Another star is the writing, which is also essential to whether the show would be successful or not and succeed it does here. The mystery is always engaging with a pretty ingenious murder and a very cleverly staged summation. Both Ted Levine and Jason Gray-Stanford are solid. Disher is amusing enough if not with as much to do. Stottlemeyer really shines in 'Mr Monk Goes to Vegas' and even gets to let his hair down, which is so much fun to see. Have always loved the balance of the humour, which is often hilarious, and pathos, which is sincere and touching. It was essential for him to work and be the glue of the show, and Shalhoub not only is that but also at his very best he IS the show.

As said many times, one of the best things about 'Monk' has always been the acting of Tony Shalhoub in the title role. She has a down-to-earth-ness, sensitivity and sass that makes one warm to her as well as being more sympathetic to Monk's issues. Natalie is settling in well, her chemistry with Monk is sparkling even more, her personality is starting to become more differentiated and more interesting, she's useful and the two characters function very well together. It features a very lavish yet slightly seedy setting, that for 'Monk' is different, and one of the best murderers not just of the season but also in a while, one worthy of Monk and wonderfully played by James Brolin. It has been a very solid season overall that coped remarkably well with difficult circumstances mid-season to write in a new character and find a new actress to fill it, following the abrupt departure of Sharona and actress Bitty Schram. 'Mr Monk Goes to Vegas' is again one of Season 3's stronger episodes. 'Monk' has always been one of my most watched shows when needing comfort, to relax after a hard day, a good laugh or a way to spend a lazy weekend.

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