CBS just renewed The Mentalist for a seventh season. I wouldn’t have made that decision if I were a CBS executive. Season Six was disappointing as the quirky crime consultant, Patrick Jane (Simon Baker) finally dealt with his nemesis, the serial killer Red John. Then there was a “reboot” as the series shed some characters and added new ones. The setting was shifted from California to Texas. The cases became more serious–not a good thing. I enjoyed the “funny” episodes of The Mentalist the most. When The Mentalist returns in the Fall, I won’t be watching.
I’ll probably join you. I was surprised myself when it was renewed. It had become “not interesting” after the Red Jiohn arc was finished.
Randy, you’re right. The whole Red John conclusion was botched in my opinion. And shifting to Texas didn’t improve the program, either
I have never watched this one, George. Anything that is a moderate success continues I guess. The networks don’t know what to do.
Patti, the networks are “risk adverse.” As you say, anything that is a moderate success will get renewed rather than take the risk on “somehthing new.”
Never had any interest in this. He always looks incredibly smug and self-satisfied in the promos.
Jeff, Simon Baker is a polarizing actor. People either love him or detest him.
The one I really can’t understand is the odious CRIMINAL MINDS. Are there not enough serial killers in the real world that we need to see them on television week after week after week?
Jeff, I’m with you on CRIMINAL MINDS. Very creepy!
Perhaps an interesting premise gone wrong. Should have been a planned two season show.
Rick, it’s always risky to change a winning formula. I liked the cast of the first five seasons of THE MENTALIST. This Sixth Season introduced many changes. Many of them didn’t work.
By the end of the 3rd season I was sick of Red John, and I have only watched hit or miss since. It should have been a one season arc. They could have learned a lot from Veronica Mars – one season arcs and single and short episode arcs within it.
Stan, I completely agree with your analysis of THE MENTALIST. VERONICA MARS perfected those one season story arcs.
Funny thing is, I’ve seen only season six, and found it very enjoyable. I’m glad it was renewed, though surprised.
Steve, Seasons One through Five were a lot more fun. Worth checking out.