The best crime drama TV shows ever capture attention with gripping stories, complex characters, and moral tension. People love watching smart detectives solve puzzles, chase killers, and take on corruption—all while fighting their own demons. Crime series pull viewers into stories that feel real, raw, and tough to shake. From decades-old classics to big streaming hits, crime dramas have a lasting grip on audiences worldwide.
This list brings you the top crime drama series to watch, including shows with groundbreaking stories, high praise from critics, and loyal fanbases. Whether you’re deep into cop shows or just want something new to binge, you’re in the right place.
These must-watch crime shows have changed TV. Some gave us unforgettable characters, others sent chills down our spines. Each one helped shape the crime TV genre.
1. The Wire (2002–2008)
If we’re talking about the greatest crime thriller series, “The Wire” often tops the list. Created by David Simon, this HBO series explores the drug scene in Baltimore from many angles—cops, dealers, politicians, and teachers.
Why it stands out:
- Realistic storytelling
- Detailed look at institutions
- No clear heroes or villains
“The Wire” wasn’t a hit right away. But over time, it’s become one of the most respected shows in TV history. Many critics call it the best-written show ever. On IMDb, it holds a rating of 9.3/10.
📺 Streaming now on HBO Max
2. Breaking Bad (2008–2013)
This show changed the game for crime dramas. Walter White starts as a high school teacher and ends up a meth kingpin. Bryan Cranston won four Emmy Awards for his role.
Key points:
- Mind-blowing transformation of main character
- Intense storytelling and smart writing
- Inspired the spin-off “Better Call Saul”
“Breaking Bad” has a 9.5/10 rating on IMDb. It won 16 Primetime Emmys. It’s not just about drugs—it’s about pride, decisions, and consequences.
Watch it on Netflix.
3. True Detective (Season 1 – 2014)
“True Detective” changes its story and cast each season. But none hit as hard as the first season. Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson play two detectives chasing a twisted killer over 17 years in Louisiana.
Highlights of Season 1:
- Dark, philosophical tone
- Powerful acting performances
- Deep, layered storytelling
Critics praised its writing and direction. It has an 8.9/10 rating on IMDb. Later seasons didn’t match the magic of Season 1 but are still worth watching.
4. Mindhunter (2017–2019)
Based on real events, “Mindhunter” shows how the FBI started criminal profiling. Agents talk to real-life serial killers like Ed Kemper and Jerry Brudos. It’s slow-burning but deeply fascinating.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| IMDb Rating | 8.6/10 |
| Based On | Book by John E. Douglas |
| Streaming Platform | Netflix |
Why people love it:
- Real psychological depth
- Great direction by David Fincher
- Creepy without being graphic
This is a must-watch crime show, especially for fans of true crime.
5. The Sopranos (1999–2007)
This show made anti-heroes a trend. Tony Soprano, played by James Gandolfini, is a mob boss struggling with family and crime life. The show made HBO a force in original content.
Top features:
- Complex characters
- Groundbreaking therapy scenes
- Layered plotlines
It has a 9.2/10 on IMDb. Many critics call it the best TV show ever—across all genres. You can stream it on HBO Max.
6. Luther (2010–2019)
British detective John Luther, played by Idris Elba, is smart, intense, and sometimes out of control. His cases are dark and very personal.
Reasons to watch:
- Strong lead performance by Elba
- Intense and gritty cases
- Memorable villain: Alice Morgan
It’s one of the top crime drama series to watch if you like psychological depth. Available on BBC iPlayer and Hulu.
7. Narcos (2015–2017)
“Narcos” tells the story of Pablo Escobar and the DEA’s effort to bring him down. Set in Colombia, it’s stylish, violent, and fast-paced.
Standout elements:
- Based on real history
- Gritty scenes
- Mix of English and Spanish
With an 8.8/10 IMDb rating, “Narcos” became one of Netflix’s biggest hits. Its spinoff “Narcos: Mexico” also drew a loyal following.
Watch now on Netflix.
8. Broadchurch (2013–2017)
This British drama starts with a small-town murder case and slowly pulls back layers of the community. Olivia Colman and David Tennant deliver amazing performances.
Why viewers love it:
- Emotional depth
- Mystery keeps you hooked
- Strong character development
Critically praised and winner of multiple BAFTAs, Broadchurch stands out among the best crime drama TV shows ever.
Available on Amazon Prime Video.
9. Ozark (2017–2022)
Marty Byrde, a financial planner, gets caught up with a drug cartel and moves his family to the Ozarks to launder money. Tense, smart, and full of shocking twists.
Top features:
- Lead role by Jason Bateman
- Strong female characters
- Dark tone with strong writing
With over 3 billion minutes streamed during its final season’s premiere week, this show was hugely popular. Find it on Netflix.
10. Fargo (2014–present)
Each season of “Fargo” has new characters, but the tone and smart writing stay consistent. It captures small-town crime with dark comedy.
Details:
- Inspired by the 1996 film
- Smart mix of violence and humor
- Anthology format
With five Emmy Awards and a loyal fanbase, “Fargo” is one of the greatest crime thriller series from recent years.
Available on Hulu.
Summary Table: Top 10 Crime Dramas
| Rank | Title | IMDb Rating | Streaming Platform |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Wire | 9.3 | HBO Max |
| 2 | Breaking Bad | 9.5 | Netflix |
| 3 | True Detective | 8.9 | HBO Max |
| 4 | Mindhunter | 8.6 | Netflix |
| 5 | The Sopranos | 9.2 | HBO Max |
| 6 | Luther | 8.4 | Hulu, BBC iPlayer |
| 7 | Narcos | 8.8 | Netflix |
| 8 | Broadchurch | 8.4 | Amazon Prime Video |
| 9 | Ozark | 8.5 | Netflix |
| 10 | Fargo | 8.9 | Hulu |
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re into classic mob drama, FBI profiling, or gritty detective stories, these are the top crime drama series to watch. They offer the best mix of suspense, storytelling, and strong acting.
If you haven’t seen a few titles on this list, pick one and start watching—you won’t regret it. Let us know which ones are your favorites or if we missed any of your personal best crime drama TV shows ever.
Love crime shows? Share this article with fellow fans and leave your must-watch picks in the comments below!