The Shield is an American television drama series starring Michael Chiklis which premiered on March 12, 2002 on FX in the United States and concluded on November 25, 2008 after seven seasons. Known for its controversial portrayal of corrupt police officers, it was originally advertised as Rampart in reference to the true life Rampart Division police scandal, which the show's Strike Team was loosely based upon. The first season gained the most Emmy nominations for a basic cable drama. The series was created by Shawn Ryan and The Barn Productions for Fox Television Studios and Sony Pictures... Television. Notable film actors who took extended roles on the show included Glenn Close, who was the female lead during the fourth season, Forest Whitaker who guest starred in seasons 5 and 6, Laura Harring in season 5, Franka Potente in season 6 and Laurie Holden in season 7 also guest starred. The series received critical acclaim as well as several awards and nominations.
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| On the air: | March 12, 2002-November 25, 2008 |
| Number of seasons: | 7 |
| Network: | FX |
| Writers: | Kurt Sutter, Shawn Ryan, Scott Rosenbaum |
| Producer: | Scott Brazil, Kurt Sutter, Sarah Fain |