Top 10 Crime-Solving Shows of the 80s and 90s
Magnum, P.I. (1980-1988)
Before Tom Selleck was giving us "dad" vibes in "Friends," he was rocking a Hawaiian shirt and solving crimes in the sunny paradise of Hawaii as Thomas Magnum. With his signature moustache and laid-back charm, Magnum was the epitome of cool. Aloha, plot twists! The show also featured the iconic red Ferrari 308 GTS, making every car chase a joyride. Who wouldn't want to trade places with Magnum, living in a guest house on a luxurious estate owned by the mysterious Robin Masters?
Murder, She Wrote (1984-1996)
The late, great Angela Lansbury as Jessica Fletcher was a true icon. This writer turned amateur detective casually solved murders between penning bestsellers and attending garden parties. Jessica Fletcher wasn't just solving crimes; she was teaching us all how to multitask like a boss. The show was set in the charming coastal town of Cabot Cove, Maine, where the murder rate seemed oddly high for such a quaint place. Who knew that a small-town writer could out-sleuth the best of them?
Columbo (1968-2003)
Technically kicking off in the 70s, Columbo's crumpled trench coat and seemingly bumbling demeanor, played masterfully by Peter Falk, continued to entertain us through the 80s and 90s. His catchphrase? "Just one more thing..." was always a prelude to uncovering the truth. Columbo’s unconventional methods and everyman persona made him a relatable hero. The show often featured guest stars like Leonard Nimoy and William Shatner, adding to its star-studded appeal.
Miami Vice (1984-1990)
Pastel suits, white loafers, and those glorious Miami sunsets. Detectives Crockett and Tubbs weren't just solving crimes; they were defining an era. With a killer soundtrack featuring the likes of Phil Collins and Jan Hammer, and sleek visuals, "Miami Vice" was more than a show; it was a cultural phenomenon. Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas brought an unprecedented level of cool to the screen, making neon lights and high-speed boat chases a staple of 80s television.
A Touch of Frost (1992-2010)
David Jason brought us Detective Inspector Jack Frost, a gritty and determined detective navigating the often bleak streets of Denton. With his disheveled hair and sharp wit, Frost gave us a taste of classic British crime-solving with a touch of class. The show’s realistic portrayal of police work, combined with Frost's compassionate nature and dry humor, made it a standout. Plus, who could forget Frost’s iconic phrase, "Just remember: I’m a policeman, not a social worker"?
Inspector Morse (1987-2000)
Oxford's most cultured detective, Inspector Morse, solved crimes with a love for opera and a pint of ale. John Thaw's portrayal of Morse, alongside his loyal sidekick Lewis, made navigating the elite colleges and cobblestone streets of Oxford a captivating journey. The series was known for its complex plots, classical music score, and Morse's Jaguar Mark 2. It was a thinking person’s detective show that made intellectual pursuits seem thrilling.
Hill Street Blues (1981-1987)
With an ensemble cast and a mix of personal drama and gritty police work, "Hill Street Blues" brought us into the daily grind of a police precinct. The show's iconic line, "Let's be careful out there," reminded us that every badge had a story. The series was groundbreaking in its use of serial storytelling and complex characters, influencing countless cop shows that followed. It tackled tough issues and brought a raw, emotional depth to the genre.
Cagney & Lacey (1982-1988)
Christine Cagney and Mary Beth Lacey were a dynamic duo breaking barriers as female detectives in a male-dominated world. Tackling societal issues and catching criminals, Cagney & Lacey were trailblazers and the ultimate power couple. The show addressed topics like alcoholism, rape, and workplace sexism, all while maintaining a strong bond between its two leads. Tyne Daly and Sharon Gless delivered powerhouse performances that resonated with viewers.
Prime Suspect (1991-2006)
Helen Mirren as Detective Chief Inspector Jane Tennison was a force to be reckoned with. "Prime Suspect" was dark, gritty, and groundbreaking, showcasing a strong female lead in a series that pushed the boundaries of crime dramas. The show delved into the personal and professional struggles of Tennison, set against the backdrop of gritty, realistic crime investigations. It was a game-changer for the genre and cemented Mirren's status as a formidable actress.
The Bill (1984-2010)
A staple of British TV, "The Bill" gave viewers an inside look at the lives of police officers in London's fictional Sun Hill. With dramatic chase sequences and quintessentially British moments, it became a beloved series that spanned decades. The show was known for its realistic portrayal of police procedures and its focus on the human side of law enforcement. "The Bill" was a must-watch for fans of procedural dramas and offered a unique, serialized look at policing.
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