Ep 10. Mr. Monk and Sharona

In the season 8 finale, titled "Mr. Monk and Sharona," Monk's former assistant Sharona returns to San Francisco with her young son in tow. However, when a man she befriended on the plane is murdered right in front of her, Sharona becomes the prime suspect. Monk knows that his friend is innocent and sets out to prove it.

As usual, the case is not straightforward. The victim, an art dealer, had a tangled web of enemies and clients, any one of whom could have killed him. Monk's investigation takes him through the seedy world of art forgery and into the lives of a group of wealthy collectors. Along the way, he reunites with Sharona's son Benjy, who has grown up since he last saw him. The detective also begins to confront his feelings for his former assistant, which have never quite gone away.

Meanwhile, Sharona herself is struggling with personal issues. She is still grieving the loss of her husband and questioning her decision to move to New Jersey. Her complex relationship with Monk, who she once worked alongside for years, adds to her confusion. The two share a deep bond, but how much of it is platonic, and how much is something more?

The episode is a satisfying conclusion to the show's eighth and final season. As always, Tony Shalhoub is brilliant as the obsessive-compulsive detective, capturing both his quirks and his heart. Bitty Schram returns as Sharona, delivering an emotional performance as her character grapples with her past and present. The chemistry between the two actors is palpable, making their scenes together all the more poignant.

As with every episode of Monk, there are plenty of comedic moments to balance out the drama. Monk's various phobias and tics provide ample fodder for jokes, and his interactions with the rest of the cast are always a delight. The show's supporting actors, including Traylor Howard as Monk's assistant Natalie and Ted Levine as Captain Stottlemeyer, are also in top form.

In "Mr. Monk and Sharona," the stakes are higher than usual. The case is personal for Monk, who is determined to clear Sharona's name no matter what. His feelings for her only add to the intensity. The episode allows the characters to explore emotions that have been simmering under the surface for years, making it a satisfying conclusion to their story arcs.

Overall, "Mr. Monk and Sharona" is a fitting end to one of the best detective shows of the past decade. It brings closure to the relationships and storylines that fans have been invested in for years, while also providing a thrilling mystery for Monk to solve. The episode serves as a reminder of why the show was so beloved, with its sharp writing, talented cast, and unique blend of humor and drama. It is a must-watch for any fan of the series, and a satisfying send-off for one of TV's most memorable characters.