Unveiling the Untold Story of 'The Finder': A Failed Spin-off Attempt from 'Bones'
The Finder was a promising spin-off of Bones that unfortunately didn't secure a second season This article explores its release, creators, plot, cast, and offers a list of similar shows like Monk, Dexter, and The Mentalist for fans to enjoy
In a 2017 episode of the popular series Billy on the Street, host Billy Eichner took to the streets of New York with his usual energetic antics. However, his question this time was a departure from his usual lightheartedness: "How much will you miss the show Bones?" Much to everyone's surprise, the unsuspecting New Yorkers had a lot to say, expressing their deep sentiments and fondness for the beloved show. Bones initially premiered on FOX in September 2005 and enjoyed an impressive twelve-season run before coming to an end in 2017. In an industry where it's rare for a show to last more than one season, Bones' longevity was truly remarkable.
The show revolves around the story of Detective Temperance (played by Emily Deschanel), who possesses a unique skill of uncovering the truth behind victims' deaths merely by examining their skeletal remains. Initially skeptical, her partner Seeley (played by David Boreanaz) eventually realizes their compatibility and a successful partnership ensues. In 2012, five years prior to the conclusion of Bones, Fox announced plans for a spin-off titled The Finder, which left devoted Bones fans excited. However, their anticipation was short-lived as The Finder was abruptly canceled within months, leaving a lingering disappointment for supporters of the original show. In the following discussion, we will delve into the reasons behind the failed spin-off as well as present a selection of other detective series featuring protagonists with unique abilities that you can enjoy right now.
When Was 'The Finder' Released?
Image via FOX
The Finder made its debut on Fox in January 2012 as a "mid-season premiere." Since established shows were already halfway through their seasons at that time, there was a higher risk that The Finder's pilot episode would not attract as large of an audience compared to shows premiering in the fall. Despite receiving lukewarm reviews from critics, the show still garnered high ratings among viewers. Another hurdle in The Finder's cancellation dilemma was its frequent time slot changes, initially airing on Thursdays at 9pm and struggling to find a permanent place in the channel's lineup.
Who Made 'The Finder'?
The Finder was created by Hart Hanson, the same Executive Producer who created Bones. After the failure of The Finder, Hanson's only credit other than the next few seasons of Bones is another one-season mystery show, Backstrom starring Rainn Wilson (The Office). Also, Barry Josephson, an alum of Bones, was an EP on The Finder, along with Daniel Sackheim, who directed an episode of Bones. With EPs who knew the success formula of The Finder's predecessor, it's a mystery what parts of that success were lost in production translation.
Watch the 'The Finder' Trailer
The creators of Bones, known and trusted by many, had a hand in creating The Finder, as the FOX promo proudly pointed out. This connection certainly piqued the interest of viewers for its season one premiere. However, the promotional material fell short in offering more than just a glimpse of The Finder's impressive ability to locate things. If only it had delved deeper into the intriguing supporting characters, it could have captured the attention of a larger audience.
What Was 'The Finder' About?
The show called The Finder revolved around a character named Walter (Geoff Stults), who was introduced in the sixth season of Bones. Walter possessed a remarkable talent for locating anything, whether it be a valuable item or something as ordinary as a pair of socks. Additionally, Walter had suffered brain damage, leading to an intense sense of paranoia towards others and the world. This brain damage also fueled his natural impulse to find missing things, earning him the moniker of "The Finder." Leo Knox (Michael Clarke Duncan) served as not only Walter's close friend but also his manager and occasionally his bodyguard, in addition to being the owner of a local bar.
Who Was In the Cast of 'The Finder'?
Image via 20th Century Fox Television
Geoff Stults played the lead role in The Finder. Stults has built an impressive career in television, with notable appearances in 7th Heaven, The Odd Couple, Little Fires Everywhere, and the recently released The Last Thing He Told Me. Unfortunately, the late Michael Clarke Duncan portrayed Walter's confidante, Leo, and tragically passed away in the same year the show aired. Duncan is best known for his role in the Tom Hanks-led film, The Green Mile, but he also had notable roles in Armageddon, Planet of the Apes, and The Scorpion King. Mercedes Mason portrayed the ambitious U.S. Marshall Isabel Zambada, who is in a relationship with Walter. Mason's previous work includes Fear the Walking Dead, The Rookie, and NCIS: Los Angeles. Additionally, Maddie Hasson played the character of Willa, a juvenile delinquent on probation who has a talent for computers that she cannot utilize during her probation.
More Shows Like 'The Finder' That You Can Watch Right Now
Monk (2002-2009)
With a brain trauma that grants him an uncanny talent for finding things, the Finder possesses remarkable skills. Similarly, Adrian Monk, portrayed by Tony Shalhoub in the TV series Monk, utilizes his intense Obsessive Compulsive Disorder (OCD) to solve mysteries. Beginning after the abrupt demise of Monk's wife, Trudy (played by Melora Hardin from The Office), the story takes place during a four-year period of seclusion in his home. Assisted by his partner (Bitty Schram), Monk re-establishes himself as a private detective. Working alongside him are Captain Stottlemeyer (Ted Levine, best known as the iconic Jame Gum from The Silence of the Lambs) and Lt. Deacon (portrayed by Jason Gray-Stanford), both impressed and irritated by Monk's distinctive approach. The show garnered considerable success, running for eight seasons and culminating in a finale that attracted an audience of 9.4 million viewers, making it the highest-rated scripted drama until The Walking Dead claimed the title. Currently, a Monk film titled Mr. Monk's Last Case is in production and is scheduled to premiere on Peacock, where viewers can currently enjoy all seasons of Monk.
Dexter (2006-2013)
Image via Showtime
The lead character in this show, Dexter, possesses skills that are not quite as straightforward as Mr. Monk's. Dexter, portrayed by Michael C. Hall, has the unique ability to utilize blood spatter analysis to solve cases. However, there's a catch - outside of work, Dexter is a murderer. Though he sees himself as a vigilante, balancing his double life becomes increasingly troublesome. The show, inspired by Jeff Lindsay's novel "Darkly Dreaming Dexter," garnered critical acclaim during its eight-season run on CBS. Much like its spinoff series, Bones, Dexter: New Blood lasted for only one season. Yet, there may still be hope for fans of Dexter, as there are rumors of a prequel series exploring the origins of the serial killer. To watch all seasons of Dexter, head over to Paramount+.
Image via CBS
The Mentalist (2008-2015)
If you enjoy crime dramas where the main character has a unique skill to solve crimes in an impressive way, then you should watch The Mentalist. Starring Simon Baker as Patrick Jane, a highly observant individual who used to pose as a psychic but now assists the California Bureau of Investigation (CBI). Patrick's ability to notice even the smallest details grants him a job investigating cases with the CBI. Although he isn't part of law enforcement, Patrick is exceptionally talented at solving murders. Additionally, he is driven by a desire for revenge against "Red John," the killer responsible for the murder of his loved ones. The Mentalist also features Robin Tunney as Teresa, a high-ranking member of the CBI, and Tim Kang as Kimball, one of Patrick's colleagues. Running for seven seasons on CBS, the series concluded in 2015. However, all episodes are currently available for streaming on Max.
