Monk is a legitimately good show that's aged better than most early 2000s network TV. Yes, it's a murder-mystery procedural, so every episode involves someone dying—but the violence is minimal and the focus is on puzzle-solving, not gore.
What makes it special is the surprisingly thoughtful portrayal of OCD and anxiety. Monk isn't a caricature; he's a fully realized person whose mental health challenges are treated with empathy and respect. For teens (and adults) who appreciate character-driven mysteries, this is solid family viewing.
The main drawback? It's slow by 2025 standards. If your kids are used to rapid-fire Netflix pacing, they might bounce off the first few episodes. But if they stick with it, there's real substance here—and Tony Shalhoub's performance is genuinely worth watching.