10 Shows and Movies Similar to CHiPs (1977)

Description: Starsky & Hutch, like CHiPs, is a buddy cop series that combines action, drama, and humor. Both shows feature a pair of law enforcement officers who rely on their partnership to solve crimes and maintain order. The shows also share a 70s vibe, with colorful characters and car chases being a staple.

Fact: Starsky & Hutch was known for its iconic red Ford Gran Torino, which became a symbol of the show. The series was created by William Blinn, who also wrote the screenplay for the 1976 TV movie Sybil. Starsky & Hutch was one of the first shows to feature a black actor (Bernie Hamilton) in a prominent role as a police captain.

Description: The Dukes of Hazzard shares with CHiPs a focus on car chases and stunts, as well as a lighthearted tone. Both shows feature law enforcement as central characters, though in The Dukes of Hazzard, the protagonists are often at odds with the authorities. The shows also share a rural Southern California setting and a sense of fun and adventure.

Fact: The Dukes of Hazzard was famous for its car, the General Lee, a 1969 Dodge Charger. The show's theme song, "Good Ol' Boys," was performed by Waylon Jennings, who also narrated the series. The Dukes of Hazzard was a massive hit, spawning toys, video games, and a 2005 movie adaptation.

Description: Magnum, P.I. and CHiPs both feature charismatic leads who balance action with humor. While Magnum is a private investigator rather than a police officer, both shows share a sunny Southern California setting and a mix of crime-solving and personal drama. The shows also have a similar episodic structure and a focus on the protagonist's personal life.

Fact: Magnum, P.I. starred Tom Selleck, who became a major TV star thanks to the show. The series was known for its Hawaiian setting, which was unusual for TV at the time. Magnum, P.I. was rebooted in 2018 with Jay Hernandez in the lead role.

Description: The Fall Guy shares with CHiPs a focus on stunts and action, as well as a lighthearted tone. Both shows feature protagonists who are experts in their fields (stunt performers and motorcycle cops, respectively) and who use their skills to solve problems. The shows also share a sense of fun and adventure.

Fact: The Fall Guy starred Lee Majors, who was already famous for his role in The Six Million Dollar Man. The show's theme song, "The Unknown Stuntman," was performed by Majors himself. The Fall Guy was known for its elaborate stunts, many of which were performed by the cast and crew.

Description: Knight Rider shares with CHiPs a focus on high-tech vehicles and crime-fighting. While Knight Rider features a futuristic talking car, both shows emphasize the importance of technology in law enforcement. The shows also share a mix of action, drama, and lighthearted moments.

Fact: Knight Rider's car, KITT, was a modified Pontiac Trans Am with artificial intelligence. The show was created by Glen A. Larson, who also produced Battlestar Galactica. Knight Rider was rebooted in 2008 with a new cast and updated technology.

Description: Miami Vice and CHiPs both focus on law enforcement, though Miami Vice takes a grittier, more stylish approach. Both shows feature partnerships between main characters and a focus on crime-solving. Miami Vice's use of music and fashion also parallels CHiPs' 70s aesthetic, though in a more contemporary 80s style.

Fact: Miami Vice was known for its pastel color palette and stylish clothing, which influenced 1980s fashion. The show featured a groundbreaking use of contemporary pop music in its soundtrack. Miami Vice was rebooted as a movie in 2006, starring Colin Farrell and Jamie Foxx.

Description: Hunter, like CHiPs, is a police procedural that focuses on the partnership between two law enforcement officers. Both shows blend action with character-driven drama, though Hunter takes a darker, more serious tone. The shows also share a Southern California setting and a focus on crime-solving.

Fact: Hunter starred Fred Dryer, a former NFL player, in the lead role. The show was known for its gritty portrayal of police work and its complex characters. Hunter ran for seven seasons and was one of the most popular police dramas of the 1980s.

Description: Adam-12 shares similarities with CHiPs as both are police procedural dramas that follow the daily routines of law enforcement officers. Both shows emphasize the partnership between the main characters and their dedication to serving the community. The shows also share a straightforward, episodic format and a focus on realistic police work.

Fact: Adam-12 was created by Jack Webb and Robert A. Cinader, who aimed for realism in police procedures. The show's title refers to the police code for a two-officer patrol unit. Adam-12 was groundbreaking for its time, portraying police work in a more realistic light than previous TV shows.

Description: Like CHiPs (1977), Emergency! is a classic action-drama series that focuses on first responders, in this case, paramedics and firefighters. Both shows highlight teamwork, high-stakes rescues, and the camaraderie among emergency personnel. They also share a similar 70s aesthetic and episodic storytelling style.

Fact: Emergency! was one of the first TV shows to depict paramedics and emergency medical services, influencing real-life emergency response protocols. The show was created by Robert A. Cinader and Jack Webb, who also created Adam-1Emergency! ran for six seasons and spawned several TV movies.

Description: The A-Team, like CHiPs, is an action-packed series with a focus on teamwork and camaraderie. Both shows feature a group of characters who work together to solve problems, though The A-Team's protagonists are fugitives rather than law enforcement. The shows also share a sense of humor and over-the-top action sequences.

Fact: The A-Team was famous for its catchphrase, "I love it when a plan comes together." The show's van, a black and red GMC Vandura, became an iconic symbol of the series. The A-Team was adapted into a 2010 movie starring Liam Neeson and Bradley Cooper.