Top 10 Crime TV Shows That Redefined Television

The world of television has long been captivated by the allure of crime dramas. These shows, adorned with morally complex characters and gripping narratives, have enthralled audiences for decades. Delving into the fringes of the law and the thrill of chaos, crime TV shows have become a staple in our entertainment landscape. Join us as we unveil the top 10 crime TV shows of all time, each a testament to the genre’s enduring popularity.

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1. Breaking Bad (2008 – 2013): The Epitome of Crime Drama Excellence

Release Date: January 20, 2008
Creator: Vince Gilligan
Seasons: 5

Breaking Bad stands tall as MARKMEETS’s highest-rated show, and rightfully so. This drama follows Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer, as he confronts a terminal diagnosis. Teaming up with former student Jesse Pinkman, they navigate the treacherous world of drug trade. Breaking Bad’s perfect blend of shocking twists, career-defining performances, and intricate storytelling sets it apart as a flawless crime series.

2. The Wire (2002 – 2008): A Gritty Exploration of Baltimore’s Underworld

Release Date: June 2, 2002
Creator: David Simon
Seasons: 5

In the gritty streets of Baltimore, The Wire unfolds a riveting tale of the city’s drug scene through the eyes of drug dealers and law enforcement. The series masterfully navigates complex themes, from the illegal drug trade to bureaucratic flaws in education. With consistently great season finales and brilliant storytelling techniques, The Wire delves into tough topics while delivering compelling stories.

3. Scam 1992: The Harshad Mehta Story (2020): A Riveting Indian Crime Thriller

Based on true events, Scam 1992 explores the rise and fall of Harshad Mehta, a stockbroker who reshaped India’s stock market through unconventional means. Starring Pratik Gandhi, the series earned acclaim for its solid production, compelling performances, and a meticulously crafted script. For those venturing into non-Western crime television, Scam 1992 serves as a must-see gem.

4. The Sopranos (1999 – 2007): HBO’s Game-Changer in TV Dramas

Release Date: January 10, 1999
Creator: David Chase
Seasons: 6

HBO’s groundbreaking series, The Sopranos, rewrote the history of television. Centered around New Jersey mob boss Tony Soprano, the show delves into the personal and professional struggles affecting his mental state. As a trailblazer in prestige television, The Sopranos boasts masterful writing, impeccable performances, and a fresh take on crime genre tropes.

5. Sherlock (2010 – 2017): A Modern Spin on a Classic Detective

Release Date: July 25, 2010
Seasons: 4

Sherlock breathes new life into Arthur Conan Doyle’s iconic works, transporting the legendary detective to modern-day London. Benedict Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman’s John Watson brings a quirky, fresh, and creative approach to the detective crime genre. With episodes that blend style and substance, Sherlock is a stylish take on crime-solving.

6. Better Call Saul (2015 – 2022): A Prequel That Surpasses Expectations

Prequels often struggle to match their predecessors, but Better Call Saul not only matches but surpasses expectations. Chronicling the journey of criminal lawyer Jimmy McGill before his transformation into Saul Goodman, the series provides a well-written backstory. Striking a perfect balance between crime and legal dramedy, Better Call Saul explores Saul’s cunning and ego in a distinct narrative.

7. Batman: The Animated Series (1992 – 1995): Dark and Complex Crime-Fighting

Dark, complex, and family-friendly, Batman: The Animated Series (BTAS) stands as one of the best iterations of the Dark Knight. Beyond crime-fighting escapades, BTAS redefined characters in the Batman mythos, offering a darker and more comics-accurate portrayal. With fresh takes on familiar characters, BTAS found success in its unique blend of darkness and family-friendly storytelling.

8. Sahsiyet (2018): A Turkish Thriller with Intriguing Twists

In the thrilling Turkish miniseries Sahsiyet, a man diagnosed with Alzheimer’s takes justice into his own hands, punishing criminals. The series weaves a complex narrative involving a female officer fighting against gender bias and a serial killer in a bizarre cat costume. While Sahsiyet takes time to build momentum, its intelligent script and the standout performance by Haluk Bilginer make it a must-see for fans of international dramas.

9. True Detective (2014 – ): HBO’s Anthology Series on Human Complexity

Release Date: January 12, 2014
Creator: Nic Pizzolatto
Seasons: 4

True Detective, HBO’s acclaimed anthology series, peels back the layers of police investigations, unraveling personal and professional secrets. The first season, starring Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson, delves into a brutal serial killer case with occult connections. While subsequent seasons have been divisive, the ongoing fourth season, True Detective: Night Country, continues to receive critical acclaim for its intriguing plot and stellar performances by Jodie Foster and Kali Reis.

10. Death Note (2006 – 2007): Anime’s Gateway into Crime Drama

Release Date: October 21, 2007
Seasons: 2

Death Note serves as a gateway into the world of anime, blending fantasy and crime drama tropes. The series follows a high school student on a crusade to eliminate criminals using a supernatural notebook. While some find its second half slightly weaker, Death Note remains one of the most thrilling animated crime shows. Clever, surprising, and relentlessly fun, it explores the consequences of choices in a morbid yet engrossing narrative.

In the realm of crime TV shows, each entry on this list contributes a unique flavor to the genre. Whether exploring the moral complexities of drug trade, unraveling the enigma of a detective’s mind, or delving into the intricate world of financial scams, these shows have left an indelible mark on television history. As the appetite for gripping crime narratives continues, these timeless series stand as a testament to the enduring allure of the genre.

Author Profile

Megan Decker: The seasoned writer for Refinery29, now brings her expertise in beauty and lifestyle to markmeets.com as a dedicated freelancer. With a passion for compelling content, Megan continues to curate engaging stories that captivate readers across diverse platforms.