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8 Detective Shows That Make Sherlock Look Like an Amateur
This Collider article is a listicle recommending detective TV shows for fans of Sherlock Holmes who want to explore beyond the BBC's popular series, arguing that these alternatives offer darker tones, deeper psychological insight or more complex mysteries. It positions Sherlock as a beloved but not necessarily unrivalled entry in the genre, framing the wider list as a way to discover overlooked or under-appreciated detective fiction.
The piece opens with two entries: Luther (2010–2019), the BBC psychological crime thriller starring Idris Elba as DCI John Luther and Ruth Wilson as his nemesis Alice Morgan, praised for its noir tone and morally grey themes across five seasons; and Mindhunter (2017–2019), Netflix's series based on a non-fiction FBI book, starring Jonathan Groff and Anna Torv as agents profiling real-life serial killers such as Charles Manson. The full list totals eight shows, though only these two are detailed in the excerpt provided.
In short
- Collider lists eight detective shows rivalling Sherlock Holmes in quality.
- Luther (2010–2019) stars Idris Elba as a troubled, obsessive detective.
- Mindhunter (2017–2019) dramatises the FBI's early serial-killer profiling unit.
Explained simply
BBC's Sherlock has been one of television's most popular detective adaptations since its 2010 debut. The series has become a natural reference point for audiences interested in crime drama and mystery storytelling. A recent Collider article suggests that detective fiction on television extends well beyond this single adaptation, recommending eight alternative programmes with distinct qualities and approaches.
These alternatives explore the genre through darker psychological themes, morally ambiguous characters, and complex plotting. Some draw from real crime cases and criminal profiles, whilst others develop entirely fictional mysteries. For viewers seeking detective stories with particular tones—whether grittier, more psychologically intense, or simply different in format—television has established several acclaimed options worth exploring.