Looking for the best crime TV series to satisfy your thriller cravings? We’ve got you covered! Discover a handpicked selection of gripping shows that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From suspenseful mysteries to intense investigations, these crime dramas are sure to captivate and entertain. Get ready to dive into a world of suspense, as we present the ultimate list of the best crime TV series.
If you’re a fan of crime TV series, you’re in for a treat with the best crime TV series that will keep you on the edge of your seat. These thrilling shows feature gripping storylines, complex characters, and intense action that will leave you wanting more. From the critically acclaimed Breaking Bad to the addictive True Detective, these crime dramas are sure to captivate audiences with their suspenseful plots and compelling performances. Whether you prefer gritty police procedurals or mind-bending psychological thrillers, there’s a best crime TV series out there that will satisfy your craving for suspense and intrigue. So grab some popcorn, dim the lights, and get ready to dive into the thrilling world of crime television.
| # | TV Series | Genre | IMDb Rating | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Breaking Bad | Crime, Drama, Thriller | 9.5/10 | 10/10 |
| 2 | The Wire | Crime, Drama, Thriller | 9.3/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 3 | True Detective | Crime, Drama, Mystery | 9/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 4 | The Sopranos | Crime, Drama | 9.2/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 5 | Narcos | Biography, Crime, Drama | 8.8/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 6 | Mindhunter | Crime, Drama, Thriller | 8.6/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 7 | Peaky Blinders | Crime, Drama | 8.8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 8 | Better Call Saul | Crime, Drama | 8.7/10 | 8/10 |
| 9 | Ozark | Crime, Drama, Thriller | 8.4/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Dexter | Crime, Drama, Mystery | 8.6/10 | 7/10 |
Contents
Breaking Bad
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Number of Seasons: 5
- Main Cast: Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn
- IMDb Rating: 9.5/10
- Awards: 16 Primetime Emmy Awards
Breaking Bad is widely regarded as one of the best crime TV series of all time. It tells the story of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer, and his former student Jesse Pinkman. The show explores the transformation of Walter from a mild-mannered family man to a ruthless criminal mastermind.
This critically acclaimed series captivates viewers with its intense storytelling, complex characters, and brilliant performances. Bryan Cranston’s portrayal of Walter White earned him multiple awards and established him as one of the finest actors in television history. Breaking Bad has been praised for its meticulous attention to detail and its exploration of moral ambiguity.
The Wire
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Number of Seasons: 5
- Main Cast: Dominic West, Lance Reddick, Idris Elba
- IMDb Rating: 9.3/10
- Awards: Peabody Award, Writers Guild of America Award
The Wire is a critically acclaimed crime drama that delves into the gritty reality of Baltimore’s drug scene and its impact on various institutions such as law enforcement, schools, and politics. The series presents a realistic portrayal of urban life and explores themes of corruption, poverty, and social inequality.
With its intricate storytelling and ensemble cast, The Wire has been praised for its authenticity and its ability to tackle complex social issues. It offers a nuanced and thought-provoking examination of the interconnectedness of different aspects of society. The Wire is known for its realistic portrayal of the complexities and challenges faced by both law enforcement and the communities they serve.
True Detective
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Main Cast: Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, Mahershala Ali
- IMDb Rating: 9/10
- Awards: Primetime Emmy Award, Golden Globe Award
True Detective is an anthology crime series that follows different investigations and explores the dark side of human nature. Each season features a new cast and storyline, allowing for unique storytelling and character development.
The show is known for its atmospheric cinematography, complex narratives, and exceptional performances. Matthew McConaughey’s portrayal of Rust Cohle in the first season garnered critical acclaim and became iconic in the television landscape. True Detective has been praised for its philosophical themes, intricate plotting, and compelling character studies.
The Sopranos
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Number of Seasons: 6
- Main Cast: James Gandolfini, Edie Falco, Lorraine Bracco
- IMDb Rating: 9.2/10
- Awards: 21 Primetime Emmy Awards, 5 Golden Globe Awards
The Sopranos is a groundbreaking crime drama that follows the life of Tony Soprano, a New Jersey mob boss struggling to balance his criminal activities with his personal life. The series explores themes of family, loyalty, and the psychological impact of a life of crime.
With its complex characters and intricate storytelling, The Sopranos revolutionized television and set a new standard for quality drama. James Gandolfini’s portrayal of Tony Soprano is widely regarded as one of the greatest performances in television history. The Sopranos is known for its exploration of the human psyche and its examination of the blurred lines between good and evil.
Narcos
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Biography
- Number of Seasons: 3
- Main Cast: Wagner Moura, Pedro Pascal, Boyd Holbrook
- IMDb Rating: 8.8/10
- Awards: Nominated for 2 Golden Globe Awards
Narcos is a gripping crime series that chronicles the rise and fall of notorious drug kingpins, primarily focusing on the Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar. The show combines elements of crime drama with real-life events, offering a thrilling and informative viewing experience.
With its compelling storytelling and intense performances, Narcos provides an in-depth look into the world of drug trafficking and the efforts of law enforcement to bring down powerful criminal organizations. Narcos has been praised for its authenticity, historical accuracy, and its ability to create suspenseful narratives based on true events.
Mindhunter
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Number of Seasons: 2
- Main Cast: Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, Anna Torv
- IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
- Awards: Nominated for Primetime Emmy Awards
Mindhunter is a psychological crime thriller that follows two FBI agents as they delve into the minds of serial killers to understand their motives and behavior. The series is based on real-life events and characters, offering a chilling and thought-provoking exploration of criminal psychology.
With its atmospheric storytelling and meticulous attention to detail, Mindhunter captivates viewers with its gripping narratives and complex character dynamics. The show delves into the dark and disturbing world of serial killers, providing a unique perspective on the criminal mind. Mindhunter is known for its psychological depth and its exploration of the motivations behind heinous crimes.
Peaky Blinders
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Number of Seasons: 5
- Main Cast: Cillian Murphy, Helen McCrory, Paul Anderson
- IMDb Rating: 8.8/10
- Awards: BAFTA Television Award, Royal Television Society Award
Peaky Blinders is a British crime drama set in post-World War I Birmingham, England. The series follows the Shelby crime family as they navigate the treacherous underworld of organized crime. With its stylish period setting and compelling characters, Peaky Blinders offers a unique blend of historical drama and crime thriller.
The show is known for its atmospheric cinematography, stellar performances, and its ability to seamlessly blend fact and fiction. Cillian Murphy’s portrayal of Tommy Shelby has received widespread acclaim and has become synonymous with the series. Peaky Blinders has been praised for its distinctive style, gripping storytelling, and its exploration of themes such as power, loyalty, and family.
Better Call Saul
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Number of Seasons: 6 (ongoing)
- Main Cast: Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, Rhea Seehorn
- IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
- Awards: Primetime Emmy Award, Critics’ Choice Television Award
Better Call Saul serves as a prequel to the critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad and focuses on the transformation of Jimmy McGill into the morally ambiguous lawyer Saul Goodman. The show explores Jimmy’s journey as he navigates the legal world while facing personal and professional challenges.
With its compelling storytelling and exceptional performances, Better Call Saul has garnered critical acclaim and has been praised for its character development and nuanced exploration of ethical dilemmas. Better Call Saul provides a deeper understanding of the complex character of Saul Goodman and offers insights into the events that led to his involvement with Walter White.
Ozark
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Number of Seasons: 4 (ongoing)
- Main Cast: Jason Bateman, Laura Linney, Julia Garner
- IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
- Awards: Primetime Emmy Award, Screen Actors Guild Award
Ozark follows the story of financial planner Marty Byrde who is forced to relocate his family to the Ozarks after a money-laundering scheme goes wrong. As Marty becomes entangled with local criminals, he must navigate dangerous situations to keep his family safe.
The series is known for its tense atmosphere, intricate plotting, and compelling performances. Jason Bateman’s portrayal of Marty Byrde has been widely praised for its complexity and depth. Ozark offers a dark and suspenseful exploration of the consequences of criminal activities and the lengths people will go to protect their loved ones.
Dexter
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
- Number of Seasons: 8
- Main Cast: Michael C. Hall, Jennifer Carpenter, David Zayas
- IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
- Awards: Golden Globe Award, Primetime Emmy Award
Dexter follows the life of Dexter Morgan, a forensic blood spatter analyst for the Miami Metro Police Department who leads a secret life as a vigilante serial killer. The series explores Dexter’s internal struggle between his desire to kill criminals and his need to maintain a normal life.
With its unique premise and complex protagonist, Dexter captivated audiences with its blend of crime drama and psychological thriller elements. Michael C. Hall’s portrayal of Dexter earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base. Dexter is known for its exploration of morality, identity, and the nature of justice.
What are some of the best crime TV series?
There are many highly acclaimed crime TV series that have captivated audiences around the world. Some of the best ones include “Breaking Bad,” a gripping drama about a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer; “The Wire,” a realistic portrayal of crime and corruption in Baltimore; and “True Detective,” an anthology series that explores different crime cases with complex characters and storytelling. Other notable mentions include “The Sopranos,” a groundbreaking series about a New Jersey mob boss, and “Narcos,” which delves into the world of drug cartels. These shows have garnered critical acclaim for their compelling narratives, strong performances, and thought-provoking themes.
What makes a crime TV series great?
A great crime TV series is characterized by its ability to keep viewers on the edge of their seats with suspenseful storylines and intriguing mysteries. It should have well-developed characters that audiences can connect with, whether they are law enforcement officers, criminals, or both. Strong writing and tight plotlines are essential, as they keep the audience engaged and guessing. Additionally, attention to detail in terms of production design, cinematography, and music can elevate the overall viewing experience. A successful crime TV series should also explore deeper themes such as morality, justice, and the complexities of human nature.
How do I choose which crime TV series to watch?
Choosing a crime TV series to watch depends on your personal preferences. Consider the sub-genres within crime television, such as police procedurals, psychological thrillers, or organized crime dramas, and decide which appeals to you the most. Read reviews or ask for recommendations from friends who share similar interests. Pay attention to the ratings and awards received by different shows, as they can be indicators of quality. It’s also helpful to watch trailers or read synopses to get a sense of the show’s tone and premise. Ultimately, trust your instincts and give different series a try to discover which ones resonate with you the most.
Popular Crime TV Series
Crime TV series have gained immense popularity in recent years. They offer thrilling storylines, complex characters, and suspenseful plots that keep viewers on the edge of their seats.
Psychological Crime Dramas
Psychological crime dramas delve deep into the minds of criminals and detectives, exploring the motives behind their actions. Shows like “Mindhunter” and “True Detective” are known for their intense psychological narratives.
Crime Comedies
Crime comedies provide a unique blend of humor and suspense. These series, such as “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Psych,” offer a lighter take on crime-solving while still delivering entertaining mysteries.
