Bitty Schram returning to 'Monk'

LOS ANGELES, March 26 (UPI) -- USA Network says original show cast member Bitty Schram has agreed to guest-star in an episode of the eighth and final season of "Monk."

The last season of the comedy series, which stars Emmy, Golden Globe and SAG winner Tony Shalhoub, started production this week in Los Angeles and will debut this summer.

Schram co-starred on the show from its inception as Monk's beloved nurse and Girl Friday sidekick, Sharona Fleming. During Season 3, her character moved to New Jersey with her son to re-marry her ex-husband.

"We couldn't think of a better way to help wrap up the series than with the return of Bitty's character," Shalhoub said in a statement. "Bringing some closure to Sharona is long overdue."