The Rookieis one of the biggest hits on television today, but the greatest police drama of all time actually came out in 1993. One of the best procedurals,NYPD Bluestands out as being not only thebest cop show, but also one of the most memorable ones. WhileThe Rookieis exciting, it wanes in comparison to the grit ofNYPD Blue.
The Rookieseason 8is set to continue to capture audiences, but it is difficult to appreciate the show fully without looking back at how far police shows have come. As one of the first great modern cop dramas,NYPD Blueset the stage for future series. That is partially what makes it so good even after years off the air.
The Rookie Is A Beloved Hit, But NYPD Blue Is On Another Level
The Rookie Focuses More On The Positives
Since premiering in 2018,The Rookiehas remained a popular show, even becoming one of the most-watched modern cop shows. Its unique premise has offered an interesting look at an under-explored theme, withNathan Fillion’s John Nolanbeing the oldest rookie in the LAPD. However, it is not the same asNYPD Blue.
WhereThe Rookiehas some light-hearted storylines around intense crime scenes,NYPD Blueupped the ante. It is grittier, darker, and highlights the dirtier, corrupted aspects of police work in a way that many shows dance around. This is not to sayThe Rookiedoesn’t also have dark plots, just that the focus of the storylines is different.
The Rookiemay be a more light-hearted drama, but the tradition of cop shows was once much darker.
NYPD Blueoften highlighted the consequences of police work and the emotional dangers involved. In other modern police dramas, that is still a major element, but it is not the focus.NYPD Blue, however, put that aspect front and center, showing how being in law enforcement can morally and emotionally ruin a person.
NYPD Blue Set The Standard For Modern Network Cop Shows
NYPD Blue Encouraged Cop Shows To Be Gritty
Of the many cop shows over the years,NYPD Bluestands out. It was designed to be a show that pushed boundaries, and its controversial moments just highlighted it even more.NYPD Bluewas praised for its stories, but it was also criticized for its portrayal of nudity, something that was uncommon on cable television at the time.
However, all the controversies connected to the show helped make police procedurals what they are today. As a result,NYPD Bluepractically set the standard for today’s cop shows and what they are and aren’t allowed to show. WithoutNYPD Blue, it is unlikely that modern shows in the genre likeThe Rookiewould have the leeway to show so much grit and still be adored.
