Homicide: Life on the Streets
Did you like
The Wire, but secretly wished there were more episodes that just involved McNulty and Bunk working homicide cases? Well this is pretty much that, but multiplied by 4 and without the swearing and nudity (because it's on network tv). Seriously, this show has that same addictive quality that
The Wire had where you say "just another episode" until you realize it's 4 in the morning. In some ways I'd say it surpasses
The Wire in terms of accessibility while still keeping those subtle insights the characters deliver that made it so engaging. It's really impressive how far this show pushed the boundaries of what network TV would allow while still staying true to David Simon's
Homicide: Year on the Killing Streets book which served as the inspiration for both shows. There's also some killer guest appearances by Robin Williams (around '94 when he was best known for his comedic roles) and Steve Buscemi. You'll also see some of the same actors from
The Wire in this, like Clark Johnson who played Gus in season 5, playing a homicide detective.
If you watched and enjoyed
The Wire then you owe it to yourself to track down its predecessor.