cover image
  • Crime

Dragnet, created by Jack Webb, was a popular radio police drama series that aired on NBC from September 1949 to February 1957. Based on true police stories, the show presented cases in a documentary style and followed the life of dedicated Los Angeles police detective Sergeant Joe Friday and his partners. The show's name originated from the police term "dragnet," which refers to a system of coordinated measures for apprehending criminals or suspects. Dragnet introduced the American public to both the thrilling and mundane aspects of police work and helped improve public opinion of police officers. Webb's focus on authenticity and unpretentious acting has made Dragnet a key influence on subsequent police dramas across various media platforms. The show's cultural impact remains strong, with its iconic four-note introduction and opening narration still well-known today.