TV Shows Like Hudson and Rex: A Look at 13 Crime-Solving Buddy Cop Shows
Hudson and Rex is a Canadian television series that follows the adventures of detective Charlie Hudson and his loyal canine partner, Rex. Together, they solve crimes in St. John’s, Newfoundland. The show combines elements of crime procedural, comedy, and heartwarming moments between man and his best friend. If you’re a fan of Hudson and Rex and looking for similar shows to watch, here are 13 crime-solving buddy cop shows that you might enjoy.
1. “Turner & Hooch” (2021)
“Turner & Hooch” is a reboot of the classic 1989 film of the same name. The series follows Scott Turner, a meticulous U.S. Marshal, and his unruly and slobbery new partner, Hooch, a large and lovable dog. Together, they solve crimes and form an unlikely bond.
Song Example: “Who Let the Dogs Out” by Baha Men
2. “Inspector Rex” (1994-2017)
“Inspector Rex” is an Austrian television series that follows the adventures of detective Richard Moser and his German Shepherd police dog, Rex. The show became an international hit and has been adapted in several countries, including Italy and Germany.
Song Example: “Who’s That Dog” by The Rifles
3. “Rizzoli & Isles” (2010-2016)
“Rizzoli & Isles” follows the professional and personal lives of Boston detective Jane Rizzoli and medical examiner Dr. Maura Isles as they solve crimes together. The show features a strong female friendship and a great mix of drama and comedy.
Song Example: “Girls Just Want to Have Fun” by Cyndi Lauper
4. “Life” (2007-2009)
“Life” follows detective Charlie Crews, who returns to the force after being wrongfully imprisoned for 12 years. He is partnered with Dani Reese, and together they solve crimes while Crews searches for the people who framed him.
Song Example: “I Will Survive” by Gloria Gaynor
5. “Moonlighting” (1985-1989)
“Moonlighting” follows the witty banter and romantic tension between private detectives Maddie Hayes and David Addison as they solve crimes and navigate their complicated relationship. The show was known for its clever writing and unique storytelling.
Song Example: “I Just Called to Say I Love You” by Stevie Wonder
6. “Castle” (2009-2016)
“Castle” follows bestselling mystery novelist Richard Castle as he teams up with NYPD detective Kate Beckett to solve crimes. The show combines elements of comedy, drama, and romance, making it a fan favorite.
Song Example: “Every Breath You Take” by The Police
7. “Psych” (2006-2014)
“Psych” follows Shawn Spencer, a fake psychic detective, and his best friend Gus as they solve crimes for the Santa Barbara Police Department. The show is known for its humor, pop culture references, and clever mysteries.
Song Example: “I Got You (I Feel Good)” by James Brown
8. “Monk” (2002-2009)
“Monk” follows former police detective Adrian Monk, who suffers from OCD and various phobias, as he solves crimes with the help of his assistant, Natalie Teeger. The show combines elements of comedy, drama, and mystery.
Song Example: “Don’t Stop Believin'” by Journey
9. “The Mentalist” (2008-2015)
“The Mentalist” follows Patrick Jane, a former psychic medium turned consultant for the California Bureau of Investigation, as he uses his keen observational skills to solve crimes. The show is known for its clever mysteries and charismatic lead.
Song Example: “Eye of the Tiger” by Survivor
10. “Bones” (2005-2017)
“Bones” follows forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance Brennan and FBI special agent Seeley Booth as they solve crimes by examining human remains. The show combines elements of crime procedural, drama, and romance.
Song Example: “Bad to the Bone” by George Thorogood & The Destroyers
11. “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” (2013-2021)
“Brooklyn Nine-Nine” follows the detectives of the 99th precinct of the NYPD, including the quirky and lovable Jake Peralta. The show combines elements of comedy, drama, and social commentary, making it a hit with audiences.
Song Example: “No Diggity” by Blackstreet ft. Dr. Dre
12. “NCIS” (2003-present)
“NCIS” follows the Naval Criminal Investigative Service as they solve crimes involving the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. The show has spawned several spin-offs and remains a popular procedural drama on television.
Song Example: “Semper Fidelis” by John Philip Sousa
13. “Sherlock” (2010-2017)
“Sherlock” follows the brilliant detective Sherlock Holmes and his loyal friend Dr. John Watson as they solve crimes in modern-day London. The show is known for its clever writing, complex mysteries, and dynamic performances.
Song Example: “A Study in Pink” by David Arnold & Michael Price
Common Questions About Crime-Solving Buddy Cop Shows:
1. Are there any new buddy cop shows similar to Hudson and Rex?
Yes, “Turner & Hooch” is a recent buddy cop show that follows a U.S. Marshal and his canine partner as they solve crimes.
2. What makes crime-solving buddy cop shows popular among viewers?
Viewers enjoy the dynamic between the human and animal partners, the mix of drama and comedy, and the thrill of solving crimes.
3. Are there any female-led buddy cop shows similar to Rizzoli & Isles?
Yes, shows like “Cagney & Lacey” and “Charlie’s Angels” feature strong female partnerships solving crimes together.
4. Which crime-solving buddy cop show has the most memorable theme song?
“Inspector Rex” is known for its catchy theme song that has become iconic among fans of the show.
5. Are there any international buddy cop shows similar to “Moonlighting”?
Yes, shows like “Miss Fisher’s Murder Mysteries” and “Death in Paradise” feature international detectives solving crimes in unique settings.
6. What are some classic buddy cop shows from the 1980s?
Shows like “Miami Vice” and “T.J. Hooker” were popular buddy cop shows from the 1980s that featured action-packed crime-solving adventures.
7. Are there any animated buddy cop shows for kids?
Yes, shows like “Paw Patrol” and “Inspector Gadget” feature animated animal and human partners solving crimes and mysteries.
8. Which crime-solving buddy cop show has the best chemistry between the leads?
“Castle” is known for the sparkling chemistry between Nathan Fillion and Stana Katic, who play the lead characters.
9. Are there any supernatural buddy cop shows similar to “Psych”?
Yes, shows like “Supernatural” and “Grimm” feature partners solving crimes involving supernatural elements and creatures.
10. What are some unique buddy cop shows that blend different genres?
Shows like “Elementary” and “Forever” blend elements of crime procedural with supernatural or science fiction elements for a unique twist.
11. Are there any long-running crime-solving buddy cop shows with multiple spin-offs?
“NCIS” is a popular crime procedural that has spawned several spin-offs, including “NCIS: Los Angeles” and “NCIS: New Orleans.”
12. Which crime-solving buddy cop show features the most intricate and complex mysteries?
“Sherlock” is known for its intricate and mind-bending mysteries that challenge viewers to think outside the box.
13. Are there any buddy cop shows that focus on the personal lives of the characters?
Shows like “Brooklyn Nine-Nine” and “Bones” explore the personal lives and relationships of the characters in addition to solving crimes.
14. What is the appeal of crime-solving buddy cop shows for viewers?
Crime-solving buddy cop shows offer a mix of action, drama, comedy, and heartwarming moments between the partners, making them a popular genre among viewers of all ages.
In conclusion, crime-solving buddy cop shows have been a popular genre on television for decades, offering a mix of action, drama, comedy, and heartwarming moments between the human and animal partners. Whether you enjoy classic shows like “Inspector Rex” or modern hits like “Turner & Hooch,” there are plenty of options to choose from. So grab your popcorn, sit back, and enjoy the adventures of these dynamic duos as they solve crimes and capture the hearts of viewers around the world.
Final Thoughts:
Crime-solving buddy cop shows come in a variety of genres, from classic mysteries like “Sherlock” to action-packed adventures like “NCIS.” Each show offers a unique blend of drama, comedy, and heartwarming moments between the partners, making them a favorite among viewers. Whether you prefer traditional crime procedurals or supernatural thrillers, there is a buddy cop show out there for everyone. So next time you’re looking for a new series to binge-watch, consider giving one of these crime-solving duos a try. You never know what mysteries you might uncover along the way.