If you’re a fan of the crime-comedy genre like the one found in Monk, then you’re in for a treat! Below is a list of 20 TV shows that capture the same quirky, investigative spirit.
1. Psych
Psych follows Shawn Spencer, a fake psychic detective who solves crimes with his heightened observational skills. Starring James Roday Rodriguez and Dulé Hill, this show blends humor and mystery in a way that will keep you entertained.
2. The Mentalist
The Mentalist features Patrick Jane, a former psychic medium turned consultant for the California Bureau of Investigation. Simon Baker stars as the charming and insightful Patrick Jane, who uses his keen observational skills to solve crimes.
3. Castle
Castle centers on Richard Castle, a famous mystery novelist who teams up with NYPD detective Kate Beckett to solve unusual crimes. Nathan Fillion and Stana Katic bring a delightful chemistry to this crime-solving duo.
4. Bones
Bones focuses on Dr. Temperance Brennan, a forensic anthropologist, and her FBI partner Seeley Booth. Emily Deschanel and David Boreanaz star in this series that mixes science, crime-solving, and a touch of romance.
5. White Collar
White Collar follows Neal Caffrey, a con artist who teams up with FBI agent Peter Burke to catch other white-collar criminals. Matt Bomer and Tim DeKay star in this clever and stylish crime series.
6. Elementary
Elementary is a modern take on Sherlock Holmes, set in New York City. Jonny Lee Miller stars as Holmes, with Lucy Liu as Dr. Joan Watson, solving complex crimes with their unique partnership.
7. Lie to Me
Lie to Me features Dr. Cal Lightman, an expert in deception detection, who assists law enforcement by reading facial expressions and body language. Tim Roth stars in this intriguing series about the science of truth and lies.
8. The Closer
The Closer centers on Deputy Chief Brenda Leigh Johnson, a skilled interrogator who leads the LAPD’s Major Crimes Division. Kyra Sedgwick’s compelling performance drives this intense and engaging series.
9. Pushing Daisies
Pushing Daisies is a whimsical series about Ned, a pie-maker with the ability to bring the dead back to life. Lee Pace stars as Ned, who uses his gift to solve murders with the help of a private investigator and his childhood sweetheart.
10. Veronica Mars
Veronica Mars features a high school student who moonlights as a private investigator. Kristen Bell stars as the titular character, solving mysteries in the fictional town of Neptune, California.
11. Chuck
Chuck follows Chuck Bartowski, a computer geek who accidentally downloads government secrets into his brain. Zachary Levi stars in this action-comedy series that blends espionage with humor.
12. Rizzoli & Isles
Rizzoli & Isles focuses on Boston detective Jane Rizzoli and medical examiner Dr. Maura Isles. Angie Harmon and Sasha Alexander star in this crime drama that highlights their strong friendship and crime-solving skills.
13. The Good Cop
The Good Cop features a disgraced former NYPD officer and his straight-laced son who solve crimes together. Tony Danza and Josh Groban star in this light-hearted crime-comedy series.
14. Numbers
Numbers follows FBI agent Don Eppes and his mathematical genius brother, Charlie, who helps solve crimes using math. Rob Morrow and David Krumholtz star in this unique blend of crime-solving and mathematics.
15. Perception
Perception features Dr. Daniel Pierce, a neuropsychiatrist who assists the FBI with solving complex cases. Eric McCormack stars as Pierce, whose unique insights into human behavior make him an invaluable asset.
16. House
House centers on Dr. Gregory House, a brilliant but misanthropic diagnostician who solves medical mysteries. Hugh Laurie stars in this medical drama that combines sharp wit with complex cases.
17. Burn Notice
Burn Notice follows Michael Westen, a former spy who uses his skills to help people in trouble while trying to figure out who burned him. Jeffrey Donovan stars in this action-packed series with a touch of humor.
18. Hannibal
Hannibal explores the early relationship between FBI special investigator Will Graham and Dr. Hannibal Lecter, a forensic psychiatrist. Hugh Dancy and Mads Mikkelsen star in this dark and gripping psychological thriller.
19. The Blacklist
The Blacklist centers on Raymond “Red” Reddington, a former criminal mastermind who turns himself in to help the FBI catch other criminals. James Spader stars as Red, whose enigmatic personality drives this intense drama.
20. Sherlock
Sherlock is a modern adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic detective stories. Benedict Cumberbatch stars as Sherlock Holmes, with Martin Freeman as Dr. John Watson, solving crimes in contemporary London.