If you’re a fan of the classic mystery genre, Murder, She Wrote is likely one of your favorite shows. The timeless charm of Jessica Fletcher solving intricate cases has captivated audiences for years. If you’re looking for similar shows to binge-watch, we’ve got you covered with these 17 recommendations.
1. Columbo
Columbo stars Peter Falk as the shrewd and unassuming detective who always gets his man. Each episode features a new mystery, usually involving a wealthy and cunning criminal who underestimates Columbo’s intelligence.
2. Poirot
Based on Agatha Christie’s famous detective, Poirot follows David Suchet as Hercule Poirot. The series is known for its intricate plots and the meticulous attention to period detail, making it a must-watch for mystery fans.
3. Diagnosis: Murder
Diagnosis: Murder features Dick Van Dyke as Dr. Mark Sloan, a physician who solves crimes with the help of his son, a detective. The show blends medical drama with mystery, offering a unique twist on the genre.
4. Matlock
Andy Griffith stars as Ben Matlock, a brilliant defense attorney who solves crimes to prove his clients’ innocence. Matlock combines courtroom drama with detective work, making it a compelling watch.
5. Monk
Monk stars Tony Shalhoub as Adrian Monk, a former detective with obsessive-compulsive disorder who solves cases in unique ways. The show balances humor and mystery, making it both entertaining and thought-provoking.
6. Midsomer Murders
Set in the seemingly idyllic English countryside, Midsomer Murders follows Detective Chief Inspector Barnaby as he solves various murders. The show is known for its complex plots and picturesque settings.
7. Miss Marple
Another Agatha Christie adaptation, Miss Marple stars various actresses over the years as the titular amateur sleuth. The show features clever mysteries and a charming, old-world setting.
8. The Mentalist
The Mentalist stars Simon Baker as Patrick Jane, a former psychic medium who uses his keen observational skills to solve crimes. The show combines elements of psychological drama with traditional detective work.
9. Castle
Castle features Nathan Fillion as Richard Castle, a mystery novelist who teams up with NYPD detective Kate Beckett, played by Stana Katic. The show blends romance, humor, and mystery, making it a fan favorite.
10. Veronica Mars
Veronica Mars stars Kristen Bell as a high school student who moonlights as a private investigator. The show combines teen drama with noir-style mystery, offering a fresh take on the genre.
11. The Closer
Kyra Sedgwick stars as Brenda Leigh Johnson, the head of the LAPD’s Major Crimes Division. The Closer is known for its strong female lead and intricate crime-solving plots.
12. Perry Mason
Perry Mason stars Raymond Burr as the titular defense attorney who solves complex cases to clear his clients’ names. The show is a classic courtroom drama with a strong focus on mystery.
13. Father Brown
Based on the stories by G.K. Chesterton, Father Brown stars Mark Williams as a crime-solving Catholic priest. The show is set in the 1950s and features charming, character-driven mysteries.
14. Broadchurch
Broadchurch stars David Tennant and Olivia Colman as detectives investigating a young boy’s murder in a small town. The show is known for its emotional depth and intricate storytelling.
15. Sherlock
Sherlock stars Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes and Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson. The modern-day adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle’s stories is known for its clever writing and dynamic performances.
16. Murdoch Mysteries
Set in 19th-century Toronto, Murdoch Mysteries follows Detective William Murdoch, played by Yannick Bisson. The show combines historical settings with innovative crime-solving techniques.
17. Agatha Raisin
Agatha Raisin stars Ashley Jensen as a PR executive who retires to a small village and becomes an amateur sleuth. The show is known for its quirky characters and light-hearted mysteries.
If you love the mystery genre, these shows will keep you entertained and guessing until the very end. Happy watching!