5 Cop Shows From The '70s That Still Hold Up Today

Key Points:

• The 1970s marked a shift in TV cop shows from idealized, by-the-book heroes to flawed, street-smart detectives, reflecting growing public skepticism during the Vietnam era and resulting in about 42 police shows premiering that decade.
• "Columbo" stood out with its unique format revealing the perpetrator at the start, featuring Peter Falk as a seemingly disheveled yet sharp detective; the show earned multiple Emmys and influenced later series like "Poker Face."
• "The Rockford Files" showcased a reluctant private investigator who avoided violence, blending personal relationships and humor, and earned critical acclaim including five Emmy wins; a reboot starring David Boreanaz is set for 2027.
• "Kojak," led by Telly Savalas, combined humor, moral complexity, and memorable catchphrases, with Savalas winning an Emmy in 1974; the show was inspired by real events and was later remade in 2005.
• "Starsky & Hutch" and "The Streets of San Francisco" emphasized strong partnerships and emotional depth alongside crime-solving, with both series leaving lasting cultural impacts and earning numerous Emmy nominations during their runs.