Crime shows have been a fixture of television for decades, blending suspense, mystery, and drama into compelling storylines. Whether it’s police procedurals, detective thrillers, or supernatural crime dramas, these shows keep us hooked with their twists, turns, and larger-than-life characters. But some crime shows stand the test of time, lasting for years, even decades. These long-running series not only entertain but often set the standard for future TV crime dramas.
In this article, we’ll take a look at 15 of the longest-running crime shows on television that have kept audiences on the edge of their seats. From iconic detectives to gripping forensic investigations, these shows prove that the appeal of a good crime story never gets old.
1. Columbo (1968-1978, 1989-2003) – 10 Seasons
Let’s start with one of the most beloved crime dramas in TV history: Columbo. This iconic show introduced us to Lieutenant Frank Columbo, a shrewd yet humble LAPD detective played by Peter Falk. Columbo became famous for his unassuming nature, trademark raincoat, and his catchphrase, “Just one more question.”
What set Columbo apart was its unique format. Unlike the typical whodunit, the audience knew who the murderer was from the start. The show focused on how Columbo would catch the killer, often using clever tactics to outsmart them. This “inverted detective story” format influenced many shows that followed, cementing Columbo as a pioneering series in the crime genre.
With Falk’s exceptional portrayal of Columbo, the series won numerous awards, including 13 Emmy Awards. Even decades later, Columbo’s investigations remain timeless, making this show a true classic.
2. The X-Files (1993-2002, 2016) – 11 Seasons
Blending crime procedural with supernatural elements, The X-Files became a cultural phenomenon in the 90s. The show follows FBI agents Fox Mulder (David Duchovny) and Dana Scully (Gillian Anderson) as they investigate unsolved cases involving paranormal phenomena. While Mulder believes in the supernatural, Scully is a staunch skeptic, offering the perfect balance between the two.
What made The X-Files so compelling was its ability to weave in both episodic mysteries and a larger, ongoing storyline about government conspiracies and extraterrestrial life. The show not only explored creepy, unexplained cases but also delved into complex philosophical and moral questions.
With its eerie atmosphere and memorable characters, The X-Files became a massive hit, earning numerous awards and spawning films, spin-offs, and a dedicated fan base that continues to grow.
3. NYPD Blue (1993-2005) – 12 Seasons
NYPD Blue was one of the most groundbreaking crime dramas of its time. Airing in the 90s, the show broke away from traditional police procedurals by incorporating gritty realism, complex characters, and a raw portrayal of police work. Set in the fictional 15th precinct in New York City, the show follows a group of detectives as they solve cases while dealing with their own personal struggles.
Led by Dennis Franz as the troubled Detective Andy Sipowicz, NYPD Blue was known for its honest depiction of police work, its mature themes, and its powerful performances. The show won 20 Primetime Emmy Awards and was praised for its handling of tough issues like addiction, racism, and personal redemption.
NYPD Blue set the bar for future police procedurals and remains a landmark in TV history.
4. Bones (2005-2017) – 12 Seasons
If you like your crime shows with a side of science, Bones is the perfect mix of forensic investigation and criminal drama. The show follows Dr. Temperance “Bones” Brennan (Emily Deschanel), a forensic anthropologist, and FBI agent Seeley Booth (David Boreanaz) as they solve complex murder cases using bones and skeletal remains.
What sets Bones apart from other procedurals is its focus on forensic anthropology, with Brennan and her team at the Jeffersonian Institute solving crimes by examining the remains of victims. The show’s mix of science and detective work made it unique, while the dynamic chemistry between Brennan and Booth added an emotional layer that kept viewers hooked for 12 seasons.
With memorable characters, clever plots, and plenty of heart, Bones stood out as one of the longest-running and most successful crime dramas of the 2000s.
5. Law & Order: SVU (1999-Present) – 25+ Seasons
When it comes to longevity in crime television, Law & Order: SVU is in a league of its own. Premiering in 1999 as a spin-off of the original Law & Order, SVU focuses on the Special Victims Unit of the NYPD, handling cases involving sexual assault, child abuse, and other sensitive crimes.
What makes SVU so enduring is its powerful storytelling, complex characters, and its ability to tackle difficult, real-world issues. The show has consistently pushed boundaries, not only in terms of the cases it covers but also in the way it portrays the emotional toll on both the victims and the detectives.
With Mariska Hargitay’s Emmy-winning portrayal of Detective Olivia Benson, SVU has become a cultural institution, breaking records as the longest-running primetime U.S. live-action series. It continues to be a staple of TV crime drama, with no signs of slowing down.
6. Criminal Minds (2005-2020) – 16 Seasons
Criminal Minds follows a specialized team of FBI profilers from the Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU) as they track down the most dangerous and twisted criminals across the country. Each episode delves into the psychology of the criminals they hunt, often exploring the dark and disturbing nature of human behavior.
The show’s unique focus on criminal profiling, combined with a stellar ensemble cast led by Mandy Patinkin, Thomas Gibson, and Shemar Moore, helped Criminal Minds stand out in a crowded field of crime procedurals. Over its 16-season run, Criminal Minds became a fan favorite and a reliable mainstay on television, with a loyal fanbase that appreciated the show’s intricate plotting and tense storylines.
7. CSI: Crime Scene Investigation (2000-2015) – 15 Seasons
When it comes to forensic crime dramas, CSI: Crime Scene Investigation is one of the best. This show focuses on a team of forensic investigators in Las Vegas, who use cutting-edge technology to solve complex murder cases. The series popularized forensic science as a central theme in TV crime shows and helped spawn several spin-offs, including CSI: Miami and CSI: New York.
With its mix of high-tech crime-solving and drama, CSI was a major hit during its 15-season run, earning numerous awards and accolades. The show’s success helped launch a wave of forensic-based procedurals, forever changing the landscape of crime television.
8. NCIS (2003-Present) – 21+ Seasons
NCIS is another show that has been going strong for over two decades, making it one of the longest-running crime series in TV history. The show follows a team of special agents from the Naval Criminal Investigative Service, as they solve crimes related to the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps.
What sets NCIS apart is its ability to blend action, humor, and drama. The characters, led by Mark Harmon as Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, are a huge draw, with their witty banter, emotional depth, and strong sense of teamwork. The show’s longevity and continued popularity are a testament to its ability to stay fresh, despite the predictable nature of procedural shows.
9. The Mentalist (2008-2015) – 7 Seasons
While not as long-running as some of the other shows on this list, The Mentalist still deserves a mention for its unique take on the crime procedural genre. The show follows Patrick Jane (Simon Baker), a former psychic medium turned private consultant, who uses his keen observational skills to solve crimes with the California Bureau of Investigation.
The Mentalist’s charm lies in its clever use of psychological techniques, with Jane often outsmarting criminals by reading their behavior and body language. His complicated relationship with his team, particularly his quest for vengeance against the serial killer Red John, kept audiences engaged for all seven seasons.
10. Murder, She Wrote (1984-1996) – 12 Seasons
One of the most beloved classic crime shows of all time, Murder, She Wrote stars Angela Lansbury as Jessica Fletcher, a mystery writer who solves real-life murders in her spare time. Set in the charming town of Cabot Cove, Jessica uses her sharp mind and impeccable observation skills to help law enforcement solve cases.
The show’s blend of cozy mystery, small-town charm, and intricate plotting made it a hit for over a decade. Lansbury’s performance as Jessica Fletcher earned her multiple Emmy nominations and made her an iconic figure in the genre.
