I know exactly what it is, but I can’t seem to verbalize it. So maybe you guys can figure out what these shows have in common. The only thing I can think of is, very charismatic figures, that are more realistic looking rather than super-star gorgeous (well, Mark Harmon is kinda pretty, but now that he’s older, he looks more like a real person, which I like). I also like a good mystery with a bit of a twist, dynamic, intelligent, witty bantering dialogue, ensemble casts with great chemistry, maybe a side story or two thrown in for good measure, and really great humor (could be subtle, could be ROTFLOL humor) but humor is so subjective. I think the funniest 2 shows on TV are Doc Martin and The Big Bang Theory, but their humor is so different from each other. And it helps if there is a slow burning, will they or won’t they, romantic couple. I really like that. A few quirky characters also helps. Here’s some of my favorites, so maybe you guys can figure out if there are any other things linking them.
NCIS (although I really haven’t been able to watch since Ziva left, leaving the Tiva void).
The Big Bang Theory
Doc Martin
Downton Abbey (only it’s been off the air for so long, that I can barely remember it, and I think they made a lot of bad casting mistakes by killing off key members).
Elementary
Sherlock (also love this, but it’s been missing in action for too long, I hope it will still be good when it comes back).
Two Broke Girls
Shows that are no longer on the air that I enjoyed were:
The Nanny
Star Trek the Next Generation
Voyager
Scrubs
Newhart
Frazier
Two shows that I love that are not sitcoms are House Hunters (mystery) and Love it or List It (with a bantering Realtor and designer, who have great sexual tension).