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Finished The Mentalist and Craving More? Your Next TV Obsession Awaits!
Did you ever finish a great TV show and feel a little lost, wondering what could possibly fill that void? If you zoomed through all seven seasons of The Mentalist, captivated by Patrick Jane’s incredible observation skills and charming wit as he helped the CBI solve baffling crimes, you’re probably searching for more TV Shows Like The Mentalist. That blend of clever mystery, engaging characters, and a consultant using unique talents to crack cases is addictive! Finding another series with that perfect mix can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But don’t worry, your search ends here!
We’ve put on our consulting detective hats and gathered a list of fantastic shows that capture the spirit, intelligence, and fun of The Mentalist. Whether you loved the case-of-the-week format, the overarching personal vendettas, or just a brilliant mind outsmarting the bad guys, we’ve got something for you. Get ready to add some amazing new series to your watchlist!
Why We Still Love The Mentalist
Before diving into the recommendations, let’s just take a moment to appreciate what made The Mentalist so special. Patrick Jane wasn’t your typical detective. He was a former fake psychic who used his hyper-observational skills – honed during his time conning people – for good (mostly!) after the tragic loss of his family at the hands of the serial killer Red John. His methods were unconventional, often infuriating to his boss Teresa Lisbon, but undeniably effective.
The show brilliantly balanced intriguing standalone cases with the gripping, long-running hunt for Red John. It was the combination of Simon Baker’s charismatic performance, the witty banter, the clever reveals, and the underlying emotional weight that made it a standout crime procedural. It’s no wonder fans are always looking for similar TV Shows Like The Mentalist.
Top 10 TV Shows Like The Mentalist You Can’t Miss
Alright, let’s get to the good stuff! Here are ten shows that share DNA with The Mentalist, offering brilliant consultants, tricky cases, and engaging character dynamics.
1. Psych
Get ready for laughs alongside your mysteries with Psych. This show follows Shawn Spencer, a young man with extraordinary observational skills taught to him by his policeman father. Instead of admitting he’s just hyper-observant (like Patrick Jane!), Shawn pretends to be a psychic detective, convincing the Santa Barbara Police Department, including skeptical head detective Carlton Lassiter and his more open-minded partner Juliet O’Hara, that he solves crimes using visions. Alongside his lifelong best friend, Burton “Gus” Guster, Shawn opens a psychic detective agency named “Psych” and consults on cases, leading to hilarious situations, pop culture references galore, and genuinely clever mystery-solving. The friendship between Shawn and Gus is the heart of the show, providing endless humor and support.
Psych was created by Steve Franks and first charmed its way onto screens in July 2006, running for eight successful seasons and spawning several follow-up movies. The show stars James Roday Rodriguez as the fake psychic Shawn Spencer and Dulé Hill as his ever-reliable, often exasperated partner Gus. The main cast also includes Corbin Bernsen as Shawn’s dad Henry, Maggie Lawson as Juliet, and Timothy Omundson as Lassiter. The lighthearted procedural quickly built a dedicated fanbase.
The series was a hit for the USA Network and continues to be incredibly popular in syndication and streaming. It boasts a strong 8.4/10 rating on IMDb and consistently high audience scores on Rotten Tomatoes, reflecting its beloved status among fans. While specific income figures aren’t public, its longevity, multiple TV movies, and passionate fanbase point to significant success. Audiences loved the blend of comedy and crime-solving.
The parallels to The Mentalist are crystal clear. Both feature a highly observant male consultant assisting the police under a somewhat false premise (Jane’s “mentalist” background vs. Shawn’s “psychic” act). Both protagonists are charming, witty, often bend the rules, and have a knack for annoying their more by-the-book police colleagues while ultimately earning their respect. Both shows master the procedural format with compelling case-of-the-week mysteries while developing strong character relationships. If you love Patrick Jane’s observational genius and playful attitude, Shawn Spencer is your guy. Psych is definitely one of the top TV Shows Like The Mentalist for fans seeking that specific blend of skills and humor.
You can typically find Psych and its movies available for streaming on platforms like Peacock and Amazon Prime Video (availability may vary by region and time). Check your local services for the most current information.
Why should you watch Psych? If you enjoyed the humor and the “how did he know that?” moments in The Mentalist, Psych dials up the comedy while still delivering satisfying mysteries. The chemistry between the leads is electric, the pop culture references are endless (especially 80s nostalgia), and each episode is simply a fun time. It’s a feel-good crime show with heart and smarts.
2. Castle
Imagine a famous mystery novelist tagging along with a sharp NYPD detective for inspiration, only to find he has a real knack for solving crimes. That’s the premise of Castle. Richard Castle is a wealthy, charming, and slightly immature bestselling author suffering from writer’s block. When a killer starts staging murders based on his novels, he’s brought in to consult by Detective Kate Beckett, a smart, no-nonsense homicide detective who initially finds him annoying but soon recognizes his unique insights.
Their partnership blossoms, filled with witty banter, romantic tension, and surprisingly effective teamwork as they tackle New York City’s toughest cases. The show explores their developing relationship alongside intriguing weekly mysteries and overarching character arcs, including Beckett’s investigation into her mother’s murder.
Created by Andrew W. Marlowe, Castle premiered in March 2009 and aired for eight seasons. The series stars Nathan Fillion, perfectly cast as the charismatic Richard Castle, and Stana Katic as the intelligent and driven Detective Kate Beckett. Their on-screen chemistry was a major draw for the show, supported by a strong ensemble cast including Jon Huertas and Seamus Dever as fellow detectives Esposito and Ryan, and Susan Sullivan as Castle’s flamboyant actress mother.
Castle was a ratings success for ABC and maintains a solid following. It holds an 8.1/10 rating on IMDb, indicating strong audience appreciation for its blend of crime, comedy, and romance. Viewers consistently praise the chemistry between the leads and the engaging procedural elements. While network show profits aren’t usually public, its eight-season run attests to its commercial viability and popularity.
The connection to The Mentalist lies in the “charming civilian consultant with unique insights helps a skeptical female law enforcement officer solve crimes” dynamic. Like Patrick Jane, Richard Castle uses his outside perspective (in his case, a writer’s understanding of motive and story) to see things the police might miss. Both shows feature a strong will-they-won’t-they romantic tension between the leads and balance standalone procedural episodes with deeper character development and occasional multi-episode arcs. If you’re looking for TV Shows Like The Mentalist with a prominent romantic subplot and a similarly charming male lead, Castle is a perfect fit.
Castle is often available for streaming on platforms like Hulu in the US. As always, streaming rights change, so check your preferred service or digital purchase options.
Why should you watch Castle? Nathan Fillion’s charm is undeniable, and his chemistry with Stana Katic makes their partnership captivating. The mysteries are well-crafted, often with clever twists, and the supporting cast adds humor and heart. It strikes a great balance between lighthearted fun and serious crime-solving, much like The Mentalist.
3. Monk
Meet Adrian Monk, a brilliant former homicide detective living with severe obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) and numerous phobias following the unsolved murder of his wife, Trudy. Though his condition led to his suspension from the San Francisco Police Department, his incredible eye for detail, deductive reasoning, and ability to spot minuscule inconsistencies make him an invaluable consultant on their most baffling cases. Guided by his patient and practical personal assistants, first Sharona Fleming and later Natalie Teeger, Monk navigates a world that constantly challenges his compulsions while using his unique perspective to see clues others overlook. Each episode presents a seemingly impossible crime that only Monk, with his “gift and curse,” can solve.
Monk was created by Andy Breckman and debuted in July 2002, running for eight critically acclaimed seasons. Tony Shalhoub delivered an iconic, multi-Emmy-winning performance as Adrian Monk. He was joined by Bitty Schram as Sharona Fleming (Seasons 1-3) and Traylor Howard as Natalie Teeger (Seasons 3-8), along with Ted Levine as Captain Leland Stottlemeyer and Jason Gray-Stanford as Lieutenant Randy Disher. The show expertly blended comedy derived from Monk’s eccentricities with poignant moments and intricate mysteries.
The series was a flagship show for the USA Network, earning critical acclaim and strong ratings throughout its run. It holds an impressive 8.0/10 rating on IMDb and is often cited as one of the best detective shows of its era. Tony Shalhoub’s performance, in particular, received widespread praise and numerous awards. Its success led to a recent follow-up movie, Mr. Monk’s Last Case: A Monk Movie.
Like Patrick Jane, Adrian Monk is a consultant whose unique mental state and observational prowess allow him to solve crimes in ways traditional detectives can’t. Both characters are haunted by personal tragedy (the loss of a spouse) which fuels their work. While Jane uses charm and manipulation, Monk relies on his meticulous attention to detail and ability to recognize patterns others miss. Both shows follow a procedural format where the brilliant consultant consistently outshines the police, often to their initial frustration but eventual admiration. Monk offers another compelling example of TV Shows Like The Mentalist where an unconventional mind tackles crime.
Monk is frequently available for streaming on major platforms like Netflix, Peacock, and Amazon Prime Video. Check your local streaming services to confirm where you can watch it.
Why should you watch Monk? Tony Shalhoub’s performance alone is worth the watch – he makes Monk’s struggles both humorous and deeply human. The mysteries are genuinely clever and satisfyingly resolved (“Here’s what happened…”). It’s a character-driven procedural with a unique hook and a lot of heart, perfect for viewers who appreciate brilliant but flawed protagonists.
4. Lie to Me
What if you could tell if someone was lying just by looking at them? Dr. Cal Lightman can. He’s the world’s leading deception expert, a scientist who studies micro-expressions, body language, and vocal tone to uncover the truth. Along with his colleagues at The Lightman Group – including gifted natural reader Dr. Gillian Foster, lead researcher Eli Loker (who practices radical honesty), and protégée Ria Torres – Lightman consults for various clients, primarily law enforcement agencies like the FBI, helping them solve complex cases by determining who is telling the truth and who is lying. The show delves into the science of deception while presenting intriguing criminal investigations.
Lie to Me was created by Samuel Baum and inspired by the work of real-life behavioral expert Dr. Paul Ekman. It premiered in January 2009 and ran for three seasons. The show stars the intense and captivating Tim Roth as Dr. Cal Lightman, Kelli Williams as Dr. Gillian Foster, Brendan Hines as Eli Loker, and Monica Raymund as Ria Torres. The series blended procedural crime-solving with fascinating insights into human psychology and behavior.
While it had a shorter run compared to others on this list, Lie to Me developed a loyal following and generally received positive reviews, particularly for Tim Roth’s performance. It holds a solid 7.9/10 rating on IMDb. Its cancellation after three seasons was lamented by fans who enjoyed its unique premise and sharp writing.
The resemblance to The Mentalist is strong in the core concept: a consultant with an extraordinary, non-supernatural ability related to reading people helps law enforcement solve crimes. Both Cal Lightman and Patrick Jane possess keen observational skills focused on human behavior, although Lightman’s are rooted in specific scientific principles (micro-expressions) while Jane’s are more broadly defined “mentalist” techniques. Both characters can be abrasive and unconventional in their methods but are invaluable to investigations. Lie to Me is a great choice for viewers looking for TV Shows Like The Mentalist with a scientific edge to the observational skills.
Lie to Me is often found streaming on platforms like Hulu. As streaming licenses frequently change, be sure to check its current availability on your preferred services.
Why should you watch Lie to Me? Tim Roth is fantastic as the brilliant but often difficult Dr. Lightman. The science behind detecting deception is genuinely fascinating and adds a unique layer to the crime-solving procedural. The cases are intriguing, and watching Lightman dissect lies is incredibly compelling. It’s a smart, engaging show that makes you look at human interaction differently.
5. Elementary
This modern take on Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic detective places Sherlock Holmes in contemporary New York City. Recovering from addiction, Sherlock Holmes consults for the NYPD, using his legendary powers of deduction to solve the city’s most complex crimes. He is assigned a “sober companion,” Dr. Joan Watson, a former surgeon looking for a new path. Initially hired by Sherlock’s estranged father, Joan quickly proves to be more than just a companion, becoming his apprentice and partner in crime-solving. Their evolving platonic relationship, built on mutual respect and intellectual sparring, forms the core of the series alongside intricate mysteries.
Elementary was created by Robert Doherty and premiered in September 2012, running for seven seasons. Jonny Lee Miller stars as the eccentric and brilliant Sherlock Holmes, while Lucy Liu provides a fresh and grounded take on Dr. Joan Watson. The main cast also includes Aidan Quinn as Captain Thomas Gregson and Jon Michael Hill as Detective Marcus Bell, who often rely on Sherlock’s unconventional genius.
The show received critical acclaim for its intelligent writing, strong performances (especially from Miller and Liu), and its unique approach to the Sherlock Holmes canon, particularly its development of the Holmes-Watson relationship as a deep platonic partnership. It holds a 7.9/10 rating on IMDb and maintained a consistent viewership throughout its run on CBS. Its seven-season duration indicates its success and audience appeal.
Like The Mentalist, Elementary features a brilliant, eccentric consultant assisting the police with his extraordinary observational and deductive abilities. Both Sherlock Holmes and Patrick Jane possess intellects far beyond the norm, allowing them to see connections and clues invisible to others. They both have complicated pasts and unconventional methods that sometimes clash with police procedure. The dynamic between the brilliant consultant and their more grounded law enforcement partners (Watson/Bell/Gregson for Sherlock, Lisbon/CBI team for Jane) is central to both shows. Elementary is an excellent pick for those seeking sophisticated TV Shows Like The Mentalist focusing on pure deductive reasoning.
Elementary is typically available for streaming on Hulu in the United States. Check your local listings and preferred streaming platforms for current availability.
Why should you watch Elementary? Jonny Lee Miller’s portrayal of Sherlock is fantastic – twitchy, brilliant, vulnerable, and surprisingly witty. Lucy Liu’s Watson is equally compelling, evolving from companion to skilled detective in her own right. The mysteries are complex and cleverly plotted, and the focus on the central platonic relationship provides a strong emotional anchor. It’s a smart, character-driven take on a classic.
6. White Collar
Neal Caffrey is a charming, incredibly skilled con artist, forger, and thief. After being captured by the FBI agent who pursued him for years, Peter Burke, Neal strikes a deal: he’ll help the FBI catch other white-collar criminals using his expertise in exchange for limited freedom via an ankle monitor. This unlikely partnership forms the heart of White Collar. Neal’s inside knowledge of the art world, cons, and high-stakes thievery, combined with Peter’s by-the-book FBI methods, makes them a formidable team. The series follows their cases, Neal’s attempts to navigate his new life (while occasionally bending the rules), and the deep, father-son-like bond that develops between the con man and the agent.
White Collar was created by Jeff Eastin and premiered on the USA Network in October 2009, running for six seasons. Matt Bomer stars as the effortlessly suave Neal Caffrey, and Tim DeKay plays the steadfast FBI Special Agent Peter Burke. Willie Garson provides fantastic comedic relief and warmth as Mozzie, Neal’s quirky best friend and fellow con man. Tiffani Thiessen plays Elizabeth Burke, Peter’s supportive wife.
The show was popular with audiences and critics, praised for its stylish look, clever plots, and the fantastic chemistry between Bomer and DeKay. It holds an impressive 8.2/10 rating on IMDb, reflecting strong viewer satisfaction. Its six-season run on a major cable network confirms its success and appeal to fans of light, character-driven procedurals.
While Neal Caffrey isn’t strictly an observational “mentalist” like Jane, his skill set revolves around reading people, understanding systems (both legal and illegal), and using charm and intellect to manipulate situations – much like Patrick Jane often did. Both shows feature a charismatic consultant with a shady past working with law enforcement. The partnership between the unconventional consultant (Neal) and the more grounded agent (Peter), including the trust issues and witty banter, mirrors the dynamic between Jane and Lisbon. If you enjoyed the charm, cleverness, and consultant aspect of The Mentalist, White Collar offers a similar appeal, making it one of the sought-after TV Shows Like The Mentalist.
White Collar is frequently available for streaming on platforms such as Hulu and potentially Netflix, depending on the region. Check your services for the latest information.
Why should you watch White Collar? Matt Bomer is perfectly cast as the charming con man you can’t help but root for. The dynamic between Neal and Peter is the show’s biggest strength – full of humor, tension, and genuine affection. The white-collar crimes are often intricate and glamorous, involving art heists, forgeries, and high-finance cons, offering a stylish twist on the procedural genre.
7. Numb3rs
What if math could solve crimes? That’s the question explored in Numb3rs. Don Eppes is a dedicated FBI agent in Los Angeles who often encounters cases that seem unsolvable through traditional methods. He frequently recruits his younger brother, Charlie Eppes, a brilliant mathematics professor at CalSci, to help. Charlie uses mathematical principles – from probability theory and statistics to physics algorithms and data analysis – to analyze crime patterns, predict behavior, and pinpoint locations, offering unique insights that help Don and his FBI team crack complex cases. The show balances the procedural element with the family dynamics between the Eppes brothers and their father, Alan Eppes.
Numb3rs was created by Nicolas Falacci and Cheryl Heuton and premiered in January 2005, running for six seasons on CBS. Rob Morrow stars as FBI Special Agent Don Eppes, and David Krumholtz plays the genius mathematician Dr. Charlie Eppes. Judd Hirsch plays their supportive father, Alan Eppes. The cast also includes Alimi Ballard, Navi Rawat, Dylan Bruno, and Peter MacNicol as Dr. Larry Fleinhardt, Charlie’s physicist colleague and mentor.
The series was well-received for its innovative premise and its ability to make complex mathematical concepts accessible and relevant to crime-solving. It maintained steady ratings throughout its run and holds a 7.0/10 rating on IMDb. While specific income data isn’t public, its six-season network run indicates it was a successful venture for CBS, finding an audience that appreciated its blend of science and crime drama.
Similar to The Mentalist, Numb3rs centers on a consultant using a highly specialized, non-traditional skill set (advanced mathematics vs. hyper-observation/mentalism) to assist law enforcement. Charlie Eppes, like Patrick Jane, provides insights that regular agents can’t grasp, often explaining complex ideas in simplified ways (Jane’s reveals vs. Charlie’s math explanations). Both shows follow a case-of-the-week procedural format while exploring the consultant’s unique worldview and relationships with the team. For those looking for TV Shows Like The Mentalist that showcase unique intellectual talents applied to crime, Numb3rs fits the bill.
Numb3rs might be available for streaming on platforms like Paramount+ or for purchase on digital storefronts. Check current availability as streaming rights often shift.
Why should you watch Numb3rs? It offers a truly unique twist on the crime procedural genre, showing the practical and fascinating applications of mathematics in solving real-world problems. The relationship between the Eppes brothers is compelling, and the cases are often complex and thought-provoking. It’s a smart show that makes learning feel exciting.
8. Bones
Dr. Temperance “Bones” Brennan is a brilliant, highly rational forensic anthropologist who works at the fictional Jeffersonian Institute in Washington, D.C. She possesses an uncanny ability to read clues left behind in victims’ bones. She’s partnered with cocky but charming FBI Special Agent Seeley Booth, who brings the street smarts and human intuition that Brennan sometimes lacks due to her hyper-rationality and social awkwardness. Together, they solve murders where standard identification methods are useless, relying on Brennan’s scientific expertise and Booth’s investigative skills. The show features a talented team of scientists at the Jeffersonian (the “squints”) and explores the evolving professional and personal relationship between the logical Brennan and the instinctive Booth.
Bones was created by Hart Hanson, loosely based on the life and novels of forensic anthropologist Kathy Reichs. It premiered in September 2005 and enjoyed a long and successful run of twelve seasons on Fox. Emily Deschanel stars as Dr. Temperance Brennan, and David Boreanaz plays Special Agent Seeley Booth. The beloved supporting cast includes Michaela Conlin as Angela Montenegro, T.J. Thyne as Dr. Jack Hodgins, Tamara Taylor as Dr. Camille Saroyan, and John Francis Daley as Dr. Lance Sweets 1 (for several seasons).
The show was a huge hit for Fox, known for its unique blend of forensic science, character drama, humor, and romance. It maintains a strong 7.8/10 rating on IMDb and has a dedicated fanbase even years after its conclusion. Its twelve-season run is a testament to its enduring popularity and commercial success.
The core similarity to The Mentalist lies in the partnership between a highly specialized, somewhat socially awkward consultant (Brennan) and a more traditional law enforcement agent (Booth). Like Patrick Jane, Brennan possesses an extraordinary skill related to observing details others miss (though hers is strictly scientific/anthropological). Both consultants have unique worldviews that sometimes clash with their partners but ultimately prove invaluable. The show balances complex case-of-the-week investigations with long-running character arcs and the central relationship dynamic, making it a strong contender among TV Shows Like The Mentalist for viewers who enjoy the consultant/agent pairing and forensic details.
Bones is often available for streaming on platforms like Hulu and sometimes Amazon Prime Video. Check your local services for the most up-to-date streaming options.
Why should you watch Bones? The chemistry between Deschanel and Boreanaz is fantastic, evolving believably over twelve seasons. The forensic science, while sometimes dramatized, is fascinating and forms the backbone of intriguing mysteries. The supporting cast of “squints” adds humor, heart, and unique skills to the investigations. It’s a long-running, reliable procedural with compelling characters.
9. Lucifer
What if the Devil decided to take a vacation from Hell… in Los Angeles? That’s the starting point for Lucifer. Bored and unhappy as the Lord of Hell, Lucifer Morningstar abandons his throne and retires to L.A., where he owns an upscale nightclub called Lux. When a murder occurs outside his club, he finds himself intrigued by the case and the detective assigned to it, Chloe Decker.
Uniquely immune to his devilish charm and abilities, Chloe fascinates Lucifer. He uses his powers – particularly his ability to draw out people’s deepest desires – to help her solve crimes, becoming an unlikely civilian consultant for the LAPD. The show mixes police procedural elements with supernatural drama, comedy, and explorations of free will, redemption, and celestial family dynamics.
Lucifer is based on characters created by Neil Gaiman, Sam Kieth, and Mike Dringenberg for DC Comics’ Vertigo imprint. Developed by Tom Kapinos, the show premiered on Fox in January 2016, ran for three seasons, was cancelled, and then famously saved by Netflix for three additional seasons. Tom Ellis gives a charismatic and layered performance as Lucifer Morningstar, alongside Lauren German as the grounded Detective Chloe Decker. The ensemble includes Kevin Alejandro as Detective Dan Espinoza, D.B. Woodside as the angel Amenadiel, Lesley-Ann Brandt as the demon Mazikeen, and Rachael Harris as Dr. Linda Martin.
Despite its initial cancellation by Fox, Lucifer had a passionate fanbase that campaigned successfully for its revival on Netflix, where it became a global hit. It holds a strong 8.1/10 rating on IMDb, reflecting its widespread popularity. Its successful transition to streaming and continued high viewership demonstrate its significant appeal and commercial success, particularly in its later seasons.
While featuring supernatural elements unlike The Mentalist, Lucifer shares the core structure of a charming, unconventional consultant using unique abilities to assist a female detective partner in solving crimes. Lucifer Morningstar, like Patrick Jane, is witty, operates outside standard police procedure, often annoys his colleagues, but proves indispensable due to his special skills (desire-coaxing vs. observation). The central partnership between the consultant and the detective, built on fascination and growing trust, is key to both shows. If you’re open to a supernatural twist on the formula, Lucifer is one of the fun TV Shows Like The Mentalist.
Lucifer is exclusively available for streaming globally on Netflix, as they produced the later seasons.
Why should you watch Lucifer? Tom Ellis is magnetic as the Devil, delivering charm, humor, and surprising emotional depth. The show skillfully blends the police procedural with mythology and fantasy, creating a unique and entertaining mix. The supporting characters are well-developed, and the overarching celestial plotlines add intriguing stakes beyond the weekly cases. It’s fun, witty, and surprisingly thoughtful.
10. Prodigal Son
Malcolm Bright is brilliant, but his life is overshadowed by a dark secret: his father, Dr. Martin Whitly, is the infamous serial killer known as “The Surgeon.” As a child, Malcolm was responsible for his father’s capture. Now, as an adult, Malcolm uses his unique insight into the minds of killers – derived from his traumatic upbringing – as a criminal psychologist consulting for the NYPD. He possesses a gift for understanding how predators think, but working murders triggers his own psychological struggles and forces him to confront his imprisoned father, who remains manipulative and dangerously insightful. The show explores complex family dynamics, trauma, and the nature of evil alongside gripping criminal cases.
Prodigal Son was created by Chris Fedak and Sam Sklaver. It premiered on Fox in September 2019 and ran for two seasons before being cancelled, much to the dismay of its dedicated fanbase. Tom Payne stars as the gifted but troubled Malcolm Bright, with the legendary Michael Sheen delivering a chillingly charismatic performance as his serial killer father, Dr. Martin Whitly. Lou Diamond Phillips plays Malcolm’s NYPD mentor, Lieutenant Gil Arroyo, Halston Sage plays his sister Ainsley, and Bellamy Young plays his mother Jessica.
Despite positive reviews, particularly for Payne’s and Sheen’s performances, and a passionate fanbase (#SaveProdigalSon campaign), the show was cancelled by Fox after two seasons, likely due to ratings. It holds a 7.6/10 rating on IMDb, indicating viewers enjoyed its dark and twisted take on the procedural genre. Fans continue to hope for its revival elsewhere.
Prodigal Son shares similarities with The Mentalist through its focus on a brilliant consultant haunted by a dark connection to a notorious killer (Malcolm’s father vs. Jane’s pursuit of Red John). Both Malcolm and Patrick Jane use their exceptional understanding of human psychology, derived from personal trauma, to help law enforcement solve crimes. They are both unconventional, sometimes reckless, and deeply affected by their pasts. The show combines case-of-the-week elements with the ongoing, complex psychological drama stemming from the consultant’s background, making it a compelling, albeit darker, choice among TV Shows Like The Mentalist.
Prodigal Son may be available for streaming on platforms like Max (formerly HBO Max) or for digital purchase. Check local availability as streaming rights can change, especially for shows with shorter runs.
Why should you watch Prodigal Son? Tom Payne is excellent as the tortured profiler, and Michael Sheen is absolutely captivating as the manipulative killer father. Their scenes together are electric. The show offers a darker, more psychological take on the crime consultant genre, exploring trauma and family secrets in compelling ways. The cases are intriguing, and the central father-son dynamic is unlike anything else on television.
Quick Comparison: Find Your Next Obsession
| Show Title | Protagonist’s Skill | Vibe/Tone | Key Similarity to The Mentalist | Where to Watch (Examples) |
| Psych | Hyper-Observation (as “Psychic”) | Comedic, Witty, Lighthearted | Observational genius consultant, humor, police partnership | Peacock, Prime Video |
| Castle | Writer’s Insight, Charm | Romantic, Witty, Charming | Charming consultant, police partnership, romantic tension | Hulu |
| Monk | Deductive Reasoning, OCD Focus | Quirky, Humorous, Poignant | Brilliant but flawed consultant, observational detail, tragedy | Netflix, Peacock, Prime Video |
| Lie to Me | Micro-Expression Analysis | Intense, Scientific, Sharp | Reading people skill, consultant role, scientific observation | Hulu |
| Elementary | Deductive Reasoning, Observation | Intelligent, Modern, Character-Driven | Brilliant consultant, deduction, police partnership, NYC setting | Hulu |
| White Collar | Con Artistry, Charm, Intellect | Stylish, Clever, Charming | Charming consultant (criminal past), FBI partnership, wit | Hulu, Netflix |
| Numb3rs | Mathematical Analysis | Smart, Innovative, Family-Focused | Specialized intellectual skill, consultant role, FBI partnership | Paramount+, Digital Purchase |
| Bones | Forensic Anthropology, Logic | Scientific, Romantic, Humorous | Scientific expert consultant, FBI partnership, central relationship | Hulu, Prime Video |
| Lucifer | Desire-Reading, Charm (Devil) | Supernatural, Witty, Romantic | Charming unconventional consultant, police partnership, unique skills | Netflix |
| Prodigal Son | Criminal Psychology (Killer’s Son) | Dark, Psychological, Intense | Consultant haunted by killer connection, psychological insight | Max, Digital Purchase |
(Streaming availability is subject to change based on region and time. Always check your local services.)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: What makes a show similar to The Mentalist? A: Shows often considered similar to The Mentalist usually feature a brilliant civilian consultant assisting law enforcement (like the police or FBI). This consultant typically possesses extraordinary observational skills, deductive reasoning, or some unique talent related to understanding human behavior. Key elements often include a procedural case-of-the-week format, witty banter, a strong dynamic between the consultant and their law enforcement partner(s), and sometimes an overarching personal story or mystery for the main character. Finding good TV Shows Like The Mentalist often means looking for that specific blend of charm, intelligence, and mystery-solving.
Q2: Are any of these recommended shows still running or getting new episodes? A: As of early 2025, most of the shows on this list have concluded their original runs. Psych has continued with follow-up movies, and Monk recently had a reunion movie. However, none are currently airing new weekly seasons. Always keep an eye out, as reboots or continuations can sometimes happen!
Q3: Which show on the list is most like The Mentalist? A: Psych is often cited as being very similar in tone and structure, particularly regarding the hyper-observant consultant pretending his skill is something else (psychic vs. mentalist) and the blend of humor and crime. Castle also shares the charming male consultant/female detective dynamic with romantic undertones. However, the “best” fit depends on what aspect of The Mentalist you enjoyed most – the observation, the charm, the procedural cases, or the underlying darkness.
Q4: Where can I watch The Mentalist itself? A: The Mentalist is often available for streaming on major platforms. In the past, it has been on services like Max (formerly HBO Max) or available for purchase on digital platforms like Amazon Prime Video, Apple TV, or Vudu. Streaming rights change, so it’s best to check current availability on services accessible in your region.
Conclusion: Your Next TV Adventure Awaits!
Finding TV Shows Like The Mentalist doesn’t have to be a mystery! While nothing can ever perfectly replace Patrick Jane and the CBI team, the ten shows listed above offer fantastic alternatives that capture similar elements of brilliant consultants, intriguing cases, witty dialogue, and compelling character relationships. Whether you prefer laugh-out-loud comedy like Psych, romantic sparks like Castle, intense psychological drama like Prodigal Son, or a supernatural twist like Lucifer, there’s a show here waiting to become your next favorite binge-watch.
So, grab your remote, settle in, and get ready to meet a new set of brilliant minds solving baffling crimes. Happy streaming!
