I think the perfect example to compare this show to is Supernatural. In supernatural, their fans don't give a flying fuck about the plot line........... 95% of the fan base is comprised of females eye raping Dean and Sam. That's the only reason they tune in to watch and that's the only reason this show has been renewed until it's 9th year.................... and will probably be renewed for the 10th regardless of how shit the plot lines are. In the case of The Mentalist, Jane is the "Dean and Sam" and the plot has turned bad as well.