Watch New Dragnet

New Dragnet is a police procedural drama television series that premiered on NBC on December 16, 1951. The show was created, produced, written, and directed by Jack Webb, who also starred as the lead character Joe Friday. The series was a continuation of the popular radio program of the same name, which had been running since 1949.

The show followed the professional and personal lives of the members of the LAPD's Robbery-Homicide Division, with a particular focus on detective Joe Friday. Each episode followed the department's investigations and featured real-life cases from the files of the LAPD. The show aimed to portray a realistic and unglamorous look at police work, which was a departure from the more sensationalized portrayals of cops on television at the time.

New Dragnet was notable for its attention to detail and authenticity. The show was filmed on location in Los Angeles, often using real LAPD facilities and equipment. Webb reportedly spent months researching police procedures and techniques to ensure that the show was as accurate as possible. The show was also one of the first to use actual police officers as technical advisors, helping to ensure that the show accurately reflected police work.

The show's format was straightforward and consistent. Each episode began with a prologue, in which Friday would introduce the case and provide a brief overview of the investigation. The main story then unfolded, often featuring scenes of interrogations, stakeouts, and crime scenes. The show emphasized the importance of hard work and attention to detail in police work, as the detectives often had to follow up on multiple leads and interview numerous witnesses to solve a case.

The show's depiction of police work was not without controversy, however. Some critics accused the show of promoting a conservative, pro-police viewpoint and offering a one-sided portrayal of the justice system. Others argued that the show's emphasis on police procedures and technique made it boring or overly procedural.

Despite these criticisms, New Dragnet was a popular and influential show that helped to shape the genre of police procedural dramas. The show ran for eight seasons and produced over 200 episodes, and many of its catchphrases and characterizations have become cultural touchstones. The show also inspired numerous spin-offs, adaptations, and imitators, cementing its place in television history.

Overall, New Dragnet was a groundbreaking show that helped to define the police procedural genre. Its attention to detail and authenticity set a new standard for television dramas, and its portrayal of hardworking police officers doing their jobs with dedication and professionalism remains compelling today. If you're a fan of police dramas or classic television, New Dragnet is definitely worth checking out.