Binge-Worthy: The Longest Running Crime TV Shows
Alright, crime drama enthusiasts, buckle up! We're diving into the world of long running crime TV shows that have kept us on the edge of our seats for years. These shows have not only entertained us but also taught us a thing or two about justice, morality, and the human psyche. So, grab your popcorn and let's explore the longest running crime TV shows that deserve a spot in your watchlist. Guys, explore more in Guides And Explainers and long running crime tv shows.
Law & Order (1990 - Present)
Kicking off our list is the granddaddy of all crime dramas, Law & Order. With over 450 episodes and 21 seasons under its belt, this show is a true testament to longevity. Created by the legendary Dick Wolf, Law & Order follows the classic cop show format, with each episode telling a standalone story. The show's unique structure, with its two-pronged approach of police investigation and legal proceedings, keeps viewers engaged and guessing until the very end. Plus, who can forget the iconic "dun dun" sound? It's as much a part of the show as the crime itself.
CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (2000 - 2015)
Before Law & Order took the crown, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation was the longest running crime TV show. With 15 seasons and over 300 episodes, this show revolutionized the way we look at crime solving. CSI introduced us to the world of forensic science, making it cool and accessible to the masses. The show's focus on evidence collection and analysis, rather than traditional police work, was a breath of fresh air in the crime drama genre. And let's not forget the dynamic team of investigators, each with their unique skills and quirks, that made us fall in love with the show.
NCIS (2003 - Present)
NCIS is another Dick Wolf creation that's made a significant mark in the world of long running crime TV shows. With over 400 episodes and counting, this show has been a staple of primetime television for nearly two decades. NCIS follows a team of special agents from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service who solve crimes involving the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The show's blend of humor, action, and drama, along with its diverse cast of characters, has kept viewers hooked. Plus, the show's format allows for plenty of crossover episodes with its spin-offs, adding an extra layer of enjoyment for fans.
Criminal Minds (2005 - 2020)
Criminal Minds is a psychological thriller that delves into the darkest corners of the human mind. With 15 seasons and over 300 episodes, this show has kept us on the edge of our seats with its chilling cases and complex characters. The show's unique focus on criminal profiling, using the minds of the criminals themselves to track them down, is both fascinating and terrifying. And with each season introducing new team members, Criminal Minds has shown remarkable longevity in keeping its content fresh and engaging.
Blue Bloods (2010 - Present)
Blue Bloods is a family drama wrapped in a crime procedural, offering a unique twist on the long running crime TV show formula. With over 250 episodes and counting, this show has been a staple of Friday night TV for over a decade. Blue Bloods follows the Reagan family, a multigenerational clan of New York City police officers, as they navigate their personal lives and professional duties. The show's blend of police procedural cases, family dynamics, and political intrigue has struck a chord with viewers, making it one of the most popular crime dramas on TV.
Chicago P.D. (2014 - Present)
Chicago P.D. is another Dick Wolf creation that's found a dedicated audience among crime drama fans. With over 200 episodes and counting, this show is a gritty, intense look at the lives of Chicago police officers. Chicago P.D. is part of Wolf's "One Chicago" franchise, sharing a universe with Chicago Fire and Chicago Med. This allows for plenty of crossover episodes and shared storylines, adding an extra layer of depth to the show. Plus, with its focus on serialized storylines and character development, Chicago P.D. offers a unique blend of standalone cases and ongoing plotlines.
Fargo (2014 - Present)
Fargo is a unique entry in the world of long running crime TV shows, offering a darkly comedic take on the crime drama genre. With three seasons and counting, this anthology series tells standalone stories inspired by the Coen Brothers' film of the same name. Each season of Fargo features a new cast, new story, and new setting, but all share the show's signature blend of humor, violence, and small-town eccentricity. Fargo's willingness to take risks and subvert expectations has made it a standout show in the crime drama landscape.
How to Get Away with Murder (2014 - 2020)
How to Get Away with Murder is a legal drama with a twist, offering a thrilling and unpredictable ride through the world of law school and criminal defense. With six seasons and over 100 episodes, this show has kept viewers guessing with its complex cases and serialized storytelling. The show follows a group of law students who become entangled in a deadly conspiracy, forcing them to cover up a murder to save themselves. How to Get Away with Murder's unique blend of legal drama, thriller, and soap opera elements has made it a standout show in the crime drama genre.
Longmire (2012 - 2017, 2020)
Longmire is a modern-day Western crime drama that's found a dedicated audience among fans of the genre. With six seasons and over 60 episodes, this show follows a Wyoming sheriff as he investigates crimes in his rural jurisdiction. Longmire's blend of police procedural cases, Western aesthetics, and character-driven storytelling has made it a unique entry in the crime drama landscape. Plus, with its focus on serialized storylines and character development, Longmire offers a depth of storytelling that's often lacking in other crime dramas.
The Good Fight (2017 - Present)
The Good Fight is a spin-off of the critically acclaimed legal drama The Good Wife, offering a fresh take on the crime drama genre. With over 50 episodes and counting, this show follows a group of lawyers as they navigate the complex world of law and politics. The Good Fight's unique blend of legal drama, social commentary, and serialized storytelling has made it a standout show in the crime drama landscape. Plus, with its focus on timely and relevant storylines, The Good Fight offers a depth of commentary that's often lacking in other crime dramas.
The longest running crime TV shows offer a wealth of entertainment
There you have it, folks! A rundown of some of the longest running crime TV shows that have kept us hooked for years. Whether you're in the mood for police procedurals, legal dramas, or something a little different, there's a show on this list for everyone. So, grab your remote and start binging - there's a lot of crime to solve!