10 Movies & Shows Like Psych (2006)

Description: Similar to 'Psych', 'Monk' features a protagonist with extraordinary observational skills, though Monk's abilities stem from his OCD rather than Shawn Spencer's hyper-observance. Both shows blend crime-solving with humor and have a light-hearted tone despite dealing with serious crimes.

Fact: Tony Shalhoub won three Emmy Awards for his portrayal of Adrian Monk. The character of Monk was inspired by Sherlock Holmes. The series was originally pitched as a drama but was developed as a comedy-drama.

Description: While more action-oriented, 'Burn Notice' shares 'Psych's' blend of humor and crime-solving, featuring a charismatic protagonist (a spy) using unconventional methods to solve cases. Both shows have a distinctive narrative style and focus on the protagonist's unique skill set.

Fact: Bruce Campbell's role was originally written for a woman. The voiceovers were added to explain spy techniques to viewers. The show filmed in Miami to take advantage of tax incentives.

Description: 'Chuck' combines comedy, action, and crime-solving like 'Psych', featuring an unlikely hero (a tech geek) who becomes embroiled in spy missions. Both shows have a strong emphasis on humor, pop culture references, and character relationships alongside the procedural elements.

Fact: The show was almost canceled after season 2 but was saved by fan campaigns. Subway became a sponsor after product placement in the show. Zachary Levi performed many of his own stunts.

Description: Similar to 'Psych', 'Leverage' features a team of quirky specialists solving crimes outside traditional law enforcement. Both shows have a lighthearted tone, focus on outsmarting criminals, and feature elaborate cons or schemes, though 'Leverage' has more of a heist-movie vibe.

Fact: The show was created by Dean Devlin of 'Independence Day' fame. Each episode's con was based on real-life scams. The series was rebooted as 'Leverage: Redemption' in

Description: Like 'Psych', 'The Mentalist' centers around a charming, observant protagonist who solves crimes using his keen perception and psychological insight. Both shows mix procedural crime-solving with character-driven humor, though 'The Mentalist' has a more serious undertone due to its protagonist's tragic backstory.

Fact: Simon Baker was nominated for a Golden Globe for his role as Patrick Jane. The show was inspired by real-life mentalists and psychic detectives. The character of Patrick Jane was originally written as British.

Description: 'Castle' mirrors 'Psych's' formula of a non-traditional detective (a mystery novelist) paired with a straight-laced law enforcement officer. Both shows balance crime-solving with humor and romantic tension, and feature protagonists with unconventional approaches to police work.

Fact: Nathan Fillion's character was inspired by real-life authors who consult for police. The show's fictional books were later published as real novels. Stana Katic learned multiple languages for her role as Beckett.

Description: This show shares 'Psych's' blend of crime-solving and humor, featuring a charismatic con artist working with the FBI. Like Shawn Spencer, Neal Caffrey uses his unique skills (forgery and art theft) to solve cases, and the show maintains a light, witty tone.

Fact: Matt Bomer performed many of his own stunts. The show was originally titled 'Bond'. Willie Garson, who plays Mozzie, also appeared in 'Psych' as Henry Spencer's friend.

Description: This modern Sherlock Holmes adaptation shares 'Psych's' detective duo dynamic and procedural format. While more serious in tone, it features Holmes' observational skills similar to Shawn's, and the Watson character provides a grounded counterpart like Gus.

Fact: Lucy Liu was the first female Watson in a major adaptation. The show relocated Holmes to New York for a fresh take. Jonny Lee Miller and Benedict Cumberbatch (Sherlock) are friends in real life.

Description: This show shares 'Psych's' perfect balance of comedy and police procedural elements. While more ensemble-focused, it features quirky detectives solving crimes with humor and heart, much like 'Psych's' dynamic between Shawn and Gus.

Fact: The show was canceled by Fox after 5 seasons but revived by NBC. Andre Braugher's deadpan delivery was largely improvised. The Halloween heist episodes became fan favorites.

Description: Like 'Psych', 'Scorpion' features a team of geniuses solving crimes with their unique skills. While more tech-focused, it shares 'Psych's' blend of humor, unconventional problem-solving, and character-driven storytelling, though with higher stakes and more action.

Fact: The show was inspired by real-life genius Walter O'Brien. Many tech solutions were based on real scientific principles. The cast underwent tech training to make their performances more authentic.