The Continental is a crime drama television series created by John Rogers and starring Chris Noth and Tom Sizemore. The show follows federal agents who investigate organized crime in the United States. Set in the early 1980s, The Continental follows two agents at the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI): veteran agent Frank Di Bello (Noth) and his new partner, Steve Berliner (Sizemore). The two men are sent to investigate a wide range of organized crime figures in Chicago, including mob boss Anthony La Conti (Danny Aiello). As the agents investigate dozens of complex cases and schemes, they attempt to outmaneuver the criminals, and build a formidable case against them in order to send them to prison for life. The series features guest stars such as John C. McGinley, William H. Macy, and Ted Danson, and the plot lines often center on the agents efforts to penetrate the criminal underworld, by infiltrating gangs, breaking up mob operations, and taking down major crime bosses. Along with the compelling cases, the series also highlights the personal lives of the agents, as they juggle their work with their families and try to maintain a normal life. The Continental was praised for its gritty, realistic portrayal of its subject matter and for its strong performances from its lead actors. The show ran for two seasons, from 1983 to 1984, and was followed by a spin-off series, The Insiders, in 1990.