For fifteen seasons, Criminal Minds has led us through some unusual and frightening adventures. As we eagerly await (or anticipate) the release of a sixteenth season, viewers are already scouring for crime dramas similar to Criminal Minds that can quench their thirst for murder mysteries and suspense.
Although it’s unlikely any TV series will perfectly replicate it, there are several shows that share some qualities with Criminal Minds and are definitely worth checking out. Here’s a list of 29 shows similar to Criminal Minds that you might enjoy.
1. C.S.I.: Crime Scene Investigation
Without a doubt, some series quickly become timeless favorites, and Criminal Minds certainly earned that status with over a dozen seasons under its belt. Yet, it’s important to note that an equally captivating show had already cemented its classic and iconic status on our screens five years prior to Criminal Minds’ debut.
The Criminalistics Division of the Las Vegas Police Department is one of the nation’s largest crime labs, tackling cases that have stumped almost every other lab. Their methods combine scientific analysis with an occasional unconventional insight, under the guidance of tough-talking Captain Jim Brass and the quirky Gil Grissom.
2. Law & Order
Year after year, Law & Order gathers an increasing number of new admirers and generates spin-offs. The concept for this long-running police procedural and legal drama was conceived by Dick Wolf back in 1990. It ran for over two decades before it came to an end in May 2010, having aired continuously for that length of time.
In this New York-set production, we delve into the intricate journey towards determining guilt or innocence, where people’s lives hang in the balance. Often drawing from real-world events, the narratives bring to light complex legal, moral, and personal dilemmas that resonate with viewers, inviting them to consider their own perspectives.
3. Mindhunter
If Criminal Minds’ profiling aspect drew you in, then you should definitely watch David Fincher’s series, Mindhunter. This show delves into the origins of the F.B.I.’s Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU). The character Jonathan Groff portrays, Holden Ford, is a novice agent with expertise in hostage negotiations who takes a keen interest in understanding the psychology behind serial killers known as “sequence murderers.
He initiates questioning imprisoned multiple murderers with the aim of establishing a method to identify other as-yet uncaptured killers. This provides a fascinating insight into the process behind the development of the criminal profiling techniques depicted on Criminal Minds.
4. Homeland
If you appreciate the thrill of watching the B.A.U. team solve crimes and their enthusiasm for constructing meticulous murder boards, then Homeland might just ignite your joy.
Carrie Mathison is currently under probation due to her involvement in an unauthorized mission during her time as a CIA operations officer in Iraq. This has led to her reassignment to the Counter-Terrorism Center. While stationed in Iraq, she was informed that an American captive had been handed over to Al-Qaeda.
Upon the release of Nicholas Brody, a U.S. Marine Sergeant imprisoned since 2003, she senses an unusual connection with him. Despite the public acclaim and hero’s welcome for Brody upon his return, Carrie takes significant steps to unmask him as potentially dangerous.
5. NCIS
It seems you’re not fond of the ‘lone wolf’ approach to solving crimes, and that’s perfectly fine. After all, that’s what NCIS is for – it’s another popular CBS crime drama that centers around a military unit specializing in crime investigation.
NCIS isn’t just a typical police drama; it’s also filled with lots of humor. The show primarily emphasizes the complex yet amusing dynamics of a group who must collaborate despite challenging circumstances, exploring their interpersonal relationships in detail.
Leading the diverse team of intriguing individuals is NCIS Special Agent Leroy Jethro Gibbs, a seasoned Marine gunnery sergeant who boasts exceptional detective skills and a military background.
1. Gibbs, the man of minimal speech, communicates effectively with just a look.
2. In the world of NCIS, Leon Vance oversees operations as a shrewd and intellectually gifted agent who consistently challenges the norm.
These unique investigative units handle probes into criminal activities that encompass the Navy and Marine Corps, ranging from homicide and spying to acts of terrorism and missing submarines.
6. Ozark
In simple terms, this Netflix series is a gripping crime drama that focuses on a family from Chicago who are involved in money laundering, and they’re currently working for a Mexican drug cartel in the scenic Missouri Ozarks region.
The Byrde family, which includes their teenage kids, Charlotte and Jonah, appear to be typical households leading normal lives. However, there’s an unusual aspect: Marty, the family patriarch, works as a financial advisor in Chicago but secretly serves as the chief money launderer for one of Mexico’s biggest drug cartels.
In times of trouble, Marty finds himself compelled to move his entire family away from the towering buildings of Chicago, and instead, sets down roots near the tranquil lakeside region of the Missouri Ozarks.
7. The Blacklist
If you’re still within the realm of the FBI and craving for more, I recommend giving The Blacklist a try. It’s not going to spoil the surprise, but let me tell you that it’s an engaging tale about a former government operative who morphs into a brilliant and ruthless villain.
For more than two decades, the enigmatic and exceptionally intelligent Reddington, known for his eloquent speech and vast knowledge, has reportedly been included in the top ten most wanted by multiple U.S. law enforcement agencies.
In my perspective, the character Red is shrewd and evasive to the core, masterminding a labyrinth of ingenious ventures. He boasts an astounding knack for gathering and refining details swiftly, like a magician pulling rabbits out of hats.
On her inaugural day at the FBI, freshly graduated from Quantico as a female profiler, Red is eager to help. She proposes sparring with the FBI, willing to share an array of uncharted crimes and strategies for any law enforcement division. All she requests in return is the freedom to choose her inspiration.
8. Bones
Use your understanding of crime dramas and how forensic experts uncover clues from physical evidence, particularly in relation to bones – think about bones from deceased individuals. The idea behind the TV show “Bones” is essentially this concept, which was popular on television from 2005 until 2017.
Apply your familiarity with crime dramas and how forensic experts extract information from tangible evidence, specifically bones from deceased persons, to understand the essence of “Bones,” a well-known crime drama that aired from 2005 to 2017.
The narrative primarily revolves around Dr. Temperance Brennan, a skilled forensic anthropologist with an exceptional ability to extract crucial data needed to solve murders by carefully analyzing the evidence found on victim’s skeletal remains.
9. Manhunt: Unabomber
Netflix limited series titled “Manhunt: Unabomber” is inspired by the real-life story of Ted Kaczynski, a domestic terrorist, and the FBI linguistic profiler who eventually captured him. While this show is based on the actual Unabomber Bombings that terrorized the West Coast from 1975 to 1995, it follows most of the conventions of crime dramas.
On one side, FBI agent Jim Fitzgerald was working diligently to identify the Unabomber, while on the opposite end, Ted Kaczynski was being apprehended in real-time and making preparations for his upcoming trial.
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10. 9-1-1
9-1-1 explores both the professional and private lives of emergency responders, delving into the challenges they face when they are the first on the scene of an emergency or at a person’s most critical moment. The show, developed by Ryan Murphy, offers insights into what it truly means to be a first responder.
The movie delves into the intense situations faced by law enforcement personnel, emergency medical workers, and firefighters, as they find themselves in the most frightening, shocking, and pulse-pounding predicaments. It’s a struggle for them to manage both helping others and addressing their own personal matters.
11. Chicago PD
The crime drama series “Chicago PD,” debuting in 2014, remains a fan favorite. It centers around the Intelligence Unit of the Chicago Police Department, who tackle some of the city’s most gruesome criminal cases.
In Chicago’s Police District 21, responsibilities are split between two distinct groups: The first group consists of uniformed officers who regularly monitor their assigned areas and handle daily street crimes. Meanwhile, the Intelligence Unit takes on the challenge of tackling the city’s most pressing issues such as organized crime, drug trafficking, and high-profile murders.
12. Without A Trace
Instead of being made up solely of BAU agents, the FBI has a wider range of personnel. If you’re someone who appreciates different Bureau units and enjoys shows that delve into missing persons cases, “Without A Trace” is worth watching. As gripping and chilling as “Criminal Minds,” this series focuses on an FBI team dedicated to investigating these very cases.
Just like detectives often find it more straightforward to solve cases involving lost items or deaths compared to tracing missing individuals, so too does the FBI maintain a dedicated team in New York City specifically tasked with locating elusive missing persons.
In the crucial 72-hour period after a disappearance, led by Agent Jack Malone, the team fights tirelessly against time, as there’s often still a chance for rescue.
13. Shades of Blue
Fortunately, New York City is vast enough to house a variety of crime dramas, such as Jennifer Lopez’s 2014 production Shades of Blue. In this film, Lopez portrays Harlee Santos, a single mother and corrupt police officer who resorts to unethical practices to make ends meet and ensure a comfortable life for her daughter.
As a devoted film enthusiast, I’d say that Shades of Blue stands out from the usual run-of-the-mill crime dramas with its emotional depth and intriguing narrative. Spanning across three gripping seasons, it’s a series you absolutely can’t afford to miss.
14. Law & Order: Special Victims Unit
The television series Law & Order was extremely popular and led to many other successful spin-offs. However, none of them achieved the same level of success as Law & Order: Special Victims Unit (SVU). This long-running program, now in its 21st season, has been highly praised for its depiction of the legal system for quite some time.
Crimes of a sexual nature carry significant weight within the criminal justice system. Detectives who tirelessly work on investigating such horrendous incidents in New York City belong to an exceptional group, referred to as the Special Victims Unit. Here is their account of their experiences.
15. Numb3rs
If you’re fond of tales about individuals with unique talents who get entangled in FBI investigations, then Numb3rs is right up your alley. This series revolves around a math genius who employs mathematical concepts to aid the Bureau in resolving numerous murder cases. It’s unlike anything you’ve encountered before, and we’re confident that it’s also new territory for you!
FBI Special Agent Don Eppes, based at their Los Angeles office, tackles complex and puzzling cases with an unusual advantage. This edge stems from his mathematician brother, Charles Eppes, a genius in mathematics who uses advanced mathematical concepts and formulas to catch the cleverest criminals. With this team, the wicked now face more obstacles.
16. Dexter
Maybe what draws people to Criminal Minds is getting a glimpse into the functioning mind of a serial killer on screen. It’s undeniably scary and unsettling, but that’s only part of its charm. If you find that intriguing, then Dexter, a series featuring one of TV’s most notorious serial killers, is definitely worth watching for you.
He’s smart, good-looking, and has a fantastic sense of wit. However, it’s important to note that he is the globally renowned character Dexter Morgan, known for his unique lifestyle. During the day, he works diligently as a forensics expert in Miami, solving crimes. Yet, when night falls, he finds himself on the other side of justice, perpetrating them.
Despite strictly following an unyielding code of honor, Dexter grapples both with the world and his inner self, constantly wrestling between his insatiable instincts and his desire for genuine joy.
17. Cold Case
Cold Case is a show that can subtly linger with an unpleasant feeling, in the most polite sense possible. While it’s thrilling to watch the team crack cases from decades past, it’s also chilling to delve into the gruesome aspects of these long-ago crimes.
The movie follows the intense probe into a challenging murder mystery by a police officer and a journalist, ultimately leading them to intersect as they uncover truths beyond their wildest imaginations.
18. Bloodline
This Netflix original series, which spans three seasons, is often categorized as a thriller or a slow-burner, but given that Season 3 takes place largely in a courtroom and features the character John Rayburn, a detective, investigating his own brother’s crimes, it undeniably falls under the crime procedural genre. If you’re a fan of Sissy Spacek, this series is definitely worth a quick binge-watch.
A captivating story unfolds about a successful family residing in the Florida Keys, hiding numerous mysterious pasts. The siblings stand as the inheritors of a charming inn that has belonged to their family for over half a century. This house holds a special place in their hearts, being where they grew up and created countless cherished memories. However, beneath its picturesque facade lies a complex, unspoken history, brimming with untold tales. These enigmatic elements contribute to an uncertain destiny that awaits them.
19. Hannibal
Why not let us escape from the world of criminal investigators for a while? Dive into this gripping mystery series about man-eaters instead! What makes it even more intriguing is that the way it’s depicted, it seems like eating humans is more of a surreal dream than an actual crime.
Under an alias, Dr. Hannibal Lecter – a cunning cannibal and precise serial killer – resurfaced in Florence after a decade since the events depicted in The Silence of the Lambs (1991). Meanwhile, Clarice Starling’s career was on a downward spiral until her scarred savior and sole victim of Lecter’s atrocities rekindled her interest in the case. She was driven to unmask this crafty physician.
It seems we’re now in a scenario ripe for a classic revenge tale, with greed and ambition driving those chasing the mysterious mastermind of death. But the question remains: Do they have the skill or power to eliminate Hannibal, this formidable man among men?
20. Luther
Idris Elba showcases exceptional acting skills, particularly in the crime series “Luther,” where his character portrays a sharp investigator with an unusual bond to a murderer, which shares similarities with the series “Mindhunter.
As a seasoned movie reviewer, I’ve got to say that John Luther is an unparalleled detective on the police force, with a knack for solving even the most complex murder cases, often involving serial killers. What sets him apart is his extraordinary talent for delving into the mind of these criminals, a skill that leaves many baffled.
However, Luther’s methods, demeanor, and personal life issues don’t always sit well with those in authority, leading some to believe he’s part of the problem rather than the solution. Yet, it’s his relentless pursuit of justice and unwavering commitment to solving cases that make him a true enigma in the world of law enforcement.
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21. Big Sky
Right now, I’m hooked on Big Sky, an intriguing, dark series that has me at the edge of my seat. Starring Ryan Phillipe, it’s unlike anything I’ve seen before – a suspenseful tale about two tenacious investigators relentlessly pursuing a ruthless pair of abductors who traffic women as part of their twisted careers. The story is adapted from the C.J. Box novel series.
22. Lie To Me
Much like Numb3rs, we present to you an innovative show called Lie To Me. Here’s why it’s worth your time: First off, Tim Roth delivers a captivating performance as the main character, Cal Lightman. Additionally, the series spans across three engaging seasons.
Dr. Cal Lightman holds the prestigious title of a global expert in detecting dishonesty. He attained this position through years of research into subtle facial expressions, physical cues, and psychological behaviors, using his extraordinary analytical skills to draw accurate conclusions.
Together with his trusted partner and fellow psychologist, Dr. Gillian Foster, Lightman established The Lightman Consultancy. This firm offers its services to a diverse range of clients such as the FBI, covert agencies, and others, with the primary goal of drawing out the truth from different types of people.
Lightman and his team often carry out extensive research, a fact that sometimes displeases their clients.
23. The Following
If you’re intrigued by exploring the mind of a serial killer for a deeper understanding, I recommend checking out “The Following.” This series centers around a chilling character who has the power to gather followers, all of whom are equally dangerous and are willing to carry out his commands without question.
An older gentleman hears Bill recounting his tale of being a young, aspiring writer who delights in observing people throughout London. One day, Bill encounters a smooth and self-assured individual – a burglar named Cobb – whom he had been watching. Cobb decides to mentor Bill, teaching him the art of burglary.
In a woman’s apartment, they unexpectedly enter; it is revealed that Bill finds herself intriguing (evident from the numerous photographs scattered throughout her home). He persistently seeks her out and strikes up a conversation with her at a pub owned by her former boyfriend, who happens to be a reprehensible individual with a dark past – he was convicted for a brutal murder using a hammer in their shared school years.
Shortly afterward, I find myself stepping up to help her out with an unusual request – a covert entry into somewhere restricted. But what crucial details does this elderly lady have that I’m unaware of?
24. The Rookie
Jim Morris serves as both a chemistry instructor and a baseball coach at a Texas high school. Baseball has been his lifelong passion, and he uses the prospect of attending a pro try-out as motivation for his team. Once a hopeful professional baseball player himself, an injury halted his dreams, but now he’s channeling that determination into inspiring his players.
In truth, a 39-year-old father of three is currently training with the Devil Rays team. It seems that he has regained his pitching strength, as he effortlessly hurls a 98 mph fastball. He’s under contract and works in the minor leagues, while his supportive spouse takes care of their kids at home.
He swiftly ascended to the major league team and started pitching for Tampa Bay, who were playing against the Rangers in Texas at that time. (Based on a real-life incident)
25. The Mentalist
As a dedicated admirer, let me tell you about Patrick Jane – once renowned for his psychic abilities, but now using his exceptional people-reading talents and past experiences to aid the California Bureau of Investigation in cracking some of their toughest murder cases.
After the tragic murders of Patrick Jane’s wife and child at the hands of a notorious serial killer called Red John, Jane decided to dedicate his life to apprehending this criminal and bringing him to justice. To achieve this goal, he left behind his successful career as a psychic and became a consultant for Senior Agent Teresa Lisbon’s team within the California Bureau of Investigation (C.B.I.), focusing on the Red John case specifically.
Leveraging Jane’s exceptional ability to observe details and perform mentalist feats, he effectively solves numerous complex cases. However, Jane’s unconventional methods, which sometimes border on illegality, also attract criticism towards Lisbon, making his assistance both beneficial and challenging. As the hunt for Red John persists…
26. Killing Eve
It’s not uncommon for female serial killers to form strong, intricate bonds with the law enforcement officials who are pursuing them! That’s the premise of Killing Eve, a series inspired by Luke Jennings’ novel Codename Villanelle and developed for television by Phoebe Waller-Bridge.
In a twist from what she expected, Eve’s life as an undercover agent isn’t going smoothly. She’s a sharp and bored MI5 officer who spends most of her time stuck at her desk. Meanwhile, Villanelle is a dangerous assassin with a turbulent personality, who enjoys the thrill of her job. The two women find themselves in a deadly game of cat and mouse, each drawn to the other as Eve’s mission is to capture the unstable killer. Both are equally intrigued by one another.
As per BBCA President Sarah Barnett, the series ‘Killing Eve’ is remarkably enjoyable and incredibly entertaining amidst many narrative options available.
27. Perception
Dr. Daniel Pierce, an exceptionally talented yet unconventional neurologist, gets enlisted by the FBI for assistance with solving their trickiest cases based in Chicago.
In this scenario, Dr. Pierce works closely with Special Agent Kate Moretti, a former pupil who brought him on board at the FBI. Max Lewicki, one of Dr. Pierce’s teaching assistants, and Natalie Vincent, a character born from his schizophrenia and also his closest companion, complete the team.
Generally speaking, each installment starts off with Pierce explaining a part of the human brain that plays a significant role in the storyline later on. Furthermore, these educational shows often end with discussions about the puzzling aspects of human perception.
28. Elementary
Javier Abreu, an NYPD detective, is thrilled to have Sherlock Holmes, his peculiar British ally, assisting with the investigation into the disappearance of Dr. Richard Mantlo’s wife, who turns out to have been murdered in a secret room she constructed.
Recently treated for drug issues, Sherlock Holmes now relies heavily on his sobriety partner, Dr. Joan Watson, a skilled individual whom he was brought aboard by his affluent London father, who happens to be a retired physician with exceptional interpersonal abilities.
It quickly becomes clear that the perpetrator of the crime is a serial killer who collects trophies, but unfortunately, the main person suspected turns out to be the next victim.
29. Hawaii Five-0
Since tranquil spots aren’t immune to criminal activities, we have the television series Hawaii Five-0. This modern adaptation of the 1968 crime drama with the same title debuted in 2010 and lasted for ten years.
The series focuses on a top-tier investigation squad stationed in Hawaii, where they unravel mysteries surrounding crimes that occur along what most people perceive as a “heavenly paradise.
Despite not having a dedicated state police force, Hawaii’s Governor has set up a specialized investigation unit, known as “Five-0,” to tackle major crimes occurring across the islands.
The team is headed by Reserve Naval Officer Steve McGarrett, played by Alex O’Loughlin, and Danny Williams, portrayed by Scott Caan, stands as his right-hand man. They work on a range of cases that extend beyond the usual jurisdiction of the Honolulu Police Department, delving into matters such as terrorism and major criminal organizations.
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2025-05-18 10:47