Baretta (1975)

Synopsis

Baretta is an American detective television series which ran on ABC from 1975 to 1978. The show was a milder version of a successful 1973–74 ABC series, Toma, starring Tony Musante as chameleon-like, real-life New Jersey police officer David Toma. While popular, Toma received intense criticism at the time for its realistic and frequent depiction of police and criminal violence. When Musante left the series after a single season, the concept was retooled as Baretta, with Robert Blake in the title role.

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Cast

• Robert Blake as Det. Tony Baretta
• Dana Elcar as Inspector Shiller
• Burt Young as Willy
• Sharon Cintron
• Sharon Cintron
• Ron Thompson
• Angelo Rossitto
• Timothy Carey
• Art Metrano
• Tom Ewell as Billy Truman

If you liked Baretta, try

• Agatha Christie's Poirot
• Star Trek
• NYPD Blue
• Ironside
• Homicide: Life on the Street
• Hill Street Blues
• T. J. Hooker
• Nash Bridges

BingeNext's take

If you enjoy classic crime dramas with a bit of mystery and a strong lead, Baretta is a great pick. This 1970s TV series stars Robert Blake as a detective navigating cases with a mix of grit and charm, making it feel like a more approachable take on the tougher cop shows of its time. With four seasons and 83 hour-long episodes, it offers plenty of content to get lost in. The show’s vibe is a bit like NYPD Blue or Ironside but with a softer edge, which makes it perfect if you want something that balances drama and mystery without being too intense. It’s a solid choice for anyone who likes detective stories with a bit of personality and a touch of nostalgia.