Southland (2009)
Kernel Score: 88% · 200 ratings
Genres: Drama
First aired: 2009-04-09
Seasons: 5 · 43 episodes
Where to watch Southland
- Stream: Netflix
- Rent: Prime Video
- Buy: Prime Video, Apple TV, Google Play, Fandango At Home
US availability, updated 2026-10-23.
Overview
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.
Southland parents' guide: ages 12+
Parents need to know that Southland is a gritty police drama depicting the realities of LA crime, cops, and victims.
- Violence & scariness: Strong — Raw depiction of LA crime scenes, police work, and traumatic incidents including a partner's violent death.
- Language: Moderate — Realistic police drama dialogue likely includes strong language given the TV-14 rating and gritty tone.
Fresh Kernels AI-assessed from the official TV-14 rating, publicly documented content. A guide for families, not an official rating.
Shows like Southland
If you liked Southland, these are the shows we'd watch next.
- The Closer (2005) — 86%
- S.W.A.T. (2017) — 89%
- Bosch (2015) — 89%
- Rookie Blue (2010) — 85%
- Virgin River (2019) — 90%
- The O.C. (2003) — 87%
- Animal Kingdom (2016) — 87%
- Psych (2006) — 89%
Cast
- Ben McKenzie as Ben Sherman
- Michael Cudlitz as Officer John Cooper
- Regina King as Detective Lydia Adams
- Shawn Hatosy as Officer Sammy Bryant
- C. Thomas Howell as Officer Dewey Dudek
Southland FAQ
Is Southland good?
Southland has an 88% Kernel Score on Fresh Kernels from 200 audience ratings.
Where can I watch Southland?
In the US you can stream Southland on Netflix and rent it from Prime Video.
Is Southland OK for kids?
Southland is rated TV-14. Fresh Kernels suggests ages 12+. Parents need to know that Southland is a gritty police drama depicting the realities of LA crime, cops, and victims.
What shows are like Southland?
If you liked Southland, try The Closer, S.W.A.T., Bosch and Rookie Blue.