Television

The 100+ Best Crime Dramas Of 2026, Ranked

When it comes to compelling narratives, intricate plots, and captivating characters, crime shows are in a league of their own. In this post, we'll explore the best crime shows to watch in 2026, showcasing both new releases and enduring favorites that offer thrills, suspense, and captivating mysteries. Take Slow Horses for instance, a fascinating series centered on British intelligence misfits demoted to Slough House, where they stumble upon major conspiracies while dealing with their departmental exiles. Mayor of Kingstown is another must-watch, delivering heart-pounding drama and starring the talented Jeremy Renner. Meanwhile, Shetland introduces us to Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez as he navigates grisly crimes and dark secrets amid the stunning Scottish archipelago. These shows exemplify the diversity and depth of the crime genre, each offering unique storylines and unforgettable characters. Now, it’s your turn to become the judge and jury. We want to know which series you believe deserve the spotlight in 2026. Scroll through our curated list and vote for the top crime series on TV. Your input will help fellow viewers discover the most intriguing and gripping crime dramas of the year, ensuring that the best of the genre gets the recognition it deserves.

Entries: 132
Votes: 6.2K
Updated: 3 days ago

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#1Currently leadingSlow Horses

1
Slow Horses
Slow Horses is a gripping espionage series that centers on a team of MI5 misfits relegated to a dead-end department called Slough House. Led by the irreverent and disgraced Jackson Lamb, played brilliantly by Gary Oldman, the team navigates through office politics and dangerous missions. The show balances dark humor with nail-biting suspense, offering a fresh take on the spy genre. With its sharp writing and standout performances, Slow Horses is a must-watch for thriller fans.
82% upvoted
2
Shetland
Shetland is a captivating crime drama set against the stunning backdrop of the Scottish Shetland Islands. The show follows Detective Inspector Jimmy Perez, portrayed by Douglas Henshall, as he delves into complex cases that reveal the dark underbelly of the close-knit community. The series expertly blends atmospheric storytelling with intricate plotlines, offering both suspense and emotional depth. With its breathtaking scenery and compelling mysteries, Shetland stands out as a must-watch for fans of crime drama.
69% upvoted
3
Mayor of Kingstown
Mayor of Kingstown is a gripping drama series that delves into the turbulent power dynamics of Kingstown, Michigan, where the prison industry dominates the town. Starring Jeremy Renner as Mike McLusky, the de facto "mayor" who navigates the complex web of corruption, crime, and systemic inequality, the show offers intense, character-driven storytelling. Created by Taylor Sheridan and Hugh Dillon, Mayor of Kingstown combines sharp writing, strong performances, and a gritty aesthetic, making it a must-watch for drama enthusiasts.
64% upvoted
4
The Day of the Jackal
70% upvoted
5
Dept. Q
69% upvoted
6
MobLand
69% upvoted
7
DI Ray
DI Ray is a gripping British crime drama that centers on Detective Inspector Rachita Ray, portrayed by Parminder Nagra. Newly promoted and navigating the challenges of her role, DI Ray investigates a series of complex cases while confronting issues related to her identity and cultural background. The show combines intricate mysteries with deep character development, reflecting societal themes and personal struggles. With its compelling storytelling and strong performances, DI Ray offers a fresh and engaging take on the crime genre.
65% upvoted
8
Grace
Grace is a gripping British crime drama based on Peter James' bestselling novels, featuring John Simm as Detective Superintendent Roy Grace. Set in the atmospheric coastal city of Brighton, the series follows Grace as he tackles complex, high-stakes murder cases while wrestling with his own personal demons. With its blend of suspenseful storytelling, intricate character development, and picturesque yet ominous settings, Grace offers a compelling watch for fans of procedural dramas and intricate mysteries.
63% upvoted
9
Silent Witness
Silent Witness is a long-running British crime drama that follows a team of forensic pathologists as they uncover the truth behind mysterious deaths. Led by the insightful Dr. Nikki Alexander, portrayed by Emilia Fox, the series delves into complex criminal investigations, blending scientific precision with emotional depth. With its evolving cast, gripping storylines, and meticulous attention to detail, Silent Witness offers a compelling look at the intersection of medicine and justice, making it a staple in the genre.
64% upvoted
10
The Irrational
The Irrational is a compelling drama centered on Alec Mercer, a renowned behavioral scientist played by Jesse L. Martin. The series explores Mercer’s unique ability to decode human behavior, applying his expertise to solve complex crimes and unravel psychological mysteries. Balancing intense case work with personal struggles, the show dives deep into the human psyche. With its intelligent plotlines, strong performances, and intricate character development, The Irrational offers a thought-provoking and captivating viewing experience.
62% upvoted
11
The Bay
65% upvoted
12
The Residence
66% upvoted
13
Dexter: Resurrection
65% upvoted
14
Adolescence
61% upvoted
15
Van der Valk
60% upvoted
16
Ballard
63% upvoted
17
Beyond Paradise
58% upvoted
18
Law & Order Toronto: Criminal Intent
63% upvoted
19
Elsbeth
56% upvoted
20
After the Flood
57% upvoted
21
Task
59% upvoted
22
Happy Face
60% upvoted
23
Found
Found is a gripping drama series that follows Gabi Mosely, played by Shanola Hampton, a crisis management expert dedicated to locating missing persons often overlooked by society. Utilizing her unique skill set and a resourceful team, Gabi tackles challenging cases while grappling with her own past. The series offers a blend of suspense, emotional depth, and social commentary, making it a compelling watch. With its strong performances and intricate plotlines, Found engages viewers from start to finish.
54% upvoted
24
Murder in a Small Town
58% upvoted
25
Wisting
57% upvoted
26
Patience
60% upvoted
27
The Åre Murders
58% upvoted
28
Trigger Point
56% upvoted
29
Return to Paradise
59% upvoted
30
Long Bright River
55% upvoted
31
Art Detectives
55% upvoted
32
Countdown
56% upvoted
33
Furious
80% upvoted
34
Moonflower Murders
50% upvoted
35
Code of Silence
60% upvoted
36
Grosse Pointe Garden Society
50% upvoted
37
Murdaugh: Death in the Family
50% upvoted
38
Smoke
53% upvoted
39
Tulsa King
48% upvoted
40
Dexter: Original Sin
48% upvoted
41
The Cleaning Lady
47% upvoted
42
A Good Girl's Guide to Murder
46% upvoted
43
NCIS: Sydney
45% upvoted
44
Protection
48% upvoted
45
Power Book IV: Force
44% upvoted
46
The Twelve
46% upvoted
47
The One That Got Away
48% upvoted
48
The Madame Blanc Mysteries
43% upvoted
49
Joan
46% upvoted
50
The Jetty
46% upvoted
51
The Hunting Party
44% upvoted
52
Dark City: The Cleaner
45% upvoted
53
Nine Bodies in a Mexican Morgue
44% upvoted
54
You
42% upvoted
55
Alert: Missing Persons Unit
41% upvoted
56
Sight Unseen
43% upvoted
57
NCIS: Tony & Ziva
43% upvoted
58
The Breakthrough
47% upvoted
59
The Snow Girl
35% upvoted
60
Route 187
100% upvoted
61
Private Eyes West Coast
100% upvoted
62
The Drop: A Snowfall Saga
100% upvoted
63
The Westies
100% upvoted
64
Duster
42% upvoted
65
Blue Ridge: The Series
42% upvoted
66
Your Friends and Neighbors
42% upvoted
67
The Gone
43% upvoted
68
Secrets We Keep
41% upvoted
69
Blood Sacrifice
100% upvoted
70
Last Seen
100% upvoted
71
Lucky
100% upvoted
72
The Waterfront
40% upvoted
73
Sara - Woman in the Shadows
39% upvoted
74
The Torment
0% upvoted
76
4 Blocks Zero
0% upvoted
77
Habeas Corpus
0% upvoted
78
D.O.P.E Unit
0% upvoted
79
Line of Fire
0% upvoted
80
Nocturne
0% upvoted
81
Lanterns
0% upvoted
82
Anna Pigeon
0% upvoted
83
The Stolen Girl
38% upvoted
84
Homicide Squad New Orleans
38% upvoted
85
Deli Boys
33% upvoted
86
Prison Cell 211
33% upvoted
87
Scam Goddess
33% upvoted
88
NCIS: New York
0% upvoted
89
Signora Volpe
35% upvoted
90
City Of Shadows
0% upvoted
91
Memory of a Killer
0% upvoted
92
The Dead Girls
33% upvoted
93
Interior Chinatown
33% upvoted
94
Missing You
33% upvoted
95
Dalah: Death and the Flowers
30% upvoted
96
Scars of Beauty
30% upvoted
97
Scrublands
32% upvoted
98
Power Book III: Raising Kanan
23% upvoted
99
Suspect: The Shooting of Jean Charles De Menezes
27% upvoted
100
Graveyard
27% upvoted