• FX/Photofest
    6 of 10

    5. THE SHIELD

    Clocking in at seven seasons, this one requires some serious time-management, but it’s do-able, and worth it. One of the most brutal and intense cop shows ever made, "The Shield" was toplined by Michael Chiklis as the instant all-time badass Detective Vic Mackey.

    When the show premiered, it wasn’t like there was a dearth of good cop shows on TV, which makes its impact all the more impressive. It is also a rare show that goes out with a strong final season, rather than a “to hell with it” whimper.