Special Unit 2

Special Unit 2 follows Nick O'Malley and Kate Benson, two detectives assigned to a covert Chicago Police Department division that guards the city from the Links, a dangerous paranormal breed that sits somewhere between human and beast. In a world where monsters move through everyday life, the pair must solve unusual cases without blowing their cover as they juggle desk work, field calls, and the odd supernatural threat that slips into ordinary precinct life. The precinct blends science fiction, humor, and action, letting the partners rely on sharp wit and teamwork as stakes rise. Supporting characters like Carl the Gnome and Captain Page add color to the gritty city backdrop. The city is shown as a shadowy playground for oddities.

Created by Evan Katz, Special Unit 2 premiered in 2001 as a quirky blend of sci fi fantasy and police procedural. The cast includes Michael Landes, Alexondra Lee, Danny Woodburn, and Richard Gant. The tone balances humor with danger.

Audience reception appears solid but niche, with an overall rating hovering around 7.4 out of 10 from 24 votes. The show blends buddy cop energy with supernatural whimsy, exploring teamwork under pressure while treating the uncanny as a manageable everyday hazard rather than pure horror. It also leans into the buddy dynamic and quiet character arcs that allow small emotional beats amid the banter. Its mix of laughs and thrills keeps viewers engaged.

Awards were minimal and unlisted. There are no major award nominations documented for Special Unit 2, and its appeal lies primarily in its premise and humor rather than prestige, drawing viewers who enjoy genre mash ups more than the awards circuit.

Cultural Impact: The show earned a small following for its quirky blend of crime drama and urban fantasy, and Carl the Gnome remains a memorable touchstone for fans of early 2000s genre mash ups.