10 Shows Like 19-2 (2014) You Need to Watch

Description: 'Law & Order' and '19-2' both explore the criminal justice system, though 'Law & Order' is more procedural in its approach. Both shows are known for their realistic portrayal of police work and their willingness to tackle controversial issues. The storytelling in 'Law & Order' is similarly focused on the intricacies of solving crimes and bringing perpetrators to justice.

Fact: 'Law & Order' is one of the longest-running primetime TV dramas in U.S. history. The show's format, which splits each episode between police investigation and courtroom drama, has been widely imitated. 'Law & Order' has spawned multiple spin-offs, including 'SVU' and 'Criminal Intent'.

Description: 'The Shield' shares with '19-2' a focus on the moral complexities and ethical dilemmas faced by police officers. Both shows feature flawed protagonists who operate in gray areas, and both are known for their intense, high-stakes storytelling. The visual style of 'The Shield' is similarly gritty and immersive, drawing viewers into the chaotic world of law enforcement.

Fact: 'The Shield' was one of the first original series on FX and helped establish the network as a home for edgy, high-quality drama. Michael Chiklis won an Emmy for his role as Vic Mackey, a corrupt but charismatic detective. The show's finale is often cited as one of the best in television history.

Description: Both 'The Wire' and '19-2' are celebrated for their realistic portrayal of urban policing and their deep exploration of systemic issues within law enforcement. Like '19-2', 'The Wire' uses a multi-perspective narrative to show the interconnectedness of police work, politics, and community life. Both series are character-driven and avoid simplistic portrayals of good vs. evil.

Fact: 'The Wire' was created by David Simon, a former police reporter, which contributed to its authenticity. The show was initially overlooked by awards but is now considered one of the greatest TV series of all time. Many of the actors in 'The Wire' were non-professionals or had limited acting experience before being cast.

Description: While 'Blue Bloods' is more family-oriented than '19-2', both shows explore the personal and professional lives of police officers. 'Blue Bloods' also emphasizes the moral and ethical challenges of policing, though in a more traditional procedural format. The emotional tone of both series is grounded and reflective, with a focus on the impact of police work on families.

Fact: 'Blue Bloods' stars Tom Selleck as the patriarch of a family of law enforcement officers. The show is known for its Sunday dinner scenes, which highlight family dynamics. 'Blue Bloods' has been a consistent ratings performer for CBS since its debut.

Description: 'Chicago P.D.' and '19-2' both focus on the day-to-day operations of a police unit, blending action with emotional drama. Both shows explore the bonds between officers and the challenges they face on and off the job. The visual style of 'Chicago P.D.' is similarly intense, with a focus on high-stakes situations and moral dilemmas.

Fact: 'Chicago P.D.' is part of Dick Wolf's 'Chicago' franchise, which includes 'Chicago Fire' and 'Chicago Med'. The show often crosses over with other series in the franchise, creating a shared universe. Jason Beghe's portrayal of Hank Voight has been praised for its complexity and intensity.

Description: 'The Rookie' shares with '19-2' a focus on the challenges faced by police officers, particularly those new to the job. Both shows blend procedural elements with character-driven storytelling, though 'The Rookie' has a lighter tone. The emotional and professional growth of the protagonists is a central theme in both series.

Fact: 'The Rookie' stars Nathan Fillion as John Nolan, the oldest rookie in the LAPD. The show is inspired by the real-life experiences of LAPD officer William Norcross. 'The Rookie' has been praised for its diverse cast and representation of women in law enforcement.

Description: Like '19-2', 'Homicide: Life on the Street' is a police drama that prioritizes realism and character depth over sensationalism. Both shows feature ensemble casts and explore the psychological impact of police work. The storytelling in 'Homicide' is similarly nuanced, with a focus on the procedural aspects of solving crimes while also delving into the officers' personal lives.

Fact: 'Homicide' was based on a book by David Simon, who later created 'The Wire'. The show was known for its innovative use of handheld cameras and naturalistic dialogue. Andre Braugher's performance as Frank Pembleton earned widespread acclaim and several awards.

Description: 'NYPD Blue' and '19-2' both delve into the personal and professional lives of police officers, blending procedural elements with serialized storytelling. Both shows are known for their strong character development and willingness to tackle controversial topics. The emotional tone of 'NYPD Blue' is similarly intense, with a focus on the human side of policing.

Fact: 'NYPD Blue' was groundbreaking for its use of partial nudity and rough language, which was rare for network TV at the time. The show won 20 Emmy Awards during its 12-season run. Dennis Franz's character, Andy Sipowicz, is one of the most iconic roles in TV police drama history.

Description: 'Third Watch' and '19-2' both focus on first responders, with 'Third Watch' covering police, firefighters, and paramedics. Both shows are known for their realistic portrayal of emergency services and their emphasis on the camaraderie among first responders. The storytelling in 'Third Watch' is similarly character-driven, with a mix of action and emotional drama.

Fact: 'Third Watch' was created by John Wells, who also worked on 'ER'. The show was filmed on location in New York City, adding to its authenticity. 'Third Watch' was one of the first shows to depict the aftermath of 9/11, as it was filming in NYC at the time.

Description: Like '19-2', 'Southland' is a gritty, realistic police drama that focuses on the daily lives of patrol officers and detectives. Both shows emphasize the emotional and psychological toll of police work, featuring intense, character-driven storylines. The cinematography in both series is raw and documentary-style, enhancing the sense of realism.

Fact: 'Southland' was originally aired on NBC but was canceled after one season; it was then picked up by TNT for four more seasons. The show was praised for its authentic portrayal of police work, with many real-life LAPD officers consulting on the series. Regina King won two Emmy Awards for her role in 'Southland'.