The Ultimate Guide to the Top 15 Procedural TV Shows

Summary

Procedural television shows, particularly those focused on law enforcement, continue to captivate audiences with their gripping cases and resilient characters.

Procedural shows, with their episodic structure and limited overarching storylines, have achieved enduring popularity as rerun classics. Renowned series such as Law & Order: SVU and CSI: Crime Scene Investigation offer viewers a satisfying and comforting viewing experience by emphasizing the technical aspects of crime-solving and policing.

Procedural television shows have been a cornerstone of American entertainment for decades, captivating audiences with their ability to blend gripping cases and resilient characters. Whether drawing inspiration from real-life incidents or crafting intricate criminal narratives, these shows possess an undeniable allure. The thrill of solving murders and unraveling crimes allows viewers to form deep emotional connections with hardworking and sometimes ruthless detectives. The episodic structure and minimal overarching storylines of procedural shows have secured their status as rerun classics, making them easily accessible and addictive.

The enduring popularity of the procedural genre is reflected in the number of long-running series it has produced. From Law & Order: Special Victims Unit to CSI: Crime Scene Investigation, these shows focus on the technical aspects of policing, firefighting, or medical services. This gives them a comforting quality, inviting viewers to join in at any moment and be confident that each episode will provide a gratifying entry point. With a plethora of procedurals to choose from, ranging from intense to humorous, viewers can expect a diverse and engaging viewing experience.

15 Charlie's Angels (1976-1981)

14 Monk (2002-2009)

: Charlie's Angels, a renowned series in the procedural genre, has spawned multiple reboots and films. Over five seasons, it amassed a total of 115 episodes. The original Angels, played by Kate Jackson, Farrah Fawcett, and Jaclyn Smith, captured the hearts of viewers. Although receiving mixed reviews initially, the series gained immense popularity and earned a spot in the top 10 Nielsen listings for its first two seasons. Even after its cancellation in 1981, Charlie's Angels remained a beloved favorite among fans, leaving a lasting impact on popular culture.

The Emmy-winning series, Monk, revolves around Adrian Monk, played by Tony Shalhoub. Monk, a former detective, grapples with obsessive-compulsive disorder and germophobia following the tragic loss of his wife. Rather than being obstacles, Monk's distinctive neuroses prove to be advantageous in solving cases. By infusing investigative intrigue with humor and delving into deep character development, the show takes the classic procedural structure and adds an innovative twist. Monk surpasses the boundaries of a conventional crime procedural, allowing his idiosyncrasies to drive his pursuit of justice. As Monk embarks on his final case, the series maintains its enduring appeal through its adept combination of crime-solving and character-driven storytelling, solidifying its place as a beloved favorite.

13 Matlock (1986-1995)

The captivating legal series, Matlock, follows the enduring courtroom saga of Ben Matlock, cunning and ingenious defense attorney portrayed by Andy Griffith. Along with his remarkable wit, Matlock possesses a distinct talent for unveiling the true culprits behind his clients' unfounded accusations and skillfully coaxing them into confession or self-incrimination in front of the jury. With its "crime of the week" format, Matlock provides the versatility to partake in a full series marathon or indulge in a random episode from its nine-season span. Boasting an engrossing narrative and Griffith's unforgettable performance, Matlock remains a timeless and captivating legal drama within its genre.

12 Miami Vice (1984-1989)

Miami Vice is not just your typical action-packed procedural. It goes beyond that, offering a unique blend of style and an unforgettable soundtrack that takes the viewing experience to new heights. The show fully embraces the vibrant culture of Miami, showcasing everything from glamorous costumes and luxurious opulence to sleek supercars and magnificent yachts. This rich cultural tapestry adds an undeniable appeal to the show, producing visually stunning scenes that captivate the audience. What sets Miami Vice apart is the mastermind behind it all, Michael Mann. With his impeccable talent for creating gripping crime films, Mann has breathed new life into the Miami Vice franchise, adding an extra layer of allure to this timeless series.

11 The Practice (1997-2004)

The Practice was a standout in the legal procedural genre, presenting a unique viewpoint by focusing on the defense side of the law, where justice isn't always clear-cut. Starring Dylan McDermott and Lara Flynn Boyle, the series revolved around the lives of lawyers at a prestigious defense firm, as well as the intricate cases they handled. With its mix of diverse characters, compelling legal battles, and occasional lighthearted moments, the show captivated viewers with its engaging storytelling. Throughout its eight-season run, The Practice garnered numerous accolades, distinguishing itself through its exploration of individuals grappling with the moral dilemmas of the legal world.

10 Psych (2006-2014)

This procedural drama from the USA network focuses on Shawn Spencer, a highly perceptive individual with an incredible memory for detail. Instead of joining law enforcement, Shawn uses his unique skills as a psychic detective to assist the Santa Barbara Police Department in solving cases. Unlike other serious procedurals, Psych adds a refreshing sense of humor to the genre and showcases a memorable bromance between Shawn and his best friend and reluctant partner, Gus. By infusing elements of fun into the classic formula, Psych turns the genre upside down and creates a beloved series.

9 Veronica Mars (2004-2007)

Veronica Mars, an engaging combination of early 2000s teenage drama and suspense, stands out as a timeless procedural showcasing the eponymous character played by Kristen Bell as a clever private detective. In addition to its captivating mysteries, the show delves into intricate social issues such as classism and sexism, offering a contemporary viewpoint that resonates with a younger audience, while also paying homage to the conventions of its older procedural counterparts. While taking on cases, navigating the challenges of high school, and uncovering the town's secrets, Veronica Mars crafted a distinct storyline that captivated viewers of all ages.

8 Murder, She Wrote (1984-1996)

For a guaranteed binge-worthy experience spanning multiple months, look no further than Murder, She Wrote. Starring Angela Lansbury as the iconic Jessica Fletcher, this series follows the adventures of a retired English teacher and mystery novelist who becomes an amateur detective, tackling crimes in her charming Maine town. Despite occasionally crossing paths with the local police, Fletcher's unwavering determination and keen attention to detail often leave them frustrated and irritated. She exemplifies the classic private-eye archetype, cleverly leveraging her underestimated status as an older woman to bring justice to those overlooked by law enforcement. With Lansbury's mesmerizing performance, Murder, She Wrote remains a timeless gem among procedural dramas.

7 Quantum Leap (1989-1993)

Quantum Leap revolutionizes the conventional police procedural genre by ingeniously fusing magic and science fiction elements, offering an unparalleled form of episodic storytelling. Unlike the typical focus on law enforcement, this original NBC series showcases a physicist's extraordinary time-traveling endeavors to resolve past cases. Its distinctive essence lies in the masterful intermingling of romance, humor, and social commentary, culminating in an enjoyable and enlightening viewing experience. While a Quantum Leap reboot emerged in 2022, the original series remains extraordinary given its groundbreaking narrative approach and the captivating protagonist, Dr. Sam Beckett, as he gallantly traverses through time to rectify historical injustices.

6 NYPD Blue (1993-2005)

NYPD Blue, one of the longest-running police procedurals and TV shows, stands out as a groundbreaking drama from the ‘90s. The ensemble cast delves into multiple storylines within a single episode, offering a glimpse into the daily life of the 15th Precinct Detective Squad in Manhattan. This show has earned acclaim for its authentic portrayal of police work, showcasing the necessary dedication it demands. Furthermore, it has set the standard for future police procedurals and secured numerous prestigious awards throughout its tenure, leaving behind an unparalleled legacy.

5 New York Undercover (1994-1999)

New York Undercover revolutionized the police procedural genre by presenting a realistic and raw depiction. Through its diverse cast and relatable storylines, this series made a lasting impact and served as an inspiration for shows like The Shield and The Wire. By fearlessly tackling challenging social issues such as gender identity, HIV/AIDS, and drug addiction, New York Undercover offered a unique perspective and fostered understanding. What truly distinguished this series was its emphasis on the human aspect of law enforcement, delving into the personal lives and hardships of its characters. It humanized these individuals, reshaping the portrayal of police officers on television.

4 House (2004-2012)

Considered one of the top-notch medical dramas on television, House has set a new standard for procedural series, a genre usually associated with crime shows. Its straightforward premise, akin to a medical version of Sherlock Holmes tackling enigmatic cases every week, infuses a captivating mix of drama and intrigue into the category. Hugh Laurie's portrayal of the brilliant yet drug-addicted Dr. Gregory House propels the series to its esteemed position, undoubtedly earning its place among the finest. Laurie's performance introduces a layer of intricacy to the character, resulting in a distinct fusion of timeless medical drama and the intriguing realm of a flawed genius.

3 CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (2000-2015)

2 Law & Order (1990 - Present)

CSI: Crime Scene Investigation is the original series that launched a franchise. It is a crime drama set in Las Vegas, following a team of criminologists and detectives who utilize their expertise to solve crimes. What sets this show apart from others is its focus on scientific analysis, providing viewers with a unique perspective on crime-solving. The use of scientific methods in the crime lab to apprehend criminals proved to be a highly successful concept, inspiring numerous spin-offs in different cities. Spanning 15 seasons, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation left a lasting impact on the television landscape.

2 Law & Order (1990 - Present)

Debuting in 1990, Law & Order ingeniously blended the police procedural and the gripping legal drama, creating an unbeatable combination. Each episode follows a predictable yet captivating structure, skillfully balancing two essential elements of the justice system: the meticulous investigative work of the police and the compelling courtroom proceedings. With its iconic introduction and the instantly recognizable "dun-dun" sound that heralds the start of every episode, Law & Order, which has recently been renewed, has become an integral part of popular culture throughout the years. Its impact has resulted in numerous spin-offs, featured countless guest stars, and served as a launching pad for many renowned actors, solidifying its esteemed status as a television legend.

1 Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (1999 - Present)

Law & Order: SVU, a spin-off of the popular crime drama series, has arguably surpassed its predecessor in terms of quality. This gripping show revolves around the Special Victims' Unit of the NYPD, specifically focusing on cases involving sexual crimes. While it follows the same tried-and-true formula as the original, it injects an extra dose of intensity and emotion into its storytelling. With its debut in 1999, the ability of Law & Order: SVU to consistently address challenging and sensitive subjects, some inspired by real-life headlines, is a testament to its enduring excellence. The inclusion of various actors in multiple roles adds a fresh dimension, ensuring that this procedural TV series remains both relevant and captivating for its audience.