The Best Crime Shows of 2025

The television landscape in 2025 has been dominated by high-stakes espionage and intricate legal dramas that kept audiences guessing until the final moments. This year saw the return of several award-winning favorites alongside a wave of ambitious new projects featuring A-list Hollywood talent. Streaming platforms and traditional networks alike delivered a consistent stream of crime-focused content that pushed the boundaries of the genre. From gritty international thrillers to cozy village mysteries, the variety of stories reflected a global fascination with investigative storytelling. This list explores the most compelling crime series that aired new content during this banner year for television.

‘Slow Horses’ (2022–)

The fifth season of this acclaimed spy thriller premiered on Apple TV Plus on September 24 2025 with six episodes. Gary Oldman returns as the cantankerous Jackson Lamb who leads a team of disgraced MI5 agents known as the slow horses. This installment is adapted from the novel London Rules by Mick Herron and focuses on a series of bizarre events across London following a suspicious terrorist attack. Jack Lowden and Kristin Scott Thomas reprise their roles as the dysfunctional team navigates internal politics and external threats. The season maintains its signature blend of dark humor and suspenseful espionage.

‘The Night Agent’ (2023–)

This high-octane political thriller returned to Netflix for its second season on January 23 2025 with ten new episodes. Gabriel Basso reprises his role as Peter Sutherland who is now officially operating as a secret agent for the organization known as Night Action. The plot follows Peter as he investigates a dangerous leak within the CIA that forces him to go off the grid to protect national security. Luciane Buchanan also returns as Rose Larkin while new cast members like Amanda Warren join the ensemble. The series quickly regained its status as one of the most-watched shows on the platform following its winter release.

‘Only Murders in the Building’ (2021–)

The fifth season of this beloved mystery comedy returned to Hulu in August 2025 with ten episodes. Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez continue their roles as the true crime podcasting trio who find themselves at the center of yet another homicide. The investigation revolves around the death of a recurring character and takes the team to unexpected locations across New York City. This season balances its lighthearted humor with a complex web of clues and red herrings that challenge the detectives’ skills. It remains a standout example of the modern whodunit genre.

‘Zero Day’ (2025)

Robert De Niro leads the cast of this Netflix limited series which debuted on February 20 2025 with six episodes. He portrays a former United States President who is brought out of retirement to lead a commission investigating a catastrophic cyberattack. The show explores the devastating effects of disinformation and the political maneuvering that occurs in the wake of a national crisis. Jesse Plemons and Angela Bassett also star in this high-stakes drama that combines technological thriller elements with political intrigue. It was created by Eric Newman and Noah Oppenheim to address contemporary concerns about security and truth.

‘The Agency: Central Intelligence’ (2024–2025)

The first season of this spy series concluded its run on Paramount Plus with Showtime on January 26 2025. Michael Fassbender stars as a deep-cover CIA agent who struggles to leave his assumed identity behind when he returns to the London station. The final episodes of the ten-part season resolve the intense conflict between his professional duties and personal loyalties. Jeffrey Wright and Richard Gere play key figures in the intelligence community who monitor his every move. The show is a remake of the famous French series Le Bureau and was renewed for a second season shortly after its finale.

‘Task’ (2025)

Mark Ruffalo stars in this gritty crime drama which premiered on HBO and Max in early 2025. Created by Brad Ingelsby, the series is a spiritual successor to his previous work and focuses on a task force investigating violent crimes in Pennsylvania. The story follows a group of detectives as they navigate the complexities of law enforcement in a working-class community facing modern social challenges. It features seven episodes that emphasize realistic character development and a somber atmospheric tone. The show received praise for its authentic portrayal of the emotional toll associated with criminal investigations.

‘Poker Face’ (2023–)

Natasha Lyonne returns as Charlie Cale in the second season of this case-of-the-week mystery series which arrived on Peacock on May 8 2025. The season consists of twelve episodes and follows Charlie as she travels to new locations and uses her lie-detecting ability to solve murders. Rian Johnson continues to oversee the production which features a revolving door of guest stars including Giancarlo Esposito and Katie Holmes. The series moved its filming location to New York for this installment and maintains its classic detective show aesthetic. Each episode provides a standalone puzzle that highlights Charlie’s unique skills and nomadic lifestyle.

‘Reacher’ (2022–)

The third season of this action-heavy crime series premiered on Prime Video in February 2025. Based on the novel Persuader by Lee Child, the story finds Jack Reacher going undercover to take down a massive criminal organization. Alan Ritchson returns as the titular character and delivers the physical performance fans have come to expect from the franchise. The season spans eight episodes and focuses on a personal vendetta that brings Reacher into conflict with a figure from his military past. It remains a dominant force in the streaming rankings due to its faithful adaptation of the source material.

‘Daredevil: Born Again’ (2025–)

This highly anticipated addition to the Marvel Cinematic Universe debuted on Disney Plus on March 4 2025. Charlie Cox reprises his role as Matt Murdock who balances his life as a blind lawyer with his nocturnal activities as the vigilante Daredevil. The show features nine episodes in its initial run and adopts a grounded mature tone that focuses on street-level crime in New York. Vincent D’Onofrio also returns as the influential crime boss Wilson Fisk who serves as the primary antagonist. The series explores the intersection of law and justice in a city plagued by corruption.

‘The Savant’ (2025)

Jessica Chastain leads this Apple TV Plus limited series which premiered in mid-2025 with eight episodes. Inspired by true events, the plot follows a secret investigator known as the Savant who specializes in identifying and stopping potential mass attackers. The show delves into the psychological aspects of criminal profiling and the challenges of modern law enforcement. It provides an intense look at the hidden world of threat assessment and the personal sacrifices required to protect society. The series was developed by Melissa James Gibson and features a high-prestige production quality.

‘Your Friends & Neighbors’ (2025)

Jon Hamm stars as a disgraced hedge fund manager in this dark comedy crime drama which premiered on Apple TV Plus on April 11 2025. The story follows his character as he begins robbing the luxurious homes of his wealthy neighbors to maintain his lavish lifestyle after being fired. The nine-episode first season escalates when he is framed for a murder and must navigate a dangerous web of deceit. Amanda Peet and Olivia Munn also star as residents of the affluent community who become involved in his criminal exploits. The show received an early renewal for a second season following its successful debut.

‘Black Rabbit’ (2025)

Jude Law and Jason Bateman headline this Netflix crime drama which released all eight episodes in the spring of 2025. The plot revolves around a New York City hospitality mogul who allows his troubled brother back into his life and accidentally invites a world of dangerous secrets. The brothers must navigate a series of threats from criminal organizations while trying to maintain their public image. It explores themes of family loyalty and the high cost of maintaining power in a competitive city. Bateman also directed several episodes of the series to ensure a consistent stylistic vision.

‘Prime Target’ (2025)

This conspiracy thriller arrived on Apple TV Plus on January 22 2025 and features eight episodes. Leo Woodall stars as a brilliant math graduate who discovers a secret pattern that could provide access to every computer system in the world. He finds himself hunted by various intelligence agencies and corporate interests who want to control the discovery. Quintessa Swindell plays a former operative who helps him stay one step ahead of his pursuers. The show was produced by Ridley Scott and emphasizes a fast-paced narrative filled with technological and political intrigue.

‘The Recruit’ (2022–)

The second season of this spy comedy-drama premiered on Netflix on January 30 2025. Noah Centineo returns as Owen Hendricks who is a young CIA lawyer who finds himself in the middle of a high-stakes mission in South Korea. The eight-episode season follows Owen as he attempts to negotiate with dangerous international players while dealing with bureaucratic hurdles within his own agency. It maintains the humorous and chaotic tone that made the first season a hit with younger audiences. The series successfully expands its global scope while keeping the focus on its charismatic lead character.

‘Tulsa King’ (2022–)

Season 3 debuted on Paramount Plus in late 2025 as Sylvester Stallone reprises his role as the mafia capo Dwight Manfredi. The new episodes follow Dwight as he defends his growing criminal empire in Oklahoma against encroaching rivals and legal investigations. The ten-episode season explores the expanding influence of his crew and the personal challenges he faces as he grows older. It continues to blend traditional gangster tropes with a unique Midwestern setting and a fish-out-of-water dynamic. The show remains a cornerstone of the network’s original programming lineup.

‘Bosch: Legacy’ (2022–)

The third season of this detective series premiered on Prime Video and Amazon Freevee in early 2025. Titus Welliver returns as Harry Bosch who investigates the murder of a significant figure while his daughter Maddie navigates her own career in the LAPD. The plot is based on the Michael Connelly novels Desert Star and The Waiting and spans ten episodes of dense procedural storytelling. Honey Chandler played by Mimi Rogers also returns to handle complex legal battles that intersect with Harry’s investigations. The series continues to be praised for its authentic portrayal of modern police work.

‘Adolescence’ (2025)

This British limited series premiered on Netflix in the fall of 2025 and consists of four episodes. It focuses on the investigation into a murder allegedly committed by a thirteen-year-old boy and the subsequent trial that divides his community. Stephen Graham stars in the series and also served as a co-writer alongside Jack Thorne. The show is notable for being filmed in a single continuous take for each episode to create an immersive and tense experience. It explores themes of youth crime and the failings of the legal system through a deeply personal lens.

‘Missing You’ (2025)

Based on the novel by Harlan Coben, this limited series arrived on Netflix on January 1 2025 with five episodes. Rosalind Eleazar stars as Detective Kat Donovan who discovers her missing fiancé on a dating app more than a decade after his disappearance. The investigation leads her into a dark conspiracy involving her father’s murder and a series of current crimes. The show follows the successful formula of previous Coben adaptations by delivering frequent twists and a fast-paced mystery. It served as a major New Year release for the streaming service and performed well globally.

‘Dark Winds’ (2022–)

The third season of this psychological thriller premiered on AMC and Netflix in early 2025 with six episodes. Zahn McClarnon and Kiowa Gordon return as Navajo tribal police officers Joe Leaphorn and Jim Chee who solve crimes on the reservation in the 1970s. The new season involves a mystery surrounding a missing person and a series of strange occurrences that suggest a deeper spiritual or political conflict. The series continues to receive acclaim for its atmospheric cinematography and its commitment to authentic cultural representation. It remains a unique entry in the crime genre due to its period setting and cultural focus.

‘The Residence’ (2025)

This murder mystery set in the White House premiered on Netflix in the summer of 2025 with eight episodes. Uzo Aduba stars as an eccentric and brilliant detective who is called to the executive mansion to solve a high-profile homicide. The show combines political intrigue with a classic whodunit structure as the detective grills the staff and residents of the famous building. It was produced by Shonda Rhimes’ Shondaland and features a sharp witty script and a diverse ensemble cast. The series provides a unique perspective on the inner workings of the United States presidency through the lens of a crime investigation.

‘Duster’ (2025)

Created by J.J. Abrams and LaToya Morgan, this series debuted on Max on May 15 2025 with eight episodes. Set in the 1970s, the plot follows a getaway driver played by Josh Holloway who teams up with a rookie FBI agent played by Rachel Hilson. Together they work to bring down a powerful crime syndicate while navigating the dangerous landscape of the American Southwest. The show is known for its high-octane action sequences and its stylish retro aesthetic. It provides a fun and fast-paced alternative to more somber crime dramas currently on the air.

‘Sherlock & Daughter’ (2025–)

David Thewlis stars as Sherlock Holmes in this new series that premiered on The CW in early 2025 with ten episodes. The story follows the legendary detective as he encounters a young woman played by Blu Hunt who believes she is his daughter. They form an unlikely partnership to solve a variety of baffling crimes while investigating the truth about her parentage. Dougray Scott also stars as Holmes’ nemesis Moriarty who looms over the investigation. The show offers a fresh take on the iconic character by introducing a family dynamic that hasn’t been explored in previous adaptations.

‘Watson’ (2025–)

Morris Chestnut stars as Dr. John Watson in this medical crime drama which premiered on CBS on January 26 2025. The series takes place one year after the death of Sherlock Holmes and follows Watson as he returns to his medical practice while solving crimes that require his unique expertise. The thirteen-episode first season balances procedural medical cases with a serialized mystery involving Holmes’ final case. It places Watson at the center of the narrative and explores his grief and professional growth. The show has become a significant hit for the network’s Sunday night lineup.

‘NCIS: Tony & Ziva’ (2025–)

Michael Weatherly and Cote de Pablo return to their iconic roles in this Paramount Plus original series which debuted in the summer of 2025. The ten-episode season follows the couple as they are forced to go on the run across Europe after a security threat targets their family. It marks the first time the characters have been the lead focus of their own series since leaving the original franchise. The show combines elements of international espionage with the domestic drama of raising a daughter in hiding. Fans of the original show helped make it one of the most successful spin-offs in the brand’s history.

‘NCIS: Origins’ (2024–)

The first season of this prequel series continued airing on CBS throughout 2025 with new episodes airing on Monday nights. Austin Stowell portrays the young Leroy Jethro Gibbs as he begins his career at the newly formed NCIS office in the 1990s. The show explores the formative events and early cases that shaped the character into the leader fans know from the original series. Mark Harmon serves as the executive producer and narrator for the series providing a direct link to the franchise’s past. The show has been well-received for its period detail and its focus on character development over simple procedurals.

‘NCIS’ (2003–)

The twenty-second season of the flagship procedural continued on CBS in 2025 with new episodes airing on Monday nights. Gary Cole leads the team as Special Agent Alden Parker as they investigate crimes involving the Navy and Marine Corps. The season features twenty-two episodes and includes a special milestone episode celebrating the show’s long-running success. It remains a top-rated drama on network television and was renewed for a twenty-third season that premiered in the fall of 2025. The series maintains its audience through a reliable blend of humor and investigative drama.

‘The Rookie’ (2018–)

The seventh season of this police drama premiered on ABC on January 7 2025 with eighteen new episodes. Nathan Fillion stars as John Nolan who now serves as a training officer for a new generation of rookies at the Los Angeles Police Department. The season features several high-stakes serialized plots including a confrontation with a persistent crime organization. It continues to be a strong performer for the network due to its mix of action and character-driven subplots. The show has successfully evolved from its original premise while keeping the core cast that fans enjoy.

‘Will Trent’ (2023–)

Season 3 of this police procedural debuted on ABC on January 7 2025 and consists of thirteen episodes. Ramon Rodriguez stars as the eccentric Special Agent Will Trent who uses his unique observational skills to solve complex cases for the Georgia Bureau of Investigation. The new season explores Will’s personal life more deeply as he navigates his relationship with Angie Polaski and uncovers secrets about his past. The show is based on the bestselling book series by Karin Slaughter and maintains a loyal audience. It is praised for its lead performance and its ability to balance dark crimes with moments of character growth.

‘High Potential’ (2024–)

The first season of this series starring Kaitlin Olson continued its run on ABC into 2025 with a final set of episodes. Olson plays a single mother with an exceptionally high IQ who becomes a consultant for the police department to solve their most difficult cases. The show’s success led to a second season which premiered in September 2025 with more episodes. It is an adaptation of a popular French series and has become a standout hit for the network. The show’s blend of humor and clever mystery solving has resonated with a wide range of viewers.

‘Elsbeth’ (2024–)

The second season of this spin-off series from The Good Wife premiered on CBS in late 2024 and continued into 2025 with new episodes. Carrie Preston returns as the quirky attorney Elsbeth Tascioni who works with the NYPD to solve unique murder cases. The series follows a lighthearted format where the mystery is solved through Elsbeth’s unconventional observations and persistent nature. Wendell Pierce also stars as Captain Wagner who provides a grounded foil to Elsbeth’s energetic personality. The show has carved out a successful niche as a modern take on the classic detective procedural.

‘Tracker’ (2024–)

Season 2 of this action-oriented crime series continued on CBS throughout the first half of 2025. Justin Hartley stars as Colter Shaw who is a professional tracker who travels across the country to solve missing persons cases for rewards. The twenty-two-episode season features a wide variety of settings and challenges for the lead character to overcome using his survivalist skills. The show remained the most-watched scripted series on television during its second year on the air. It successfully combines elements of a travelogue with a traditional crime-solving procedural.

‘Chicago P.D.’ (2014–)

The twelfth season of this police drama continued on NBC in 2025 with new episodes airing on Wednesday nights. Jason Beghe stars as Sergeant Hank Voight who leads the Intelligence Unit through a series of intense investigations into organized crime in Chicago. The season explores the moral complexities of modern policing and the personal struggles of the team members. It remains a central part of the network’s successful One Chicago brand and maintains high ratings. The series continues to be known for its gritty tone and its focus on the darker side of law enforcement.

‘FBI’ (2018–)

Season 7 of this procedural series continued its run on CBS in 2025 with episodes airing on Tuesday nights. Missy Peregrym and Zeeko Zaki star as agents in the New York field office who tackle major threats including terrorism and kidnapping. The season features twenty-two episodes and explores the professional and personal lives of the lead characters as they face national security crises. It was renewed for an eighth season early in the year due to its consistent performance on the schedule. The show remains a cornerstone of Dick Wolf’s extensive television empire.

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

The twenty-sixth season of this legendary crime drama continued on NBC in 2025 with Mariska Hargitay returning as Captain Olivia Benson. The episodes focus on the investigation of crimes involving sexual assault and domestic violence in New York City. Ice-T also continues his long-running role as Sergeant Fin Tutuola providing stability to the ever-evolving team. The season included several crossover events and guest appearances to celebrate the show’s incredible longevity. It remains one of the most culturally significant crime shows on television today.

‘Law & Order’ (1990–)

Season 24 of the original flagship series continued its broadcast on NBC in 2025 with new episodes every Thursday. The show maintains its iconic format of following the police investigation in the first half and the legal prosecution in the second half. Reid Scott and Maura Tierney lead the cast as the detectives while Tony Goldwyn stars as the District Attorney. The season tackled several high-profile cases inspired by current news events and social issues. It remains a reliable performer for the network and continues the legacy of the original franchise.

‘The Equalizer’ (2021–)

The fifth season of this reimagining premiered on CBS in late 2024 and aired its final batch of episodes in early 2025. Queen Latifah stars as Robyn McCall who is a former operative who uses her skills to help those who have no one else to turn to. The eighteen-episode season follows Robyn as she balances her vigilante work with her responsibilities as a mother and her past ties to the CIA. The series explores themes of justice and redemption in a modern urban setting. It remains a popular Sunday night fixture for the network.

‘Unforgotten’ (2015–)

Season 6 of this acclaimed cold case drama premiered on ITV in the UK and PBS in the US during 2025. Sinead Keenan and Sanjeev Bhaskar return as the detectives who investigate ancient murders by uncovering long-buried secrets. The six-episode season follows the team as they discover a body and track down suspects who have moved on with their lives. The show is known for its emotional depth and its focus on the lasting impact of crime on families and communities. It continues to be one of the most respected examples of the British crime genre.

‘Vera’ (2011–2025)

The fourteenth and final season of this beloved detective series premiered on ITV in January 2025. Brenda Blethyn returns for two feature-length episodes as the iconic DCI Vera Stanhope who solves complex murders in Northumberland. These final episodes brought the long-running series to a conclusion that celebrated the character’s unique investigative style and dedication. The series was based on the novels by Ann Cleeves and has been a global success for over a decade. Fans gathered to watch the final cases of one of television’s most recognizable detectives.

‘Death in Paradise’ (2011–)

The fourteenth season of this tropical mystery series premiered on BBC One in January 2025. The season marked the debut of a new lead detective played by Don Gilet who joins the local police team on the island of Saint Marie. The eight-episode run follows the traditional format of solving complex murders in a beautiful vacation setting. It remains a top performer for the network and a popular international export due to its lighthearted and clever mysteries. The show successfully managed its latest transition of lead actors to maintain its long-running popularity.

‘Silent Witness’ (1996–)

The twenty-eighth season of this forensic drama premiered on BBC One in early 2025 with ten episodes. Emilia Fox continues her lead role as Dr. Nikki Alexander as she and her team of pathologists solve grisly crimes through scientific evidence. The season consists of five two-part stories that explore a variety of modern criminal threats and scientific advancements. It remains the longest-running crime drama currently airing in the UK and maintains a steady audience. The show is praised for its technical accuracy and its intense dramatic storytelling.

‘Father Brown’ (2013–)

Season 12 of this cozy mystery series arrived on BBC One in January 2025 with Mark Williams returning as the title character. Set in the 1950s, the show features ten episodes where the crime-solving priest uncovers the truth behind local homicides in his small village. The series continues to be a daytime ratings hit and offers a gentler alternative to more violent crime shows. It remains faithful to the spirit of the stories by G.K. Chesterton while introducing new characters and challenges for the priest to overcome. The show was renewed for another season following its winter run.

‘Professor T’ (2021–)

The fourth season of this psychological crime drama premiered on ITV and PBS in mid-2025. Ben Miller stars as Professor Jasper Teerlinck who is a brilliant criminologist with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder who assists the police. The six-episode season follows the professor as he navigates his complicated personal life while solving particularly difficult puzzles. The show is known for its stylish production and its exploration of the lead character’s unique mind. It has gained a dedicated following for its blend of procedural elements and psychological depth.

‘Grace’ (2021–)

Season 5 of this Brighton-based detective series premiered on ITV in 2025 with four feature-length episodes. John Simm stars as Roy Grace who is a detective who is haunted by the disappearance of his wife and uses his keen intuition to solve murders. The stories are based on the popular novels by Peter James and feature a dark atmospheric tone. The season explores a variety of complex cases that take Grace across the southern coast of England. It remains one of the most popular detective adaptations on British television today.

‘McDonald & Dodds’ (2020–)

The fifth season of this mismatched detective pairing arrived on ITV in the spring of 2025. Tala Gouveia and Jason Watkins return as the ambitious DCI McDonald and the unassuming DS Dodds who solve crimes in the city of Bath. The new season consists of three feature-length films that present unique and often bizarre mysteries for the duo to untangle. The show is known for its lighthearted humor and the strong chemistry between its two lead actors. It provides a refreshing and clever take on the traditional police procedural format.

‘Beyond Paradise’ (2023–)

The third season of this spin-off from Death in Paradise premiered on BBC One in early 2025. Kris Marshall stars as DI Humphrey Goodman who solves unusual crimes in a fictional coastal town in Devon. The season consists of six episodes and follows Humphrey and his partner Martha as they navigate their professional and personal lives. It maintains the clever mystery solving of the original series while adopting a more grounded and emotional tone. The show has successfully established its own identity and remains a popular choice for fans of the genre.

‘The Marlow Murder Club’ (2024–)

Season 2 of this mystery series premiered on the Drama channel in the UK and PBS in the US in the fall of 2025. Samantha Bond stars as Judith Potts who leads a group of local women to solve murders in their peaceful riverside town. The six-episode season is based on the characters created by Robert Thorogood and provides a classic cozy mystery experience. It balances light humor with well-constructed puzzles that appeal to fans of traditional detective stories. The series has become a popular addition to the network’s lineup of original mysteries.

‘Maigret’ (2025–)

Benjamin Wainwright stars as Chief Inspector Jules Maigret in this new adaptation which premiered on PBS in late 2025. Set in 1950s Paris, the series follows the famous detective and his loyal team as they investigate a variety of complex crimes. The first season consists of six episodes and emphasizes a realistic and atmospheric portrayal of post-war France. It is the first English-language adaptation of the Georges Simenon novels in several years and has been praised for its production design. The show offers a sophisticated and somber alternative to more modern crime procedurals.

‘Criminal Minds: Evolution’ (2022–)

The nineteenth season of the franchise premiered on Paramount Plus in late 2025 following the conclusion of the previous arc. The team continues their specialized work in behavioral analysis to identify and capture dangerous serial offenders. This season features ten new episodes and explores the evolving technologies used by both criminals and law enforcement. It remains a cornerstone of the streaming service’s original drama offerings and continues to draw a large global audience. The show’s focus on the psychology of crime remains its most distinctive and popular feature.

Please share your thoughts on the best crime shows of the year in the comments.