The detective series from the late seventies and early eighties—like Magnum P.I., Riptide, Simon & Simon, and others—were uncomplicated diversions. They were enjoyable programs, certainly, but their overall feel was less intense and more suitable for family viewing. Jake and the Fatman took on a somewhat darker edge. The action and humor remained, but it comes across as an older, more mature version of those earlier detective shows, similar to how Columbo seemed like the sensible adult among them. Still, it’s enjoyable programming that I'd be happy to see revived somehow. These buddy-cop style series are superior to standard police procedurals.

Source on TMDB