The TV series “FBI” delves into the daily operations of the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s New York City branch, blending thrilling action sequences with intricate personal relationships. The primary task of the main characters is to ensure the safety of New York City, but they occasionally venture beyond the city limits to tackle challenging cases elsewhere. The cases they handle can range from organized crime to counterintelligence, espionage, and terrorism. In many ways, the show resembles its predecessors “FBI: International” and “FBI: Most Wanted”, as it usually presents self-contained stories within each episode.
In the evolving narrative, the principal figures have changed through different phases, but currently, the key characters are Maggie Bell (played by Missy Peregrym), who hails from a law enforcement background, and Omar Adom “OA” Zidan (portrayed by Zeeko Zaki), a former West Point graduate and ex-Army Ranger. These two lead a dedicated squad prepared to take whatever actions necessary to maintain New York as tranquil as possible – striving to minimize harm to innocent bystanders.
There isn’t any other show quite like “FBI,” however, there are numerous police procedurals set in New York City and series heavily focused on the FBI or CIA. For every “Blue Bloods,” you’ll find a “Law & Order,” “Numb3rs,” or “CSI.” Here are some shows that capture the essence of “FBI” while setting themselves apart distinctly.
Blue Bloods
Similar to “FBI”, the popular and dearly missed series “Blue Bloods” shares more than just the connection of the Reagan family working with the FBI on numerous cases. Both shows are set in New York City and explore romantic and friendly entanglements, as well as touch upon themes like terrorism and espionage. However, unlike “FBI”, where it’s a straightforward business arrangement, in “Blue Bloods”, every member of the Reagan family is deeply involved in law enforcement, making the show more about a family’s shared commitment to justice rather than just a job.
Blue Bloods” revolves around police commissioner Frank Reagan, played by Tom Selleck, whose offspring have largely chosen careers in law enforcement, primarily as detectives and beat cops. The only exception is his daughter Erin (Bridget Moynahan), who holds a high position at the Trial Bureau in the District Attorney’s Office of New York County. Guiding the family is their retired elder Henry (Len Cariou), who offers wise counsel and sometimes provides investigative assistance as the series progresses.
After wrapping up its extended run, character Danny Reagan (Donnie Wahlberg) will transition to a new show titled “Boston Blue,” set to premiere in autumn 2025. Given this, it seems like an excellent opportunity for fans to delve back into the Reagan family’s tale before his departure.
Blindspot
The TV series “Blindspot” offers a unique spin on typical FBI procedural shows by featuring a protagonist suffering from amnesia. This adds an additional layer of complexity, as each new case the character encounters remains shrouded in mystery for them and viewers alike. The show enjoyed a successful five-season run before concluding, thanks to its complex narrative structure that appealed to fans of shows like “FBI.” Those who appreciate the standalone mysteries of “FBI” may find themselves captivated by the weekly cases presented in “Blindspot.
When Jamie Alexander’s character, Jane Doe, is discovered naked, solitary, and confined within a suitcase in Times Square, she has no clue about her identity or her recent events. The FBI takes her into protective custody which eventually uncovers talents that only someone with an intelligence background could possess. As the story unfolds, Jane becomes involved with the FBI while simultaneously piecing together her past and considering the prospect of a romantic relationship with her supervising agent, Kurt Weller (Sullivan Stapleton). This engaging adventure provides a captivating experience for viewers.
CSI: Crime Scene Investigations
CSI”, often referred to as the progenitor of all forensic-themed procedurals, intertwines the professional lives of its characters working in a Las Vegas Crime Lab with their personal lives beyond law enforcement. The show’s captivating crime scene investigators employ their forensic expertise to unravel the mysteries behind who committed a crime, why, and how. If it weren’t for “CSI”, there would be no “NCIS,” no “FBI,” and undeniably, the CBS prime-time schedule would lack the excitement it currently offers.
Throughout most of its duration, I found myself deeply invested in the primary duo of the series – Dr. Gil Grissom (William Petersen) and Sara Sidle (Jorja Fox). Their tumultuous on-and-off relationship served as a significant narrative thread. Grissom is an unassuming forensic entomologist, while Sidle is a resilient materials and elements examiner. After their marriage crumbles and she departs the show, Sara Sidle is succeeded by Catherine Willows (Marg Helgenberger), a tenacious blood spatter specialist with a hardened edge. Catherine’s streetwise background offers a contrast to Grissom’s naivety, as her vivacity and toughness complement his lack of street smarts effectively.
Indeed, they are merely three gears contributing to the intricate narrative of a series that boasts numerous surprises, reversals, and character transformations throughout its lifetime. Over time, they’re pushed to their utmost limits yet somehow persevere. As for their co-stars, they cycle in and out of the show, solving cases and introducing new villains — much like in “FBI.” The series had a brief resurgence as “CSI: Vegas,” but unfortunately, it was axed after three seasons once more.
NCIS
On popular TV series like “NCIS”, the emphasis lies on crimes involving or connected to military personnel – primarily murders, abductions, or burglaries that necessitate forensic analysis. The Naval Criminal Investigative Service delves into crime scenes and handles missing persons cases, utilizing a mix of forensic expertise and investigative skills to solve these complex mysteries. Viewers who enjoy the plotlines of “FBI” are likely drawn to the dark narratives, intricate plots with unexpected twists, and personal dilemmas in “NCIS”, often finding themselves eagerly munching on popcorn.
Led by Leroy Jethro Gibbs (Mark Harmon), the “NCIS” team functions not only as a tightly knit workforce, but also serves as a substitute family for its members. Similar to the “FBI” team, they stand together on and off duty, offering support during challenging times and occasionally forming romantic relationships. However, their typical day involves navigating peril and attempting to crack cases that pose threats not only to them, but also to America as a whole. The cases can range from the wildly adventurous to the grimly serious, but what makes “NCIS” truly captivating is the unpredictability of which you’ll encounter.
Law & Order
In the bustling cityscape of New York, “Law & Order” delved into chilling crimes, paving the way for shows like “FBI.” The series chronicled a criminal case from start to finish, providing an in-depth look at the legal system and its pros and cons. This police-and-prosecutor-focused drama has been shaping the genre since the 90s, making it virtually unimaginable for modern TV without its influence, which is a testament to its enduring impact.
Over the decades, numerous remarkable characters have graced the screens of this iconic show, but some stand out as inseparable from its identity. Characters like Lennie Briscoe (Jerry Orbach), Anita Van Buren (S. Epatha Merkerson), and Jack McCoy (Sam Waterston) are almost synonymous with the series itself. Fans may argue which period was the best, but it’s difficult to dispute that each detective who appeared on the show left a lasting impression on the “Law & Order” universe, regardless of who was at the helm of an investigation.
NUMB3RS
With a blend of style, crime scenes that would leave Lennie Briscoe in tears, and an intriguing mix of family dynamics, math, science, and chilling murder mysteries, the series “NUMB3RS” captivated viewers’ attention. The passion of fans for the Eppes family’s adventures was so immense it sustained the drama for six seasons filled with murders, shocking cases, and heartwarming familial connections. Fans of “FBI” will find themselves drawn not only to the show’s grisly crimes but also to its intellectual allure.
The show primarily focuses on Don Eppes (Rob Morrow), the leader of Los Angeles’ violent crimes unit, who happens to be an excellent detective. Despite his skills, he acknowledges that he requires assistance in solving some lingering cases. To address this, he calls upon his younger brother, Professor Charlie Eppes (David Krumholtz), an FBI advisor and mathematical prodigy, for aid on every open case. The siblings join forces, frequently seeking guidance from their city planner father, Alan Eppes (Judd Hirsch), who offers wise counsel and serves as a sounding board for both of them. Although the family doesn’t always see eye to eye, they are bound by love, possess a knack for resolving crises, and aren’t hesitant to utilize all resources at their disposal to reach their goal.
Profiler
The television series, “Profiler,” centres around two criminal analysts who are driven by a strong passion for justice and have had personal encounters with criminal activities in the past. On Saturday nights on NBC, it became a highly anticipated show for thriller enthusiasts due to its engaging, dynamic, and distinctive characterization. For fans of “FBI,” they will find enjoyment in the weekly case investigations presented by the series, combined with an intriguing supernatural aspect. Viewers are likely to feel comfortable with the plot while appreciating the show’s unique flavor.
As a dedicated fan, I can’t help but identify with Dr. Samantha “Sam” Waters (Ally Walker), a criminal profiler who possesses an extraordinary ability – she can perceive life through the eyes of others. This unique gift aids her in apprehending criminals for an organization reminiscent of the FBI. This role is not just a job for Sam, it’s a mission – a quest to unmask a ruthless serial killer known as Jack of All Trades, who took away her husband and continues to haunt her life with his psychopathic tendencies. Despite her relentless pursuit, justice for Sam remains elusive, leaving her living under constant surveillance. The series unfolds as a captivating blend of a hard-hitting cop show and a chilling supernatural stalker tale, ultimately ending with Sam going into hiding and being replaced by Rachel Burke (Jamie Luner), a shift that didn’t sit well with the fans and led to a sharp decline in ratings, eventually leading to the show’s cancellation. Yet, the series as a whole remains a compelling exploration of its genre boundaries.
Without a Trace
Just like ‘FBI,’ ‘Without a Trace’ consistently delivers a solid procedural experience, catering perfectly to its audience’s preferences. The protagonists are diligent investigators, but they specialize in the Missing Persons Unit, dedicating their efforts to locating individuals who have gone missing or seeking justice for victims whose whereabouts remain unknown and who may have fallen victim to harm or death.
The main characters of this series are Jack Malone (Anthony LaPaglia), Samantha Spade (Poppy Montgomery), Vivian Johnson (Marianne Jean-Baptiste), Danny Taylor (Enrique Murciano), and Martin Fitzgerald (Eric Close). They work together to rescue children, apprehend criminals, and bring happiness back into the lives of New Yorkers. Fans of “CSI” might find it interesting to know that not only does this series share the same universe, but the shows often intertwined their stories. As a result, if you’re already a fan of “CSI,” you can easily jump straight into watching “Without a Trace.
Fringe
As a gamer, I’d say “Fringe” spins the eerie vibe of “Profiler” with an unexpected spin. At first, it feels like a blend of “The X-Files” and cop drama, but then Olivia Dunham (Anna Torv) is thrown into battles against supernatural entities and inexplicable events every week. It’s all about figuring out what’s make-believe and what’s the truth. This innovative take on the genre keeps its loyal fanbase hooked even today, making it a series that fans of “FBI” will find truly captivating.
In the fictional offshoot of the FBI located in Boston, Olivia finds herself unlike Dana Scully who can afford to be skeptical. Instead, she is thrust straight into a bizarre event that might just unravel the enigma surrounding her long-hidden past. This compels Olivia to swiftly realize that there’s far more to life than what meets the eye. As she navigates through dimensions and uncovers fragments of her forgotten history, Olivia becomes fully immersed in the mystery of her own existence, eventually leading to a climactic showdown. The series effectively blends standalone cases with its overarching mythology, with its most captivating episodes taking viewers on an exhilarating journey through its most enigmatic and extraordinary tales.
The Blacklist
In contrast to featuring multiple characters, “The Blacklist” primarily centers around its main duo, Raymond Reddington (James Spader) and FBI agent Liz Keen (Megan Boone). Although the show has a unique atmosphere, it remains an engaging series, and the universe it creates along with the cases it tackles will resonate with any fan who enjoys FBI-related stories.
Reddington is an unusual character, a powerful crime lord who used to serve in naval intelligence. Realizing his criminal life is coming to an end, he voluntarily hands himself over to the FBI, offering to assist them in tracking down individuals on a list of dangerous villains, known as the blacklist, with whom he’s been associating for the past two decades. In return for his help, Reddington gets immunity, but he insists on working with an unassuming rookie named Liz. As the story unfolds, Liz finds herself torn between her allegiance to the FBI and uncertainty about Reddington’s true identity. The developing personal relationship between them promises a thrilling journey, leaving viewers guessing where the plot is headed until the series finale.
Criminal Minds
Both “Criminal Minds” and “FBI” can be seen as siblings in the genre of crime procedurals, sharing a common lineage. “Criminal Minds” delves into the work of a specialized FBI unit known as the Behavioral Analysis Unit. This team, functioning like a family, is composed of criminal profilers who track down enigmatic criminals, often referred to as “unsubs,” or unidentified subjects of crimes. By utilizing advanced technology, DNA analysis, and extensive investigative skills, they apprehend their targets in each episode.
It’s important to note that “Criminal Minds” tends to be more graphic and violent than “FBI.” This level of intensity was a factor that led original cast member Mandy Patinkin to depart the series due to discomfort with the content. However, it has managed to captivate audiences for over two decades.
Over the years, the expansive cast of “Criminal Minds” has undergone numerous transformations. Presently, the team spearheading “Criminal Minds: Evolution,” a continuation of the original series for the past three seasons and running on Paramount+, consists of David Rossi (Joe Mantegna), Jennifer “JJ” Jareau (A.J. Cook), Penelope Garcia (Kirsten Vangsness), Dr. Tara Lewis (Aisha Tyler), Luke Alvez (Adam Rodriguez), Tyler Green (RJ Hatanaka), Elias Voit (Zach Gilford), and Emily Prentiss (Paget Brewster). Regardless of the specific lineup, fans of “FBI” shows are likely to relish immersing themselves in the universe of the “Criminal Minds” team.
The Mentalist
As a devotee, I’d say “The Mentalist” stands out among other shows on this list for its fearless exploration of emotions, yet it retains a serious core and an enigmatic, almost ominous heart. The story revolves around a character pretending to be psychic, concealing his abilities to apprehend the cold-blooded murderer responsible for his wife’s and child’s death. This show shares a case-of-the-week format with “FBI” enthusiasts, but despite its more palatable adventures, it remains gritty enough to keep viewers invested in the series’ high stakes.
In simpler terms, Patrick Jane (played by Simon Baker) possesses a knack for quickly understanding people, often leading others to think he’s psychic. He previously worked as a medium due to this talent, but now, his skill has led him to a position with the California Bureau of Investigation, where he assists in solving murders. Alongside Agent Teresa Lisbon (portrayed by Robin Tunney), Jane helps crack cases for the Bureau. However, his main objective is to find a notorious killer called Red John. Throughout the series, he successfully tracks down this villain, although some viewers were disappointed with the resolution. Furthermore, during the show’s run, he develops feelings for Lisbon and eventually falls in love with her.
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2025-06-22 00:31