11 Most-Watched Cop and Detective Shows of All Time
It’s no secret that cop and detective dramas have been at the forefront of television entertainment for decades. From intense crime-solving to emotionally charged storylines, these shows continue to captivate audiences around the globe.
Why do fans love them so much? Simple. It’s the perfect blend of thrilling cases, intriguing characters, and life-or-death stakes. So, if you’re a fan of procedural dramas, this list of the 11 most-watched cop and detective shows is for you.
1. Chicago P.D. (2014–Present)
Chicago P.D. has cemented itself as one of the best modern cop dramas. A part of NBC’s One Chicago universe, it follows the Intelligence Unit led by Detective Hank Voight. The series tackles drug trafficking, organized crime, and gripping personal dilemmas.
Why It Stands Out:
- Fast-paced storytelling
- Powerful performances from Jason Beghe, Marina Squerciati, and Patrick Flueger
With new cases each week and plenty of twists, this show remains a fan favorite.
2. Criminal Minds (2005–2020, Revival in 2022)
One of CBS’s most beloved shows, Criminal Minds dives into the minds of criminals. It follows the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) as they profile and hunt dangerous serial killers.
Key Highlights:
- Stories inspired by real-life cases
- A memorable cast including Matthew Gray Gubler, Shemar Moore, and Joe Mantegna
The revival series, Criminal Minds: Evolution, proves its popularity isn’t fading any time soon.
3. Blue Bloods (2010–2024)
A perfect mix of police drama and family dynamics, Blue Bloods revolves around the Reagan family, a multigenerational NYPD clan.
Standout Features:
- Tom Selleck’s stellar performance as Frank Reagan
- Thought-provoking storylines that reflect real-world issues
Even after its conclusion in 2024, Blue Bloods remains a staple for cop show enthusiasts.
4. FBI (2018–Present)
From the mind of Dick Wolf, the creator of Law & Order, comes FBI, an intense series about the New York office of the FBI solving high-profile crimes.
Why It’s Popular:
- Tight storylines that feel realistic
- A powerful ensemble cast featuring Missy Peregrym and Zeeko Zaki
The success of FBI led to two spin-offs: FBI: Most Wanted and FBI: International.
5. CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (2000–2015)
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation revolutionized the genre with its focus on forensic science. Set in Las Vegas, the show follows experts as they solve crimes using cutting-edge technology.
Franchise Impact:
- Birthed spin-offs like CSI: Miami, CSI: NY, and CSI: Vegas
- Introduced viewers to fascinating forensic techniques
The legacy of CSI lives on, proving it’s a timeless hit.
6. NCIS (2003–Present)
With over 20 seasons and counting, NCIS remains one of the most-watched police procedurals. It follows the Naval Criminal Investigative Service as they solve military-related crimes.
What Makes It Great:
- Compelling cases mixed with humor and camaraderie
- Iconic characters like Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Mark Harmon)
Its spin-offs, like NCIS: Los Angeles and NCIS: New Orleans, have also found massive success.
7. Law & Order (1990–Present)
A pioneer of the crime drama genre, Law & Order set the bar high for police procedurals. It showcases investigations by detectives and the subsequent trials in New York City.
Why Fans Love It:
- Storylines inspired by real-life crimes
- A vast franchise including SVU and Organized Crime
The revival in 2021 proves Law & Order is here to stay.
8. S.W.A.T. (2017–Present)
Based on the 1975 series, S.W.A.T. follows an elite tactical unit in Los Angeles. Led by Shemar Moore as Daniel “Hondo” Harrelson, the show delivers nonstop action.
Key Strengths:
- Heart-pounding missions and emotional storytelling
- Shemar Moore’s charismatic leadership
Despite cancellation scares, fan demand has kept S.W.A.T. alive for multiple seasons.
9. The Rookie (2018–Present)
The Rookie tells the inspiring story of a man in his 40s who becomes the oldest rookie in the LAPD. Starring Nathan Fillion, the show is equal parts action-packed and heartfelt.
Why It Resonates:
- Relatable character struggles
- A unique twist on traditional cop dramas
The series continues to attract new viewers every season.
10. NYPD Blue (1993–2005)
An iconic ‘90s drama, NYPD Blue paved the way for gritty and realistic police procedurals. It explored the challenges faced by detectives in New York’s 15th precinct.
Why It’s Legendary:
- Groundbreaking storytelling for its time
- Strong performances, particularly from Dennis Franz
The show’s impact is still felt in modern police dramas.
11. Hawaii Five-0 (2010–2020)
A reboot of the classic series, Hawaii Five-0 brought breathtaking action and stunning scenery to TV screens. It follows an elite task force as they eradicate crime on Hawaii’s beaches.
What Fans Love:
- The mix of tropical visuals and intense action
- A talented cast led by Alex O’Loughlin and Scott Caan
Even after its finale, Hawaii Five-0 remains a fan favorite for binge-watchers.
Conclusion
Police procedurals and detective dramas are here to stay. From legendary shows like Law & Order to modern hits like S.W.A.T., these series continue to attract millions of viewers. Whether you love the intense investigations or the compelling characters, there’s no shortage of binge-worthy content.
FAQs
1. What makes cop and detective shows so popular?
They combine thrilling cases, intriguing character development, and high-stakes drama that keep viewers hooked.
2. Are any of these shows based on real events?
Yes, many shows like Criminal Minds and Law & Order draw inspiration from real-life crimes.
3. What’s the longest-running cop show on this list?
Law & Order holds that title, running for over 20 seasons.
4. Where can I stream these shows?
You can watch many of these series on streaming platforms like Netflix, Paramount+, Hulu, and Amazon Prime.
5. Is there a spin-off from NCIS or FBI worth watching?
Absolutely! NCIS: Los Angeles, FBI: Most Wanted, and FBI: International are excellent spin-offs that stand on their own.
