Functional Relationships in Crime Shows: Lassiter and O'Hara

Every now and again, a crime show produces a strong relationship that avoids the oh, they must sleep together plotline. The Elementary producers and writers set out to do this with Sherlock and Joan and succeeded. I honestly didn't think they would. They did! 

Psych does this with Juliet O'Hara and Carlton Lassiter, played by Maggie Lawson and Timothy Omundson. Lassiter becomes a kind of mentor, older brother or cousin, friend to O'Hara who treats him in similar manner. The relationship is strong and quite believable. 

Two of My Favorite Scenes

At the end of Season 1, Lassiter realizes that his grouchy guy self may not be entirely accepted by everyone at the station. As he walks disconsolately away from the trio of O'Hara, Shawn, and Gus, Shawn calls to him. He turns. They all smile. He came to help when they needed his help. He was there for them. Shawn throws him a fortune cookie. 

In Season 4, the wholly ridiculous final episode "Mr. Yin Presents..." ends with a montage of images accompanied by great music. O'Hara is nearly killed. Gus and Lassiter rescue her since Shawn has to rescue his girlfriend (at the time). It is Lassiter, appropriately, who shoos away the other cops and comforts O'Hara. 

Great partners!