The Top 10 Detective Shows to Binge-Watch of the 1970s

Introduction

The 1970s was a remarkable decade for television, particularly in the detective genre. This era produced some of the most iconic and beloved detective shows that continue to captivate audiences with their intricate plots, compelling characters, and timeless appeal. From gritty urban crime dramas to lighthearted whodunits, the detective shows of the 1970s set the standard for the genre and laid the foundation for many modern classics. In this blog post, we will explore the top 10 detective shows from the 1970s that are perfect for binge-watching today. Each show on this list not only stood out in its time but also continues to be relevant and enjoyable for contemporary viewers. Let’s dive into the world of 70s sleuthing and discover why these shows are a must-watch.

1. Columbo (1968-2003)

Columbo features the unforgettable Peter Falk as Lieutenant Columbo, a shrewd but seemingly bumbling Los Angeles homicide detective. The show is unique in its format, where the audience knows the identity of the murderer from the start, and the suspense comes from watching Columbo piece together the evidence to catch the culprit.

Why It’s Among the Best: “Columbo” revolutionized the detective genre with its inverted detective story format. Peter Falk’s portrayal of the seemingly disheveled yet razor-sharp detective became iconic. The show’s clever plots, high-caliber guest stars, and Columbo’s signature “Just one more thing” moments made it a standout.

Why It’s Great to Binge-Watch Today: The show’s unique format and Falk’s charismatic performance continue to engage viewers. Each episode is a masterclass in storytelling and character development, making it perfect for binge-watching.

2. Kojak (1973-1978)

Kojak stars Telly Savalas as Lieutenant Theo Kojak, a bald, lollipop-sucking New York City detective known for his tough, no-nonsense approach to crime-solving. The show is set against the gritty backdrop of 1970s New York and often deals with hard-hitting social issues.

Why It’s Among the Best: “Kojak” combined a charismatic lead character with realistic and often socially relevant crime stories. Savalas’s portrayal of Kojak, with his distinctive catchphrase “Who loves ya, baby?”, became iconic. The show’s gritty realism and engaging storylines set it apart.

Why It’s Great to Binge-Watch Today: The combination of Savalas’s magnetic performance and the show’s gritty, realistic portrayal of crime in New York makes it compelling viewing. Its focus on social issues gives it a timeless relevance.

3. The Rockford Files (1974-1980)

The Rockford Files stars James Garner as Jim Rockford, a private investigator with a penchant for getting into trouble. Unlike many TV detectives of the time, Rockford preferred to use his wits and charm rather than brute force to solve cases.

Why It’s Among the Best: “The Rockford Files” stood out for its witty, character-driven storytelling and Garner’s charming performance. The show’s mix of humor, action, and clever mysteries made it a fan favorite. Rockford’s down-to-earth, relatable character was a refreshing change from more conventional detectives.

Why It’s Great to Binge-Watch Today: The show’s clever plots and Garner’s charismatic performance make it highly enjoyable. Its blend of humor and drama, along with Rockford’s relatable character, keep it fresh and engaging.

4. Starsky & Hutch (1975-1979)

Starsky & Hutch follows detectives David Starsky (Paul Michael Glaser) and Kenneth “Hutch” Hutchinson (David Soul) as they patrol the streets of Bay City, California. Known for their unorthodox methods and deep friendship, the duo takes on a variety of criminals and cases.

Why It’s Among the Best: “Starsky & Hutch” was groundbreaking for its portrayal of the close partnership between the two detectives. The show’s dynamic action sequences, memorable car chases, and the chemistry between Glaser and Soul made it a standout.

Why It’s Great to Binge-Watch Today: The series’ action-packed episodes and the strong bond between the main characters make it a thrilling and enjoyable watch. The show’s influence on buddy cop dramas is still evident in modern television.

5. Charlie’s Angels (1976-1981)

Charlie’s Angels features three female private detectives—originally played by Farrah Fawcett, Kate Jackson, and Jaclyn Smith—who work for the mysterious Charlie Townsend. The show was revolutionary in its depiction of strong, capable female protagonists in the traditionally male-dominated detective genre.

Why It’s Among the Best: “Charlie’s Angels” broke new ground by featuring women in leading detective roles. The show’s mix of action, glamour, and strong female characters set it apart. Its influence on subsequent television shows with female leads is significant.

Why It’s Great to Binge-Watch Today: The show’s pioneering portrayal of women in action roles, along with its entertaining plots and stylish presentation, make it a fun and empowering watch. The chemistry between the original Angels is particularly compelling.

6. Police Woman (1974-1978)

Police Woman stars Angie Dickinson as Sergeant Pepper Anderson, an undercover police officer working for the Criminal Conspiracy Unit of the LAPD. The show was one of the first to feature a female police officer in a leading role.

Why It’s Among the Best: “Police Woman” was a trailblazer in its portrayal of a strong, independent female detective. Angie Dickinson’s performance as Pepper Anderson was both powerful and nuanced, and the show’s realistic depiction of police work set it apart.

Why It’s Great to Binge-Watch Today: The show’s pioneering role in featuring a female lead and its engaging, realistic storylines make it a rewarding watch. Dickinson’s portrayal of Anderson remains inspiring and relevant.

7. The Sweeney (1975-1978)

The Sweeney is a British police drama starring John Thaw as Detective Inspector Jack Regan and Dennis Waterman as Detective Sergeant George Carter. The show follows the activities of the Flying Squad, a branch of the Metropolitan Police specializing in tackling armed robbery and violent crime.

Why It’s Among the Best: “The Sweeney” was groundbreaking for its gritty realism and tough, hard-hitting portrayal of police work. The show’s dynamic action scenes and strong performances by Thaw and Waterman made it a standout.

Why It’s Great to Binge-Watch Today: The show’s realistic and uncompromising portrayal of crime and policing, along with its intense action sequences, make it compelling viewing. Its influence on modern British police dramas is undeniable.

8. McCloud (1970-1977)

McCloud stars Dennis Weaver as Sam McCloud, a deputy marshal from Taos, New Mexico, who is on temporary assignment with the New York City Police Department. The show blends the Western genre with urban crime drama, creating a unique and engaging series.

Why It’s Among the Best: “McCloud” stood out for its unique premise and the fish-out-of-water dynamic between the rural marshal and the urban setting. Dennis Weaver’s charming performance and the show’s clever mix of genres made it a hit.

Why It’s Great to Binge-Watch Today: The show’s unique blend of Western and detective genres, along with Weaver’s endearing portrayal of McCloud, make it a delightful watch. The series’ creative storytelling and engaging plots remain enjoyable.

9. The Streets of San Francisco (1972-1977)

The Streets of San Francisco stars Karl Malden as veteran detective Lieutenant Mike Stone and Michael Douglas as his young partner, Inspector Steve Keller. Set in San Francisco, the show follows the duo as they solve various crimes in the city.

Why It’s Among the Best: The show’s strong character development and the chemistry between Malden and Douglas made it a standout. The picturesque San Francisco setting and the show’s realistic portrayal of police work added to its appeal.

Why It’s Great to Binge-Watch Today: The series’ engaging characters, beautiful setting, and well-crafted mysteries make it highly enjoyable. The strong performances and the mentor-student dynamic between the leads are particularly compelling.

10. Barnaby Jones (1973-1980)

Barnaby Jones stars Buddy Ebsen as the titular private detective who comes out of retirement to solve the murder of his son. Alongside his daughter-in-law Betty (Lee Meriwether), Barnaby tackles a variety of cases.

Why It’s Among the Best: “Barnaby Jones” was unique for featuring an older detective, bringing a different perspective to the genre. Ebsen’s warm, grandfatherly persona combined with his sharp detective skills made the show special.

Why It’s Great to Binge-Watch Today: The show’s unique premise and Ebsen’s endearing performance make it a comforting yet intriguing watch. The dynamic between Barnaby and Betty adds depth to the series.

Honorable Mentions

Cannon (1971-1976): Starring William Conrad as Frank Cannon, a tough, overweight private detective who tackles a variety of cases. The show was notable for its strong lead performance and realistic storytelling.

Harry O (1974-1976): Featuring David Janssen as Harry Orwell, a former San Diego cop turned private investigator. The show was praised for its character-driven stories and Janssen’s nuanced performance.

Conclusion

The 1970s produced a wealth of outstanding detective shows that continue to captivate audiences. These top 10 detective shows, along with the honorable mentions, offer a diverse and engaging look at the genre’s evolution during this dynamic decade. Whether you’re a longtime fan or a newcomer to these classics, they provide hours of intriguing, suspenseful, and enjoyable viewing. So grab your popcorn, settle in, and start binge-watching these timeless detective series!