5 Best TV Crime Drama Showrunners Of All Time, Ranked
Crime dramas can be hit and miss to say the least, but it's fair to say that these legendary TV showrunners really know how to make them hit.
1. Nic Pizzolatto's groundbreaking work on True Detective brought a cinematic approach to TV, introducing eight-episode seasons and compelling murder mysteries to the crime drama genre. The show's noir feel and philosophical themes were a departure from typical crime procedurals, earning it critical acclaim and Hollywood actor involvement.
2. Dick Wolf has demonstrated exceptional longevity in the world of television, creating iconic crime dramas such as Law & Order, Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, Chicago, and FBI. His two-part episode formula, featuring crime investigation followed by court proceedings, has proven popular with viewers and maintained high ratings across all seasons.
3. David Simon's work on The Wire, We Own This City, and The Deuce showcased his ability to tackle complex social issues surrounding crime, drug trade, and social divide. Simon's realistic storytelling and impact on social order have made his series stand the test of time.
4. Vince Gilligan, known for his work on The X-Files, Breaking Bad, and Better Call Saul, demonstrated skillful storytelling in depicting moral downfall and character progression in both crime dramas and beyond. Even though Pluribus isn't a traditional crime drama, Gilligan's ability to craft compelling narratives is evident in his latest series.
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