: The series is celebrated for the deep, "straight-out text" bond between the leads, which evolved from high-action violence to more socially themed "buddy-buddy" storylines later in the run.

: Played by Antonio Fargas in the original series (and Snoop Dogg in the 2004 film), the flamboyant informant provided essential street intel and comic relief.

: The duo’s 1975 Ford Gran Torino , known for its distinctive white "vector" stripe, was famously nicknamed the " Striped Tomato " by Glaser himself during a production meeting.

: The show is famous for its evolving sound, most notably the Season 4 theme " Gotcha " composed by jazz fusionist Tom Scott.