10 Movies and Shows Similar to Blue Bloods (2010)

Description: Like 'Blue Bloods', 'Law & Order' is a police procedural that focuses on the criminal justice system, blending crime-solving with courtroom drama. Both shows emphasize family dynamics within law enforcement, though 'Law & Order' does so more subtly. The show's realistic portrayal of police work and legal proceedings mirrors the grounded approach of 'Blue Bloods'.

Fact: 'Law & Order' is one of the longest-running scripted primetime TV series in U.S. history. The show's signature 'dun-dun' sound effect was created by composer Mike Post combining sounds including a jail door slamming and a hammer hitting an anvil. Many real-life legal professionals have praised the show for its accurate depiction of courtroom procedures.

Description: This series offers a grittier, more morally ambiguous counterpart to 'Blue Bloods', but both explore police work in urban environments and the challenges of maintaining integrity. Where 'Blue Bloods' shows idealized police work, 'The Shield' presents its darker possibilities, making them interesting thematic complements.

Fact: The show was FX's first original drama series. Michael Chiklis was the first choice for Vic Mackey but initially turned it down. The series finale was filmed in real time to heighten tension.

Description: While more expansive in scope than 'Blue Bloods', 'The Wire' similarly explores urban policing with depth and realism. Both shows present police work as complex and politically charged, though 'The Wire' takes a more critical institutional view compared to 'Blue Bloods'' family-centered perspective.

Fact: Creator David Simon was a former Baltimore Sun police reporter. Many actors were non-professionals recruited from Baltimore. Each season focuses on a different aspect of the city (drug trade, port system, etc.).

Description: While focusing on naval crimes rather than local police, 'NCIS' shares 'Blue Bloods'' emphasis on team dynamics and investigative procedures. Both shows balance crime-solving with personal storylines, and feature strong leadership figures (Gibbs and Frank Reagan) who uphold strict moral codes.

Fact: NCIS is the second longest-running scripted non-animated U.S. primetime TV series currently in production. The character of Leroy Jethro Gibbs was named after creator Donald P. Bellisario's friend. The show has spawned multiple spin-offs including 'NCIS: Los Angeles' and 'NCIS: New Orleans'.

Description: While focusing on FBI profilers rather than local police, 'Criminal Minds' shares 'Blue Bloods'' dedication to justice and solving crimes. Both shows explore the psychological toll of police work and feature tight-knit teams that function like families. The procedural format with character development is similar.

Fact: The show's original title was 'Quantico'. Many episodes are based on real FBI cases. The Behavioral Analysis Unit depicted in the show is based on the FBI's real Behavioral Analysis Unit-

Description: Like 'Blue Bloods', this show combines police procedural elements with strong character relationships. The partnership between detective Rizzoli and medical examiner Isles mirrors the professional yet personal dynamics in 'Blue Bloods'. Both shows balance crime-solving with humor and emotional moments.

Fact: Based on characters from Tess Gerritsen's novel series. Angie Harmon (Rizzoli) was pregnant during much of the first season. The show was originally titled 'Rizzoli' before adding '& Isles' to emphasize the partnership.

Description: This reboot shares 'Blue Bloods'' focus on a specialized police unit solving crimes while navigating personal relationships. Both shows feature beautiful location shooting (Hawaii vs. New York) and mix procedural elements with ongoing character arcs. The team dynamics mirror the Reagan family's close bonds.

Fact: The show is a reboot of the 1968 series of the same name. The theme song is one of the most recognizable in TV history. Many local Hawaiian actors and crew members were involved in production.

Description: This series shares 'Blue Bloods'' focus on police work and family dynamics, with the Intelligence Unit functioning as a tight-knit family. Both shows explore the moral dilemmas officers face and the personal costs of police work. The Chicago setting provides a similarly urban backdrop to New York in 'Blue Bloods'.

Fact: The show is part of Dick Wolf's 'Chicago' franchise, which includes 'Chicago Fire' and 'Chicago Med'. Many episodes are inspired by real Chicago Police Department cases. The cast undergoes regular weapons training with real Chicago police officers to maintain authenticity.

Description: This show shares 'Blue Bloods'' focus on police work through the lens of personal growth and ethical challenges. Both feature protagonists navigating the complexities of law enforcement while maintaining personal relationships. The rookie perspective provides a different but complementary angle to 'Blue Bloods'' veteran officers.

Fact: The show is inspired by the real-life story of LAPD officer William Norcross who joined the force at age

Description: Like 'Blue Bloods', 'Southland' offers a realistic portrayal of police work with emotional depth. Both shows balance action with character development and explore the personal lives of officers. The documentary-style cinematography of 'Southland' creates a similarly immersive feel to 'Blue Bloods'' New York setting.

Fact: The show was originally developed for NBC before moving to TNT. Many scenes were filmed on location in actual Los Angeles neighborhoods. The cast included several actors with real-life law enforcement experience.