A raw and authentic look into the Los Angeles crime scene, going far inside the lives of cops, criminals, victims and their families. The show centers on four main characters: Officer John Cooper, a seasoned cop who will have to prove himself again after recovering from surgery; Officer Ben Sherman, who still has much to learn after recently completing his training rotation; Detective Lydia Adams, whose unending caseload hits closer to home; and Sammy Bryant, a former detective who decided to go back to being a uniform cop after the traumatic death of his partner.
A raw and authentic look into the Los Angeles crime scene, going far inside the lives of cops, criminals, victims and their families. The show centers on four main characters: Officer John Cooper, a seasoned cop who will have to prove himself again after recovering from surgery; Officer Ben Sherman, who still has much to learn after recently completing his training rotation; Detective Lydia Adams, whose unending caseload hits closer to home; and Sammy Bryant, a former detective who decided to go back to being a uniform cop after the traumatic death of his partner.
The series consistently portrays police officers as essential, dedicated, and often heroic figures navigating a dangerous urban environment, which aligns with a right-leaning emphasis on law and order and individual responsibility within the justice system.
The series features a visibly diverse cast that reflects the demographics of its Los Angeles setting, with various racial and ethnic backgrounds represented in significant roles. Its narrative explores complex societal issues, including race, class, and sexuality, through the lens of urban policing, presenting these themes as part of a realistic depiction of the city and its challenges.
Southland features Officer John Cooper, a central character whose arc explores his identity as a gay man in law enforcement. The show portrays his coming out, personal struggles, and relationships with dignity and complexity. While addressing external prejudices, the narrative maintains an empathetic stance, affirming the worth of his queer life and experiences.
Christianity is often portrayed through individual characters finding solace, community, or moral guidance in their faith amidst the harsh realities of police work. The narrative treats these personal beliefs with respect, depicting them as a source of strength or comfort without critiquing the religion itself.
The movie does not contain any action or adventure elements.
Southland is an original police procedural drama series. All characters were created specifically for this show, meaning there are no pre-existing canonical or historical characters whose genders could have been altered.
Southland is an original television series, not an adaptation of existing source material or a historical depiction. All characters were created for the show, meaning there is no prior canonical or historical race to be altered.
Combines user and critic ratings from four sources