Sharona Fleming was indispensable to Adrian Monk’s recovery after his wife’s tragic death. She was the anchor that pulled Monk from his agoraphobia back into the world, enabling him to become the beloved, albeit OCD-afflicted, detective fans adored in Monk. This hit series spanned eight seasons and is now expanding with Mr. Monk’s Last Case: A Monk Movie, premiering on Peacock on December 8.
However, Sharona’s presence wasn’t constant throughout the series. Bitty Schram, the actress who brilliantly portrayed Sharona, departed from Monk after Season 3, only making a special return appearance in the final season. The question lingers for many fans: Why did Bitty Schram leave Monk? Let’s delve into the reasons behind her exit.
Who is Bitty Schram?
Bitty Schram as Sharona Fleming. Photo: USA Network
Born on July 17, 1968, in Mountainside, New Jersey, Elizabeth “Bitty” Schram is celebrated for two iconic roles: Sharona Fleming in Monk and Evelyn Gardner in the 1992 cinematic gem, A League of Their Own. In the latter, she played the right fielder and mother to a mischievous son, famously on the receiving end of Tom Hanks’ legendary line, “There’s no crying in baseball!” While her acting portfolio includes appearances in Roswell and Felicity, A League of Their Own and Monk remain her most memorable contributions to film and television.
Who Was Sharona Fleming in Monk?
Bitty Schram as Sharona Fleming. Photo: USA Network
For the initial three seasons of Monk, Bitty Schram embodied Sharona, Adrian Monk’s practical nurse and dedicated assistant. Sharona was instrumental in Monk’s resurgence after years of isolation following his wife’s murder. She not only facilitated his return to detective work but also became an active participant in his investigations. Sharona’s resilience and resourcefulness were often crucial, as she skillfully navigated situations hindered by Monk’s severe OCD and numerous phobias. Her character was essential to the early success and charm of Monk.
Why Did Bitty Schram Depart from Monk?
Tony Shalhoub as Adrian Monk, Bitty Schram as Sharona Fleming, Jason Gray-Stanford as Lt. Randall Disher. Photo: USA Network
Within the narrative of Monk, Sharona’s departure was scripted as a consequence of her reconciling with her ex-husband, Trevor, leading her to resign and relocate back to New Jersey with him. However, the real-world circumstances of Bitty Schram’s exit from Monk appear to be more nuanced.
In 2004, coinciding with Schram’s departure, a USA Network spokesperson attributed the change to “creative direction.” According to a Today news report from that period, the network stated, “Monk has decided to go in a different creative direction with some of its characters. Bitty will not continue with the cast, and we thank her for her notable contributions and wish her the very best.”
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Mr. Monk’s Last Case Plot Details Shared By Series Creator Ahead Of Peacock Premiere
Nevertheless, both the Today report and subsequent articles hinted at contract disputes as a significant factor in her leaving. Reports indicated that Bitty Schram, a Golden Globe nominee for her role in Monk, along with co-stars Ted Levine and Jason Gray-Stanford, were seeking improved compensation for their continued involvement in the series. While Levine and Gray-Stanford, portraying Lieutenant Randy Disher and Captain Leland Stottlemeyer respectively, remained with the show, Schram did not reach an agreement.
Consequently, Sharona Fleming was replaced by Natalie Teeger, played by Traylor Howard, who stepped in as Monk’s new assistant.
Bitty Schram as Sharona Fleming. Photo: USA Network
Did Sharona Fleming Ever Return to Monk?
Any potential discord surrounding Bitty Schram’s exit didn’t prevent her from reprising her role as Sharona in a Season 8 episode of Monk.
As Tony Shalhoub mentioned at the time, reported by Entertainment Weekly, “We couldn’t think of a better way to help wrap up the series than with the return of Bitty’s character. Bringing some closure to Sharona is long overdue.”
As of now, there have been no announcements regarding Bitty Schram’s participation in the upcoming Mr. Monk’s Last Case: A Monk Movie.
Don’t miss the chance to revisit all episodes of Monk on Peacock before the premiere of Mr. Monk’s Last Case: A Monk Movie on December 8, 2023.
