10 Shows and Movies Similar to NCIS (2003)

Description: SVU, like NCIS, is a long-running procedural that focuses on a specialized unit within a larger law enforcement agency. Both shows tackle serious crimes, often with emotional and moral complexities. SVU's focus on sex crimes parallels NCIS's emphasis on military-related cases, with both series exploring the human impact of crime. The strong ensemble casts and blend of personal and professional storylines are key similarities.

Fact: SVU is the longest-running live-action primetime U.S. drama series, surpassing the original Law & Order. Mariska Hargitay, who plays Olivia Benson, is the only original cast member still on the show. The show has featured numerous high-profile guest stars, including Robin Williams and Bradley Cooper.

Description: CSI shares NCIS's procedural format, focusing on forensic science to solve crimes. Both shows highlight the importance of evidence and scientific methods in criminal investigations, often featuring detailed lab work and autopsies. The ensemble casts and episodic storytelling with occasional serialized elements are also common traits. The Las Vegas setting of CSI provides a different backdrop but maintains the same investigative intensity as NCIS.

Fact: CSI was instrumental in popularizing forensic science, leading to a phenomenon known as the 'CSI Effect,' where jurors began expecting more forensic evidence in real trials. The show's theme song, 'Who Are You' by The Who, became synonymous with the series. CSI spawned multiple spinoffs, including CSI: Miami and CSI: NY.

Description: Like NCIS, Criminal Minds focuses on a specialized team within a federal agency, the FBI's Behavioral Analysis Unit (BAU), which investigates violent crimes by analyzing the behavior and motives of the perpetrators. Both shows blend procedural elements with character-driven storytelling, often delving into the personal lives of the team members. The emphasis on teamwork, forensic psychology, and high-stakes investigations makes Criminal Minds a natural companion to NCIS.

Fact: Criminal Minds was initially conceived as a spinoff of another CBS show, The Inside, but was developed as a standalone series. The show's iconic opening line, 'Wheels up in 30,' became a fan-favorite catchphrase. Mandy Patinkin, who played Jason Gideon in the first two seasons, left the show due to discomfort with the dark subject matter.

Description: Bones shares NCIS's combination of crime-solving and character-driven drama, with a focus on forensic anthropology. The partnership between the scientific and law enforcement teams mirrors the dynamic in NCIS. Both shows balance humor with serious subject matter, and the will-they-won't-they relationship between Brennan and Booth echoes some of the romantic tensions in NCIS.

Fact: Bones is loosely based on the life and career of forensic anthropologist Kathy Reichs, who is also a producer on the show. The show's full title is Bones: The Forensic Files in some international markets. David Boreanaz, who plays Seeley Booth, is one of the few actors to star in three successful TV series (Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Angel, and Bones).

Description: The Mentalist, like NCIS, features a charismatic lead (Patrick Jane) with a unique skill set that aids in solving crimes. Both shows blend procedural elements with overarching storylines, particularly Jane's pursuit of the serial killer Red John. The team dynamics and mix of humor and drama are reminiscent of NCIS, though The Mentalist places more emphasis on psychological manipulation.

Fact: Simon Baker, who plays Patrick Jane, directed several episodes of the series. The character of Patrick Jane was inspired by real-life mentalist and psychic debunker James Randi. The show's finale was watched by over 10 million viewers.

Description: As a direct spinoff of NCIS, NCIS: Los Angeles shares many of the same elements, including a focus on a specialized team within the Naval Criminal Investigative Service. The show maintains the procedural format, team dynamics, and blend of action and humor. The Los Angeles setting and undercover operations provide a fresh twist on the original formula.

Fact: NCIS: Los Angeles was introduced in a two-part episode of NCIS. The show's theme song, 'NCIS: Los Angeles Theme,' was composed by James S. Levine. LL Cool J and Chris O'Donnell have been the only constant cast members throughout the series.

Description: Blue Bloods, like NCIS, explores the professional and personal lives of law enforcement officers, though it focuses on a family of cops in New York City. Both shows emphasize moral dilemmas and the impact of crime on victims and investigators. The ensemble cast and procedural format are similar, though Blue Bloods has a stronger focus on family dynamics.

Fact: Tom Selleck, who plays Frank Reagan, is also one of the show's producers. The Reagan family dinners are a hallmark of the series, often featuring intense discussions about ethics and justice. The show has been praised for its realistic portrayal of police work.

Description: Hawaii Five-0 shares NCIS's focus on a specialized task force, in this case, a state police unit with federal authority. The tropical setting provides a unique backdrop, much like NCIS's naval bases. Both shows feature action-packed sequences, strong team dynamics, and a mix of standalone and serialized storytelling. The camaraderie among the main characters is a central element in both series.

Fact: Hawaii Five-0 is a reboot of the 1968 series of the same name. The show's theme song is a modern version of the original's iconic theme. Daniel Dae Kim and Grace Park left the show in 2017 after a pay disparity dispute.

Description: Chicago P.D. shares NCIS's focus on a tight-knit team of investigators, in this case, the Intelligence Unit of the Chicago Police Department. Both shows blend procedural crime-solving with serialized character arcs and interpersonal drama. The gritty, realistic tone of Chicago P.D. contrasts with NCIS's occasional lighter moments, but both series explore the complexities of law enforcement.

Fact: Chicago P.D. is part of Dick Wolf's Chicago franchise, which includes Chicago Fire and Chicago Med. The show often features crossover episodes with other Chicago series. Jason Beghe, who plays Hank Voight, has a distinctive raspy voice due to a childhood accident.

Description: Another spinoff of NCIS, NCIS: New Orleans brings the franchise's signature elements to the vibrant and culturally rich setting of New Orleans. Like the original, it features a team of investigators solving naval-related crimes, with a strong emphasis on local flavor and character relationships. The show's music and atmosphere set it apart while maintaining the core NCIS appeal.

Fact: NCIS: New Orleans was introduced in a two-part episode of NCIS. The show features many real-life New Orleans musicians and locations. Scott Bakula, who plays Dwayne Pride, is known for his roles in Quantum Leap and Star Trek: Enterprise.