The Best True Crime TV Shows

Over 8.3K Ranker voters have come together to rank this list of The Best True Crime TV Shows
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Vote up your favorite shows that follow and investigate true crimes.

These are very best true crime shows on television, ranked from best to worst. This list of the greatest true crime shows also includes pictures from the shows, when available. Popular true crime TV shows have been a staple of television for years, so there's often debate about what the most entertaining true crime shows of all time are. Don't let your favorite true crime television programs in history fall to the bottom of the list - be sure to vote them up so they have the chance to reach the top. The list of true crime television series below includes information like the program's cast and premiere date, when available.

What are some good true crime TV shows? Examples include Disappeared and Snapped, among other real crime shows that pair docudrama with thorough investigation, or use their format as true crime miniseries to dive deep into a story. What is the best true crime show of all time? If you've caught any new true crime shows, you know which ones you like and probably have a quick answer when someone asks you, "What are the greatest true crime shows?" You're well aware that these are the best real life crime shows ever.

True crime series are incredibly engaging and arguably some of the best shows on TV. Vote up the true crime TV shows you think are the best and rerank to see how your favorites stack up against the rest.

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  • Forensic Files
    1
    Dayle Hinman, Peter Thomas, Roy Shuler
    2,115 votes
    • Premiered: April 21, 1996

    Delve into the world of cutting-edge forensics and witness how crime scene investigators unravel the most baffling cases. Featuring experts in the field, this eye-opening series showcases the power of science in solving seemingly unsolvable crimes. You'll be on the edge of your seat as you watch investigators piece together clues and ultimately bring justice to the victims.

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  • Cold Case Files
    2
    Danny Pino, Anthony Green
    1,234 votes
    • Premiered: February 27, 2017

    This gripping series delves into the past, re-examining long-forgotten crimes and shedding new light on old mysteries. With dogged determination and perseverance, detectives reopen these cold cases, piecing together new evidence and re-interviewing witnesses in an attempt to close the case once and for all. The show is equal parts thrilling and heartbreaking, as families hope for answers after years of waiting.

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  • Missing: Dead or Alive
    NEW
    #89 needs votes
    1 votes
  • Dateline NBC
    3
    Lester Holt, Ann Curry, Keith Morrison
    1,319 votes
    • Premiered: March 31, 1992

    A captivating news program dedicated to digging deep into the most shocking true crime stories. With a strong emphasis on investigative journalism and first-person accounts, viewers are taken on a journey through the twists and turns of each baffling case. The show's blend of emotional storytelling and hard-hitting reporting has established it as a staple in the true crime genre.

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  • Homicide Hunter
    4
    Carl Marino
    1,169 votes
    • Premiered: October 25, 2011

    With an impressive career spanning over two decades, retired detective Joe Kenda shares his most challenging cases in this compelling series. Alongside dramatic re-enactments, Kenda's candid, no-nonsense narration brings viewers inside the mind of one of America's most dedicated homicide investigators. Each episode will leave you riveted, pondering the complexity of human nature at its darkest.

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  • The First 48
    5

    The First 48

    Dion Graham, Caroline Mason, Tony Mullins
    1,237 votes
    • Premiered: June 3, 2004

    Timing is everything in this high-stakes reality series that follows detectives during the first 48 hours of a murder investigation. As the clock ticks, viewers are immersed into the race against time to solve the crime before crucial evidence is lost. The tension and urgency create a gripping atmosphere, making this show a must-watch for true crime enthusiasts.

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  • 48 Hours
    6
    Maureen Maher, Peter Van Sant, Erin Moriarty
    568 votes
    • Premiered: January 19, 1988

    Get an insider's view of some of the most captivating criminal investigations in this long-running news magazine. With first-rate reporting, each episode delves into the gritty details of a gripping case featuring interviews with key players and dramatic re-enactments. You'll be on the edge of your seat as you follow each twist and turn in these captivating stories.

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