The show also offers a unique glimpse into Paris’ history and culture, making it a great choice for those who enjoy historical dramas.

However, the show is in French with English subtitles, which may not be ideal for viewers who prefer to watch shows in their native language. Additionally, the plot can be slow-paced at times, which may not appeal to those who prefer fast-paced action. Finally, the mature themes in the show may not be suitable for younger audiences.

Overall, Paris Police 1905 is a well-crafted crime drama that offers a unique glimpse into Paris’ history and culture. If you’re a fan of historical dramas and don’t mind reading subtitles, this show is definitely worth checking out.

Buying Guide

When it comes to choosing the best police TV show, there are a few features to consider that can help you make an informed decision. As avid viewers ourselves, we have compiled a list of key factors to keep in mind:

Genre

Police TV shows can vary greatly in genre, from crime dramas to comedies. It’s important to consider what type of show you’re in the mood for, as this can greatly affect your viewing experience.

Cast

The cast of a police TV show can make or break the series. Look for shows with strong, dynamic characters that you can become invested in. Chemistry between the actors is also important, as it can greatly enhance the overall quality of the show.

Writing

A well-written police TV show can keep you on the edge of your seat and leave you wanting more. Look for shows with strong, consistent writing that keeps the storylines engaging and the characters interesting.

Realism

While police TV shows are often dramatized for entertainment purposes, it’s important to choose a show that still maintains a level of realism. Shows that accurately depict police procedures and protocols can add an extra layer of authenticity to the viewing experience.

Production Value

The production value of a police TV show can greatly affect the overall quality of the series. Look for shows with high-quality cinematography, sound design, and special effects to fully immerse yourself in the world of the show.

By keeping these factors in mind, you can choose the best police TV show for your viewing preferences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some critically acclaimed police dramas?

There are several police dramas that have been critically acclaimed over the years. Some of the most popular ones include “The Wire,” “The Shield,” “NYPD Blue,” and “Homicide: Life on the Street.” These shows are known for their gritty realism, complex characters, and compelling storylines.

Which police series have been the most popular in recent years?

In recent years, some of the most popular police series have included “Law -amp; Order: Special Victims Unit,” “Blue Bloods,” “Chicago PD,” and “The Rookie.” These shows have attracted large audiences due to their engaging characters, exciting action, and timely themes.

Can you recommend classic police procedural series that have defined the genre?

Yes, there are several classic police procedural series that have defined the genre. Some of the most iconic shows include “Dragnet,” “Adam-12,” “Hill Street Blues,” and “Miami Vice.” These shows helped to establish many of the conventions of the police procedural genre, such as the use of realistic police jargon and the portrayal of police officers as flawed but dedicated individuals.

What are the top-rated detective shows with strong character development?

Some of the top-rated detective shows with strong character development include “The Mentalist,” “Sherlock,” “Broadchurch,” and “True Detective.” These shows are known for their complex, multi-dimensional characters, as well as their intricate and thought-provoking storylines.

Which police-themed TV series offer the most realistic portrayal of law enforcement?

Several police-themed TV series offer a realistic portrayal of law enforcement, including “The Wire,” “Southland,” “The Shield,” and “Homicide: Life on the Street.” These shows are known for their attention to detail and their willingness to explore the complex social and political issues that affect law enforcement officers.

Are there any police reality shows that provide an authentic behind-the-scenes look?

While many police reality shows have been criticized for their sensationalism and lack of authenticity, there are a few that provide an authentic behind-the-scenes look at law enforcement. These include “Cops,” “Live PD,” and “First 48,” which follow police officers as they respond to real-life emergencies and investigate crimes.