The 10 Best Cop Shows Since The Sopranos Ended

Crime dramas are among the most popular TV series around, and for good reason. There's a lot to love about the genre. There's human drama, real-world stakes, and even compelling characters. The genre has a long history, on TV and beyond. It can be argued that its roots go back to old detective stories. These days, however, crime dramas aren't just about the people who stop crimes, but also those who commit them. As long as the story focuses on something illegal, morally murky, or somewhere in between, it can be considered a crime drama. One of the most popular crime shows in recent memory is HBO The Sopranosa television epic centered on Tony Soprano's illicit life in the mob.

The Sopranos It's one of the most popular TV shows ever. It really started the wave of what is now called “prestige TV.” The Sopranos brought the storytelling, acting, and drama of movies to TV, and really showed what the medium could do. Of course, it wasn't the first TV show to do so, but it's one of the most popular, and it builds its reputation not just on being a story, but an experience. The Sopranos is considered not only one of the best TV shows ever, but also one of the best cop shows. However, there are still tons of great cop shows that have debuted since The Sopranos.

10 Only Murders in the Building boasts an all-star cast

Only murders in the building is one of the funniest shows currently on television. It may seem odd for a crime thriller, but with Steve Martin and Martin Short as two of the leads, it's a laugh-a-minute. The duo, along with Selena Gomez, play down-on-their-luck podcasters trying to solve murders in their apartment building.

Drawing inspiration from real-life true crime podcasts, Only murders in the building mixes absurdity and reality to create one of the most gripping crime dramas around. It has heart and mystery and is absolutely packed to the brim with guest stars and famous comedians who keep the laughs coming. This is a must for any crime show fan looking for a lighter fare.

9 You

You is easily one of the most popular crime shows around. It follows serial killer Joe, who stalks various women in his search for “love.” However, Joe's unique brand of obsession creates problems for the women he falls for. The result is a dark and disturbing romp of kidnappings and seductions.

You is fascinating in its treatment of its main character. Joe is undeniably evil, but the show tries hard to put you in his shoes. The creators almost want you to feel bad for this monster. As disturbing as it is, this makes for a very compelling narrative and immediately draws the audience into the story.

8 Reacher features a stellar performance from Alan Ritchson

There have been a few live-action Jack Reacher projects, based on the novel series of the same name. However, few have been as successful as Reach. Starring Alan Ritchson, this series follows a retired soldier embroiled in a murder mystery. Using his skills and wiles, Reacher must evade the law and find out who is truly responsible.

Reach is really buoyed by Alan Ritchson's performance in the lead role. The actor has a lot of charisma and his huge frame lends a lot of ferocity to the show's well-choreographed fight scenes. Anyone who's a fan of cop shows with a more action-packed twist will find this entertaining.

7 Dexter subverts the serial killer trope

What if a serial killer only killed other serial killers? That’s the main premise of Dexter, and one that the show uses quite well. While it’s certainly had its ups and downs over its many seasons, most fans agree that Dexter is a solid crime thriller for anyone willing to get a little gory.

Dexter is a lot of fun, even if it's not always the most realistic crime show out there. However, the focus on the psychosis of a killer like Dexter is fascinating, and making him a “moral” serial killer is a great twist on the idea. Ultimately, this is a crime show everyone should watch at least once. It's gotten a lot of buzz for a reason: it's a really funny (and admittedly bloody) show.

6 Peaky Blinders is part historical drama, part crime thriller.

One part historical drama, one part crime thriller, Peaky Blinders is a standout in the crime genre. The BBC original follows the Peaky Blinders, a criminal organization operating in Bermingham. Although the show is completely fictional, it is loosely based on real events. This series is a hilarious time of fun, full of intrigue, drama, and intense action.

Peaky Blinders It's not always concerned with historical accuracy, but it tries hard enough to be noteworthy. The show is certainly involved in the social situations of the 1920s and provides a great insight into British life during the interwar period. Peaky Blinders It's one of the best British crime dramas out there. Plus, it has an absolutely stellar cast, including Cillian Murphy in the lead role.

5 Better Call Saul is one of the most successful spin-offs of recent times

Very similar to its predecessor, Better call Saul is one of the most celebrated TV series to date. The show follows Jimmy McGill, who later becomes Saul Goodman. Here, he is simply a fearless and sleazy lawyer who is willing to do anything to get his clients off the hook. No tactic is too sneaky, no move is too clever, and he will do anything to win a case. The fun of the show comes from seeing how Saul chooses to evade the law this time.

Saul Goodman initially appeared, of course, in breaking Badwhere he was a fan favorite. This series follows his origins as he goes from a low-level, two-bit lawyer to one of Walter White's allies. The series is funny, charming, intense, and fascinating. It depicts a man who goes deeper and deeper into the rabbit hole of crime and amorality, all the while setting up his future appearances.

4 The Boys satirizes traditional superhero storytelling

Well, it might seem strange to say, but The boys is one of the best crime dramas currently on the air. While it definitely leans into the aesthetic and style of the superhero genre, the show primarily focuses on the misdeeds of evil corporations and evil vigilantes who will do anything to show off. It feels like a crime drama if there ever was one. Of course, the sci-fi twist to the show is what sets it apart. Plus, it has a fantastic cast, including Jack Quaid, Karl Urban, and Anthony Starr.

The boys has been a hit since its first season, and now, with season four wrapping up and more on the way, it’s sure to remain in the public consciousness for years to come. The show follows the titular Boys as they try to stop super villains from oppressing ordinary people and getting away with murder. Often, literally. It’s funny, exciting, a little gross, and honestly pretty hilarious. This is a must-watch for any fan of superhero media.

3 Mr. Robot sheds light on contemporary cybercrime

Many crime dramas focus on normal, everyday crimes. But what about… cybercrime?! Mr. Robot focuses on the world of illegal internet activity, as the main character, Elliot, works as a vigilante hacker. The series stars Rami Malek, who as always gives an incredible performance. The series is a great balance between a light sci-fi dystopia and real-world evil.

Mr. RobotThe appeal of lies in its conceit and its central character. The idea of ​​a show centered around a clandestine hacker organization is certainly novel. Plus, their goal of eliminating global debt is a compelling and relatable starting point for audiences. Of course, things spiral out of control very quickly, but anyone interested in some light science fiction and heart-pounding thrills should check this out.

2 Barry might be one of the most unique cop shows

Bar is a pretty unique show. It follows a depressed assassin, played by Bill Hader, who wants out of “life.” When he discovers acting, Barry realizes his new passion is the stage. Unfortunately, his past is not ready to let him go. Naturally, this leads to a lot of bloody and emotional fights.

Bar It's definitely a dark comedy, but it has criminal elements here and there. It follows a murderer, for goodness' sake. Much of the “plot” focuses on his former career in the world's deadliest profession. However, Bar It's a real treat and anyone with the stomach for some devilish laughter should definitely give it a try.

1 Breaking Bad carried the torch for Prestige Television

The grandfather of prestige TV, breaking Bad is practically synonymous with the crime genre. Few shows are greater, except perhaps The Sopranos same. The show follows former chemistry teacher turned drug kingpin Walter White. It follows Walter's attempts to provide for his family through illicit means. This show is a true journey, and a cultural phenomenon to boot, but that's not the only reason to watch it.

breaking Bad is a tour de force, and it cemented the crime genre as one of the greatest out there. It was a star-making show, and features talented actors like Bryan Cranston, Aaron Paul, and Giancarlo Esposito. Literally everyone should check it out, because there is bound to be something for every possible audience.