10 Movies and TV Shows Similar to Moonlighting (1985)

Description: Like Moonlighting, Hart to Hart is a blend of mystery and romance, featuring a glamorous couple who solve crimes together. The show's lighthearted tone and the chemistry between the leads mirror the dynamic in Moonlighting.

Fact: The show was produced by Aaron Spelling, a prolific TV producer. Robert Wagner and Stefanie Powers, the lead actors, had previously worked together in a film. The show's theme song was performed by Johnny Mathis.

Description: Magnum, P.I. shares with Moonlighting a mix of action, humor, and drama, with a charismatic lead character who often breaks the fourth wall. Both shows balance serious crime-solving with lighter, comedic moments.

Fact: Tom Selleck was almost cast as Indiana Jones. The show was set in Hawaii, a rare location for TV series at the time. Magnum's iconic mustache became a cultural phenomenon.

Description: Similar to Moonlighting, Remington Steele combines crime-solving with romantic tension and witty banter between the leads. Both shows feature a strong, independent female protagonist paired with a charming, roguish male counterpart, blending elements of drama and comedy.

Fact: The show starred Pierce Brosnan before he became famous as James Bond. The character of Remington Steele was originally intended to be fictional within the show's universe. The series was created by Michael Gleason, who also worked on Murder, She Wrote.

Description: Murder, She Wrote and Moonlighting both feature strong, intelligent protagonists who solve crimes, though Jessica Fletcher is more of a straight-laced detective compared to Moonlighting's Maddie Hayes. Both shows were hugely popular in the 1980s.

Fact: Angela Lansbury was nominated for 12 Emmy Awards for her role. The show was set in the fictional town of Cabot Cove, Maine. It was one of the longest-running detective dramas in TV history.

Description: Moonlighting is the reference show, known for its innovative blend of comedy, drama, and romance, with a will-they-won't-they dynamic between the leads. It broke many TV conventions of the time.

Fact: The show made Bruce Willis a star. It was one of the first shows to use a 'previously on' recap. The famous 'dance sequence' episode had no dialogue.

Description: Veronica Mars shares Moonlighting's blend of mystery, wit, and strong character dynamics, with a sharp-tongued protagonist who navigates both personal and professional challenges. Both shows have a noir influence.

Fact: Kristen Bell was relatively unknown before the show. The show was canceled after three seasons but revived by a fan-funded movie. It was created by Rob Thomas, who also wrote the novel 'Rats Saw God'.

Description: Bones, like Moonlighting, pairs a logical, analytical female lead with a more intuitive, charismatic male partner, blending crime-solving with personal dynamics. The show balances procedural elements with character development.

Fact: The show is loosely based on the life of forensic anthropologist Kathy Reichs. Emily Deschanel and David Boreanaz had never met before their audition. The show's full title is 'Bones: The Forensic Anthropologist'.

Description: Psych shares Moonlighting's playful tone and comedic approach to crime-solving, with a focus on the chemistry between the lead characters. Both shows use humor and wit as central elements.

Fact: The show's theme song is performed by the lead actor, James Roday. It features numerous references to 1980s pop culture. The pineapple is a recurring hidden symbol in every episode.

Description: The Mentalist and Moonlighting both feature charming, unconventional detectives who use their wits and charisma to solve crimes, with a mix of humor and drama. The shows also explore the personal lives of their protagonists.

Fact: Simon Baker is Australian but plays an American character. The show was inspired by the real-life psychic detective James Randi. The character of Patrick Jane was originally conceived as a magician.

Description: Castle mirrors Moonlighting's formula of a crime-solving duo with romantic tension, combining procedural elements with humor and character-driven stories. The banter between Castle and Beckett is reminiscent of Maddie and David.

Fact: Nathan Fillion's character was inspired by real-life author Stephen J. Cannell. The show often referenced pop culture, including Firefly, Fillion's previous show. Stana Katic learned to speak several languages for her role.