What's His Secret? Watch and Learn

Simon Baker would be the first to acknowledge that in his television career, the third time's all about the charm.

In "The Mentalist," Baker stars as Patrick Jane, a beguiling fake psychic turned consultant with the California Bureau of Investigation.

Baker allowed that there's a bit of a used-car-salesman air of confidence and manipulation in Patrick. While his methods often leave his colleagues in a state of amused -- or annoyed -- bewilderment, Patrick has a knack for coercing secrets or confessions out of even the most unwilling subjects.

"He's an unprocedural character that has to live in the procedural world," Baker said.

Patrick transitioned to that nontraditional role when his career as a psychic medium ended after a family tragedy. He decided to turn his understanding of human nature and powers of observation into tools for justice.

Baker said he was undaunted by having to depict a hyper-aware character whose thinking process unfolds before the audience.

"I've had a bit more problem with the showmanship side of it, because I haven't really played roles like that," he said.

"The watchful stuff is easy for me. Easier for me. Easy," Baker paused, then added, laughing, "None of it's easy for me!"

Baker talked about his character, shooting in California and other topics on a recent morning while he drove to work (hands-free device!):

CBS picked up "The Mentalist" for a full season, and it's doing well in the ratings. How does that feel?

When I read the script, I believed in it. When we made the pilot, I believed in it even more, and I thought the show had a shot, because I thought it was a good show. But that doesn't always necessarily mean that people will watch it. I'm just grateful that people are entertained by it and seem to enjoy it.

Why do you think the show has resonated with people?