Watch Dragnet
- TV-14
- 1951
- 8 Seasons
-
7.5 (2,216)
Dragnet was an American crime drama television series that aired on NBC from 1951 to 1959. Created by Jack Webb and Richard L. Breen, the show followed the working life of Los Angeles police detective Sergeant Joe Friday, played by Jack Webb, and his partner Sergeant Ben Romero, played by Barton Yarborough, and later by Barney Phillips. The show was the first of its kind, using a quasi-documentary style that focused on the procedure of police work. Each episode was based on a real police case, with the names and locations changed to protect the innocent. The showâs focus on police procedure and its use of real cases helped to make the show popular with audiences and influential on crime dramas that came afterwards. Dragnet was a show that emphasized realism in both its stories and performances. Jack Webb's character, Joe Friday, was often shown as being methodical, patient, and diligent in his work. He didnât show much emotion and was always focused on finding the truth. Webbâs portrayal of Friday was hailed as revolutionary for its time, with his monotone delivery becoming a defining characteristic of both the show and Webb's career. The show was also notable for its use of actual police officers and technicians as extras, giving the show an even more authentic feel. Alongside the main cast, officers and technicians from the Los Angeles Police Department would often appear on the show. That authenticity was part of what made the show so popular with audiences. In addition to Jack Webb and Barton Yarborough, Dragnet also starred Ben Alexander as Friday's partner Ben Romero. George Fenneman was the showâs announcer, providing voice-overs to set up the episode and to introduce and conclude each story. The show was known for its sparse soundtrack, with most scenes played without any background music. The showâs influence on the crime genre cannot be overstated. Its use of a strict format and its dedication to realism set the standard for future crime shows. The influence of Dragnet can be seen in shows such as Law & Order and CSI. It was also influential in shaping the way that police work was portrayed on television. Despite its strict format, the show was still able to address topical issues of the time. Episodes dealing with drug use and juvenile delinquency were particularly popular with audiences. However, the show was also criticized for its portrayal of women, who were often shown as either victims or secretaries. Dragnet was a show that was both popular and influential. Its distinctive style and emphasis on realism made it a classic of the police procedural genre. Its use of real cases and its focus on police procedure helped to make the show both educational and entertaining. Today, Dragnet is remembered as a groundbreaking show that set the standard for crime dramas that followed.
