Ep 1. Pilot

Patrick Jane used to be a successful psychic, earning a living by pretending to communicate with the dead. However, his life takes a dark turn when he portrays the killer known as Red John on television and his family is subsequently murdered. Now, years later, Jane works as a consultant for the California Bureau of Investigation (CBI), using his keen eye for detail and unparalleled observational skills to help solve crimes.

In the pilot episode, Jane is brought in to help the CBI track down a serial killer known as the 'Fugue Killer'. The killer, who suffers from dissociative fugue, a condition that causes him to forget his identity and wander aimlessly, has claimed three victims, leaving the CBI with little to go on.

Initially reluctant to get involved, Jane is convinced to help after being allowed to take charge of the case. Using his unconventional methods and seemingly psychic abilities, Jane is able to deduce that the killer is likely a white male in his 30s, with an affinity for classical music and a knowledge of chess.

Following a hunch, Jane leads the CBI to a local residence where the killer is hiding out. It's revealed that the killer is actually a troubled man named Jeremy who has been suffering from severe memory loss since he was involved in a car accident years earlier. The accident caused him to develop dissociative fugue, prompting him to commit the murders without any recollection of his actions.

Despite his condition, Jeremy is arrested and brought to justice, thanks in part to Jane's contributions. However, before the case is closed, Jane is confronted by CBI agent Teresa Lisbon, who is skeptical of his abilities and accuses him of being a fraud.

Undeterred, Jane reveals that he's been aware of Lisbon's doubts from the start, and reaffirms his belief in his own abilities. Lisbon is astounded when Jane reveals intimate details about her personal life, thereby proving his skill as an observer. This revelation leads Lisbon to reconsider Jane's talents and reach out to him for further assistance in future cases.

The episode ends with Jane returning to his motel room, where he's visited by Kristina Frye, a former television reporter who's fascinated by his story and wants to do a feature on him. Jane agrees to the interview, but it's clear that he has his own reasons for wanting to speak with Kristina.

Overall, the pilot episode of The Mentalist sets the tone for the series by introducing viewers to Jane's unconventional methods and impressive skills as an observer. It also establishes the key relationships between Jane and the members of the CBI, most notably Lisbon, who serves as a foil to Jane's unique approach to solving crimes. Ultimately, the episode lays the groundwork for what is to come, setting the stage for future cases and exploring the personal motivations behind Jane's pursuit of justice.