In 1991, he starred in the ABC sitcom "The Man in the Family". While Sharkey received good reviews for his performance, the show was panned by critics and canceled after one season. The following year, he appeared in a guest spot on "Jake and the Fatman", and starred in the television movie "". On July 30, 1992, while filming a guest spot on the television series, "The Hat Squad", in Vancouver, he was arrested for drug possession. Canadian customs officials, making a routine inspection of incoming cargo at the airport, discovered small amounts of cocaine and heroin in a black envelope being sent from Los Angeles to Sharkey in Vancouver. Police searched his hotel room and found an additional supply of drugs. He was jailed and later released on bail. Sharkey was later fired from "The Hat Squad". Sharkey's final role was in the 1993 comedy film "Cop and a Half".