The Wire is my all time favorite. Currently watching The Shield and while it’s not bad, it’s more of an edgy Law and Order type cop show.
I don’t think anything truly measures up to The Wire but just wanted to hear about anyone else’s recommendations.
Contemporary with the Wire is the Sopranos. Rewatched it not too long ago and it really stands up (skipping over a spectacularly misjudged vfx shot in season 2). Apologies if this is an obvious one!
Now hear me out on this next one, but the original series of Babylon 5 was way way ahead of its time in terms of a recurring storyline. Again the effects are a product of the times but the writing is excellent, I think.