TV procedurals are undergoing a revolution, blending medical mysteries, quirky detectives, and streaming-era innovation. Shows like CBS’s ‘Watson’ (a Sherlock-tinged medical drama) and ABC’s cruise ship-set ‘Doctor Odyssey’ prove networks are reinventing the genre to compete with streaming giants.
Craig Sweeny, creator of ‘Watson,’ emphasizes organic hybrid storytelling:
‘It’s an exotic combo, but you don’t have to force anything. Everything’s already there.’New series thrive on unorthodox leads:
- ‘Elsbeth’ (CBS): A flamboyant lawyer-turned-sleuth inspired by Columbo.
- ‘High Potential’ (ABC): A 160-IQ single mom shaking up police work.
- ‘Doctor Odyssey’: Medical emergencies aboard a luxury cruise ship.
Streaming’s curated, star-driven shows (like Peacock’s ‘Poker Face’) push networks to innovate. ‘The Sopranos’ creator Robert King notes hybrid formats have ‘always challenged norms,’ while CBS showrunner Jonathan Tolins highlights audience surprise at network risks:
‘One viewer asked, “This is network? I’m watching more!” That’s the goal.’
As networks and streaming converge—prioritizing both comfort food and gourmet flair—crime dramas prove ripe for reinvention. With 43-minute cases and eccentric heroes, today’s procedurals balance familiarity with bold risks, ensuring they remain TV’s ultimate gourmet cheeseburger.
