10 Shows & Movies Like The Rookie (2018)

Description: While darker than 'The Rookie', 'The Shield' similarly explores the complexities of police work and the moral gray areas officers navigate. Both shows feature intense action and focus on how policing affects officers' personal lives. The realistic portrayal of police work is a common thread, though 'The Shield' takes a more cynical approach.

Fact: 'The Shield' was FX's first original drama series. Michael Chiklis won an Emmy for his role as Vic Mackey. The show was groundbreaking for its antihero protagonist and gritty realism.

Description: While more complex and sprawling than 'The Rookie', 'The Wire' similarly examines police work from multiple perspectives, including rookies learning the ropes. Both shows portray the institutional challenges of policing, though 'The Wire' takes a more critical, societal view. The attention to authentic police procedures is a shared strength.

Fact: 'The Wire' was created by former police reporter David Simon. Many actors were non-professionals from Baltimore. The show is often cited as one of the greatest TV dramas of all time.

Description: As a long-running procedural, 'NCIS' shares with 'The Rookie' a focus on law enforcement teamwork and crime-solving. Both shows mix serious cases with lighter character moments, and both feature a mix of experienced officers mentoring younger team members. The balance between personal stories and professional challenges is a key similarity.

Fact: 'NCIS' is a spin-off of 'JAG' and has itself spawned multiple spin-offs. Mark Harmon's character Gibbs was only supposed to appear in the first two episodes. The show's acronym stands for Naval Criminal Investigative Service.

Description: Like 'The Rookie', 'Criminal Minds' focuses on law enforcement professionals working as a team to solve crimes. While more focused on profiling than street policing, both shows explore the psychological aspects of police work and feature strong ensemble casts. The balance between personal stories and professional challenges is a common element.

Fact: 'Criminal Minds' originally had a different title ('Quantico') and premise. The show's technical advisor was a real FBI profiler. Several cast members appeared in multiple roles before being cast as series regulars.

Description: This Canadian series is perhaps the most direct comparison to 'The Rookie', as both focus on young police officers navigating their first years on the force. The shows share themes of professional growth, personal relationships among officers, and the challenges of proving oneself in a high-stakes environment.

Fact: 'Rookie Blue' was originally titled 'Copper' during development. The show ran for six seasons on Global in Canada and ABC in the U.S. Several cast members had real-life police officers in their families.

Description: 'Blue Bloods' shares with 'The Rookie' a focus on law enforcement and family dynamics. Both shows explore the personal and professional lives of police officers, emphasizing moral dilemmas and the impact of police work on personal relationships. The procedural format with ongoing character arcs is another common feature.

Fact: Tom Selleck stars as NYPD Commissioner Frank Reagan, a role he's played for over a decade. The show's famous family dinner scenes are improvised by the actors. 'Blue Bloods' films on location in New York City, adding authenticity to its portrayal of the NYPD.

Description: This reboot shares with 'The Rookie' a blend of action, police procedural elements, and character-driven storytelling. Both shows feature diverse ensembles and mix serious crime-solving with lighter moments. The tropical setting of 'Hawaii Five-0' provides a distinctive backdrop similar to how 'The Rookie' uses Los Angeles.

Fact: The reboot's theme song is a updated version of the original 1968 series' iconic theme. Many episodes feature real Hawaiian locations and cultural elements. The show ran for ten seasons, matching the original's longevity.

Description: Like 'The Rookie', 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine' combines police procedural elements with humor and character-driven storytelling. Both shows focus on the dynamics within a police precinct and feature a mix of serious crime-solving and lighthearted moments. The ensemble casts in both series highlight teamwork and camaraderie.

Fact: 'Brooklyn Nine-Nine' was created by Dan Goor and Michael Schur, the latter also known for 'The Office' and 'Parks and Recreation'. The show won two Golden Globes for Best Television Series – Musical or Comedy. Andre Braugher's portrayal of Captain Holt broke new ground for LGBTQ+ representation on network TV.

Description: This series, like 'The Rookie', offers a gritty look at police work, focusing on the Intelligence Unit of the Chicago Police Department. Both shows balance action-packed crime solving with character development, exploring the challenges officers face both on and off duty. The emphasis on training and mentoring younger officers in 'Chicago P.D.' mirrors themes in 'The Rookie'.

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. Many storylines are inspired by real Chicago crime cases.

Description: 'Southland' and 'The Rookie' both offer realistic portrayals of police work, focusing on both rookies and veterans. The shows share a documentary-style approach to storytelling and explore the emotional toll of police work. Both series highlight the learning curve new officers face on the streets.

Fact: 'Southland' was originally an NBC show before moving to TNT. The series was praised for its authentic portrayal of LAPD operations. Many scenes were filmed on location in Los Angeles neighborhoods.