Unconventional Crime-Fighting Duos: 9 Dynamic Detective Pairs on TV

Crockett and Tubbs

The compelling world of crime TV shows has been graced by the iconic duo of Crockett and Tubbs, revolutionizing the genre with their unique dynamic. Miami Vice, which aired in 1984, introduced viewers to the enthralling partnership of James 'Sonny' Crockett and Ricardo 'Rico' Tubbs. These undercover vice cops in Miami brought a cinematic style and a fascinating blend of playboy charisma and street-smart toughness to the small screen. Their high-stakes operations against drug dealers, arms sales, and prostitution rings captivated audiences, setting the stage for a new era of crime-fighting on TV.

Miami vice crockett and tubbs firing guns

The show's distinctive style, featuring action-packed montages and a parade of guest stars, added to the allure of their on-screen chemistry. However, as the series progressed, Miami Vice faced criticism for nonsensical plots and recycled villains, a testament to the challenges of maintaining the integrity of such a dynamic duo on screen.

Brennan and Booth both thinking in Bones

Hardy and Miller

In the realm of British murder mysteries, Broadchurch brought to life the striking partnership of Detective Inspector Alec Hardy and Detective Sergeant Ellie Miller. Initially at odds due to Hardy's unfriendly demeanor and Miller's resentment towards his position, their nuanced storytelling and character arcs set the stage for a compelling dynamic. Broadchurch is praised for its portrayal of Hardy's transformation from an abrasive figure to a softer, more empathetic character, especially in his interactions with Miller.

Brennan and Booth standing under mistletoe in Bones

The captivating evolution of their relationship and the depth of their partnership added a layer of authenticity to their crime-solving journey, making them a standout duo in the world of detective dramas.

Emily Deschanel and David Boreanaz as Agent Brennan and Agent Booth entering the vault in Bones.

Spencer and Guster

Psych, a comedy-drama that aired from 2006 to 2014, introduced audiences to the dynamic duo of Shawn and Burton 'Gus' Guster, lifelong friends turned crime solvers. Their blend of crime-solving, comedy, and the genuine friendship between Shawn and Gus set a new standard in the crime genre. The duo's witty banter, fantastic acting, and remarkable chemistry added a refreshing touch to the typically serious crime narratives, capturing the hearts of viewers and gaining a devoted following.

Brennan and Booth sitting on a bench in Bones Season 12

Their ability to bring humor and warmth to the crime-solving landscape made them a memorable and beloved addition to the world of TV detective duos, leaving a lasting impression on audiences.

Brennan with her arms around Booth while undercover in Bones

Mulder and Scully

The X-Files, which aired from 1993 to 2002 and was later revived, chronicled the captivating journey of FBI agents Fox Mulder and Dana Scully as they delved into paranormal investigations. Known for its mix of standalone episodes and a deeper mythology involving aliens and government conspiracies, the show evolved from a cult sci-fi favorite to a major network hit.

The Wire McNulty and Bunk

The dynamic partnership between Mulder and Scully garnered a dedicated fan base known as X-Philes, a testament to the timeless appeal of their detective duo and the enduring impact they have had on the world of crime TV shows.

Shawn Spencer and Burton Guster in their food truck in Psych

Cohle and Hart

HBO's True Detective season 1 brought to life the Southern noir murder mystery, showcasing the complex dynamic between detectives Marty Hart and Rust Cohle. Their evolution from partners to strained acquaintances, highlighted by personal demons and the impact of their cases, added a layer of depth to their portrayal of crime-solving on TV.

David Tennant and Olivia Colman looking off into the ocean in Broadchurch

The intertwining of two timelines gradually unveiled the detectives' inner turmoil, leaving a profound impact on viewers and redefining the boundaries of detective duos in the world of crime TV shows.

Olivia Colman and David Tennant in Broadchurch

Holmes and Watson

The modern BBC adaptation of Sherlock Holmes, which ran from 2010 to 2017, introduced a fresh take on the classic detective duo. Benedict Cumberbatch's charismatic portrayal of Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman's grounded depiction of Dr. John Watson added a new dimension to the timeless partnership.

Holmes and Watson

The distinct characterization and chemistry between the two actors breathed new life into the Sherlock Holmes franchise, captivating audiences with their witty humor and captivating dynamics, redefining the essence of detective partnerships on TV.

Holmes and Watson

Starsky and Hutch

Starsky & Hutch, featuring the iconic 1970s cop duo of David Starsky and Ken Hutchinson, redefined the era with their undercover operations in the fictional city of Bay City, California. Their groundbreaking portrayal of an affectionate friendship contrasted with the typical macho portrayal of cop shows at the time, setting a new standard for detective duos on TV.

Starsky and Hutch

Their dynamic and adventurous escapades captivated audiences for four seasons, leaving an indelible mark on the world of crime TV shows and inspiring future generations of detective duos.

Scully and Mulder in The X-Files

Benson and Stabler

Law & Order: SVU brought to life the iconic and long-running partnership of Elliot Stabler and Olivia Benson, captivating audiences with their complex relationship and captivating will-they-won't-they dynamics. For 12 years, the chemistry between Stabler and Benson was central to the series, creating one of TV's most enduring detective duos.

True detective Cohle and Hart

Their underlying romantic tension and professional camaraderie left an indelible mark on the world of crime TV shows, redefining the essence of captivating detective partnerships on TV.

Sherlock Holmes and Watson in a promo photo.