If you enjoyed the quirky humor and detective antics of 'Ace Crawford, Private Eye' (1983), you're in for a treat! This article highlights 10 similar movies and TV shows that capture the same blend of comedy, mystery, and offbeat charm. Whether you're a fan of vintage detective spoofs or just looking for your next binge-worthy series, these picks will keep you entertained.

Hart to Hart (1979)
Description: Features a wealthy couple who solve crimes together, blending romance, humor, and mystery with a glamorous lifestyle and witty repartee.
Fact: The show was inspired by the classic film 'The Thin Man.' The theme song, 'Hart to Hart,' became very popular and is still recognizable today.


Magnum, P.I. (1980)
Description: Centers around a private investigator with a laid-back attitude but sharp skills, often involving humor and action-packed cases set in a tropical locale.
Fact: The show's iconic red Ferrari was almost a different color, but the producers chose red to make it stand out more on screen. The character's signature Hawaiian shirts became a cultural phenomenon.


Knight Rider (1982)
Description: A high-tech action series with a charismatic lead and a talking car, blending crime-solving with futuristic gadgets and a sense of adventure.
Fact: The car, KITT, was voiced by William Daniels, who also played Mr. Feeny in 'Boy Meets World.' The show's theme music and the car's voice became iconic parts of 80s pop culture.


Remington Steele (1982)
Description: A blend of mystery and comedy with a charismatic lead who solves crimes while maintaining a suave persona. The show features witty banter and a mix of lighthearted and serious detective work.
Fact: The show was initially rejected by multiple networks before becoming a hit. The character of Remington Steele was created to give the female lead, Laura Holt, a more marketable front for her detective agency.


Murder, She Wrote (1984)
Description: A mystery series with a clever, amateur sleuth who solves crimes in a small-town setting, often with a lighthearted tone and engaging storytelling.
Fact: The show was one of the longest-running detective series in TV history. The fictional town of Cabot Cove had an improbably high murder rate, often joked about by fans.


Moonlighting (1985)
Description: Combines detective work with romantic tension and humor, featuring a pair of mismatched partners who solve cases while engaging in sharp, fast-paced dialogue.
Fact: The show was known for breaking the fourth wall and incorporating surreal elements. It was one of the first TV shows to use a 'will they/won't they' romantic dynamic between the leads.


Spenser: For Hire (1985)
Description: A hard-boiled detective series with a tough but principled lead, combining action, drama, and a noir-inspired aesthetic.
Fact: The show was based on a series of novels by Robert B. Parker. The character of Spenser was known for his love of cooking, which was a unique trait for a TV detective at the time.


Matlock (1986)
Description: A legal drama with a folksy, Southern charm, featuring a brilliant attorney who solves cases with a mix of wit, humor, and courtroom drama.
Fact: Andy Griffith's portrayal of Matlock was so iconic that it became synonymous with the actor. The show was known for its twist endings, where the real culprit was often revealed in court.


Hunter (1984)
Description: A gritty police drama with a tough, no-nonsense detective who solves crimes with a mix of action, suspense, and occasional humor.
Fact: The show was one of the first to feature a female detective as a co-lead. It was known for its realistic portrayal of police work, despite some dramatic liberties.


The A-Team (1983)
Description: An action-packed series about a team of ex-military operatives who help people in trouble, featuring over-the-top stunts, humor, and a sense of camaraderie.
Fact: The show was famous for its catchphrase, 'I love it when a plan comes together.' Despite the frequent gunfights, no one was ever shown being killed on screen.
