Rizzoli & Isles

Jane Rizzoli, a hard nosed Boston homicide detective, thrives on procedure and grit, while Maura Isles, a precise medical examiner, trusts data and deduction more than sentiment. Their starkly different styles spark a fast moving partnership that keeps each other on their toes. They exchange ideas, challenge assumptions, and cover one another during dangerous calls. Over time their working relationship grows into a dependable alliance that anchors the city’s toughest investigations. Each case becomes a chance to blend fieldwork with forensic insight, and their friendship adds warmth to the crime solving process without weakening the edge of a sharp professional rhythm.

The series premiered on TNT in 2010, developed by Janet Tamaro and inspired by Tess Gerritsen's popular novels. It follows Boston investigators and their medical examiner partner, blending procedural thrills with witty banter and character driven moments.

Rizzoli & Isles helped establish a memorable two-woman partnership in crime drama. The confident detective and the stylish medical examiner became a recognizable duo that combines sharp dialogue with credible forensic detail. Arriving in the early 2010s, the show rode a wave of female led procedurals and drew fans who appreciated character driven storytelling paired with light humor within serious cases.

Critics often praised the chemistry between Angie Harmon and Sasha Alexander, noting that their performances ground the series while the supporting cast adds depth to each case. Themes of female friendship, professional integrity, mentorship, and balancing personal lives with demanding work run through the episodes. The Boston setting and steady mix of suspense and warmth give the show a calm cadence that kept audiences engaged across seasons.

The series did not secure major nominations, though it earned praise from fans and critics for its performances and writing. While it may not have become a prestige title, Rizzoli & Isles built a devoted following and left a lasting mark as a solid dependable procedural.