'Psych' to 'Barry': Best crime/mystery comedy series
With witty characters, clever plot twists, and memorable one-liners, the crime or mystery comedy genre creates an addictive and entertaining genre that will have you both guessing "whodidit" and laughing out loud. These shows are the perfect mix of suspense and humor, masterfully balancing the thrill of solving complex crimes with the art of making you laugh. Check out some of the best below.
'The Afterparty' (2022- )
Christopher Miller's The Afterparty unfolds through the perspectives of various partygoers attending a high school reunion. With each episode dedicated to a different character's recollection of the evening, viewers piece together the events that lead to a murder. This unconventional narrative structure, combined with witty humor and a star-studded cast, creates an engaging and entertaining whodunit with a unique twist.
'Only Murders in the Building' (2021- )
Only Murders in the Building is a delightful and comedic murder mystery series starring Steve Martin, Martin Short, and Selena Gomez. They play true-crime enthusiasts in the series who live in the same apartment building in New York City. The show unfolds as a murder occurs, and they team up to investigate, all while recording their own true-crime podcast.
'Barry' (2018-2023)
Created by Alec Berg and Bill Hader, the critically acclaimed dark comedy crime series Barry follows the life of Barry Berkman, a hitman who unexpectedly discovers a passion for acting while on a job in Los Angeles. Juggling his deadly profession and newfound thespian aspirations, Barry finds himself in a constant tug-of-war between two contrasting worlds. It skillfully blends humor, crime, and character exploration.
'Castle' (2009-2016)
Castle centers around renowned crime novelist Richard Castle and the talented NYPD detective Kate Beckett. When Castle's insights prove invaluable to solving real-life crimes, he joins Beckett's team as a consultant. The show combines clever humor with intriguing mysteries, and as Castle and Beckett's relationship deepens, they form an engaging crime-fighting duo in a blend of romance and crime-solving.
'Psych' (2006-2014)
The lighthearted and witty crime/mystery comedy series Psych follows Shawn Spencer, a hyper-observant man with a knack for solving crimes through his remarkable powers of deduction. The twist? He pretends to be a psychic detective to assist the Santa Barbara Police Department. With his reluctant partner Gus, the duo navigates a series of unconventional and baffling cases in this clever and laugh-out-loud show.