Watch Major Crimes

Major Crimes is a spin-off of the enormously popular television series The Closer, and is produced by the same team. The show began airing on TNT from August of 2012, and concluded in January of 2018. The show features a diverse ensemble cast, and Mary McDonnell leads the pack as Captain Sharon Raydor.

The plot focuses on the Major Crimes division of the LAPD, which is responsible for solving high-profile crimes in the city of Los Angeles. The series starts in the wake of the departure of Kyra Sedgwick's character, Brenda Leigh Johnson, from The Closer. Raydor, who was previously seen as an adversary of Johnson in The Closer, takes over as the captain of the Major Crimes division.

Raydor is very different from Johnson. A pragmatic and straightforward leader, she is soft-spoken and deliberate in her approach to investigations. She is also known for her laser-sharp intellect and her ability to read people. While she is not afraid to take risks and make tough decisions, she is always careful and calculated in her actions.

The supporting cast includes a host of talented actors, each with their unique personalities and skills. G.W. Bailey plays Lt. Louie Provenza, who brings years of experience and a sharp wit to the team. Tony Denison stars as Detective Andy Flynn, who has a no-nonsense persona and an unflagging loyalty to his team. Phillip P. Keene plays the character Buzz Watson, who is the tech-savvy investigator with a gift for hacking and a deep-seated compassion for the victims of crime.

The show's setting is Los Angeles, which is brought to life by beautiful on-location shots of various neighborhoods and iconic L.A. landmarks. The city of Los Angeles is more than just a backdrop for the Major Crimes division's investigations. It is a character in its own right, with all its ups and downs, tensions and divisions, and moments of conflict and harmony.

Major Crimes has a unique storytelling style that sets it apart from most other police procedural shows. There is a strong emphasis on team dynamics, personal relationships, and the ethical, legal, and emotional dimensions of investigative work. As the show progresses, the characters are constantly challenged by difficult cases, bureaucratic obstacles, and personal demons. Their struggles to overcome these challenges and find justice for the victims make the show both thrilling and emotionally engaging.

One of the standout aspects of Major Crimes is its commitment to exploring complex social issues. The show tackles a wide range of issues, including gang violence, political corruption, terrorism, hate crimes, economic inequality, mental illness, and addiction. The writers handle these issues with sensitivity and nuance, never losing sight of the human stories behind the headlines.

Major Crimes is also notable for its attention to detail and its adherence to realism. The show's writers work closely with real-life law enforcement officers to ensure that the investigations and procedures portrayed on the show are accurate and plausible. The show does not shy away from the bureaucratic hurdles and legal restrictions that police officers face in real life.

Mary McDonnell delivers a standout performance as Captain Sharon Raydor. As the series progresses, we see Raydor dealing with a range of personal and professional challenges. She develops a close relationship with Andy Flynn, who becomes her confidante and ally. She also grapples with the guilt she feels over her previous actions as a defense attorney. McDonnell brings nuance and depth to the character, making her both relatable and inspiring.

In summary, Major Crimes is a gripping police procedural series that explores complex social issues with sensitivity and nuance. The show's commitment to realism, attention to detail, and strong ensemble cast make it a must-watch for any fan of crime dramas. With Mary McDonnell at the helm, Major Crimes is a worthy successor to The Closer and a standout show in its own right.

Major Crimes is a series that ran for 6 seasons (105 episodes) between August 13, 2012 and on TNT