Death Comes to Pemberley, a three-part period drama from 2013, is now streaming on Channel 4 and has been hailed as a must-watch for fans of shows like Bridgerton and Pride and Prejudice. The series, adapted from P.D. James' 2011 bestseller, continues the story of Jane Austen's beloved characters six years after the original novel, but with a dark twist: a murder mystery.
Plot and Setting
Set in June 1803, the drama opens with Mr. and Mrs. Darcy (played by Matthew Rhys and Anna Maxwell Martin) hosting a ball at Pemberley Manor. Chaos erupts when Lydia Wickham (Jenna Coleman) arrives, claiming her husband George Wickham (Matthew Goode) has argued with his travelling companion Captain Denny, leading to the latter's death. The story then shifts from romance to a gripping whodunnit, involving secrets, family ties, and a courtroom trial that tests Darcy and Elizabeth's marriage.
The show has been frequently compared to Agatha Christie's work, but transplanted into Austen's literary universe. According to Wales Online, the series trades Austen's romance for murder, unraveling a compelling mystery.
Cast and Reception
The cast is a significant draw. Alongside Rhys and Martin, the ensemble includes Matthew Goode as Wickham, Jenna Coleman as Lydia, Eleanor Tomlinson as Georgiana Darcy, James Norton as Henry Alveston, and Penelope Keith as Lady Catherine de Bourgh. Notably, Tom Ward, who plays Colonel Fitzwilliam, had a minor role in the 1995 Pride and Prejudice adaptation.
The debut broadcast of Death Comes to Pemberley attracted nearly 8 million viewers for its opening episode over Christmas 2013, according to reports. Critics at the time lauded it as "perfect" Christmas TV material. Online reviewers have been equally enthusiastic: on IMDb, one reviewer called it "a substantial addition to Pride and Prejudice," praising how respectfully it treats Austen's original. Another rated it a must-watch, saying it's "definitely worth a rewatch." A third awarded it a full 9/10, describing it as "a truly thrilling mystery that pays tribute to Miss Austen."
The majority of reviews share one common thread: heaping praise on the cast. Some viewers say they adore the original films and shows, yet firmly believe the actors who played Elizabeth and Mr. Darcy in this adaptation did the beloved characters full justice.
Streaming Information
Death Comes to Pemberley is streaming now on Channel 4, making it easily accessible for fans eager for a period drama fix.
