The Mentalist captivated audiences with its clever blend of mystery, psychological tricks, and the sharp skills of Patrick Jane, a “psychic” detective with a knack for reading people. If you’re looking for shows with similar vibes — a charismatic lead, suspenseful plots, and clever mysteries — here are ten recommendations. Each series brings its own unique twists while keeping you hooked on solving the next big mystery. Happy binge-watching!
1. Psych
Where to Watch: Peacock, Amazon Prime Video
Psych follows Shawn Spencer, a highly observant man who pretends to be a psychic detective to solve crimes with the police. This show balances comedy with mystery, delivering witty banter and quirky investigations that will remind fans of The Mentalist‘s charm. Shawn’s knack for observation is similar to Patrick Jane’s skills, and his chemistry with his partner Gus adds an extra layer of entertainment.
2. Lie to Me
Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
Lie to Me centers around Dr. Cal Lightman, a deception expert who can spot lies through body language and micro-expressions. The psychological elements and Dr. Lightman’s keen observational skills parallel those of Patrick Jane. With an investigative team and intense cases, the show dives into the science of human behavior, making it a must-watch for fans of The Mentalist.
3. White Collar
Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
White Collar follows the story of Neal Caffrey, a former con artist who works with the FBI to solve crimes. Like The Mentalist, it features a charismatic lead who uses unconventional methods and sharp intelligence to catch criminals. The show’s blend of crime-solving, humor, and clever schemes makes it a great option for fans who enjoy complex characters and stylish mystery.
4. Castle
Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
In Castle, mystery novelist Richard Castle teams up with NYPD detective Kate Beckett to solve crimes in New York City. The dynamic between Castle’s unorthodox methods and Beckett’s detective skills echoes the partnership in The Mentalist. It’s witty, suspenseful, and full of quirky moments that make it a captivating watch for anyone who loves the mystery-solving duo dynamic.
5. Sherlock
Where to Watch: Netflix, Amazon Prime Video
Sherlock, the modern adaptation of Arthur Conan Doyle’s classic detective stories, is a fantastic pick. With Benedict Cumberbatch as Sherlock Holmes, the show dives deep into complex mysteries, brilliant deductions, and thrilling confrontations. Fans of The Mentalist will enjoy Sherlock’s sharp wit, clever observations, and mind-bending cases, all set against a modern London backdrop.
6. Elementary
Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
Another take on Sherlock Holmes, Elementary presents a modern spin where Sherlock lives in New York City, and Dr. Watson is played by Lucy Liu. The show focuses on intense mysteries and Sherlock’s uncanny deductive abilities. For fans of Patrick Jane’s methods, Elementary offers a similarly intellectual approach to crime-solving, coupled with complex character development.
7. Bones
Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
Bones follows forensic anthropologist Dr. Temperance Brennan and FBI agent Seeley Booth as they solve murder cases using skeletal remains. Like The Mentalist, Bones showcases a unique partnership, with Brennan’s scientific expertise and Booth’s instincts balancing each other out. The mysteries are often intricate and thought-provoking, making this show a great pick for mystery lovers.
8. Monk
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video, Peacock
Monk stars Tony Shalhoub as Adrian Monk, a former detective with obsessive-compulsive disorder who solves cases with his unmatched attention to detail. Much like Patrick Jane, Monk uses his keen observation skills to solve complex crimes. The show also weaves humor into the mystery-solving, creating a lighthearted yet engaging viewing experience.
9. The Blacklist
Where to Watch: Netflix, Peacock
The Blacklist stars Raymond “Red” Reddington, a criminal mastermind who works with the FBI to catch some of the world’s most dangerous criminals. With its thrilling plot twists and Red’s enigmatic personality, this show shares the intrigue and mind games often seen in The Mentalist. Each episode adds layers to the main story, keeping viewers on the edge of their seats.
10. Lucifer
Where to Watch: Netflix
Lucifer follows the devil, Lucifer Morningstar, as he leaves Hell to run a nightclub in Los Angeles and help the LAPD solve crimes. With his ability to draw out people’s deepest desires, Lucifer brings a unique twist to crime-solving. Fans of The Mentalist will appreciate Lucifer’s charm, wit, and the clever psychological angles that unfold in each episode.
11. Perception
Where to Watch: Amazon Prime Video
Perception features Dr. Daniel Pierce, a neuropsychiatrist who helps the FBI solve cases using his knowledge of the human mind. With an emphasis on understanding human behavior and unique psychological insights, this show resonates with fans of Patrick Jane’s techniques in The Mentalist. Pierce’s eccentric personality and complex cases create a layered, engaging mystery series.
12. Hannibal
Where to Watch: Hulu, Amazon Prime Video
Hannibal explores the complex relationship between FBI profiler Will Graham and psychiatrist Dr. Hannibal Lecter. This psychological thriller delves into dark themes, intense mysteries, and the mind games between the main characters. Fans of The Mentalist who enjoy darker mysteries and psychological depth will find Hannibal both gripping and unforgettable.
These shows each offer intriguing mysteries, sharp-witted characters, and the mental gymnastics that make detective series so addictive. Whether you’re in the mood for a comedic twist or something darker, this list has something for every The Mentalist fan looking for their next binge-worthy mystery series.
