A beloved star from Death in Paradise and Beyond Paradise has joined the cast of Channel 5's feel-good murder mystery series The Good Ship Murder for its fourth season. Peter Davison will appear alongside Shayne Ward, who leads the cast as Jack Grayling, a former police officer turned cruise ship entertainer.
Peter Davison's Role
In the upcoming series, Jack investigates a new collection of perplexing crimes aboard a lavish Mediterranean cruise ship. The synopsis states: "Jack navigates new waters, both personal and professional, as high stakes mysteries unfold once more against the picture postcard backdrop of the sunny Mediterranean." Peter Davison, who has previously featured in both Death in Paradise and Beyond Paradise, will portray Jack's father, Eddie Grayling, described as a "smooth-talking, streetwise silver fox."
"After 35 years as a copper in Serious Crimes, Eddie is still razor sharp, so when the ship sails into choppy waters, he brings his old-school policing methods out of retirement to form a crack crime-solving duo with his son," the synopsis continues.
Cast and Characters
In an official statement, Peter commended the "brilliant, tight-knit team" for their warm reception. "Eddie Grayling is a delight to play, and Shayne and I have relished establishing a father-son dynamic in the Good Ship's sleuthing team," the actor remarked. "Shayne has made fitting in, and filming our many scenes, so easy. Even if it's obvious he can run a little faster, and sing a lot better than me."
Meanwhile, Fiona Allen (Smack the Pony, Finding Emily) will take on the role of trailblazing new captain, Serena 'The Iceberg' Teller, described as a "formidable figure, oozing class and style, who strikes fear into her crew." But occasionally the ice thaws a little, and we catch a personal glimpse of a woman who has made huge sacrifices for her success.
Guest Stars and Departures
A host of fresh guest stars are also set to feature in the forthcoming series, amongst them Richard Blackwood (The Madame Blanc Mysteries, EastEnders), Anita Dobson (Doctor Who, EastEnders), Matthew Kelly (Inside No. 9, Not Going Out), Rula Lenska (Mr Big Stuff, Coronation Street), Debra Stephenson (Bad Girls, Coronation Street), Neil Stuke (Hijack, Grantchester) and Ramon Tikaram (Kaos, Pennyworth).
Notably, Catherine Tyldesley, who has portrayed First Officer Kate Woods since the programme's launch, will not be returning as a series regular. Her character is expected to depart in the season four premiere via a "special appearance".
Executive Comments
Greg Barnett, 5 Commissioning Editor, has described the new episodes as "hugely dramatic and entertaining". He said, "I'm absolutely thrilled that Peter and Fiona are joining the regular cast aboard The Good Ship Murder. Their brilliant performances will delight fans and definitely rock the boat. I'm further excited that we have secured such incredible guest-star appearances, which will make this fourth series hugely dramatic and entertaining."
The Good Ship Murder seasons 1-3 can be streamed on Channel 5.
