The Most Popular British Crime Drama, Ranked
Voting rules: Choose the drama you think is the most popular!
Updated on May 1, 2024 06:31
Crime drama holds a special place in the hearts of television fans, particularly those originating from the UK, which are praised for their intricate plots and deep character development. Yet, with so many shows to choose from, it can be a daunting task to find the one that grips your interest the most. That's why a continually updated ranking, driven by votes from viewers like you, proves invaluable.
By participating in these rankings, not only do you assist fellow enthusiasts in discovering quality content, but you also contribute your voice to a larger community. The gathered data reflects collective preferences and current trends in crime dramas, making it easier for everyone to pinpoint top-tier programming. Cast your vote today and see how your favorites fare among the crowd!
What Is the Most Popular British Crime Drama?
-
146votesThis award-winning crime drama follows the investigation of a young boy's murder in a small coastal town. Its gripping plot, stunning cinematography, and brilliant performances by David Tennant and Olivia Colman made it a huge hit among audiences.Broadchurch is a critically acclaimed British crime drama television series that premiered in 2013. It follows the investigation led by detectives Alec Hardy and Ellie Miller in the small Dorset town of Broadchurch after the murder of a young boy. As the investigation unfolds, the close-knit community becomes the focus of suspicion, leading to emotional turmoil and uncovering dark secrets.
- Genre: Crime drama
- Created by: Chris Chibnall
- Original network: BBC One
- Original release: 4 March 2013 – 17 April 2017
- Number of seasons: 3
-
242votes
Line of Duty
Jed MercurioThis critically acclaimed police procedural drama has been praised for its intense plot, intricate storytelling, and strong performances. It follows the investigations of AC-12, a fictional anti-corruption unit, as they uncover corruption within the police force.Line of Duty is a popular British police procedural drama television series set in the fictional AC-12 anti-corruption unit. Created by Jed Mercurio, the show revolves around investigating corrupt police officers within the force. The intense and gripping storyline keeps viewers on the edge of their seats with its intricate plot twists and character development.- Language: English
- Genre: Drama, Thriller
- Country of Origin: United Kingdom
- Number of Seasons: 6 (as of 2021)
- Number of Episodes: 32 (as of 2021)
-
311votesIdris Elba stars as the titular character, a brilliant but troubled detective who solves crimes in a gritty version of London. The show has been praised for its gripping plot, strong performances, and stylish direction.Luther is a critically acclaimed British crime drama television series. It follows the story of DCI John Luther, a brilliant but troubled detective working for the Serious Crime Unit in London. Luther is known for his intense dedication to his job, often crossing ethical boundaries to solve his cases.
- Genre: Crime drama
- Original Network: BBC One
- First Aired: 4 May 2010
- Total Seasons: 5
- Total Episodes: 20
-
416votes
Michelangelo · Public domainThe Fall
Allan CubittThis psychological thriller follows the investigation of a serial killer in Belfast, with Gillian Anderson playing the lead detective. Its tense atmosphere, complex characters, and compelling storyline have made it a popular choice among fans of the genre.The Fall is a British crime drama television series that first aired in 2013. It follows the story of a Metropolitan Police detective named Stella Gibson, played by Gillian Anderson, who is brought in to solve a series of murders by a serial killer operating in Northern Ireland. The show explores the psychological cat-and-mouse game between Gibson and the killer, Paul Spector, portrayed by Jamie Dornan. With a dark and intense atmosphere, The Fall delves into the complex minds of both the detective and the killer, challenging traditional gender roles and examining the nature of obsession and power.- Genre: Crime drama
- Original network: BBC Two
- Original release: 13 May 2013 – 28 October 2016
- Number of seasons: 3
- Number of episodes: 17
-
513votesThis modern-day adaptation of the classic detective stories by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle has been a huge success since its debut in 2010. Benedict Cumberbatch's portrayal of the eccentric detective, along with the show's clever writing and stylish direction, have made it a fan favorite.Sherlock is a highly acclaimed British television drama series that is based on the Sherlock Holmes detective stories written by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. The modern-day adaptation follows the brilliant and eccentric consulting detective, Sherlock Holmes, and his loyal friend, Dr. John Watson, as they solve complex and intricate crimes in contemporary London.
- Genre: Crime drama
- Setting: Contemporary London, England
- First episode air date: July 25, 2010
- Number of seasons: 4
- Number of episodes: 13
-
610votes
Esprqii · CC BY-SA 3.0Happy Valley
Sally WainwrightThis gritty crime drama set in West Yorkshire follows the investigations of a tough and determined police sergeant played by Sarah Lancashire. Its compelling storyline, strong performances, and realistic portrayal of police work have made it a hit with audiences.Happy Valley is a gripping BBC drama that follows the story of police sergeant Catherine Cawood in the Calder Valley of West Yorkshire, England. Created by Sally Wainwright, the show explores themes of crime, redemption, and personal tragedy.- Genre: Crime Drama
- Network: BBC One
- Country: United Kingdom
- Language: English
- Number of Seasons: 2
-
710votes
Peaky Blinders
Steven KnightThis period crime drama set in post-World War I Birmingham follows the exploits of the Shelby crime family, led by Cillian Murphy's character, Tommy Shelby. Its stylish direction, great performances, and compelling storyline have made it a popular choice among fans of the genre.Peaky Blinders is a British crime drama television series set in post-World War I Birmingham, England. It follows the Shelby crime family led by the ambitious and charismatic Tommy Shelby, as they navigate the world of illegal activities and their rise to power in the city's underworld.- Genre: Crime drama
- Setting: Post-World War I Birmingham
- Main characters: Tommy Shelby, Arthur Shelby, Ada Thorne, Polly Gray, Alfie Solomons
- Number of seasons: 5
- Number of episodes: 30
-
83votes
Продюсер Брайан Тру-Мэй · Public domainMidsomer Murders
Caroline GrahamThis long-running crime drama set in the fictional county of Midsomer has been a staple of British television since 1997. Its quirky characters, picturesque settings, and elaborate murder plots have made it a beloved classic.Midsomer Murders is a popular British crime drama series that first aired in 1997. Created by Caroline Graham, it is based on her Chief Inspector Barnaby book series. The show is set in the fictional county of Midsomer and follows the investigations of Detective Chief Inspector Tom Barnaby and his various partners.- Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
- Original Network: ITV
- Original Release: 23 March 1997
- Total Seasons: 21
- Total Episodes: 126
-
916votesThis prequel to the Inspector Morse series follows the early career of the iconic detective, played by Shaun Evans. Its compelling mysteries, strong performances, and period setting have made it a hit with fans of the original series.Endeavour is a popular British crime drama television series that serves as a prequel to the long-running Inspector Morse series. Set in the 1960s and 1970s, the show follows the early career of Detective Constable Endeavour Morse as he solves complex crimes in Oxford, England.
- Genre: Crime, Drama
- Original Network: ITV
- First Episode Release Date: 14 April 2013
- Number of Seasons: 7
- Number of Episodes: 31 (as of September 2020)
-
104votesThis classic detective series, based on the novels of Agatha Christie, follows the investigations of the fastidious Belgian detective, Hercule Poirot, played by David Suchet. Its stylish direction, great performances, and clever mysteries have made it a favorite among fans of the genre.Agatha Christie's Poirot is a popular British crime drama television series based on the fictional detective character, Hercule Poirot, created by the renowned crime novelist Agatha Christie. The show follows Poirot as he solves complex murder cases, often with the help of his friend Captain Arthur Hastings and Inspector Japp of Scotland Yard.
- Genre: Crime, Drama, Mystery
- Country of Origin: United Kingdom
- Language: English
- Number of Seasons: 13
- Number of Episodes: 70
Missing your favorite drama?
Graphs
Discussion
Ranking factors for popular drama
-
Audience Ratings and ReviewsThe popularity of a crime drama can be gauged by its audience ratings and reviews. Assessing the show's viewership, critical reception, and user reviews on platforms like IMDb, Rotten Tomatoes, and Metacritic can help in determining its popularity.
-
Awards and NominationsAwards and nominations are a testament to the quality and popularity of a show. Consider the number of awards or nominations a crime drama has received from prestigious institutions like the British Academy Television Awards (BAFTA), the Royal Television Society Awards, and the National Television Awards.
-
Longevity and Number of SeasonsThe number of seasons and episodes can be an indicator of a show's popularity and sustained audience interest. A long-running show with multiple seasons typically enjoys a loyal fan base and consistent viewership.
-
Impact on Popular CultureA popular British crime drama often influences and reflects popular culture. Consider if the show has memorable quotes, iconic characters, or storylines that have resonated with audiences and become part of the wider cultural conversation.
-
Social Media EngagementA show's presence on social media, including the number of followers, engagement, and overall buzz, can be a measure of its popularity. Check the official accounts of the show, its cast, and crew to gauge the level of fan interaction and the conversations surrounding the show.
-
Quality of Storytelling and Production ValuesPopular crime dramas usually excel in terms of their storytelling, acting performances, and production values. Assess the quality of writing, direction, cinematography, and overall production to determine if the show maintains a high level of excellence that contributes to its popularity.
-
International Distribution and AppealA popular British crime drama may have widespread distribution and appeal, making it available to audiences across countries and continents. The show's worldwide reach can be an indicator of its popularity.
-
Spin-offs and AdaptationsSuccessful shows often lead to spin-offs or adaptations, which demonstrates their popularity and demand for more content. Consider any spin-offs, prequels, sequels, or adaptations that may have emerged from a particular crime drama.
-
Genre and ThemesThe choice of genre and themes in a crime drama can contribute to its popularity. Shows that address contemporary social issues or explore unique perspectives in the crime genre are more likely to resonate with audiences.
-
Cast and CrewThe popularity of the show's cast and creators can contribute to the overall popularity of a crime drama. High-profile actors, writers, and directors often attract a dedicated fan base and help elevate the show's status.
About this ranking
This is a community-based ranking of the most popular British crime drama. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or drama is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!
Statistics
- 1336 views
- 169 votes
- 10 ranked items
Voting Rules
A participant may cast an up or down vote for each drama once every 24 hours. The rank of each drama is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.
More information on most popular british crime drama
British crime dramas have been a staple of television for decades, captivating audiences with their tense plots and intricate characters. From classic shows like "Inspector Morse" to modern hits like "Broadchurch," there is no shortage of thrilling crime dramas to enjoy. These shows often explore the darker side of human nature, delving into topics like murder, corruption, and betrayal. With so many options to choose from, it can be difficult to determine which British crime drama is the most popular. However, thanks to the power of polling, we can get a better idea of which shows have captured the hearts and minds of viewers around the world.
Explore other rankings
Check out some of the other recommended rankings on StrawPoll and make your voice heard.
