After a long wait of 25 years, one of the most revered TV shows in history has finally made its way to streaming platforms. NBC’s “Homicide: Life on the Street” recently premiered on Peacock, offering viewers a realistic portrayal of the Baltimore Police Department’s Homicide Unit.

The show, created by Paul Attanasio, a two-time Oscar-nominated screenwriter known for works like “Quiz Show” and “Donnie Brasco,” originally aired on NBC from 1993 to 1999. Based on the book “Homicide: A Year on the Killing Streets” by former Baltimore Sun crime reporter David Simon, who later created the acclaimed series “The Wire,” the show has a strong foundation in crime storytelling.

“Homicide” pays homage to two late TV legends who passed away last year, Andre Braugher and Richard Belzer. Braugher, who won an Emmy for his role as Detective Frank Pembleton, and Belzer, known for his portrayal of Detective John Munch, both left a lasting impact on the show.

The ensemble cast includes talented actors such as Ned Beatty, Daniel Baldwin, Yaphet Kotto, Jon Polito, Clark Johnson, and Melissa Leo. The show also features episodes directed by award-winning directors like Barbara Kopple and Barry Levinson, capturing the essence of Baltimore through its gritty scenes and authentic portrayal of police work.

“Homicide” made history by becoming the first TV drama to win three Peabody Awards in 1993, 1995, and 1997, highlighting its critical acclaim and cultural significance. Despite its accolades, the show faced challenges due to copyright issues, preventing a new generation from experiencing its brilliance.

Thanks to recent developments, the show has been remastered in 4K for its streaming debut on Peacock, allowing audiences to delve into all seven seasons comprising 122 episodes. Described as a standout cop drama that rivaled other classics like “NYPD Blue” and “Hill Street Blues,” “Homicide” remains a seminal piece of television history.

The series not only stands on its own as a compelling crime drama but also serves as a precursor to “The Wire,” often regarded as one of the greatest TV shows ever created. With its rich storytelling, stellar performances, and authentic depiction of police work, “Homicide: Life on the Street” offers viewers a chance to explore the origins of Baltimore’s gritty crime landscape through the lens of this groundbreaking series.