The BBC has revived a beloved literary detective for a new generation with its latest crime drama, simply titled 'Lynley'. This contemporary update of Elizabeth George's hit novels pairs a suave, aristocratic detective with a feisty, working-class sergeant for a case involving murder on a private island. The series, which aired on BBC One and is now available on iPlayer, promises classic, undemanding television entertainment.
A Classic Odd Couple Returns
At the heart of the show is the iconic detective duo. Leo Suter stars as Detective Inspector Tommy Lynley, described as a Balliol-educated toff with sharp cheekbones and an unusually buff physique for a posho, a legacy perhaps from his recent role as Harald Hardrada in 'Vikings: Valhalla'. His new partner is Detective Sergeant Barbara Havers, played by Sofia Barclay, known for 'Ted Lasso'. Havers is a Norfolk-born officer in sturdy boots, whose career is on thin ice due to her outspoken nature.
Their dynamic is established quickly. Havers expects to be babysitting a clueless city newcomer, but instead meets Lynley, a tall, experienced detective who is very clear on the difference between his arse and his elbow. The script capitalises on their class clash and contrasting styles, from Lynley's casual dropping of Latin phrases to Havers' grounded, no-nonsense approach.
A Murder on a Private Island
The pair's first case together is a classic whodunit. They are dispatched to investigate the death of Guy Brouard (Dave Anders), a wealthy man found murdered on the beach of his own private island. The list of potential suspects is quickly populated by those in his orbit: his cancer-ridden wife Ruth (Wendy Nottingham), his all-seeing housekeeper Valerie (Amanda Drew), the groundsman Paul (Angus Cooper), and an expectant heir in the form of his son.
Further complicating matters are the son's attractive wife, a comely student on an archaeological dig funded by Brouard, and the housekeeper's young niece visiting for the summer. The plot, as the review notes, fires off every Chekhov's gun imaginable, from sex tapes to pottery shards, ensuring a traditional, clue-driven mystery where every loose end is neatly tied up.
Personal Lives and Future Secrets
While the murder investigation unfolds at a steady pace, glimpses into the detectives' private lives add depth. Lynley is on strained terms with his parents and may have left professional trouble behind in London. His new superior, played by Daniel Mays, clearly despises him for reasons yet to be revealed. Fans of the novels will also note the promised arrival of his love interest, Helen Clyde, to be played by Niamh Walsh in future episodes.
For her part, DS Havers makes frequent visits to her parents, but a secret sorrow hangs over these meetings, suggesting more of her backstory will be explored as the series progresses. These personal threads provide narrative suspense between the procedural beats of the main case.
In summary, 'Lynley' delivers exactly what it sets out to: a well-paced, traditional crime drama. It serves fans of the original Elizabeth George books, those who remember the Nathaniel Parker-led series from a quarter-century ago, and anyone simply seeking reliable, undemanding television. The new incarnation, with its fresh cast and contemporary sheen, is available to stream in full on BBC iPlayer now.
