Fans of Beyond Paradise searching for their next television obsession need look no further, as the BBC has announced a brand-new detective drama. The Hairdresser Mysteries, created by acclaimed writer Jim Cartwright, has unveiled its first-look images and confirmed an impressive cast lineup for the nostalgic 1970s-set crime series.
Sally Phillips Stars as Lily Petal
Bridget Jones's Diary icon Sally Phillips, 56, leads the ensemble as hairdresser Lily Petal. Lily leaves behind the cutthroat city scene to purchase a modest village hairdressing salon perched at the top of a cobbled street. Her character becomes the hub of local secrets and revelations.
Full Cast Announced
Joining Phillips is Coronation Street favourite Charlotte Jordan, who plays Clary Coombs — described as Lily's 'bright and analytical assistant and the Watson to her Shear-lock Holmes'. You actor Ben Castle-Gibb portrays PC Adam Watson, a keen young policeman who becomes smitten with Clary.
Other cast members include:
- Wendi Peters (Coronation Street) as Gloria Crudd, a village newcomer running an ice cream parlour while trying to escape her past.
- Sunetra Sarker (Ackley Bridge) as Wincey Evans, the village's resident chatterbox and notorious gossip.
- Clive Rowe as Lonnie, the flamboyant manager of the local charity shop.
- Guy Henry (Holby City) as Race Runard, the village's quirky antiques dealer with a fondness for precious teacup collections.
Plot and Tone
A synopsis reveals: 'Everyone tells their hairdresser everything and soon she becomes the hub of her new village's secrets and revelations. Using her own brand of uncannily developed hairdressing intuition, empathy and understanding, Lily begins to solve the mysteries of the village.'
Executive Producers Will Trotter and Oliver Kent of Mill Bay Media said: 'We are thrilled to be making The Hairdresser Mysteries and working with renowned writer Jim Cartwright, who has created a joyful world packed with colourful characters. None more so than hairdresser Lily Petal, and we are delighted to have much-loved actor Sally Phillips bring her to life.'
Herbert L. Kloiber, CEO of Night Train Media and Eccho Rights, added: 'We are delighted to bring The Hairdresser Mysteries to the international stage. The unique world that Jim Cartwright has created — modern but joyfully retro — and Sally Phillips's irresistible charm create a fun drama that is both clever and comforting.'
Release Date
The Hairdresser Mysteries comes to BBC One and BBC iPlayer this July.
