Discover The Best Movies and TV Shows Like Murder in the First

Set in San Francisco, *Murder in the First* follows homicide inspectors Terry English and Hildy Mulligan as they tackle high-stakes, complex murder investigations across its serialized seasons. The premiere season centers on Erich Blunt, an arrogant, genius Silicon Valley billionaire suspected of murdering both his corporate rival and his flight attendant mistress. Driven by ambition, ego, and a deep-seated need for control, Blunt ruthlessly manipulates the legal system and hides behind an expensive defense team led by high-powered attorney Warren Daniels. Meanwhile, Terry battles profound personal grief over his terminally ill wife, and Hildy navigates the delicate balance of being a single mother while maintaining a demanding career. Despite Blunt’s intimidation tactics, the detectives relentlessly pursue the truth, ultimately uncovering a web of corporate espionage, blackmail, and betrayal that leads to a dramatic courtroom showdown and Blunt's conviction.Season two shifts focus to a devastating mass shooting on a San Francisco commuter bus, which leaves multiple victims dead, including the son of a high-ranking city official. Terry and Hildy are thrust into a sprawling investigation that exposes deep corruption within the police department and the city's ruthless gang underworld. The primary suspect is an emotionally unstable teenager, but the detectives soon realize he is merely a pawn in a much larger, sinister conspiracy orchestrated by powerful figures willing to kill to protect their secrets. As the pressure mounts, personal boundaries blur. Terry and Hildy’s partnership faces intense strain, compounded by Hildy contracting a severe illness and Terry struggling with his volatile temper and new romantic entanglements.The third season investigates the murder of a controversial superstar quarterback found dead in his bed, thrusting the inspectors into the glamorous and cutthroat world of professional sports. The victim’s life was riddled with dark secrets, illicit affairs, and financial extortion, giving a massive list of suspects—from jealous teammates to desperate lovers and mafia bosses—ample motive. Terry and Hildy must navigate the labyrinth of fame and power, dealing with uncooperative sports executives and obstructionist agents who value public relations over justice. Throughout the series, the core narrative relies heavily on the profound emotional bond between Terry and Hildy, whose platonic partnership is continuously tested by tragedy, trauma, and the relentless darkness of their profession. Ultimately, the show delivers a gritty, character-driven exploration of urban crime, highlighting the heavy psychological toll exacted upon those who seek justice in a corrupt world.