The allure of watching brilliant minds crack tough cases never fades. Over the last half-decade, television has gifted us a fresh lineup of sleuths who bring unique quirks, emotional depth, and razor-sharp instincts to the screen. While classics like Jimmy McNulty and Sherlock Holmes remain icons, these newer detectives have carved their own place in the pantheon. Here are the best TV detectives of the last five years, ranked.
10. DCI Jeanette Kilburn (Eve Myles) – The Crow Girl (2025–Present)
Paramount+’s The Crow Girl is a dark, atmospheric crime procedural that deserves more attention. Based on the novel by Swedish author duo Erik Axl Sund, the series follows DCI Jeanette Kilburn (Eve Myles) as she teams up with Dr. Sophia Craven to hunt a serial killer. Myles brings a rare blend of toughness and tenderness to the role, making Kilburn a standout. With Season 2 arriving in July 2026, now is the perfect time to catch this underrated gem.
9. Rufus Cotesworth (Mandy Patinkin) – Death and Other Details (2024)
Though Hulu’s Death and Other Details was canceled after one season, Mandy Patinkin’s portrayal of Rufus Cotesworth left a lasting impression. Channeling Hercule Poirot, Cotesworth is a world-class detective who solves a locked-room mystery aboard a luxury cruise. Patinkin’s charisma and sharp wit make every scene a delight, and the show’s Agatha Christie-style twists keep viewers guessing. It’s a stylish whodunit that deserved more time.
8. Ludwig (David Mitchell) – Ludwig (2024–Present)
BBC One’s Ludwig stars David Mitchell as John Taylor, a puzzle-maker who impersonates his missing twin brother, a police detective. Mitchell’s dry humor and understated drama make this a refreshing take on the detective genre. The show balances dark comedy with genuine mystery, and Mitchell proves he’s more than just a comedic actor. It’s a clever, original series that’s earned critical praise.
7. Will Trent (Ramon Rodriguez) – Will Trent (2023–Present)
Based on Karin Slaughter’s novels, ABC’s Will Trent follows a Georgia Bureau of Investigation agent who overcame a tough foster care childhood and dyslexia to become a brilliant detective. Ramon Rodriguez infuses Trent with emotional vulnerability and charisma, making him a compelling lead. The show’s tight dialogue and smart visuals elevate it above typical procedurals, and Trent’s personal struggles add depth to every case.
6. Morgan Gillory (Kaitlin Olson) – High Potential (2024–Present)
Kaitlin Olson shines as Morgan Gillory, a single mom with a genius-level IQ who helps the LAPD solve crimes. Her unconventional methods and sharp wit make her a refreshing addition to the detective landscape. The show balances humor and heart, and Olson’s performance is both hilarious and touching. It’s a standout in the crowded procedural space.
5. Charlie Cale (Natasha Lyonne) – Poker Face (2023–Present)
Natasha Lyonne’s Charlie Cale is a human lie detector on the run, solving mysteries in a classic Columbo-style format. Her gritty charm and street-smart instincts make every episode a joy. Peacock’s Poker Face is a love letter to old-school detective shows, and Lyonne’s performance is the heart of it. She’s one of the most original sleuths in years.
4. DI Ray (Parminder Nagra) – DI Ray (2022–Present)
Parminder Nagra stars as DI Rachita Ray, a British-Indian detective navigating racism and bureaucracy while solving complex cases. The show tackles systemic issues with nuance, and Nagra’s layered performance makes Ray a relatable and inspiring figure. It’s a smart, socially conscious procedural that stands out.
3. Benoit Blanc (Daniel Craig) – Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery (2022)
Though technically a film, Daniel Craig’s Benoit Blanc has become a cultural phenomenon. His Southern drawl, sharp intellect, and theatrical flair make him a modern-day Poirot. Glass Onion is a witty, twisty mystery that showcases Blanc at his best. Craig’s performance is both hilarious and brilliant, cementing Blanc as a detective for the ages.
2. Mare Sheehan (Kate Winslet) – Mare of Easttown (2021)
Kate Winslet’s Mare Sheehan is a raw, realistic detective grappling with personal tragedy while investigating a murder in a small Pennsylvania town. Winslet’s Oscar-worthy performance brings depth and humanity to the role, making Mare one of the most memorable detectives in recent memory. The show’s gritty realism and emotional weight set it apart.
1. The Detective Trio of Only Murders in the Building (2021–Present)
Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez form an unlikely but brilliant detective trio in Hulu’s Only Murders in the Building. Their chemistry, humor, and genuine investigative skills make them the best TV detectives of the last five years. The show’s clever writing and meta-humor elevate it above typical whodunits. It’s a must-watch for any mystery fan.
These sleuths prove that the detective genre is alive and well, offering fresh perspectives and unforgettable characters. Whether you prefer gritty realism or witty banter, there’s a new detective for everyone.
