Medical Examiners Make Good TV
It started with Quincy, M.E. (1976-1983). The medical examiner (aka forensic pathologist) came out of expository cameos and into a starring role. With Jack Klugman as the lead, Quincy started as part of the classic NBC Sunday Mystery Movie wheel, rotating with Columbo, McCloud and McMillan & Wife. By mid-season it was clear the show was a hit and became a weekly series.