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10 Modern Crime Shows That Are 10
Discover impeccably crafted modern crime shows that have set a new standard for the genre, including Mare of Easttown, Tokyo Vice, and Mindhunter.
Published on Feb. 6, 2026
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Prestige television has become the best medium for telling crime stories because it gives storytellers the freedom to do so. Crime is definitely the most popular genre on television if awards voters and streaming charts are to be believed, and most of the best shows thus far this century have been related to it in some way or another. This article highlights 10 modern crime shows that are considered masterpieces of impeccable quality, including Mare of Easttown, Escape at Dannemora, Tokyo Vice, The Night Manager, Only Murders In The Building, Ripley, The Night Of, Twin Peaks: The Return, Ozark, and Mindhunter.
Why it matters
The article showcases how the television medium has surpassed film in its ability to tell complex, nuanced crime stories that delve into the psychology of criminals and the impact on communities. These shows have set a new standard for the genre, blending gripping mysteries with rich character development and social commentary.
The details
The article provides a brief overview of each of the 10 modern crime shows, highlighting their unique strengths and critical acclaim. For example, it notes how Mare of Easttown is a rich and absorbing drama about a community healing from grief, while Escape at Dannemora is an exciting prison escape story. Tokyo Vice is praised for its dense exploration of the Japanese criminal underworld, and The Night Manager is likened to a James Bond-esque spy series. The article also touches on how shows like Only Murders In The Building and Ripley have put fresh spins on classic crime story tropes.
- The Night Manager aired in 2016 and is currently producing a second and third season.
- Only Murders In The Building has aired new seasons annually since its debut in 2021.
- Ripley is set to premiere on Netflix in 2024.
The players
Brad Ingelsby
The creator of Mare of Easttown and Task, two acclaimed HBO crime dramas.
Ben Stiller
The director of the crime series Escape at Dannemora, proving his talents beyond comedy.
Jake Adelstein
The author whose memoir served as the basis for the crime series Tokyo Vice.
Jean le Carré
The legendary spy fiction author whose novel The Night Manager was adapted into a TV series.
David Lynch
The acclaimed filmmaker who created the crime drama masterpiece Twin Peaks and its revival series.
What’s next
Fans of these acclaimed crime shows can look forward to the potential second season of Mare of Easttown, which may feature a crossover with the creator's other HBO drama, Task. Additionally, the third season of The Night Manager is anticipated, as well as the 2024 premiere of the new series Ripley on Netflix.
The takeaway
The modern crime television landscape has elevated the genre to new heights, with shows that blend gripping mysteries, rich character development, and social commentary. These impeccably crafted series have set a new standard for storytelling in the crime genre, captivating audiences and critics alike.
