Crime dramas continue to be a beloved genre, and fans can look forward to a thrilling lineup in 2026. Streaming platforms and networks such as Netflix, BBC, ITV, Prime Video, and Apple TV are set to release several highly anticipated series. These productions promise gripping narratives, star-studded casts, and a mix of original stories and adaptations from acclaimed novels. Here are eleven of the most exciting crime dramas coming soon.
Under Salt Marsh
Premiering on **January 30, 2026**, on Sky and NOW TV, “Under Salt Marsh” features a formidable cast, including **Kelly Reilly**, **Rafe Spall**, **Harry Lawtey**, and **Sir Jonathan Pryce**. Created and directed by **Claire Oakley**, the six-part series follows former detective Jackie Ellis, portrayed by Reilly. A severe storm stirs up a long-dormant cold case, compelling Jackie to reconnect with her estranged police partner, Eric Bull, as they navigate a community rife with secrets.
Scarpetta
Fans of **Patricia Cornwell** can rejoice as her iconic character, Dr. Kay Scarpetta, makes her screen debut in “Scarpetta,” slated for release on **March 11, 2026**, on Prime Video. **Nicole Kidman** takes on the role of the renowned medical examiner, alongside **Jamie Lee Curtis**, **Bobby Cannavale**, and **Ariana DeBose**. This series dives into the psychological intricacies of both victims and perpetrators, as Scarpetta seeks to solve a serial murder case that intertwines with her past.
Vanished
Set to arrive on **February 27, 2026**, on Amazon Prime, “Vanished” stars **Kaley Cuoco** and **Sam Claflin** in a tale of intrigue and danger. The plot unfolds when Alice, played by Cuoco, must confront shocking truths after her boyfriend disappears during a trip to Paris. The show promises to keep viewers on the edge of their seats with its twists and turns.
Jo Nesbo’s Detective Hole
Scandinavian crime fiction enthusiasts will be eager for “Jo Nesbo’s Detective Hole,” which Netflix will debut on **March 26, 2026**. Featuring **Tobias Santelmann** as the titular detective, the series is expected to deliver a thrilling narrative of obsession and revenge, as Harry Hole faces a dangerous foe in a high-stakes game of cat and mouse.
Imperfect Women
Apple TV’s upcoming thriller “Imperfect Women,” based on the novel by **Araminta Hall**, stars **Elisabeth Moss**, **Kerry Washington**, and **Kate Mara**. Slated for its initial episodes on **March 18, 2026**, this series explores the complexities of friendship and betrayal as three women’s lives are forever altered by a crime that exposes the fractures in their long-standing relationships.
I Will Find You
Continuing its collaboration with **Harlan Coben**, Netflix will release “I Will Find You” in 2026. This series stars **Sam Worthington** as David Burroughs, who finds himself falsely imprisoned for his son’s murder. As rumors surface that his son may still be alive, David embarks on a desperate search for the truth, navigating a world filled with deceit and peril.
The Cage
The BBC is set to release “The Cage,” featuring **Sheridan Smith** and **Michael Socha**. This drama revolves around two casino employees who inadvertently find themselves in a high-stakes conflict with a local gangster and the police. While the air date is yet to be confirmed, anticipation is already building for this exciting premise.
Line of Duty Series 7
In a surprise announcement, the BBC revealed that “Line of Duty” will return for a seventh series, with filming set to begin in spring 2026. This season will mark a significant shift, as AC-12 is disbanded and transformed into the Inspectorate of Police Standards. The series promises to tackle sensitive issues within law enforcement, keeping fans engaged with its compelling narratives.
Believe Me
ITV will tackle the harrowing case of **John Worboys** in “Believe Me,” focusing on three of his victims and the systemic failures of the Metropolitan Police. The drama aims to shed light on how these failures allowed the serial attacker to evade justice for years. The series will air in 2026 and aims to provide a powerful commentary on the impact of such traumatic experiences.
The Good Daughter
Based on **Karin Slaughter**’s novel, “The Good Daughter” stars **Meghann Fahy** and **Rose Byrne** as sisters whose lives are irrevocably changed by a violent crime. As they confront past traumas and the complexities of family ties, this adaptation promises to explore themes of survival and resilience. It will be available on Sky and NOW TV later in 2026.
Gone
“Gone,” airing on ITV1 and ITVX in 2026, delves into the suspenseful disappearance of a headmaster’s wife within the confines of a prestigious private school. **David Morrissey** stars as the prime suspect, while **Eve Myles** portrays the detective determined to uncover the truth. This series is expected to explore deeper themes of trauma and trust against the backdrop of elite institutions.
These eleven crime dramas are poised to offer a mix of suspense, psychological depth, and riveting storytelling, ensuring that audiences have ample reason to stay glued to their screens in 2026.
