TNT to air 'Mentalist' re-runs

LOS ANGELES, Nov. 10 (UPI) -- TNT has announced it acquired the exclusive U.S. syndication rights to the TV drama "The Mentalist" from Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution.

Re-runs of the show starring Simon Baker will begin airing on the basic-cable network in 2012.

The series currently is in its second season on CBS.

"The Mentalist' is a terrific show that will be an ideal fit for TNT's already strong lineup," Steve Koonin, president of Turner Entertainment Networks, said in a statement. "The early success of the series also indicates 'The Mentalist' has a great future."

Ken Werner, president, Warner Bros. Domestic Television Distribution, called the show "an A-tier drama" that people recognized early on would do well in syndication.

"As a result, the demand for the off-network rights began almost immediately following its debut on CBS last fall and has steadily increased as the show blossomed into a true broadcast hit," he said.

In the series, Baker plays an independent consultant with the California Bureau of Investigation who has a remarkable track record for solving serious crimes by using his razor-sharp skills of observation.