Looking for the best crime TV series to binge-watch? Look no further! We’ve curated a list of the most gripping and thrilling shows that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From intense investigations to complex characters, these crime dramas are sure to satisfy your craving for suspense and mystery. Get ready to dive into a world of crime, suspense, and unforgettable storytelling!
If you’re a fan of gripping crime dramas, you won’t want to miss out on the best crime TV series available today. These shows offer a thrilling combination of suspense, mystery, and intense storytelling that will keep you on the edge of your seat. From the dark and gritty streets of urban cities to the twists and turns of intricate investigations, these top-rated crime series deliver non-stop excitement. With their compelling characters, suspenseful plotlines, and jaw-dropping cliffhangers, these shows have captivated audiences worldwide. Whether you’re a fan of classic detective stories or prefer modern crime thrillers, there’s a crime TV series out there that will satisfy your craving for suspense and intrigue. So grab some popcorn, settle in, and prepare to be enthralled by the best crime TV series ever created.
| # | TV Series | Genre | IMDb Rating | Score |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | The Wire | Crime, Drama, Thriller | 9.3/10 | 10/10 |
| 2 | Breaking Bad | Crime, Drama, Thriller | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 |
| 3 | The Sopranos | Crime, Drama | 9.2/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 4 | Mindhunter | Crime, Drama, Thriller | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 5 | Ozark | Crime, Drama, Thriller | 8.4/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 6 | Narcos | Biography, Crime, Drama | 8.8/10 | 8.5/10 |
| 7 | Better Call Saul | Crime, Drama | 8.7/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 8 | True Detective | Crime, Drama, Mystery | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| 9 | Peaky Blinders | Crime, Drama | 8.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 10 | Dexter | Crime, Drama, Mystery | 8.6/10 | 7.2/10 |
Contents
Breaking Bad
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Creator: Vince Gilligan
- Starring: Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, Anna Gunn
- Number of Seasons: 5
- IMDb Rating: 9.5/10
Breaking Bad is widely regarded as one of the best crime TV series of all time. Created by Vince Gilligan, the show follows the journey of Walter White, a high school chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer. As the story unfolds, we witness Walter’s transformation from a mild-mannered family man to a ruthless criminal mastermind.
The exceptional performances by Bryan Cranston and Aaron Paul, who play Walter White and Jesse Pinkman respectively, have earned them critical acclaim and numerous awards. The gripping storyline, intense character development, and unpredictable plot twists make Breaking Bad a must-watch for any crime drama enthusiast.
Breaking Bad has won numerous awards, including 16 Primetime Emmy Awards and two Golden Globe Awards. Its compelling narrative and complex characters have captivated audiences worldwide.
The Wire
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Creator: David Simon
- Starring: Dominic West, Lance Reddick, Sonja Sohn
- Number of Seasons: 5
- IMDb Rating: 9.3/10
The Wire is a critically acclaimed crime TV series that delves into the gritty realities of Baltimore’s drug trade and its impact on various institutions, including law enforcement, education, and politics. Created by David Simon, the show offers a realistic portrayal of urban life and the interconnectedness of different social systems.
With its ensemble cast and intricate storytelling, The Wire explores themes of corruption, poverty, and the complexities of the criminal justice system. The series has been praised for its authenticity, compelling characters, and thought-provoking commentary on societal issues.
The Wire is often hailed as one of the greatest TV dramas ever made. Its nuanced portrayal of characters and its exploration of systemic issues have made it a favorite among both critics and viewers.
True Detective
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
- Creator: Nic Pizzolatto
- Starring: Matthew McConaughey, Woody Harrelson, Michelle Monaghan
- Number of Seasons: 3
- IMDb Rating: 9.0/10
True Detective is an anthology crime series that follows different investigations and detectives across multiple seasons. Each season tells a self-contained story with its own set of characters and mysteries. The first season, in particular, garnered widespread acclaim for its atmospheric storytelling and standout performances by Matthew McConaughey and Woody Harrelson.
The show combines elements of crime, drama, and mystery to create a dark and brooding atmosphere. With its nonlinear narrative structure and philosophical undertones, True Detective offers a unique take on the crime genre.
True Detective has received critical acclaim for its cinematography, writing, and performances. Each season brings a fresh perspective to the crime genre, making it a compelling watch for fans of atmospheric storytelling.
The Sopranos
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Creator: David Chase
- Starring: James Gandolfini, Edie Falco, Lorraine Bracco
- Number of Seasons: 6
- IMDb Rating: 9.2/10
The Sopranos is a groundbreaking crime drama that follows the life of Tony Soprano, a New Jersey mob boss, as he navigates the challenges of balancing his criminal activities with his personal life. Created by David Chase, the series offers a nuanced exploration of the mafia world and its impact on Tony’s mental and emotional well-being.
James Gandolfini’s portrayal of Tony Soprano has been widely praised for its complexity and depth. The show tackles themes of family, loyalty, and morality, while also delving into Tony’s struggles with anxiety and depression.
The Sopranos is often regarded as one of the greatest TV series of all time. Its blend of crime, drama, and dark humor, along with its rich character development, has left a lasting impact on the television landscape.
Narcos
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Biography
- Creators: Carlo Bernard, Chris Brancato, Doug Miro
- Starring: Wagner Moura, Boyd Holbrook, Pedro Pascal
- Number of Seasons: 3
- IMDb Rating: 8.8/10
Narcos is a gripping crime drama that chronicles the rise and fall of notorious drug kingpins, primarily focusing on the life of Colombian drug lord Pablo Escobar. The series offers a thrilling and immersive portrayal of the drug trade in the late 20th century.
With its fast-paced storytelling, intense action sequences, and compelling performances, Narcos keeps viewers on the edge of their seats. The show also provides insights into the efforts of law enforcement agencies to bring down powerful drug cartels.
Narcos has gained a dedicated fan base for its captivating storytelling and its exploration of real-life events. The series seamlessly blends historical facts with fictional elements, creating a thrilling narrative that keeps audiences hooked.
Mindhunter
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Creator: Joe Penhall
- Starring: Jonathan Groff, Holt McCallany, Anna Torv
- Number of Seasons: 2
- IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
Mindhunter is a psychological crime thriller based on true events. Set in the late 1970s and early 1980s, the series follows two FBI agents who interview imprisoned serial killers to gain insights into their psychology and behavior. Their research helps shape the field of criminal profiling.
The show delves into the minds of notorious criminals and explores the fine line between the hunters and the hunted. With its atmospheric cinematography and thought-provoking dialogue, Mindhunter offers a unique perspective on the world of criminal investigations.
Mindhunter has been praised for its meticulous attention to detail and its exploration of the psychological aspects of criminal behavior. The series offers a chilling look into the minds of some of the most notorious killers in history.
Ozark
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
- Creator: Bill Dubuque, Mark Williams
- Starring: Jason Bateman, Laura Linney, Julia Garner
- Number of Seasons: 4 (ongoing)
- IMDb Rating: 8.4/10
Ozark is a gripping crime drama that follows the life of financial planner Marty Byrde, who is forced to relocate his family to the Ozarks after a money-laundering scheme goes wrong. In order to save his own life and protect his family, Marty becomes entangled with local criminals and must navigate a dangerous world.
The series is known for its tense atmosphere, complex characters, and intricate plotlines. Jason Bateman delivers a standout performance as Marty Byrde, while the supporting cast adds depth and intensity to the show.
Ozark has garnered critical acclaim for its compelling storytelling and its exploration of the consequences of criminal activities. The series keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its twists and turns, making it a binge-worthy crime drama.
Peaky Blinders
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Creator: Steven Knight
- Starring: Cillian Murphy, Helen McCrory, Paul Anderson
- Number of Seasons: 6 (upcoming)
- IMDb Rating: 8.8/10
Peaky Blinders is a British crime drama set in post-World War I Birmingham, England. The series follows the Shelby crime family, led by the charismatic and cunning Tommy Shelby. As they expand their criminal empire, they face challenges from rival gangs and law enforcement.
With its stylish cinematography, stellar performances, and period setting, Peaky Blinders offers a unique take on the crime genre. Cillian Murphy’s portrayal of Tommy Shelby has been widely praised for its intensity and complexity.
Peaky Blinders has gained a dedicated fan base for its gripping storytelling and its attention to historical detail. The series combines elements of crime, drama, and historical fiction to create a compelling narrative that keeps viewers hooked.
Better Call Saul
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Creators: Vince Gilligan, Peter Gould
- Starring: Bob Odenkirk, Jonathan Banks, Rhea Seehorn
- Number of Seasons: 6 (upcoming)
- IMDb Rating: 8.7/10
Better Call Saul serves as a prequel to the critically acclaimed series Breaking Bad. The show explores the backstory of Jimmy McGill, a small-time lawyer who eventually becomes the morally ambiguous lawyer Saul Goodman. Set in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the series delves into Jimmy’s transformation and his interactions with various characters from the Breaking Bad universe.
Bob Odenkirk delivers a standout performance as Jimmy McGill, capturing both his charm and his inner turmoil. The show offers a mix of drama, dark humor, and intricate storytelling that keeps viewers engaged.
Better Call Saul has been praised for its compelling character development and its ability to stand on its own as a unique series. It provides a deeper understanding of the Breaking Bad universe while maintaining its own distinct identity.
Dexter
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
- Creator: James Manos Jr.
- Starring: Michael C. Hall, Jennifer Carpenter, David Zayas
- Number of Seasons: 8
- IMDb Rating: 8.6/10
Dexter is a crime drama series that follows the life of Dexter Morgan, a forensic blood spatter analyst who leads a double life as a serial killer. Operating under a strict code taught to him by his adoptive father, Dexter hunts down and kills other murderers who have escaped justice.
The show combines elements of crime, drama, and psychological thriller to create a unique narrative. Michael C. Hall’s portrayal of Dexter has been widely praised for its complexity and the moral ambiguity it brings to the character.
Dexter has gained a dedicated fan base for its intriguing premise and its exploration of the nature of good and evil. The series offers a fresh take on the crime genre by focusing on the perspective of a vigilante serial killer.
What are the best crime TV series?
When it comes to the best crime TV series, there are several highly acclaimed shows that have captivated audiences worldwide. One of the most popular choices is “Breaking Bad,” which follows the transformation of a high school chemistry teacher into a ruthless methamphetamine manufacturer. Another must-watch series is “The Wire,” known for its realistic portrayal of crime and corruption in Baltimore. Additionally, “True Detective” stands out for its gripping storytelling and stellar performances by its lead actors.
What makes these crime TV series so compelling?
The best crime TV series often have compelling storylines, complex characters, and intense suspense that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. These shows delve into the dark underbelly of society, exploring themes of morality, power, and the human psyche. They offer a unique blend of thrilling plot twists, character development, and social commentary, making them highly addictive and thought-provoking.
Where can I watch these top crime TV series?
You can watch the best crime TV series on various streaming platforms such as Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, HBO Max, and Hulu. These platforms offer a wide range of options for crime drama enthusiasts to indulge in their favorite shows. Additionally, some networks may also provide access to these series through their official websites or mobile apps.
Popular Crime TV Series
If you enjoy thrilling and suspenseful stories, crime TV series are a great choice. These shows often delve into the world of criminals, detectives, and the pursuit of justice. Here are three popular crime TV series worth checking out:
Mindhunter
Mindhunter is a gripping series that follows two FBI agents as they delve into the minds of serial killers to solve ongoing cases. The show offers a chilling and psychological look into the world of criminal profiling.
Breaking Bad
Breaking Bad is a critically acclaimed series that tells the story of Walter White, a chemistry teacher turned methamphetamine manufacturer. This thrilling crime drama explores the consequences of Walter’s descent into the criminal underworld.
True Detective
True Detective is an anthology series that follows different detectives as they investigate complex and dark crimes. Each season offers a unique storyline with compelling characters and intricate mysteries.
