The Best Crime Shows of 2025

The crime television landscape in 2025 has delivered a massive wave of high-stakes drama and intricate mysteries across major streaming platforms and broadcast networks. Audiences have seen the return of seasoned investigators alongside the introduction of fresh faces tackling complex cases in various settings. This year stands out for its blend of gritty realism and stylized storytelling that keeps viewers guessing until the very end. From long-running police procedurals to limited series based on true events, the selection offers something for every fan of the genre.

‘The Night Agent’ (2023–2025)

The second season of this hit series premiered on Netflix in January of 2025. Peter Sutherland continues his work as a low-level agent who now finds himself involved in high-level international plots. The story follows his efforts to stop a global conspiracy while protecting a new set of civilians. This season introduces fresh characters who help expand the world of government intelligence. The episodes offer a fast-paced narrative filled with tension and dramatic turns for the main protagonist.

‘Will Trent’ (2023–2025)

Special Agent Will Trent returns for a third season on ABC starting in early 2025. The show continues to explore the unique perspective of a detective who grew up in the overwhelmed foster care system of Atlanta. Will uses his keen observation skills to solve difficult cases that others often overlook. The new season delves deeper into his personal relationships and his complicated past. Fans can expect more emotional depth alongside the standard police procedural elements.

‘The Rookie’ (2018–2025)

The long-running police drama returned for its seventh season in January of 2025. John Nolan and his team at the LAPD face a new set of challenges that test their training and experience. The episodes focus on the daily struggles of officers on the street and the larger investigations handled by the department. This season highlights the growth of the characters as they balance their dangerous jobs with their personal lives. It remains a staple of broadcast television with its mix of action and character-driven stories.

‘Reacher’ (2022–2025)

Jack Reacher returns to Amazon Prime Video for a third season in early 2025. This season adapts the book ‘Persuader’ and finds the titular character going undercover to take down a formidable foe. Reacher must navigate a world of wealth and secrecy while relying on his physical strength and sharp intellect. The story is a personal mission for the former military policeman as he seeks justice for a past mistake. The show continues to provide the intense action and investigative grit that fans have come to expect.

‘Slow Horses’ (2022–2025)

The fifth season of this acclaimed espionage thriller arrived on Apple TV+ in 2025. Jackson Lamb and his team of outcast spies at Slough House get entangled in a new conspiracy involving digital manipulation. The narrative explores the dark underbelly of British intelligence with a sharp sense of humor. The characters must prove their worth once again despite their previous failures. This season solidifies the reputation of the show as one of the best character-driven crime dramas currently airing.

‘Daredevil: Born Again’ (2025)

Matt Murdock officially enters the Disney+ lineup with this new crime-focused superhero series in March of 2025. The show follows the blind lawyer as he battles the criminal underworld of Hell’s Kitchen. Kingpin returns as the primary antagonist who uses his political power to control the city. This version of the character leans heavily into the legal and investigative aspects of the crime genre. The episodes offer a gritty look at the intersection of justice and vigilantism.

‘Poker Face’ (2023–2025)

Charlie Cale continues her journey across America in the second season on Peacock in 2025. The protagonist uses her innate ability to detect lies to solve a series of unique murders in different towns. Each episode features a new setting and a guest cast that provides a fresh mystery for Charlie to untangle. The show maintains its successful format while evolving the overarching story of Charlie’s life on the run. The writing remains clever and focuses on the human motivations behind every crime.

‘Bosch: Legacy’ (2022–2025)

Harry Bosch returns for a third season on Freevee in March of 2025. The retired detective works as a private investigator while his daughter navigates her own path in the police force. This season tackles a major conspiracy that links back to the history of the LAPD. Bosch must operate outside the typical rules to ensure that justice is served for his clients. The show continues the legacy of the original series with its grounded approach to crime and corruption.

‘Zero Day’ (2025)

This Netflix original series premiered in 2025 as a high-stakes conspiracy thriller. The story focuses on a global cyberattack that threatens to dismantle the infrastructure of the United States. Robert De Niro stars as a former president who is brought back to investigate the origin of the threat. The narrative explores themes of misinformation and the fragility of modern digital systems. It combines political intrigue with traditional crime investigation techniques.

‘Prime Target’ (2025)

Apple TV+ released this math-focused crime thriller in January of 2025. A young graduate student discovers a pattern in prime numbers that could unlock every computer in the world. He soon realizes that a shadowy organization is willing to kill to obtain his research. The show follows his race against time to protect his discovery and his life. It blends academic brilliance with the tension of a traditional manhunt.

‘The Savant’ (2025)

Jessica Chastain stars in this Apple TV+ crime series based on a true story from 2025. The plot follows an undercover investigator who infiltrates violent hate groups to stop domestic terror attacks. The show provides an intimate look at the mental toll of living a double life for the sake of public safety. Each episode builds tension as the protagonist gets closer to the leaders of the extremist cells. It is a haunting exploration of the dangers lurking within modern society.

‘Duster’ (2025)

Set in the 1970s Southwest, this Max series premiered in 2025 and follows a getaway driver. The protagonist becomes involved in a growing crime syndicate that operates across state lines. The show emphasizes the style and grit of the era while delivering high-speed chase sequences. An unlikely partnership forms between the driver and a federal agent who is trying to take down the organization. The narrative is filled with atmospheric tension and explosive action.

‘Your Friends & Neighbors’ (2025)

Jon Hamm stars in this Apple TV+ crime drama that debuted in 2025. The story revolves around a divorced hedge fund manager who begins stealing from the wealthy residents of his suburb. His actions lead him down a dangerous path when he witnesses a crime he was not supposed to see. The show explores the dark secrets hidden behind the perfect facades of suburban life. It combines social commentary with a tense criminal investigation.

‘Lockerbie: A Search for Truth’ (2025)

This Netflix and BBC co-production arrived in 2025 to chronicle the investigation into the 1988 air disaster. The series focuses on the joint efforts of Scottish and American law enforcement to find those responsible. It depicts the meticulous forensic work and political hurdles faced by the investigators over several decades. The show serves as both a memorial and a detailed crime procedural about one of the most significant acts of terrorism in history. It highlights the persistence of those seeking justice for the victims.

‘Task’ (2025)

Mark Ruffalo stars in this HBO crime drama created by Brad Ingelsby that premiered in 2025. The story is set in the working-class suburbs of Philadelphia and follows a task force investigating a series of robberies. The narrative focuses on the personal lives of the officers and how their work impacts their families. It provides a realistic and gritty look at the law enforcement community in a struggling city. The show received praise for its authentic dialogue and strong character development.

‘Black Rabbit’ (2025)

Jude Law and Jason Bateman star in this Netflix crime series that debuted in 2025. The plot centers on the owner of a New York City hotspot who allows his chaotic brother back into his life. This decision opens the door to a world of criminal danger that threatens his legitimate business empire. The show explores themes of family loyalty and the blurred lines between legality and crime. It features a tense atmosphere and complex interpersonal dynamics.

‘Dept. Q’ (2025)

The English-language adaptation of the famous Danish crime novels premiered on Netflix in 2025. Set in Edinburgh, the show follows a detective who is assigned to a cold case unit in the basement of the police station. He works with a diverse team to solve long-forgotten crimes that have modern implications. The series is known for its dark tone and intricate plotting. It brings a fresh perspective to the popular Nordic noir genre.

‘Death in Paradise’ (2011–2025)

The fourteenth season of this beloved detective series began airing in January of 2025. Set on the beautiful island of Saint Marie, the show continues its format of solving impossible murders in a tropical setting. A new lead detective arrives to join the local police force and adapt to the island lifestyle. The episodes provide a lighter take on the crime genre with a focus on puzzles and deductions. It remains a favorite for viewers who enjoy classic whodunit mysteries.

‘Father Brown’ (2013–2025)

The twelfth season of this cozy mystery series returned to screens in early 2025. Mark Williams continues his role as the crime-solving priest in the fictional village of Kembleford. The show focuses on moral dilemmas and the redemptive power of justice within a small community. Each mystery is solved through Father Brown’s deep understanding of human nature and his sharp intuition. It provides a comforting and intellectual approach to criminal investigation.

‘Grantchester’ (2014–2025)

The tenth season of this period crime drama aired in 2025 with new mysteries for the vicar and the detective to solve. The story is set in the 1960s and explores the changing social landscape of England. The relationship between the two main characters remains the heart of the show as they navigate their personal faiths and professional duties. This season introduces new challenges that force the protagonists to question their place in the community. It continues to blend atmospheric drama with compelling crime stories.

‘Chicago P.D.’ (2014–2025)

The twelfth season of this intense procedural continued airing new episodes throughout 2025 on NBC. Sergeant Hank Voight leads the Intelligence Unit as they take on the most dangerous criminals in Chicago. The show explores the moral grey areas of law enforcement and the sacrifices made by those in uniform. The 2025 episodes focus on the impact of new technology on modern policing. It remains one of the most popular entries in the ‘One Chicago’ franchise.

‘Law & Order: Special Victims Unit’ (1999–2025)

Captain Olivia Benson and her team returned for the twenty-sixth season in 2025 on NBC. The show continues to handle sensitive cases involving victims of sexual assault and domestic violence. This season emphasizes the importance of survivor advocacy and the evolution of the legal system. The storytelling remains grounded in real-world issues while providing closure for the victims. It stands as the longest-running live-action primetime series in television history.

‘FBI’ (2018–2025)

The seventh season of this high-stakes drama aired in 2025 on CBS with a focus on national security threats. Special agents Maggie Bell and Omar Adom Zidan work together to protect New York City and the country. The episodes depict the immense resources and technical skills required by the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The 2025 season explores the rise of international cybercrime and its domestic impact. It provides a fast-paced look at the inner workings of a major federal agency.

‘FBI: Most Wanted’ (2020–2025)

This spinoff series returned for its sixth season in 2025 to follow the Fugitive Task Force. The team travels across the country to track down and capture the most dangerous criminals on the Bureau’s list. The narrative emphasizes the urgency and danger of every mission. This season features new team members who bring specialized skills to the pursuit of justice. The show is known for its relentless pace and high-intensity action sequences.

‘FBI: International’ (2021–2025)

The Fly Team returned for a fourth season in 2025 to handle threats against American citizens abroad. Based in Budapest, the agents travel across Europe to solve crimes and protect national interests. The show highlights the complexities of international law and the cooperation required between different countries. This season focuses on the personal risks the agents take while operating in foreign jurisdictions. It offers a unique perspective on the crime genre with its global scope.

‘S.W.A.T.’ (2017–2025)

Hondo and his specialized tactical unit returned for an eighth season on CBS in 2025. The show follows the elite team as they resolve high-risk situations in Los Angeles that ordinary police cannot handle. This season places a heavy emphasis on community relations and the role of specialized units in modern society. The episodes feature impressive stunt work and tactical realism. It remains a high-energy procedural with a strong focus on leadership and teamwork.

‘Elsbeth’ (2024–2025)

The second season of this quirky crime series premiered in 2025 following the success of its debut. Carrie Preston stars as Elsbeth Tascioni, an astute lawyer who uses her unconventional methods to help the NYPD solve crimes. The show features a colorful cast of characters and a bright aesthetic that sets it apart from other procedurals. Each episode presents a new case where Elsbeth outwits the criminals with her unique perspective. It provides a refreshing and humorous take on the traditional detective format.

‘Found’ (2023–2025)

The second season of this NBC drama continued in 2025 with a focus on missing persons cases. Gabi Mosely leads a crisis management team that searches for the forgotten individuals who the system often overlooks. The show explores the dark secret of Gabi’s own past and her relationship with her former kidnapper. This season delves into the ethical complexities of her methods and the trauma of the victims. It is a powerful exploration of the search for justice and closure.

‘High Potential’ (2024–2025)

This breakout hit continued its first season into 2025 on ABC. Kaitlin Olson plays a single mother with an exceptional mind who becomes a consultant for the police department. Her unconventional thinking helps detectives solve cases that have reached a dead end. The show balances a lighthearted tone with serious criminal investigations. The 2025 episodes explore her growing partnership with the professional detectives who initially doubted her skills.

‘NCIS’ (2003–2025)

The twenty-second season of this legendary procedural aired new episodes in 2025 on CBS. The team of special agents continues to investigate crimes involving the Navy and the Marine Corps. This season celebrates the history of the agency while introducing new technological threats. The chemistry among the cast members remains a highlight for the long-time viewers. It continues to be one of the most-watched crime dramas in the world.

‘NCIS: Origins’ (2024–2025)

This prequel series continued its first season in 2025 to tell the early story of Leroy Jethro Gibbs. Set in the 1990s, the show follows Gibbs as a young agent starting his career at the Camp Pendleton office. It explores the events that shaped him into the leader seen in the original series. The narrative focuses on the grit of old-school investigative work before the digital age. It provides fans with a deeper understanding of one of television’s most iconic characters.

‘NCIS: Sydney’ (2023–2025)

The second season of this international spinoff premiered in 2025 and is set in the harbor city of Australia. The show follows a joint task force of American NCIS agents and the Australian Federal Police. They work together to solve maritime crimes in a strategically important part of the world. The 2025 episodes highlight the cultural differences and the professional bonds formed between the two agencies. It offers a fresh setting for the familiar franchise format.

‘9-1-1’ (2018–2025)

The eighth season of this high-octane drama continued in 2025 with its focus on first responders. The episodes depict the intense pressure faced by dispatchers, police officers, and firefighters in Los Angeles. While primarily a rescue show, it frequently features criminal investigations and the pursuit of dangerous individuals. This season explores the personal growth of the main characters as they deal with massive emergencies. The show is known for its spectacular special effects and emotional storytelling.

‘The Lincoln Lawyer’ (2022–2025)

Mickey Haller returns for a fourth season on Netflix in late 2025 to handle a new high-profile case. The defense attorney continues to run his practice out of the back of his car while navigating the legal system in Los Angeles. This season is based on another novel from the bestselling series by Michael Connelly. Mickey must protect his clients while dealing with the fallout of his past victories. The show combines legal strategy with the danger of the criminal underworld.

‘The Diplomat’ (2023–2025)

The third season of this political thriller arrived on Netflix in 2025 with a focus on international crime. Kate Wyler navigates a world of assassination plots and secret government deals as she tries to prevent a global war. The show explores the intersection of diplomacy and criminal investigation on a massive scale. This season raises the stakes for Kate as she realizes the true extent of the corruption around her. The writing is praised for its intelligence and fast-paced dialogue.

‘Tulsa King’ (2022–2025)

The third season of this crime drama premiered on Paramount+ in 2025. Sylvester Stallone stars as Dwight ‘The General’ Manfredi, a mafia capo who is building a new criminal empire in Oklahoma. This season sees him facing off against new rivals who want to take over his territory. Dwight must balance his criminal activities with his attempts to reconcile with his family. The show blends dark comedy with traditional mob drama in a unique setting.

‘Mayor of Kingstown’ (2021–2025)

The fourth season of this gritty drama arrived on Paramount+ in 2025 to explore the business of incarceration. Jeremy Renner stars as Mike McLusky, a power broker who maintains the peace in a town where the primary industry is prisons. This season deals with the fallout of a major prison riot and the power vacuum it created. The narrative provides a harsh look at systemic corruption and the struggle for order in a violent world. It remains one of the most intense and uncompromising crime shows on television.

‘Criminal Minds: Evolution’ (2022–2025)

The Behavioral Analysis Unit returned for an eighteenth season in 2025 on Paramount+. The team of profilers continues to track down the most twisted serial killers and criminal networks. This season focuses on a single overarching mystery that connects multiple cases across the country. The show explores the psychological impact of the job on the veteran agents. It continues the dark and investigative legacy of the original long-running series.

‘Accused’ (2023–2025)

The second season of this anthology series continued in 2025 with new stories told from the perspective of the defendant. Each episode begins in a courtroom and slowly reveals the events that led to the person being on trial. The show explores the thin line between innocence and guilt in a complex world. The 2025 episodes feature a diverse range of characters and ethical dilemmas. It provides a unique and provocative look at the criminal justice system.

‘Alert: Missing Persons Unit’ (2023–2025)

The third season of this FOX drama premiered in 2025 with a focus on the search for kidnapped individuals. The story follows the Philadelphia Police Department’s MPU as they race against time to bring victims home. This season explores the personal lives of the lead detectives who are also searching for the truth about their own missing son. The episodes combine procedural elements with an emotional long-term mystery. It is a high-stakes drama that emphasizes the importance of family and hope.

‘Blue Bloods’ (2010–2025)

The final episodes of the fourteenth season aired in early 2025 to bring this legendary series to a close. The Reagan family gathered for their signature Sunday dinners one last time while solving the final cases of their careers. The show concluded its long run by honoring the legacy of the multi-generational law enforcement family in New York City. Fans saw resolution for Frank, Danny, Erin, and Jamie as they faced their biggest challenges yet. It ended its tenure as a beloved pillar of Friday night television.

‘The Equalizer’ (2021–2025)

Queen Latifah returned for a fifth season in 2025 as Robyn McCall, a former CIA operative who uses her skills to help those with nowhere else to turn. The show focuses on her role as a vigilante justice seeker in New York City. This season explores the consequences of her secret identity being threatened by a new enemy. Robyn must protect her daughter and her aunt while continuing her mission to help the marginalized. The show is praised for its action sequences and social relevance.

‘Law & Order: Organized Crime’ (2021–2025)

The fifth season moved exclusively to Peacock in 2025 and follows Elliot Stabler as he leads an elite task force. The team focuses on dismantling the most dangerous international crime syndicates and drug cartels. This season features a long-form narrative that allows for a deeper exploration of the criminal underworld. Stabler deals with the personal toll of his undercover work and his family’s safety. The show provides a grittier and more serialized approach than the original series.

‘Matlock’ (2024–2025)

Kathy Bates continued her role in the reimagined legal crime drama in early 2025 on CBS. The show follows Madeline Matlock as she uses her wit and experience to win difficult cases for a prestigious law firm. While primarily a legal drama, the show features significant investigative elements as she uncovers the truth behind every crime. This season reveals more about her hidden motivations for returning to the workforce. It combines clever legal maneuvering with a compelling central mystery.

‘Tracker’ (2024–2025)

The second season of this CBS hit continued in 2025 and follows Colter Shaw, a professional reward seeker. He uses his expert tracking skills to find missing persons and solve mysteries for private citizens and law enforcement. The show features a variety of settings across the United States as Colter travels in his mobile home. This season delves into the mysteries of his own childhood and his father’s death. It is a fast-paced investigative series with a focus on survival skills and intuition.

‘Watson’ (2025)

This new crime series premiered on CBS in January of 2025 and stars Morris Chestnut as Dr. John Watson. Set after the death of Sherlock Holmes, Watson returns to his medical career while solving unique medical mysteries with criminal undertones. The show provides a fresh take on the classic character by focusing on his skills as a physician and detective. He must navigate his grief while protecting his patients from modern threats. It is a sophisticated procedural that blends medicine and crime.

‘Sherlock & Daughter’ (2025)

The CW premiered this new mystery series in 2025 featuring an older Sherlock Holmes. The legendary detective discovers he has a daughter who may be just as brilliant as he is. Together they solve a series of complex crimes in London that have baffled Scotland Yard. The show explores the evolving relationship between the two while maintaining the classic intellectual puzzles of the franchise. It provides a new dynamic for one of history’s most famous literary characters.

‘The Better Sister’ (2025)

Jessica Biel and Elizabeth Banks star in this Amazon Prime Video thriller that debuted in 2025. The story follows two sisters who are brought back together by a brutal murder in their family. As they investigate the crime, long-buried secrets and tensions begin to resurface. The show is a psychological crime drama that focuses on the toxic dynamics between the characters. It features a dark atmosphere and several unexpected plot twists.

‘Beyond Paradise’ (2023–2025)

The third season of this ‘Death in Paradise’ spinoff returned in 2025 set in the coastal town of Shipton Abbott. Humphrey Goodman and his team solve puzzling crimes that often have a quirky or unusual nature. The show balances the detective work with Humphrey’s personal life and his attempts to integrate into the local community. This season features a new overarching mystery that threatens the peace of the small town. It continues to offer a charming and clever take on the British crime procedural.

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