In the ’80s, detective crime dramas were the go-to genre for many TV viewers. These shows offered a glimpse into the seedy underbelly of society and the tireless efforts of law enforcement to bring justice to the streets. From hard-boiled private investigators to suave police detectives, these shows featured a diverse cast of characters who were all united in their quest to solve crimes and bring criminals to justice.

But what made the best 80s detective crime dramas stand out from the rest? It was their ability to blend action, mystery, and drama in a way that kept audiences on the edge of their seats. These shows knew how to balance character development with plot twists, and they featured some of the most iconic actors of the decade.

So, without further ado, let’s take a trip down memory lane and revisit some of the very best ’80s detective crime drama shows.

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8 Magnum, P.I.

     NBCUniversal Television Distribution

Magnum, P.I. was one of the most iconic TV shows of the 80s. It followed the adventures of Thomas Magnum, a private investigator living in Hawaii. Magnum was played by the ruggedly handsome Tom Selleck, who brought a sense of charm and wit to the role. The show also featured a stellar supporting cast, including John Hillerman as the curmudgeonly Higgins and Roger E. Mosley as the lovable mechanic, T.C.

MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY

MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY

MOVIEWEB VIDEO OF THE DAY

Magnum, P.I. was known for its stunning location shots of Hawaii and its fast-paced action. Each episode followed Magnum as he tackled a new case, using his military training and intelligence to solve complex mysteries. The show was a huge hit and received widespread critical acclaim for its performances and storytelling.

7 Miami Vice

     NBC

Miami Vice was another 80s detective crime drama that left a lasting impact on the genre. This show followed the adventures of two undercover detectives, James Sonny Crockett and Ricardo Rico Tubbs, as they worked to bring down some of Miami’s most dangerous criminals. The crime drama series was known for its sleek and stylish production values, with its colorful neon-lit visuals and synth-heavy soundtrack becoming a hallmark of the show.

Don Johnson and Philip Michael Thomas played Crockett and Tubbs, respectively, and their on-screen chemistry was electric. Miami Vice was a trendsetting show that pushed the boundaries of the detective crime drama genre and influenced many other shows that followed.

6 Moonlighting

     American Broadcasting Company

Moonlighting was a quirky and innovative detective crime drama that took the TV world by storm in the 80s. It starred Bruce Willis and Cybill Shepherd as the mismatched detective duo of David Addison and Maddie Hayes, who ran a private investigation firm in Los Angeles. The show was known for its fast-paced dialogue and clever storytelling, as well as the will-they-won’t-they romance between its two leads.

Moonlighting received widespread critical acclaim for its performances and writing, and it was a major ratings hit. The show’s success helped launch Bruce Willis to stardom and solidified Cybill Shepherd’s place as a leading lady in Hollywood.

5 Murder, She Wrote

     CBS

Murder, She Wrote was a beloved detective crime drama that ran for 12 seasons in the ’80s and ’90s. It starred Angela Lansbury as the witty and shrewd amateur detective Jessica Fletcher, who used her skills as a mystery novelist to solve real-life crimes. Murder, She Wrote was known for its cleverly plotted mysteries and charming performances, with Lansbury’s portrayal of Jessica Fletcher becoming one of the most iconic TV characters of the decade.

The show received massive critical acclaim and was a hit, becoming one of the most successful detective crime dramas of all time. Its enduring popularity has made it a true classic of the genre.

4 Remington Steele

Remington Steele was a detective crime drama that aired in the 80s and followed the adventures of a fictional private investigator agency. The show starred Pierce Brosnan as the suave and debonair Remington Steele, who took on cases alongside his partner, Laura Holt, played by Stephanie Zimbalist.

Remington Steele was known for its clever writing and dynamic performances, as well as its stylish production values. The show was a major hit and helped launch Pierce Brosnan to stardom, paving the way for his eventual role as James Bond.

3 Simon & Simon

Simon & Simon was another popular detective crime drama of the 80s. It followed the adventures of two brothers, Rick and A.J. Simon, who ran a private investigation firm in San Diego. The show starred Gerald McRaney and Jameson Parker as the Simon brothers, and it was known for its strong character development and compelling storylines.

Simon & Simon received positive reviews for its performances and writing, and it was a significant hit during its run. The show’s success helped establish it as a classic of the detective crime drama genre.

2 The Equalizer

The Equalizer was a groundbreaking detective crime drama that aired in the 80s and followed the adventures of Robert McCall, a retired intelligence agent who used his skills to help those in need. The show starred Edward Woodward as McCall, and it was known for its intense action and compelling storylines.

The Equalizer received widespread critical acclaim for its performances and writing, and it was a hit during its run. The show’s success helped establish it as a detective crime drama genre classic and inspired numerous imitators.

1 Crime Story

Crime Story was a gritty and intense detective crime drama that aired in the 80s and followed the efforts of law enforcement to bring down a powerful Chicago crime boss. The show starred Dennis Farina as Detective Mike Torello and Michael Madsen as his nemesis, Ray Luca.

Crime Story was known for its strong performances and compelling storylines, and it received positive reviews for its depiction of the seedy underbelly of the criminal world.