10 Shows & Movies Like Cops (1989)

Description: A scripted drama that delves into the lives of homicide detectives, blending gritty realism with personal stories, much like the authentic portrayal of police work.

Fact: The show was initially marketed as a documentary-style series but was later developed as a traditional drama.

Description: Following officers during their shifts, this series captures the day-to-day realities of police work, from routine calls to high-stakes situations.

Fact: The show was praised for its balanced portrayal of law enforcement, showing both the heroic and human sides of the job.

Description: This show follows emergency responders during night shifts, capturing the intensity and unpredictability of their work, much like the real-life drama seen in police-focused series.

Fact: The show was filmed in real-time, giving viewers an authentic look at the challenges faced by first responders.

Description: This documentary series provides an in-depth look at the challenges faced by a police department, focusing on both the officers and the communities they serve.

Fact: The series was filmed over two years, offering a comprehensive view of the evolving dynamics between law enforcement and the public.

Description: This series uses actual police body camera footage to showcase the raw and unfiltered experiences of law enforcement officers, emphasizing the immediacy and danger of their jobs.

Fact: The show often includes commentary from the officers involved, providing deeper insight into their thought processes during critical moments.

Description: This compilation show features dramatic and often chaotic real-life police footage, capturing the unpredictability and danger of law enforcement work.

Fact: The series was one of the first to popularize the use of real police dashcam and surveillance footage in television programming.

Description: This series provides a behind-the-scenes look at the daily duties of police officers, focusing on their commitment to public safety and community service.

Fact: The show was one of the early reality series to gain widespread popularity by humanizing police officers and their work.

Description: Focusing on the crucial first 48 hours of homicide investigations, this series highlights the meticulous and high-pressure work of detectives, similar to the procedural aspects of police work.

Fact: The show has been credited with helping solve real-life cases by bringing attention to unsolved crimes.

Description: This series showcases the unique challenges faced by law enforcement in the vast and rugged terrain of Alaska, emphasizing the adaptability and resilience required in policing.

Fact: The show highlights the Troopers' use of unconventional methods, such as snowmobiles and small planes, to patrol remote areas.

Description: A live broadcast that follows police officers in real-time as they respond to calls, offering an unfiltered and immediate look at law enforcement in action.

Fact: The show was a ratings hit and sparked a new trend in live reality television, though it was later canceled due to controversies surrounding its portrayal of policing.