Cracker (1997)
The American adaptation of Jimmy McGovern's acclaimed British crime drama, following a brilliant but self-destructive criminal psychologist working with the LAPD.
Cracker - Series Information
- Original Title: Cracker
- First Air Year: 1997
- Last Air Year: 1999
- Created by: Jimmy McGovern
- Type: TV Series
- Genres: Crime, Drama
- Episode Runtime: Average runtime per episode (60 minutes)
- Number of Seasons: 1
- Number of Episodes: 16
- Status: Ended
- Original Language: English
- Spoken Languages: English
- Networks: ABC
Cracker - Plot
Crime drama based on the UK TV series about Gerry "Fitz" Fitzgerald, a brilliant but troubled criminal psychologist working alongside the Los Angeles police department.
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Cracker - Cast & Crew
Creator(s)
- Jimmy McGovern
Main Cast
- Robert Pastorelli
- Carolyn McCormick
- Robert Wisdom
- Josh Hartnett
- R. Lee Ermey
- Angela Featherstone
- Paul Perri
- Josh Lucas
- Rosemary Murphy
- Alexandra Holden
Writers
- Natalie Chaidez
- Barry Pullman
Cracker - FAQs
Is the American Cracker based on a true story?
Not directly. The American Cracker is an adaptation of the acclaimed British series created by Jimmy McGovern, which was itself a fictional story. The character of Fitz draws on real forensic psychology practices, but the cases and characters are entirely invented for dramatic purposes.
How does the American Cracker differ from the UK original?
The American version transplants the story from Manchester to Los Angeles, with Robert Pastorelli stepping into the role made famous by Robbie Coltrane. While the core premise — a brilliant, self-destructive criminal psychologist assisting police — remains intact, the setting and supporting cast are entirely reimagined for a US audience.
Where can you stream or watch Cracker (1997)?
Cracker (1997) is available to buy on Amazon Video, Apple TV Store, and Google Play Movies. If you prefer free viewing with ads, you can catch it on The Roku Channel and Pluto TV. Availability may vary depending on your region.
Who plays Fitz in the American version of Cracker?
Robert Pastorelli takes on the role of Gerry 'Fitz' Fitzgerald, the brilliant but deeply flawed criminal psychologist at the heart of the series. The supporting cast includes Carolyn McCormick, R. Lee Ermey, Robert Wisdom, Angela Featherstone, and a young Josh Hartnett as Fitz's son Michael.
Is Cracker (1997) worth watching for fans of crime drama?
For fans of character-driven crime drama, Cracker offers a compelling central performance from Robert Pastorelli and sharp psychological storytelling. While it never quite matched the raw intensity of the British original, it remains an engaging procedural with a memorably flawed protagonist and a strong ensemble cast.
How many episodes does Cracker (1997) have?
The American Cracker ran for a single season on ABC, comprising 16 episodes in total. Despite a solid premise and a recognizable source material, the series was not renewed for a second season, making it a short but complete viewing experience.
What network aired Cracker in the United States?
Cracker aired on ABC between 1997 and 1999. The network adaptation brought Jimmy McGovern's celebrated British concept to American primetime, relocating the action to Los Angeles and recasting the lead role for a domestic audience.
What are some shows similar to Cracker (1997)?
If Cracker appeals to you, consider exploring the original UK Cracker (1993), Prodigal Son, Luther, The Mentalist, or Monk — all of which feature unconventional investigators with sharp psychological insight. High Potential and The Following are also strong picks for fans of the genre.
More About Cracker
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