Fans of gentle whodunnits have a festive treat to look forward to, as the beloved series The Madame Blanc Mysteries returns for a Christmas special. The show, which found a massive new audience after landing on Netflix this summer, will air a two-hour special episode on Tuesday, 23 December 2025 at 8pm on Channel 5.
From Channel 5 Staple to Netflix Sensation
Created, co-written, and executive-produced by Sally Lindsay, the series first carved out its niche on Channel 5. It stars Lindsay as Jean White, an antiques dealer who investigates her husband's death and other crimes in the quaint fictional French village of Sainte Victoire. She is aided by taxi driver Dom, played by Steve Edge.
The show's blend of mystery, sunny Maltese filming locations (standing in for France), and charming characters proved irresistible. Its popularity soared when all four seasons became available on Netflix, introducing it to a global audience craving escapist 'cosy crime'.
What to Expect in the 2025 Christmas Special
The festive episode sees the gang invited to a Christmas Eve soirée at the Musée de Sainte Victoire. The celebrations take a dangerous turn when Jean discovers a bomb hidden inside a rare Ormolu box once owned by Marie Antoinette.
To defuse the device, Jean and Dom must crack a series of codes and riddles. As if that weren't enough, they must also contend with a murderer lurking among the guests. The special promises to transform a peaceful Christmas into a high-stakes nightmare.
A Beloved Cast and Future Plans
The special features the show's familiar ensemble, including Robin Askwith, Sue Holderness, Paul Chuckle, and Tony Robinson. Sally Lindsay has expressed her deep affection for the series, stating she will continue making it for as long as Channel 5 wants.
Audience reception has been warmly positive. On Rotten Tomatoes, the first season holds a 63% rating, while fans on IMDb praise it as "almost perfect" and "silly fun"—ideal viewing to enjoy with a glass of wine.
The Madame Blanc Mysteries Christmas special airs on Channel 5 on Tuesday, 23 December at 8pm and will be available to stream on-demand afterwards.
