Nostalgic America
The Best TV Detective Shows From The 1970s, 80s and 90s
By Bruce Berns · December 11, 2024
Series like Columbo showcased the genius of unorthodox detectives, while Starsky and Hutch and The Streets of San Francisco brought action-packed urban investigations. Magnum, P.I. and Hart to Hart combined intrigue with exotic locales and high society. Moonlighting added romance and humor to the detective formula, while Miami Vice redefined crime drama with its stylish visuals and music-driven narratives.
These decades produced iconic characters and memorable storytelling, reflecting shifting societal dynamics while captivating audiences with diverse approaches to crime-solving.
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Starsky and Hutch (1975–1979) is a buddy-cop drama following the partnership of detectives David Starsky (Paul Michael Glaser) and Ken Hutchinson (David Soul). Known for their close friendship and fast-paced investigations, the duo solves crimes in a gritty urban environment. Their iconic red-and-white Ford Gran Torino and colorful personalities added flair to the series. Balancing intense action with humor, Starsky and Hutch became a cultural touchstone for 1970s cop shows, influencing future buddy-cop dynamics. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Barnaby Jones
Barnaby Jones (1973–1980) features Buddy Ebsen as a retired private detective who resumes his career to solve the murder of his son. Teaming with his daughter-in-law Betty (Lee Meriwether), Barnaby uses meticulous research, forensic science, and a calm demeanor to crack cases. Unlike action-heavy detective shows, Barnaby Jones emphasizes intelligence and observation over physicality. The series’ focus on an older detective breaking stereotypes was groundbreaking, attracting a loyal audience. Barnaby’s resourcefulness and tenacity made him a unique figure in the detective genre, standing out for his clever solutions and unwavering pursuit of justice. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Barney Miller
Barney Miller (1975–1982) is a witty and character-driven sitcom set in a New York City police precinct. Led by Captain Barney Miller (Hal Linden), the series balances humor with social commentary, addressing real-life issues like corruption, crime, and societal change. The show’s ensemble cast, including Abe Vigoda as the curmudgeonly Detective Fish, brings heart and hilarity to everyday police work. While focusing on interpersonal dynamics more than high-stakes cases, Barney Miller explores the human side of law enforcement, offering a fresh and enduring take on the detective genre. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Charlie’s Angels
Charlie’s Angels (1976–1981) follows three glamorous private detectives—originally played by Farrah Fawcett, Jaclyn Smith, and Kate Jackson—working for the enigmatic Charlie Townsend. Guided by Charlie’s voice-only instructions, the Angels tackle dangerous missions with skill and charm. Combining action, mystery, and style, the series became iconic for its empowering portrayal of women in lead investigative roles. The mix of fashion-forward aesthetics and compelling crime-solving earned Charlie’s Angels a place in pop culture, redefining detective shows with its unique combination of elegance and danger. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Columbo
Columbo (1971–1978, with later specials) stars Peter Falk as the disheveled yet brilliant Lieutenant Columbo. Known for his rumpled trench coat and seemingly absent-minded demeanor, Columbo disarms suspects with his humble persona while methodically uncovering their guilt. Each episode reveals the murderer early on, focusing on Columbo’s psychological games to outsmart them. The show’s unique “howcatchem” format, paired with Falk’s charismatic performance, elevated Columbo to classic status. With its sharp writing and intricate plots, the series remains a masterclass in detective storytelling. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Get Smart
Get Smart (1965–1970) is a satirical spy comedy created by Mel Brooks and Buck Henry, starring Don Adams as bumbling secret agent Maxwell Smart. Alongside Agent 99 (Barbara Feldon), Smart battles the nefarious organization KAOS using wit, humor, and absurd gadgets like the shoe phone. Despite his incompetence, Smart often stumbles into success, making the show a clever parody of Cold War-era espionage. Its blend of slapstick comedy and clever writing captured audiences, turning Get Smart into a beloved classic of the detective and spy genres. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Green Hornet
The Green Hornet (1966–1967) follows Britt Reid (Van Williams), a newspaper publisher who moonlights as a masked vigilante. Alongside his skilled martial artist partner Kato (Bruce Lee), Reid fights crime using advanced gadgets and their iconic car, the Black Beauty. Though short-lived, the series stood out for its sleek style and Lee’s groundbreaking portrayal, showcasing martial arts on American television. Blending crime-solving with superhero elements, The Green Hornet remains a cult favorite, celebrated for its action-packed sequences and innovative approach to the detective genre. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Hart to Hart
Hart to Hart (1979–1984) stars Robert Wagner and Stefanie Powers as Jonathan and Jennifer Hart, a wealthy married couple who moonlight as amateur detectives. Their glamorous lifestyle contrasts with their knack for uncovering mysteries, often involving murder or corporate intrigue. The show blends romance, humor, and suspense, with the Harts’ chemistry driving the series’ appeal. Max, their loyal chauffeur, and their dog Freeway add charm and comic relief. Hart to Hart offers a lighthearted yet thrilling take on crime-solving, making it a beloved classic. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Hawaii Five-O
Hawaii Five-O (1968–1980) is a crime drama set against the stunning backdrop of Hawaii. Led by Detective Steve McGarrett (Jack Lord), the Five-O team tackles organized crime, political corruption, and murder. Known for its intense investigations and iconic theme song, the show popularized the phrase “Book ’em, Danno.” Its blend of action and local culture set it apart from other detective series, making it a long-running success. The series’ mix of exotic locales and hard-hitting cases solidified its place as a groundbreaking procedural drama. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
I Spy
I Spy (1965–1968) stars Robert Culp and Bill Cosby as secret agents traveling the world under the guise of a tennis player and his trainer. Known for its witty banter and exotic locations, the series blends espionage with comedy. I Spy broke barriers by casting Cosby as a lead, making it the first American show to feature an African American actor in a dramatic role. The show’s mix of humor, action, and cultural commentary redefined the spy genre, leaving a lasting legacy. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Law and Order
Law & Order (1990–2010, with spin-offs) revolutionized crime drama with its dual structure, focusing on both police investigations and legal proceedings. Each episode begins with detectives, like Lennie Briscoe (Jerry Orbach), solving a case, followed by prosecutors navigating the courtroom. Known for its “ripped-from-the-headlines” storytelling, the show tackles real-world issues with complexity and nuance. Its longevity and critical acclaim cemented Law & Order as a benchmark for procedural dramas, creating a franchise that redefined television’s approach to crime-solving. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Magnum, P.I.
Magnum, P.I. (1980–1988) stars Tom Selleck as Thomas Magnum, a laid-back private investigator living in a luxurious Hawaiian estate. With a mix of charm and sharp investigative skills, Magnum solves cases involving theft, murder, and espionage while balancing humor and action. Assisted by his loyal friends Rick, T.C., and the uptight caretaker Higgins, Magnum’s adventures showcase breathtaking Hawaiian scenery. The series’ blend of suspense, camaraderie, and humor, along with Selleck’s charismatic performance, made Magnum, P.I. one of the most iconic detective shows of the 1980s. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
The Man from U.N.C.L.E.
The Man from U.N.C.L.E. (1964–1968) is a stylish spy series featuring agents Napoleon Solo (Robert Vaughn) and Illya Kuryakin (David McCallum) working for the United Network Command for Law and Enforcement. Together, they thwart the evil organization THRUSH using advanced gadgets and clever espionage tactics. Known for its witty banter and Cold War intrigue, the show blends action with humor and sophistication. Its international appeal and groundbreaking portrayal of a U.S.-Soviet partnership during a tense political era made it a trailblazer in the spy genre. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
McCloud
McCloud (1970–1977) stars Dennis Weaver as Sam McCloud, a deputy marshal from New Mexico who relocates to New York City. With his Western charm and unorthodox methods, McCloud solves crimes while clashing with urban detectives and adapting to the fast-paced city life. The show’s unique premise combines fish-out-of-water humor with thrilling investigations. McCloud’s cowboy persona and resourcefulness set the series apart, offering a fresh twist on traditional detective dramas. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
McMillan & Wife
McMillan & Wife (1971–1977) is a lighthearted mystery series starring Rock Hudson as police commissioner Stewart McMillan and Susan Saint James as his inquisitive wife, Sally. The duo solves crimes together, blending romance, humor, and intrigue. Their banter and chemistry add a playful dimension to serious cases, often involving high-society scandals. The show’s combination of charm and suspense made it a standout in the detective genre and a defining entry in the “mystery wheel” era of TV. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Miami Vice
Miami Vice (1984–1989) redefined the crime drama genre with its stylish portrayal of undercover detectives Sonny Crockett (Don Johnson) and Ricardo Tubbs (Philip Michael Thomas). Set against the vibrant backdrop of Miami, the show explores drug trafficking, organized crime, and moral ambiguity. Its iconic use of music, fashion, and visual aesthetics gave it a cinematic quality, influencing pop culture. Balancing action with emotional depth, Miami Vice became a groundbreaking series that elevated television storytelling. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Mission: Impossible
Mission: Impossible (1966–1973) follows the Impossible Missions Force (IMF), a team of covert operatives led by Jim Phelps (Peter Graves). The group uses elaborate disguises, intricate gadgets, and precise planning to thwart international criminals and political conspiracies. Known for its suspenseful plots and iconic theme music, the series popularized the concept of high-stakes team-based espionage. Its focus on strategy and deception made it a template for future spy dramas and action franchises. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
Moonlighting
Moonlighting (1985–1989) is a unique blend of romance, comedy, and detective drama, starring Cybill Shepherd as ex-model Maddie Hayes and Bruce Willis as wisecracking detective David Addison. Together, they run the Blue Moon Detective Agency, solving quirky cases while navigating their complicated relationship. The show’s sharp dialogue, meta-humor, and palpable chemistry between the leads set it apart from traditional detective series. Moonlighting became a cultural phenomenon, praised for its innovative storytelling and dynamic characters. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
The Rockford Files
The Rockford Files (1974–1980) stars James Garner as Jim Rockford, a private investigator known for his charm, wit, and aversion to violence. Operating out of a trailer in Los Angeles, Rockford tackles cases involving scams, missing persons, and corrupt institutions. The show’s mix of humor and realism, along with Garner’s relatable portrayal of an everyman detective, made it a standout in the genre. Its clever scripts and engaging character dynamics earned critical acclaim and a devoted following. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
The Streets of San Francisco
The Streets of San Francisco (1972–1977) follows veteran detective Lt. Mike Stone (Karl Malden) and his young partner Inspector Steve Keller (Michael Douglas) as they solve crimes in the picturesque yet perilous streets of San Francisco. The show’s focus on mentorship, moral dilemmas, and dynamic cases set it apart. Its location-based storytelling and strong character work made it a compelling procedural drama with emotional depth. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.
The Mod Squad
The Mod Squad (1968–1973) features three young countercultural misfits—Pete (Michael Cole), Linc (Clarence Williams III), and Julie (Peggy Lipton)—working undercover for the police. Tackling issues like drug abuse, racism, and generational conflict, the show blends social commentary with crime-solving. Its youthful energy and focus on social justice gave it a fresh perspective within the detective genre. Getty Images / Nostalgic America, Inc.